Celestron Advanced VX 8" Rowe-Ackermann Schmidt Astro
The Ultimate Bundle: 8" RASA and AVX Mount
Grab the 8-inch Rowe-Ackermann Schmidt Astrograph (RASA) and pair it with the solid Advanced VX (AVX) German equatorial mount, and you're basically set for some killer astrophotography. Just toss in a mirrorless camera, and you'll be snapping breathtaking wide-field deep-sky pics like a pro.
RASA: Your Gateway to the Cosmos
With the 8" RASA, capturing stunning celestial scenes is a breeze. This baby rocks an f/2.0 system that’s perfect for those sweet CMOS cams, compact CCDs, and mirrorless wonders. And the best part? At only 17 pounds, you can take it anywhere your sky-gazing heart desires.
One-Size-Fits-Many
The RASA design isn’t new; its big bro, the RASA 11, has been wowing folks since 2014. But the 8-inch version brings the same sleek features in a more portable and budget-friendly package. Think integrated cooling, internal filter mounts, and a sturdy CGE dovetail—pretty much the works.
No Eyepieces, Just Pure Imaging
Just so you know, the 8" RASA is all about imaging. If you're looking for some good ol' fashioned eye-to-scope action, this ain't it. It's designed for the camera, period.
Quick Snaps & Live Viewing
With its speedy F/2.0 system, you won't have to worry about long exposure times. Pair it up with the right software and sensitive cameras, and you're in for a treat—you can see the images almost instantly on your computer.
Stability Like No Other
Celestron knocked it out of the park with a new focus system that eliminates those annoying mirror shifts when you're tweaking focus, tracking, or slewing. Basically, it’s rock-steady.
Made for Modern Cameras
This 8” RASA is best buds with CMOS and smaller CCD cameras, along with mirrorless ones. But if you’re a DSLR fan, this scope’s not for you. Stick to sensors around 22mm to 32mm for the best results. And keep that camera body under 4” in diameter.
Camera Compatibility Quick Guide
- CMOS/CCD with C-mount: Yep, it fits. (C-mount adapter included)
- CMOS/CCD with M42-thread: Also good. (M42 adapter included; extension tubes not included)
- Canon/Sony Mirrorless with APS-C: Perfect match. (Separate adapters needed)
- Canon/Sony Full Frame: Works but not ideal for full-frame. (Separate adapters needed)
- DSLRs: Nah, sorry.
All About the Optics
The optical design is patented and one-of-a-kind. You’ve got rare-earth elements in there, optimized for a 400-800nm spectrum. Oh, and adding a filter? No sweat, it’s got a removable optical window for that.
Meet the AVX Mount
The AVX is compact but jam-packed with features like All-Star Polar Alignment, SkyAlign, and PPEC. Whether you’re a seasoned imager or a newbie, you'll appreciate its versatility and stability.
Software Goodies
You also get Celestron's PWI software, co-developed with PlaneWave, and a free download of the Starry Night Special Edition Software for even more celestial fun.
What's in the Box?
Besides the RASA and AVX, you’ll get a M42 camera adapter, a C-thread camera adapter, and a fan battery pack. All set for the cosmos, my friend!
Specifications
| 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: | < 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: | Advanced VX Equatorial Head and tripod Accessory Tray 1 x 12 lbs counterweight NexStar+ Hand Control DC Power Cable (plugs into cigarette lighter socket) |
| 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 and EQ South |
| GPS: | N/A |
| Dovetail Compatibility: | Dual saddle plates (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 Starry Night Special Edition Software and SkyPortal App |
| Total Kit Weight: | 47 lbs (21.31 kg) |
| Solar Warning |
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| California Residents |
WARNING: Cancer and Reproductive Harm - www.P65Warnings.ca.gov. |