Celestron 8” RASA Imaging Kit: Blazing Speed Meets Deep-Sky Brilliance
Ready to capture stunning deep-sky images in seconds—not hours? The Celestron 8" Rowe-Ackermann Schmidt Astrograph (RASA) Imaging Kit combines legendary f/2.0 optical speed with two essential filters to deliver jaw-dropping results from the city, the suburbs, or the dark skies beyond. Whether you're new to astroimaging or upgrading your setup, this kit is your shortcut to pro-level images without the steep learning curve.

Key Features – Fast, Focused, and Filtered for Imaging Greatness

• Ultra-Fast f/2.0 RASA Optics

  • Captures light 25x faster than traditional f/10 SCTs

  • Shorter sub-exposures reduce mount tracking demands

  • Live-stacking potential for near real-time deep-sky observing

• 8” Aperture with Flat-Field Performance

  • Pinpoint stars across APS-C sensors (up to 22mm diagonal)

  • Ideal for color CMOS cameras, smaller CCDs, and mirrorless systems

  • Not compatible with DSLRs

• Proven Technology Trusted by Scientists

  • Used globally for asteroid detection, satellite tracking, and space debris monitoring

  • Designed with input from optical innovators Rowe & Ackermann

• Sub-Arcsecond Sharpness & Superior Light Transmission

  • Eliminates coma, astigmatism, chromatic aberration, and field curvature

  • StarBright XLT coatings ensure bright, contrast-rich images

  • Spectral coverage from 400–800nm for maximum imaging flexibility

• Ultra-Stable Focus System

  • Precision linear ball bearing minimizes image shift

  • Reliable, repeatable focus over long imaging sessions

Includes Two Custom RASA Filters

• Light Pollution Imaging Filter

  • Blocks unwanted artificial light (400–700nm) while passing key celestial wavelengths

  • Targets common sources like sodium-vapor and LED streetlights

  • Maintains color balance and enhances faint target contrast

  • Perfect for use in urban/suburban skies

• Hα-Hβ-OIII (Nebula) Imaging Filter

  • High transmission at 486nm, 496/501nm, and 656nm

  • Blocks >99.5% of unwanted light to boost contrast in emission nebulae

  • Engineered for ultra-fast f/2.0 optics—no signal loss on key bands

  • Ideal for targets like the Orion, Lagoon, and North America Nebulae

Designed for Modern Imaging Setups

• Includes M42 and C-Mount Camera Adapters

  • Works out of the box with most astro CMOS/CCD cameras

  • Optional adapters available for Sony/Canon APS-C mirrorless cameras

  • Not recommended for full-frame or DSLR sensors due to vignetting

• Filter Drawer Integration

  • Filters replace the front optical window for seamless light path performance

  • No added glass—no change in optical alignment or backfocus

• Lightweight, Mount-Friendly Design

  • Optical tube weighs just 17 lbs

  • Pairs perfectly with Celestron’s Advanced VX or similar GoTo EQ mounts

The Celestron 8” RASA Imaging Kit gives you professional imaging power with minimal setup time and maximum flexibility. From high-speed wide-field imaging to high-contrast nebula work—even under light-polluted skies—this kit opens up a universe of possibilities for every astrophotographer.

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 (.86") Ø, 3.15°
Useable field:	32mm (1.26") Ø, 4.6°, only minimal performance loss at edge of FOV
Wavelength range:	400 - 800 nm
Spot size:	< 2.3 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:	Precision Bearing System (PBS)
Finderscope:	Not included
Optical Tube Weight:	17 lbs (7.7 kg)
Other Features:	Air-cooling system, integrated filter mount
Included items:	42mm (1.65") T-thread camera adapter | C-thread camera adapter | Fan battery pack | Light Pollution Imaging Filter | Hα-Hβ-OIII Imaging Filter
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.
California Residents	WARNING: Cancer and Reproductive Harm - www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.