Celestron Advanced VX 800 RASA Telescope – 12032 Celestron

Celestron 8″ Advanced VX RASA Telescope

 

This imaging system kit combines the 8″ RASA (Rowe-Ackermann Schmidt Astrograph) optical tube with the strong but remarkably lightweight and portable Advanced VX German equatorial mount. All that is needed to make this system capable of taking spectacular wide-field deep sky images is the simple addition of a mirrorless camera.

In mere seconds you’ll be capturing gorgeous wide-field images of deep sky objects using this ultra fast Celestron 8″ f/2.0 RASA (Rowe-Ackermann Schmidt Astrograph) Telescope. The perfect complement to modern color astronomical CMOS, smaller CCD, and mirrorless cameras, the 8″ RASA’s lightning fast focal ratio and patented optical design produces sharp images with incredible detail. In fact, in many cases you’ll be able to completely skip the autoguider. Compatible with a wide range of mounts including the Advanced VX mount that comes with this package, the 8″ RASA optical tube weighs only 17 lbs. for convenient portability to and from remote dark sky locations.

With the 8″ RASA, you’ll get a flat field free of optical aberrations for razor sharp stars across a wide field of view. By avoiding the obstacles typically encountered by instruments with longer focal lengths, this astrograph telescope is able to capture breathtaking deep-sky astronomical images at a fraction of the cost of those systems.

This 8″ model represents the latest addition to the Celestron RASA family. For a much more affordable price than the highly acclaimed 11″ RASA, this version offers much greater portability. The introduction of the 8″ RASA to Celestron’s RASA series allows astrophotographers with varying levels of experience to benefit from the Rowe-Ackermann design. The 8″ RASA and the 11″ RASA have many of the same carefully designed features such as an integrated air-cooling system, internal filter mount, and sturdy CGE dovetail mounting bar.

Designed exclusively for imaging, the 8″ RASA is not suitable for use as a visual instrument. Due to the prime focus focal plane’s location at the front of the telescope, conventional eyepieces cannot be accommodated.

 

Shorter Exposure Times and Virtual Real-Time Observing

 

An incredibly fast f/2.0 optical system enables imagers to capture more subtle details of faint objects by allowing them to use shorter exposure times. When paired with sensitive cameras and proper “live stacking” software, the 8″ RASA is capable of providing a virtually real-time observing experience. Images with more brightness and detail than can be viewed with the naked eye using much larger telescopes are instantly available to view on your computer.

Due to these shorter exposure times, the included Advanced VX equatorial mount won’t need to accurately track over extended periods. Equatorial tracking demands are further reduced by the 8″ RASA’s relatively short 400 mm focal length. As mentioned earlier, autoguiding will not be necessary in many cases.

 

Ultra-Stable Focus System

 

Celestron has revealed a new focuser design with the launch of the 8″ RASA that minimizes lateral movement of the primary mirror when focusing, slewing, or tracking. This enables easier focusing with more accuracy and stability than ever before. Two sets of precision bearings precisely aligned and tested during production to ensure the best results represent the most essential component of this Ultra-Stable Focus System.

 

Built for Today’s Latest Cameras

 

While larger RASA telescopes work best with DSLR and large CCD cameras, this 8″ model was designed with regards to color astronomical CMOS cameras, smaller CCD cameras, and mirrorless cameras. Standard DSLR cameras are not compatible with this telescope. Optimized for up to 22 mm diagonal sensors, the 8″ RASA still provides sufficient performance with up to 32 mm diagonal sensors. The APS-C sized sensors employed by many mirrorless cameras are an excellent choice. 42 mm full frame sensors are also a possibility if you are willing to sacrifice both field illumination as well as performance at the edges of the sensor. Furthermore, pairing the 8″ RASA with any camera body over 4″ in diameter is not recommended.

 

Advanced VX Computerized German Equatorial Mount & Tripod

 

The Advanced VX mount is designed to provide superior performance for smaller telescopes while taking advantage of Celestron’s most advanced technologies: All-Star Polar Alignment, Celestron PWI telescope control software, SkyAlign, and permanently programmable periodic error correction (PPEC).

Both novice and experienced imagers alike can benefit from some aspect of the Celestron AVX mount. Seasoned astrophotographers will love how easy it is to transport the Advanced VX mount to and from distant dark sky locations, while for those new to imaging, this mount will prove to be a reliable companion as you grow with the hobby, keeping up with your needs for years to come. In addition, with the Celestron Advanced VX mount, you’ll enjoy all the conveniences commonly reserved for larger observatory mounts.

The smallest of Celestron’s German equatorial mounts, the Advanced VX features computerized GoTo capability for automatic tracking of objects as they move across the night sky. The Advanced VX mount is outfitted with ports for a hand controller and autoguider, as well as two AUX ports for optional accessories. Instant access to all your mount’s functions is provided via the NexStar+ hand controller. With automatic slewing and menu descriptions, astronomers of all skill levels will be able to master this mount in just a few observing sessions. The Advanced VX also includes a stainless steel tripod with 2″ diameter legs for an extra-wide stance that enhances stability.

 

Payload Capacity

 

Providing a solid platform for the 8″ RASA optical tube, even when paired with optional accessories like StarSense AutoAlign, Focus Motor, a finderscope, and a camera, the Celestron Advanced VX mount offers a 30 lb. payload capacity. This does not include the weight of the counterweights.

 

Dual Saddle Plate

 

Beginning in early 2019, Celestron is including a new dual saddle plate that fits both CG-5 and CGE-style dovetails with their Advanced VX mount. Replacing the old saddle plate requires nothing more than moving the hand knobs into a separate set of holes. This allows the AVX mount to be used with the 8″ RASA as well as nearly any optical tube that satisfies the Advanced VX’s weight capacity.

 

Celestron PWI Telescope Control Software

 

All current Celestron computerized telescopes include Celestron PWI (CPWI), the most advanced astronomy software suite provided with any consumer-grade telescope. Celestron’s experts co-developed CPWI with the engineers at PlaneWave Instruments. The result is an all-in-one solution offering you many of the same features used on PlaneWave’s observatory-class telescopes.

• Graphical planetarium interface with PointXP advanced mount modelling allows you to add 100+ points to your alignment model for the most accurate pointing and tracking possible.
• Ideal for remote observatory setups: save and re-load your alignment and park your scope.
• Provides a complete ASCOM telescope interface to allow control of the telescope from third party software applications.

 

Starry Night Software

 

Also included with your purchase is a free download of Celestron’s Starry Night Special Edition Software. This advanced software by Simulation Curriculum offers detailed information about celestial objects and helps you plan your next observing or imaging session. The Special Edition software also includes telescope control via your PC.