Celestron Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope SC 279/2800 EdgeHD 1100 CGX GoTo (52300)

EdgeHD is the name for Celestron’s "aplanatic Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope." After over 50 years of success, Celestron has revolutionized the classic Schmidt-Cassegrain design. EdgeHD telescopes ("Edge High Definition") are true astrographs, delivering distortion-free, sharp images right to the edge of the visual field. Unlike other "coma-free" designs, which only correct coma off the optical axis, EdgeHD telescopes also correct field curvature.

Many optical systems advertised as "astrographs" display stars with pin-sharp clarity but along a curved image plane. When used with a camera, this results in noticeable image field curvature towards the edges, causing stars to appear larger or distorted ("doughnuts"). The EdgeHD optical system eliminates both coma and field curvature, ensuring sharp stars across the entire image field. This also significantly improves resolution and magnitude limits compared to competing systems.

The XLT multi-coating further enhances performance, giving EdgeHD scopes a significant advantage over similar systems in the market.

Enhanced Mechanisms and Tube Design

• Mirror Clamps: Securely hold the primary mirror in position without applying pressure on the optics. This ensures image stability during long exposures.

• Air Vents: Located behind the primary mirror for faster cooling. An air filter system prevents dust from entering the optical tube.

CGX Equatorial Mount and Tripod

The CGX mount is the result of Celestron's eight years of experience with its CGEM series. Designed for telescopes ranging from 6 to 11 inches, it incorporates advancements in technology, value, and ease of use to meet modern astro-imaging demands.

All-New Design Features:

• Improved Stability: Sturdier and more rigid design with quicker dampening time.

• Enhanced Motors: Provide more torque for better slewing and tracking under heavy loads.

• Heavy-Duty Belt Drive System: Minimizes backlash while ensuring smooth motor operation.

• Spring-Loaded Worm Gear System: Reduces friction and optimizes gear mesh.

• Internal Cabling: Prevents cable snags during remote operation; power input and accessory ports remain stationary while slewing.

• Home Sensors: Allow the mount to start in an index position regardless of orientation before a power reset.

• Limit Sensors: Automatically stop slewing or tracking before reaching hard stops.

• Adjustable EQ Head Position: Optimizes center of gravity and supports a latitude range of 3°–65°.

• Dual-Fit Dovetail Saddle: Compatible with CG-5/Vixen and CGE/Losmandy dovetails.

Improved Tripod Features:

• Steel Legs: 2-inch legs with height index marks for quick leveling.

• Accessory Tray: Holds eyepieces, smartphones, or other tools; remains installed during transport for convenience.

Electronics:

• NexStar+ hand control with USB port.

• Two AUX accessory ports for wireless/WiFi alignment (compatible with StarSense AutoAlign and SkyPortal WiFi Module).

• USB 2.0 port for PC connection.

• Autoguider port and PPEC-ready functionality.

• Threaded 12VDC power input connector.

• Internal Real-Time Clock (saves time/location information).

The CGX mount was designed for both visual observation and astrophotography. It features a lower-profile EQ head for increased stability, improved drive systems, home/limit sensors for remote operation, easier polar alignment adjustments, and better cable management.

Control Software by PlaneWave Instruments

Celestron's CGX mounts are compatible with PWI Telescope Control software, designed in collaboration with PlaneWave Instruments. This software provides precise control using PointXP Mount Modeling technology.

Software Features:

• Accepts unlimited reference stars for enhanced accuracy.

• Sky Viewer star charts make it easy to locate astronomical objects.

• Extensive object database with access to online resources like SIMBAD.

• Accommodates alignment errors (e.g., device deflection) to improve GoTo accuracy.

The software runs on Windows 7, 8, and 10.

Specifications

Optics:

• Type: Reflector (EdgeHD-Cassegrain)

• Aperture: 279mm

• Focal Length: 2800mm

• Aperture Ratio: f/10

• Coating: StarBright XLT

• Resolving Capacity: 0.41 arcseconds

• Light Gathering Power: 1589x

• Tube Weight: 13kg

• Tube Material: Aluminum

Focuser:

• Type: Primary mirror focusing

• Back Focus: 72.8mm & 55mm

• Connection (Eyepiece): SC thread

Mount:

• Type: Equatorial (CGX)

• Load Capacity: 25kg

• Motors: Servo motors

• Polar Elevation Range: 3°–65°

• Cable Management: Internal

Tripod:

• Material: Steel

• Leg Diameter: 51mm

• Accessory Tray Included

Included Accessories:

• Eyepieces: 16mm (2")

• Star Diagonal: 2", 90°

• Finder Scope: 9x50

• Prism Rail: Losmandy-style

• Counterweights: Three (5kg each)

Applications
The EdgeHD telescopes are ideal for:

1. Astrophotography: Excellent performance for imaging deep-sky objects.

2. Moon & Planets Observation: Outstanding clarity and detail.

3. Nebulae & Galaxies Observation: Wide-field imaging capabilities.

Not recommended for:

1. Nature observation or daytime use.

2. Solar observation without appropriate filters.

This setup is best suited for advanced users or observatories looking for high-quality performance in both visual observation and astrophotography pursuits.