Capture spectacular wide-field deep sky images in seconds with Celestron's portable astrograph, the 8" Rowe-Ackermann Schmidt Astrograph (RASA). This incredibly fast f/2.0 system is the perfect companion to today's colour astronomical CMOS cameras, smaller CCD cameras, and mirrorless cameras. Thanks to its fast focal ratio and patented optical design, you can produce sharp, detailed images and, in many cases, skip the autoguider completely. Weighing in at just 17 pounds, it's easy to transport your 8" RASA to the most remote dark sky locations. RASA Performance Made for Everyone The 8" RASA is an imaging telescope that delivers a flat field without optical aberrations for razor sharp stars across a wide field of view. It can capture stunning deep-sky astronomical images without the challenges typically presented by longer focal length instruments at a fraction of the cost of those systems. The latest addition to the RASA family, this 8" version is a much more portable and affordable version of the heralded RASA 11, which was introduced to much acclaim in 2014. With the 8" RASA joining the lineup, a wider range of astroimagers can enjoy the benefits of the RASA design. It has many of the same thoughtfully designed features as its "big brother" RASA 11, including the integrated air-cooling system, internal filter mount, and sturdy CGE dovetail mounting bar. Purely designed for imaging, the 8" RASA cannot be used visually. The prime focus focal plane is located at the front of the optical system, so it cannot accommodate a traditional eyepiece. Shorter Exposure Times and Virtual "Real-Time" Observing Since it is an F/2.0 optical system, imagers can use shorter exposure times to capture detail in faint objects. When combined with sensitive cameras and the proper "live stacking" software, the 8" RASA can provide an almost real-time observing experience. View images on a computer instantly that are brighter and more detailed than can be seen in much bigger telescopes with the naked eye. Because shorter exposure times are possible, your equatorial mount won't need to accurately track over extended periods. The 8" RASA's relatively short 400mm focal length also lessens equatorial tracking demands. In many cases, autoguiding will not be required. Weighing only 17 lb, this optical tube pairs perfectly with a wide variety of mounts. Ultra-Stable Focus System With the launch of the 8" RASA, Celestron is unveiled a focuser design that mitigates lateral movement of the primary mirror when focusing, slewing, or tracking with the astrograph. Focusing is easier, more accurate, and more stable than ever. The key to the Ultra-Stable Focus System is a precision linear ball bearing, which is tested during assembly to ensure optimal results. Built for Today's Latest Cameras Unlike the larger RASAs that work with DSLR and large CCD cameras, the 8" model was designed with colour astronomical CMOS cameras, smaller CCD cameras, and mirrorless cameras in mind. The telescope does not work with standard DSLR cameras. It is optimized for sensors with up to a 22mm diagonal, but performs well with sensors up to 32mm diagonal. The APS-C sized sensors used in many mirrorless cameras are a good choice. 42mm full frame sensors will also work, but performance will be poor at the edges of the sensor and field illumination will be reduced. Additionally, we do not recommend pairing RASA 8 with any camera body more than 4" in diameter. See the chart below to determine if your camera is compatible with RASA 8. Specifications OPTICAL TUBE INFO: Optical Design: Rowe-Ackermann Schmidt Astrograph Aperture: 203mm (8") Focal Length: 400mm (15.74") Focal Ratio: f/2.0 Central obstruction diameter: 93mm (3.66") (46% of aperture diameter) Light Gathering Power (Compared to human eye): 843x Resolution (Rayleigh): 0.68 arc seconds Resolution (Dawes): 0.57 arc seconds Image Circle: 22mm (0.86") Ø, 3.15° Useable field: 32mm (1.26") Ø, 4.6°, only minimal performance loss at edge of FOV Wavelength range: 400nm - 800nm Spot size: < 4.6 μm RMS across image circle Optical Coatings: StarBright XLT Off-axis Illumination: 93% at 11mm (.43") off-axis Optical Window: 46mm (1.81") Ø Back focus with included camera adapter: 25mm (.98") Back focus from top of threaded collar: 29mm (1.14") Optical Tube: Aluminum Optical Tube Length: 628mm (24.7") Optical Tube Diameter: 235mm (9.3") Focuser: Ultra-Stable Focusing System Finderscope: Not included Optical Tube Weight: 17 lbs (7.7 kg) Other Features: Air-cooling system, integrated filter mount Dovetail: CGE Dovetail Bar Solar Warning Never look directly at the Sun with the naked eye or with an optic (unless you have the proper solar filter). Permanent and irreversible eye damage may result.Never use your optic to project an image of the Sun onto any surface. Internal heat build-up can damage the optic and any accessories attached to it.Never leave your optic unsupervised. Make sure an adult who is familiar with the correct operating procedures is with your optic at all times, especially when children are present.
