Celestron Advanced VX 8" Rowe-Ackermann 800 Schmidt Astrograph 8" (203 mm) Rowe-Ackermann Astrograph Optics 400 mm (15.74") Focal Length Focal Ratio = f/2.0 Image Circle provided = 22 mm diameter Useable Field = 32 mm (1.26") with minimal performance loss out to edge StarBright XLT Optical Coatings throughout Full Astrograph Performance with fast Rowe-Ackermann optics for Wide Field, sharp images Air cooling system plus an integrated Filter Mount Includes M42 camera adapter, C-thread camera adapter, fan battery pack Advanced VX German Equatorial Mount Computerized Equatorial Mount Adjustable steel tripod with 2” diameter legs 30 pound payload capacity NexStar Database with 40,000+ objects+ 100 User objects NexStar+ hand control with LCD display, 19 fiber-optic backlit LED buttons DC Servo Motors operation DC operation (12 Volts DC, 3.5 A) The Celestron 800 (8") Rowe-Ackermann Astrograph Advanced VX (AVX) product is a specialized instrument which can provide detailed, high contrast views. This 8" Astrograph sets a new standard in mid-level imaging telescopes. This kit combines the 8” Celestron Rowe-Ackermann Schmidt Astrograph (RASA) with Celestron's strong-yet-portable Advanced VX (AVX) German equatorial mount. Simply add your own mirrorless camera and this package offers everything you need to take spectacular images of wide-field deep sky objects. The Rowe-Ackermann Astrograph’s optical design offers several unique benefits. Now you can capture spectacular wide-field deep sky images in seconds with Celestron’s new portable astrograph, the 8” Rowe-Ackermann Schmidt Astrograph (RASA). This incredibly fast f/2.0 system is the perfect way to use today’s color astronomical CMOS cameras, smaller CCD cameras, and mirrorless cameras. Thanks to its fast focal ratio and patented Astrograph optical design, you will produce sharp, detailed images and, in many cases, skip the need to use an autoguider completely. Weighing in at just 17 pounds, it’s easy to transport your 8” RASA to the most remote dark sky locations. 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 difficulties found in longer focal length instruments at a lower cost. 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 Celestron Advanced VX 8" Rowe-Ackermann 800 Schmidt Astrograph can provide an almost real-time observing experience. You will discover images on a computer monitor 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 400 mm focal length and 17 lb weight also lessens equatorial tracking demands. In many cases, autoguiding will not be required. The latest addition to the RASA family, this 8” version 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. Note: This Astrograph is purely designed for imaging, therefore the 8” RASA cannot be used visually. The prime focus focal plane is located at the front of the optical system, where your camera will be mounted, so it cannot be used with a traditional eyepiece. The Advanced VX mount is designed to provide superior performance for smaller telescopes while taking advantage of Celestron’s most advanced technologies: All-Star Polar Alignment, Celestron PWI telescope control software, SkyAlign, and permanently programmable periodic error correction (PPEC). For experienced imagers, they will love taking this portable mount to a dark sky site and enjoying all the conveniences of a larger observatory mount. For newcomers to imaging, Advanced VX will help you get started with the hobby and keep up with your needs for a long time! The Advanced VX is the smallest of Celestron’s German equatorial mounts, but do not let this fool you. The computerized GoTo capability automatically tracks objects as they move across the night sky. The Advanced VX mount includes ports for a hand control, an autoguider, and 2 AUX ports for optional accessories. The NexStar+ hand control gives you instant access to all the functions your mount has to offer, along with automatic slewing and menu descriptions. Astronomers of all skill levels will appreciate this easy to use, precision mount and learn to use it in just a few observing sessions. The payload capacity for the Advanced VX from Celestron is 30 lb. It offers a sturdy platform for the 8” Rowe-Ackermann Astrograph optical tube, even when paired with optional accessories. Advanced VX mounts now include a new dual saddle plate that accommodates both CG-5 and CGE-style dovetails. Switching between the two saddle plates is simple. Just move the hand knobs into a separate set of holes. Now you can use your Advanced VX mount not only with the 7” Mak, but virtually any optical tube within Advanced VX’s weight limit. The Celestron Advanced VX 800 Rowe-Ackermann 8" Astrograph comes complete with an M42 camera adapter, C-thread camera adapter, and fan battery pack. Also included with your purchase is a free download of Celestron’s Starry Night Special Edition Software. Of course, the Advanced VX Equatorial mount and Tripod are also included. NOTE: Cameras shown in photos are NOT included with this Astrograph/Mount Kit. Specifications: Optical Deisgn Rowe-Ackermann Astrograph Aperture 203 mm (8") Focal Length 400 mm (15.74") Focal Ratio f/2.0 Central Obstruction 93 mm (3.66") 46% Optical Tube Aluminum Highest Useful Magnification NA Lowest Useful Magnification NA Image Circle 22 mm Resolution (Rayleigh) 0.68 arcsecond Resolution (Dawes) 0.57 arcsecond Light Gathering Power (Compared to human eye) 843x Useable Field Diameter 32 mm (1.26") 4.6° Optical Coatings StarBright XLT Focuser Included Ultra Stable, 2 Sets of Precision Bearings for Focusing System Optical Tube Length 628 mm (24.7") Optical Tube Diameter 235 mm (9.3") Optical Tube Weight 17 lb (7.7 kg) Dovetail CGE Dovetail Bar Mount Type Computerized Equatorial Instrument load capacity 30 lb (13.6 kg) Height adjustment range (includes mount and tripod) 1118 mm - 1626 mm (44" – 64") Tripod Leg Diameter 50.8 mm (2") Stainless Steel Latitude adjustment range 7° - 77° Mount Head Weight 17 lb (7.71 kg) Accessory Tray Yes Tripod Weight 18 lb (8.16 kg) Weight of Counterweights 2 x 12 lb each Slew Speeds 9 slew speeds - max speed 4°/second Tracking Rates Sidereal, Solar, and Lunar Tracking Modes EQ North & EQ South GPS N/A Dovetail Compatibility CGE Dovetail Bar Number of Auxiliary ports 3 Aux ports (1 hand control and 2 AUX ports for optional accessories) Autoguide port Yes USB Port Yes, input on Hand Control Power Requirements 12 V DC, 3.5 A (tip positive) Motor Drive DC servo motors Alignment Procedures 2-Star Align, 1-Star Align, Solar System Align, Last Alignment, Quick Align Periodic Error Correction Yes Computerized Hand Control NexStar+ hand control with LCD display, 19 fiber-optic backlit LED buttons NexStar+ Database 40,000+ objects, 100 user defined programmable objects. Enhanced information on over 200 objects Software Celestron's Starry Night Special Edition Software, SkyPortal App Total Kit Weight 47 lb (21.31 kg) Included Items M42 camera adapter| C-thread camera adapter| fan battery pack| Advanced VX Equatorial Head| Tripod| Accessory Tray|2 x 12 lb counterweights| NexStar+ Hand Control| DC Power Cable (plugs into automobile cigarette lighter socket)
