The Celestron CGX 11” RASA Equatorial Telescope introduces a new standard in astroimaging systems, all at a highly competitive price point. This advanced-level imaging setup combines the Rowe-Ackermann Schmidt Astrograph (RASA) with the CGX mount, delivering exceptional performance and making it a perfect choice for experienced astrophotographers.

The Rowe-Ackermann Schmidt Astrograph (RASA) V2 is specifically designed for deep-sky astroimaging and works seamlessly with modern DSLR and astronomical CCD cameras. Its fast and wide-field f/2.2 system allows for shorter exposure times compared to traditional f/10 astroimaging, without compromising on resolution. The reduced sub-exposure times alleviate the need for precise and extended equatorial tracking, often eliminating the necessity for autoguiding.

The RASA 11 V2 is built on the legacy of Celestron's Schmidt Cameras from the 1970s, which significantly reduced exposure times. Today, with CCD sensors as large as or larger than film, the RASA 11 V2 offers an optimized 43.3mm image circle, capturing pinpoint stars on the largest imaging sensors. This vast image circle, combined with a short 620mm focal length, makes it suitable for wide-field imaging, creating extensive night sky mosaics, surveys, and even comet hunting.

The optical system of the RASA 11 V2 features advanced optics with a 4-element rare-earth glass design, ensuring high-quality images free from false color, coma, and field curvature. The optical performance is consistent across the entire image circle, offering impressive results, even for instruments far more expensive. Vignetting is also minimized.

The system includes the innovative Ultra-Stable Focus System (USFS), featuring a precision linear ball bearing that minimizes focus shift and mirror flop. The USFS is compatible with the optional Celestron Focus Motor (#94155-A), and the integrated 12V DC MagLev fan enhances temperature equilibrium and promotes optimal airflow through the dust-filtered optical tube.

The entire RASA 11 V2 is engineered as an integrated astroimaging system, with every component meticulously optimized for peak performance with DSLR and CCD cameras. It features a fully-multicoated optical window or an optional imaging filter and Dovetail CGE bars on top of the optical tube for accessory attachment.

As for the CGX mount, it represents the culmination of Celestron's experience in designing German equatorial mounts. The CGX can effortlessly support the RASA 11, making it an excellent choice for both backyard and remote astrophotographers. This mount offers a remarkable load capacity to weight ratio, a compact design, and advanced features supporting high-end telescopes, imaging setups, and the latest wireless tech accessories.

The CGX mount has been designed with several objectives in mind, including a lower profile EQ head for a more compact and stable configuration, an enhanced drive system, remote operation-friendly features equipped with home and limit optical sensors, improved polar alignment adjustments, and enhanced cable management. These enhancements not only contribute to the mount's sturdiness but also make it more user-friendly and easy to transport.

Specifications

Software and Documentation