In modern astronomy, motor drives and Celestron StarSense technology are vital tools that enhance convenience and precision. Motor drives automate tracking, keeping celestial objects centered in the eyepiece even as Earth rotates—an essential feature for extended observing sessions and astrophotography. Meanwhile, StarSense AutoAlign revolutionizes alignment by using an onboard camera to scan the sky and instantly determine your telescope's position, eliminating the guesswork of manual alignment. These innovations exemplify Celestron's commitment to innovative, user-friendly astronomy gear. And that commitment shines brilliantly in the Celestron RASA 6" telescope. Paired with accurate tracking and StarSense alignment, the RASA 6" becomes a powerful tool for capturing deep-sky wonders with unmatched speed and clarity.
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The portability of Alt/Az fork mounts makes them useful; however, their following capabilities are lacking. This Celestron HD Pro Heavy Duty Wedge provides an excellent base for astronomical photography with Celestron Schmidt Cassegrain Telescopes up to 11 inches in diameter. This apparatus allows one to follow the stars in a circular path around the celestial pole of the sky by modifying the telescope's axis of rotation. Useful Celestron SCTs that are 11" or larger include the NexStar Evolution 9.25, CPC 800 SCT, and CPC Deluxe 1100. Installation is simple, aside from possibly adjusting the side latitude plates and the latitude adjustment rod to your latitude.
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One valuable item is the Celestron Cable-StarSense-to-CG5, an adapter for Celestron CG-5 mounts. You can connect devices like the Celestron StarSense AutoAlign if your telescope has an extra auxiliary port. The adapter's two 6-pin auxiliary outputs and one 6-pin input make it easy to connect supplementary equipment, like the StarSense AutoAlign, to your telescope.
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Restore tripod stability and secure accessory storage with the Celestron Replacement Spreader for NexStar 102GT Tripod—Black. It fits accurately with Celestron’s 102GT tripod. This durable spreader reinforces tripod leg positioning and doubles as an accessory tray for eyepieces and small tools. Crafted from high-strength polymer and finished in sleek black, it’s functional and visually cohesive with your setup. Installation is fast and seamless, keeping your telescope ready for uninterrupted stargazing.
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All Celestron computerized telescopes with an equatorial mount come with the Celestron NexStar+ EQ Hand Control with USB as an accessory. Users may control the telescope or update the software using third-party apps and a mini-USB connector. The controller's Tour Mode allows users to see popular catalogs, and a database of more than 40,000 celestial objects is at their fingertips. It features USB Flash Upgradeable Technology, a dual-line LCD screen, adjustable illumination, SkyAlign, and customizable slew speed.
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Alt/Az fork mounts are popular for their simplicity and portability, but have tracking limitations. The Celestron HD Pro Heavy Duty Wedge is a heavy-duty platform for astrophotography on Celestron fork-mounted Schmidt Cassegrain Telescopes up to 11". The wedge is primarily constructed from cast aluminum, offering a balance of strength, weight reduction, and outdoor element friendliness. It is designed to work with fork-mounted Celestron SCTs up to 11", including Celestron NexStar Evolution 9.25, Celestron CPC 800 SCT, and Celestron CPC Deluxe 1100. Installation is straightforward, but latitude adjustment rod and side latitude plate adjustments may be needed depending on the latitude.
What Accessories Make a Difference?
Beyond mounts and tripods, Celestron’s lineup of accessories is both vast and indispensable. Here are some categories worth exploring:
Alignmentand Calibration Tools: The StarSense AutoAlign module revolutionizes the alignment process, automatically detecting star patterns to set up your telescope in under three minutes. Astrophotography Gear: T-ring adapters, focal reducers, and camera mounts integrate DSLR or planetary cameras with your optical tube, allowing easy transition from visual to imaging setups.
Power Solutions: From PowerTank Lithium Pro batteries to AC adapters, reliable power is essential, especially for GoTo systems and motorized mounts during long nights in remote locations. Dew Prevention: Dew shields and heaters, like the Celestron Dew Control System, prevent lens fogging, which is especially crucial in humid climates or during long exposures.
Maintenance: Keep It Running Smoothly
Mounts, tripods, and accessories—while rugged—do require proper care. Dust and moisture are primary enemies, especially for motorized mounts and electronics. Clean Optics and Connections: Use lens-safe cloths and air blowers. Avoid over-tightening screws or leaving mounts exposed to dew or frost.
Check Alignment and Balance: Periodically check and calibrate polar alignment, especially on equatorial mounts. Ensure your mount is not overloaded, and always counterbalance properly. Firmware Updates: Celestron frequently releases updates for GoTo systems. Keeping the hand controller software current ensures compatibility and better sky tracking accuracy.Protect During Transport: Use padded cases and avoid impacts. Damage to worm gears or optical misalignment can render a mount or tripod unusable without servicing.
Why settle for shaky views, clunky setups, or limited features when the right tools are within reach? Choosing the right Celestron mount can mean the difference between frustration and fluid celestial tracking. Using the proper tripod can stabilize a delicate astrophotography session. Investing in innovative accessories can streamline your workflow, reduce errors, and increase your enjoyment under the stars.
Mounts come in a variety of styles and variations, but the two main types are equatorial and alt-azimuth. Equatorial mounts are generally the preferred choice for imagers while the ease of use and simple setup of the alt-azimuth mounts make them the perfect choice for visual observers. Besides mounts, Celestron also offers a full range of accessories to help you get the most out of their mounts, with motorized tracking systems, as well as automatic GoTo systems, being some of the most popular. GPS units and WiFi adapters are also very popular, and the Celestron anti-vibration pads are a must-have for dampening tripod vibrations.
No matter what you need, Celestron offers a wide range of options for you to consider and High Point Scientific has an excellent selection of these accessories and mounts. Check out our complete list today!