Celestron CGX-L 1100 RASA Computerized Telescope - V2
The Pinnacle of Computerized Telescopes: The Celestron CGX-L 1100 RASA!
Combining two of their most sought after innovations, Celestron introduces the CGX-L 1100 RASA Computerized Telescope - V2! The highly regarded 11” Rowe-Ackermann Schmidt Astrograph riding atop the heavy duty CGX-L Equatorial Mount is the ultimate system for seasoned astroimagers looking to take their astrophotography to the next level. As one of the largest telescopes in the series, this 11" in aperture provides 1.9x the light gathering power of the 8" RASA. Imaging at an incredibly fast focal ratio of f/2.2 is an astrophotographer’s dream, and the wide field of view lets you capture immense clouds of nebulosity in a single frame. This OTA is also equipped with premier glass for stunning images with zero coma and aberration. With quality like this, Celestron delivers an astrophotography experience that's a cut above the rest!
An OTA of this caliber needs a just as impressive support system in place to maximize its abilities. This is why the Celestron CGX-L Equatorial Mount was the prime choice to pair with this 11” RASA. The belt driven system, robust worm gears, and spring loaded brass worm wheels provide smooth, seamless maneuvering across the night sky. Its high payload capacity of 75lbs easily carries this bulky, 43lb RASA, and allows the addition of a plethora of accessories! At the base of this mount is a sturdy and rigid stainless steel tripod for rock solid stability.
The Celestron RASA: An Optical Design Beyond Compare
Elevating the famed Schmidt Cassegrain Telescopes, Celestron has developed an optical system that takes astrophotography to the next level. The patented Rowe Ackerman Schmidt Astrograph features an incredibly fast native focal ratio of f/2.2, an outstanding advancement from the typical f/10 systems! Imaging at a lower focal ratio means much more signal is collected in less time for brighter, more detailed images without a sacrifice in resolution. For instance, an exposure time of 30 seconds with the RASA is equivalent in brightness to an exposure time of ~10 minutes with an f/10 SCT. That's 20x as fast! In addition to this, the focal length of just 620mm produces a wider field of view, allowing you to capture vast regions of the night sky. This shorter focal length paired with the fast focal ratio is much less demanding on the telescope mount, and in many cases, autoguiding may not even be required for sharp images. Furthering the wide field imaging capabilities of this RASA, the large image circle of 43.3mm makes it compatible with the majority of camera sensors on the market today. Enjoy focused, pinpoint stars all the way to the corners of the frame. Even the largest camera chips with a diagonal of 52mm can benefit from this high performance optical design. Furnished with 4-element rare-earth glass, say goodbye to coma and field curvature! False color and aberration are eradicated while vignetting is significantly minimized. Celestron has also included their patented StarBright XLT coatings for maximum light transmission, enhancing performance even more.
Having systems in place to preserve image stability is crucial for the highest quality of astroimages possible. Understanding this, Celestron has assembled this 11” RASA with an internal focuser along with a built-in fan! This Ultra-Stable Focus System (USFS) possesses a precision linear ball bearing for reduced image shift while focusing. Not only this, but this focus design also reduces the effects of mirror flop, the unwanted primary mirror movement during different telescope pointing positions. The 12V DC MagLev fan helps this RASA quickly reach temperature equilibrium with its external surroundings and provides dust filtered airflow through the optical tube. For your convenience, a CGE dovetail is affixed to the top of this RASA 11 for easy attachment of a guidescope for enhanced tracking stability. These carefully engineered additions aid in delivering peak performance for images brimming with clarity!
Push the Limits of Amateur Astronomy with this Observatory Grade Telescope & Equatorial Mount!
Celestron has crafted this CGX-L 1100 RASA Computerized Telescope with immense light gathering abilities and substantial tracking precision. The option to add near limitless accessories elevates your astrophotography sessions, making this a well rounded, versatile set up. This system is perfect for backyard observing, or even use it for your remote observatory! Read more about this Celestron Computerized Telescope below!
Effortless Camera Attachment
Created specifically for astrophotography, this 11” RASA cannot be used visually and solely functions as an astrograph. To get you started, Celestron has included two camera adapters: an M42 adapter for use with the majority of cameras with standard T-threads, and an M48 adapter for those with full frame sensors. For astrophotographers wishing to use their DSLR camera, please note that a user-supplied T-ring is also required for proper attachment. Most dedicated astroimaging cameras on the market today call for 55mm of back focal distance to reach ideal focus. Understanding this, both included adapters provide this 55mm industry standard! If your camera has a different backfocal demand, additional spacers (not included) may be required for optimal image quality. When ready to affix your camera to this RASA 11, a few simple steps ensue: (1) Place the included knurled retaining ring over the appropriate camera adapter, then loosely thread it onto the front housing of the RASA; (2) next, thread your camera onto the adapter; and (3) finish threading in the retaining ring to secure everything in place, ensuring that you are not over-tightening as to prevent damage to the telescope. Now you’re all set to image! This retaining ring can be loosened and retightened to allow for camera rotation as well.
75lb Payload, High Precision Tracking
Celestron has designed this CGX-L Equatorial Mount to handle heavy, high end OTAs such as this 43 lb RASA 11. As opposed to using spur gears to drive the worm gear, this EQ mount utilizes a belt and pulley apparatus to significantly reduce backlash and enhance motor operation. These motors deliver exceptional torque, seen within the 75lb payload capacity. Spring loaded worm wheels in both directions keep the gear mesh optimal for maximum tracking performance. Enjoy unparalleled user experience thanks to ergonomics of well-placed carrying handles, easy to grip dovetail knobs, internal cabling, and smooth latitude/azimuth adjusters. Also, an adjustable EQ head centralizes the weight of your set up over the tripod for increased stability.
Included NexStar+ Hand Controller
Equipped with a NexStar+ hand controller, easily find objects to observe, star align, and even polar align your mount! With the All Star Polar Alignment routine built into this hand controller, polar alignment can be achieved even with obstructed views of the celestial poles. An object database of over 40,000 objects and the ability to add 100 user defined targets will have you exploring the cosmos night after night, and 19 large, back lit buttons are clearly labeled and easy to navigate. Enjoy clear 2 line x 18 character lettering with the Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) screen, illuminated in red to help preserve your night vision! In addition, this controller has a USB port for connection to a PC for software control. Please note: Celestron does not include a USB cable with their hand controller. We recommend the Apertura USB 2.0 Cable for Celestron NexStar+ Hand Controllers.
Optimized for Backyard or Remote Observatories
Looking to set up a remote observatory or engage in backyard observing? This CGX-L 1100 RASA Computerized Telescope is ideal for both! The home and limit sensors as well as the mechanical hard stop built into the CGX-L work together to prevent accidental collisions with the tripod or pier. These equipment protection mechanisms give you a peace of mind knowing your gear stays safe without having to constantly monitor your rig. Also, your power supply remains intact with the threaded, fixed power port, and strategically placed AUX and autoguiding ports help prevent loose cables from getting caught. With the mount head weight of 53lbs, tripod weight of 46lbs, and RASA 11 weight of 43lbs, this burly system excels as a stationary, long term setup. Having a ready-to-go system such as this one drastically cuts down on set up time and allows for more observation time. With features like these, the CGX-L 1100 RASA Computerized Telescope - V2 earns our High Point Scientific category badges of Remote Observatory Grade and Backyard Observing!
Upgrade Your Experience with a Myriad of Accessories!
Four available AUX ports found on the CGX-L provide ample room for a wide range of additions. Whether you want to attach the Celestron StarSense AutoAlign for your alignment or needs, or even add WiFi capabilities to this CGX-L with the SkyPortal WiFi Module, Celestron has you covered! Wanting precise, hands-free focusing capabilities? The Celestron Focus Motor allows you to remotely focus your RASA with your favorite software or even with the included NexStar+ hand controller! Even light pollution is a non-issue with the addition of the RASA 11 Light Pollution 72mm Imaging Filter from Celestron. Connect the StarSense Autoguider to this CGX-L for improved tracking and even better astroimages! With this multitude of accessories and upgrades, your Celestron CGX-L 1100 RASA Computerized Telescope is timeless.
Astronomy Hub: Your one-stop-shop for Astrophotography Knowledge!
Our Gear Experts have compiled a wealth of information to help expand your astrophotography knowledge! Below you’ll find links to articles, videos and "how-to" guides. Just one more reason that our Astronomy Hub is a one-stop-shop for all your astronomy and astrophotography needs!
| Choosing the Best Deep Sky Camera |
| 10 Things You Need to Know About Nebulae |
| How to Balance Your Equatorial Mount |
| Autoguiding |
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