Celestron Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope SC 356/3910 CGX-L 1400 GoTo (54045)

Despite the long focal length of these telescopes, the OTA (optical tube assembly) itself is very short, making the system compact and extremely easy to transport. Light first passes through an aspherically figured Schmidt corrector plate and is then directed onto a spherical main mirror. This mirror reflects the light back up to a secondary mirror, which subsequently redirects it back through a central hole in the main mirror into the focuser at the bottom of the OTA. This closed system minimizes air turbulence that could degrade image quality and protects the telescope from dust. The Schmidt plate is multi-coated to ensure bright images with minimal stray light reflections.

This telescope offers excellent image quality with high contrast and definition, making it particularly enjoyable for planetary observation. The Schmidt-Cassegrain design is versatile, suitable for both visual observation and astrophotography, with a wide range of optional accessories available. The bottom-mounted focuser simplifies orientation. The system is also well-suited for occasional terrestrial observation, such as birdwatching at close range. With an aperture ratio of approximately 1:10, it also supports astrophotography effectively.

The main mirror focusing mechanism provides a large focus range, allowing compatibility with most common accessories. To reduce "mirror shift," two pre-loaded ball bearings are used instead of simple bushings. High-quality materials such as CNC-milled aluminum components, cast steel, and stainless steel ensure robustness while keeping the weight low, eliminating the need for a heavy mount.

Features of the Optics:

• Long focal length with a short OTA

• Lightweight aluminum construction

• High-quality XLT multi-coating

• Closed optical system

• Pre-loaded ball bearings to minimize mirror shift

CGX-L Mount Overview:
The CGX-L mount ("L" stands for Large) is an upgraded version of Celestron's CGX GoTo mount. Its payload capacity has been increased from 25 kg to 34 kg, allowing it to support larger OTAs and photographic accessories. Key features include 144 mm worm gears for smoother operation under heavy loads and a 270 mm extended dovetail clamp for securely mounting larger telescopes.

Despite its higher load capacity, the CGX-L remains portable and easy to transport. It comes with a robust tripod for this purpose but is also suitable for smaller observatories or remote operation.

Advantages of the CGX-L:

• Increased payload capacity with an excellent weight-to-load ratio

• Additional AUX ports and an auto-guider connection on the DEC axis for better cable management

• 144 mm worm gears for smoother operation

• 270 mm dovetail clamp for secure mounting

• Steel tripod with 70 mm legs

• Heavy-duty counterweight rod (31.5 mm diameter)

CGX Equatorial Mount Features:
Celestron's engineering team has applied years of experience designing German Equatorial mounts into the all-new CGX EQ mount. It includes advancements such as improved motors, a belt-drive system to minimize backlash, internal cabling for snag-free operation, spring-loaded brass worm wheels, and stainless steel worm gears for reduced friction.

Additional features include home sensors for precise positioning after power resets, internal hard stops to prevent cable tension issues, and adjustable EQ head positioning to optimize balance over the tripod.

New Tripod Design:

• 2" steel legs with height index marks for quick leveling

• Accessory tray compatible with eyepieces, smartphones, and other tools

• Collapsible tripod legs with accessory tray attached for faster setup

Electronics:
The mount includes an all-new NexStar+ hand control with USB connectivity, AUX ports for wireless alignment accessories (sold separately), an autoguider port, PPEC readiness, and an internal real-time clock to save time/location data.

Included Accessories:

• 14-inch Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope

• 9x50 finderscope

• 2" diagonal mirror with a 1.25" adapter

• 40 mm Plössl eyepiece

• Losmandy-style 3” mounting rail

• CGX-L mount and tripod with shelf

• Three 10 kg counterweights

• NexStar+ hand controller

• DC power cable (vehicle-compatible)

PWI Telescope Control Software:
Developed in collaboration with PlaneWave Instruments, PWI software enhances precision by using PointXP Mount Modeling. This feature allows numerous reference stars to improve GoTo accuracy by compensating for alignment errors or device deflection. The software includes an extensive object database and integrates with SIMBAD's online astronomical database.

Features of PWI Software:

• PointXP Mount Modeling for enhanced accuracy using multiple reference stars

• Developed by Celestron in partnership with PlaneWave Instruments

• Sky Viewer star chart for easy object location

• Extensive object database including online resources

Specifications:

Optics:
Type: Reflector (Schmidt-Cassegrain)
Aperture: 356 mm
Focal Length: 3910 mm
Coating: Starbright XLT

Mount:
Type: CGX-L Equatorial
Payload Capacity: 34 kg
Tracking Speeds: Sidereal, Solar & Lunar

Tripod:
Material: Steel
Leg Diameter: 70 mm

General Use:
Best suited for advanced users or observatories; ideal for astrophotography and planetary observation but not recommended for beginners or nature observation without additional filters/accessories.