Celestron CGEM II 700 Maksutov-Cassegrain Telescope Review

Let’s Talk About Celestron CGEM II 700 Maksutov-Cassegrain Telescope

The Celestron CGEM II 700 Maksutov-Cassegrain Telescope is not just another telescope; it’s a precision instrument designed for serious amateur astronomers and planetary observers. This Celestron scope combines a robust equatorial mount with a high-contrast Maksutov-Cassegrain optical system, promising detailed views of celestial wonders, especially planets and lunar landscapes.

My journey to the Celestron CGEM II 700 Maksutov-Cassegrain Telescope began with a yearning for greater detail in my planetary observations. Tired of the fuzzy images from my smaller refractor, I sought a scope capable of delivering sharp, high-contrast views. Unboxing the Celestron CGEM II 700 Maksutov-Cassegrain Telescope was a satisfying experience, immediately conveying a sense of quality and precision. The substantial mount, the sleek optical tube, and the included accessories exuded a feeling of serious astronomical equipment.

Compared to similar telescopes like the Meade ETX125 Observer or the Orion SkyView Pro 127mm Mak-Cass, the Celestron stood out for its superior mount and larger aperture. I chose the Celestron for its promise of greater stability and light-gathering ability. My first impression was one of excitement mixed with a touch of intimidation, knowing that this telescope would require a bit more setup and understanding than my previous scopes.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Celestron CGEM II 700 Maksutov-Cassegrain Telescope to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing ground for the Celestron CGEM II 700 Maksutov-Cassegrain Telescope was my backyard, a location hampered by moderate light pollution. Despite the less-than-ideal conditions, I was eager to put the scope through its paces. I specifically targeted Jupiter, and the difference compared to my previous telescope was immediately noticeable. The image was significantly brighter and sharper, revealing details in the cloud bands that were previously invisible.

The weather was cool and clear, with minimal humidity, which helped ensure optimal viewing conditions. The CGEM II mount took some time to set up, requiring careful polar alignment, but the GoTo system proved accurate, quickly locating celestial objects. I discovered that the high magnification capabilities of the Maksutov-Cassegrain design made atmospheric turbulence more noticeable, requiring patience for moments of steady seeing.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Celestron CGEM II 700 Maksutov-Cassegrain Telescope has proven to be a reliable and capable instrument. The mount has remained stable, providing smooth tracking for extended observing sessions. Despite frequent transport to darker locations, the telescope shows minimal signs of wear and tear.

Maintenance has been relatively simple, primarily involving cleaning the optics with a microfiber cloth and occasional lubrication of the mount’s moving parts. Compared to my previous telescopes, the Celestron offers a significant upgrade in both optical performance and mechanical stability. The superior views of planets and lunar features make the initial investment well worth it.

Breaking Down the Features of Celestron CGEM II 700 Maksutov-Cassegrain Telescope

Specifications

• Objective Aperture: 180 mm. This larger aperture gathers more light, enabling brighter and more detailed views of faint objects.
• Focal Length: 2700 mm. The long focal length results in a high magnification potential, ideal for planetary and lunar observation.
• Focal Ratio: f/15. This focal ratio delivers high-contrast images, making it well-suited for observing planets and the Moon.
• Optical Coating: StarBright XLT. These premium coatings maximize light transmission, resulting in brighter and more detailed images.
• Finderscope: 8×50 Straight Through. This finderscope makes it easier to locate celestial objects before viewing them through the main telescope.
• Mount: CGEM II Equatorial Mount. This robust mount provides a stable platform for the telescope and accurate tracking of celestial objects.
• Magnification: 67 – 420 x. This wide range of magnification allows for versatile viewing of various celestial objects.
• Load Capacity: 40 lbs. The higher load capacity makes the platform sturdy and rigid.

Performance & Functionality

The Celestron CGEM II 700 Maksutov-Cassegrain Telescope excels at providing high-contrast, detailed views of planets, the Moon, and other bright celestial objects. Its optical design minimizes chromatic aberration, resulting in sharp, color-accurate images. The CGEM II mount provides smooth and accurate tracking, essential for long-exposure astrophotography.

However, the long focal length can make it challenging to find objects initially, requiring precise alignment and patience. Despite this, the optical performance is exceptional, and the mount provides a stable platform. The Celestron CGEM II 700 Maksutov-Cassegrain Telescope meets and often exceeds my expectations for planetary and lunar observation.

Design & Ergonomics

The telescope’s build quality is excellent, with high-quality materials and precise construction. The weight of the optical tube and mount is substantial, reflecting its robust design. Although not lightweight, the scope disassembles into manageable components for transportation.

The hand controller is intuitive and easy to use, making it simple to navigate the GoTo system. The Celestron CGEM II 700 Maksutov-Cassegrain Telescope has a moderate learning curve for setup and alignment, but the user-friendly design makes it manageable for experienced amateur astronomers.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care, the Celestron CGEM II 700 Maksutov-Cassegrain Telescope should last for many years. The optical tube is well-protected, and the mount is built to withstand regular use. Maintenance is straightforward, requiring occasional cleaning of the optics and lubrication of the mount’s moving parts.

The overall build quality inspires confidence in the telescope’s longevity. The Celestron CGEM II 700 Maksutov-Cassegrain Telescope requires minimal maintenance and seems extremely durable.

Accessories and Customization Options

• The Celestron CGEM II 700 Maksutov-Cassegrain Telescope comes with a 2-inch visual back, a 2-inch star diagonal with a 1.25-inch adapter, and a 28mm wide-field 2-inch eyepiece.
• The package also includes a large 8×50 straight-through finderscope.
• The optical tube is compatible with larger 2-inch accessories, like Barlow lenses, eyepieces, and filter kits.
• The telescope is compatible with a wide range of aftermarket accessories, including different eyepieces, filters, and camera adapters.
• The mount can be upgraded with features like GPS and Wi-Fi connectivity for enhanced GoTo accuracy.

Pros and Cons of Celestron CGEM II 700 Maksutov-Cassegrain Telescope

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Who Should Buy Celestron CGEM II 700 Maksutov-Cassegrain Telescope?

The Celestron CGEM II 700 Maksutov-Cassegrain Telescope is perfect for experienced amateur astronomers who prioritize high-contrast planetary and lunar observation. It is also good for visual observers and planetary imagers. Those who need a highly portable telescope or are brand new to astronomy might find this setup overwhelming.

A must-have accessory would be a high-quality set of eyepieces to maximize the telescope’s performance. Also, consider getting a dew shield to prevent condensation on the optics.

Conclusion on Celestron CGEM II 700 Maksutov-Cassegrain Telescope

The Celestron CGEM II 700 Maksutov-Cassegrain Telescope is a top-tier instrument that delivers exceptional views of the solar system. Although it requires some initial investment and setup effort, the resulting image quality and stability make it well worth the price. I wholeheartedly recommend this telescope to any serious amateur astronomer looking to elevate their observing experience.

For those seeking unparalleled views of planets and lunar landscapes, the Celestron CGEM II 700 Maksutov-Cassegrain Telescope is an investment that will provide years of astronomical enjoyment. Take the plunge and unlock the secrets of the cosmos!