Rowe-Ackermann Schmidt Optical Design – 8” f/2.2 flat field imaging system with rare-earth glass for outstanding images free of optical defects like field curvature, coma, astigmatism and chromatic aberration across an entire APS-C sensor. Unlike the larger RASAs that work with DSLR and large CCD cameras, the 8” model was designed with color astronomical CMOS cameras, smaller CCD cameras, and mirrorless cameras in mind. The astrograph does not work with standard DSLR cameras. Ultra-Stable Focus System – six precision sealed ball bearings virtually eliminate image shift. Integrated air-cooling system –12V DC MagLev fan reduces cooldown time and provides optimal air flow while filtering out dust. Internal filter mount – seamlessly accommodates a Light Pollution Imaging Filter into the optical path. Performs over a wider spectral range than most telescopes, from 390-800 nm, so more of the light passing through the astrograph is in sharp focus. Advanced VX, the most compact and portable of Celestron’s German equatorial mounts, offers a maximum instrument capacity of 30 lb with the same rigidity as our larger mounts and minimal flexure. This mount offers every feature an astroimager wants: PEC, an autoguider port, the ability to image across the meridian, and more. NEW dual saddle plate accommodates both the narrow CG-5 and larger CGE dovetail. Accessories included: M42 camera adapter, C-thread camera adapter, and fan battery pack. 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 (.86") Ø, 3.15° Useable field 32mm (1.26") Ø, 4.6°, only minimal performance loss at edge of FOV Wavelength range 390 - 800 nm 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 Included items M42 camera adapter, C-thread camera adapter, fan battery pack Dovetail CGE Dovetail Bar MOUNT INFO: Mount Type Computerized Equatorial Instrument load capacity 30 lbs (13.6 kg) Height adjustment range (includes mount and tripod) 1118mm - 1626mm (44" – 64") Tripod Leg Diameter 50.8mm (2") Stainless Steel Latitude adjustment range 7° - 77° Mount Head Weight 17 lbs (7.71 kg) Accessory Tray Yes Tripod Weight 18 lbs (8.16 kg) Weight of Counterweights 1 x 12 lbs 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 Dual saddle plate (CG-5 and CGE saddle) 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 12V DC 3.5A (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 lbs (21.31 kg) Included Items Advanced VX Equatorial Head| Tripod| Accessory Tray|1 x 12 lbs counterweight| NexStar+ Hand Control| DC Power Cable (plugs into cigarette lighter socket)
