Celestron Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope SC 235/2350 CGX-L 925 GoTo (54043)

This astrograph simplifies the process of creating stunning astrophotography images using a modern DSLR or astronomical CCD camera. Its innovative optical design features a four-lens corrector made with rare earth glass, effectively suppressing chromatic aberrations, coma, and field curvature. This level of optical quality and spot size across the entire image field is unprecedented in this price range. Additionally, the design minimizes vignetting.

Key Features of the Astrograph:

• Super-Fast Optics: The 11" f/2.2 optics deliver sharp images for APS formats and are optimized for sensor sizes up to a 70mm field diagonal.

• Extremely Short Exposure Times: The RASA Astrograph captures images 20 times faster than at f/10. A 30-second exposure at f/2.2 is equivalent to a 10-minute exposure at f/10, making tracking control unnecessary.

• Wide Field of View: With a 620mm focal length, it excels at wide-angle shots while maintaining an overview.

• Precise Focusing Mechanism: New bronze bearings reduce image shift, while the 10:1 FeatherTouch micro-focuser ensures highly accurate focusing.

• Innovative Features: Includes a quieter 12V MagLev fan for faster cooling, dust prevention, and optimal air circulation. Adapters for popular camera brands are included. Back focus for included adapters is 55mm; back focus for the front lens group is 69.26mm.

The RASA (Rowe-Ackermann-Schmidt Astrograph) combines the expertise of renowned optical designers Dave Rowe and Mark Ackermann, who hold numerous patents. The new V2 version includes the Ultra Stable Focus System (USFS), which moves the primary mirror for focusing without image shifting or tilting. A precise linear ball-bearing system controls this mechanism, and focusing can be further enhanced using the Celestron focusing motor.

Camera Compatibility:
This Schmidt astrograph offers a fully illuminated image circle of 43mm, ensuring pin-sharp stars even on large sensors (usable up to 52mm). Its large illuminated field and short focal length (620mm) make it ideal for astrophotography of expansive night sky regions and extended objects such as mosaics or variable stars, supernovae, and comets.

CGX Equatorial Mount and Tripod

For eight years, Celestron’s CGEM mount lineup has been a reliable German Equatorial backbone for telescopes ranging from 6 to 11 inches of aperture. The CGX mount incorporates advancements in technology, value, and ease of use to meet modern astro-imaging demands.

Features of the CGX Mount:

• Enhanced Stability: Sturdier design with quicker dampening time.

• Improved 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 precise starting positions regardless of prior orientation before a power reset.

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

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

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

Upgraded 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, developed in collaboration with PlaneWave Instruments. This software provides precision through PointXP Mount Modeling technology.

Features of PWI Software:

• 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 (Astrograph)

• Aperture: 279mm

• Focal Length: 620mm

• Aperture Ratio: f/2.22

• Coating: StarBright XLT

• Tube Material: Aluminum

• Tube Weight: 16kg

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: None

• Prism Rail: Losmandy-style

• Counterweights: Three (5kg each)

Applications
The RASA astrograph is 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.