The Advanced VX 700 Maksutov-Cassegrain (AVX 700 Mak) telescope stands out as a specialized instrument designed to deliver detailed, high-contrast views, setting a new standard for mid-level telescopes. This kit, featuring the Maksutov-Cassegrain optical tube paired with the robust Advanced VX equatorial mount and tripod, offers unparalleled observations of planets and close-up views of the lunar surface, showcasing craters and maria.

Urban astronomers, in particular, will appreciate the Mak's ability to enhance contrast in celestial objects. The kit's advantage lies in its disassemblability, breaking down into separate, lightweight, and manageable pieces, making it an excellent choice for transport to dark sky sites.

Maksutov-Cassegrain Optical Design:

The Mak employs a catadioptric design, incorporating both a lens and a mirror. Light travels through a corrector lens to the primary mirror and then reflects off a spherical secondary mirror before reaching the eyepiece. This design produces bright, sharp images virtually free of chromatic aberration.

The Maksutov-Cassegrain design offers unique benefits, such as a "secondary spot" of reflective coating on the corrector plate, eliminating the need for frequent collimation seen in Schmidt-Cassegrain telescopes. The smaller secondary spot contributes to the Mak's distinctive high-contrast views. However, it's important to note that the larger, heavier Maksutov corrector plate requires more time to cool down compared to a Schmidt-Cassegrain of the same aperture.

Advanced VX & Tripod:

The Advanced VX mount is tailored for superior performance with smaller telescopes, incorporating Celestron’s advanced technologies like All-Star Polar Alignment, PWI telescope control software, SkyAlign, and permanently programmable periodic error correction (PPEC).

Whether you're an experienced imager seeking portability or a newcomer to imaging, the Advanced VX mount caters to your needs, providing the convenience of a larger observatory mount at dark sky sites.

Computerized German Equatorial Mount:

The Advanced VX, Celestron’s smallest German equatorial mount, features automatic GoTo capability for tracking celestial objects. It includes ports for a hand control, autoguider, and 2 AUX ports for optional accessories. The NexStar+ hand control ensures easy access to all mount functions, making it user-friendly for astronomers of all skill levels. The mount's impressive tripod, with 2”-diameter steel legs, offers enhanced stability.

Payload Capacity:

The Advanced VX boasts a payload capacity of 30 lb, providing a sturdy platform for the 7” Maksutov-Cassegrain optical tube and optional accessories. Note that Celestron's payload capacity does not include the weight of counterweights.

Dual Saddle Plate:

Since early 2019, Advanced VX mounts feature a dual saddle plate accommodating both CG-5 and CGE-style dovetails. Switching between the two saddle plates is easy, allowing use not only with the 7” Mak but virtually any optical tube within the Advanced VX’s weight limit. It is compatible with Vixen format dovetails 100mm or longer but not with Losmandy D format plates, regardless of the manufacturer.

Specifications

Software and Documentation