Celestron Focus Motor for SCT and EdgeHD Review

Let’s Talk About Celestron Focus Motor for SCT and EdgeHD

The Celestron Focus Motor for SCT and EdgeHD promises electronic, hands-free focusing for your telescope, a feature that can transform the observing and astrophotography experience. Celestron, a name synonymous with quality telescopes, offers this motor as an upgrade for their Schmidt-Cassegrain (SCT) and EdgeHD optical tubes. I was excited to get my hands on it after years of manually fiddling with focus knobs in the cold, hoping for that perfect crisp image.

My journey towards the Celestron Focus Motor for SCT and EdgeHD began with my increasing frustration during astrophotography sessions. Achieving pinpoint focus manually, especially when battling atmospheric turbulence and the unforgiving chill of a night sky, felt like an exercise in futility. The promise of remote, precise electronic focusing was irresistible.

The packaging was typical Celestron – functional and protective. The motor itself felt surprisingly substantial, indicating a robust build. My initial impression was positive, though I immediately noticed the variety of port covers, a seemingly small detail that signaled attention to detail.

Compared to other motorized focusers I’ve seen online, the Celestron model seemed more integrated and specifically designed for Celestron telescopes, rather than a universal add-on. This was a key factor in choosing this one, as I prefer a seamless fit and guaranteed compatibility. I was cautiously optimistic, hoping it would live up to the hype.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Celestron Focus Motor for SCT and EdgeHD to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test of the Celestron Focus Motor for SCT and EdgeHD was at my usual dark sky location, a remote field about an hour outside the city. The temperature was a brisk 40 degrees Fahrenheit, and the air was relatively still. Setting up was straightforward, attaching the motor to my Celestron EdgeHD 8″ was easily done using the provided instructions.

Initially, I encountered a hiccup. I hadn’t updated my StarSense hand controller’s firmware, rendering the motor unresponsive. This required a trip back home for a cable and software update, a frustrating delay that underscores the importance of pre-installation preparation. However, after that, the motor smoothly drove the focuser in both directions.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of using the Celestron Focus Motor for SCT and EdgeHD across numerous imaging sessions, I’m genuinely impressed with its reliability. The motor has performed flawlessly, even on particularly cold nights. I’ve yet to notice any degradation in performance or any unusual wear and tear.

Cleaning has been minimal; a simple wipe-down with a microfiber cloth is usually sufficient to remove any accumulated dust. Compared to the frustrating manual focusing I endured previously, this motor is a game-changer. It has drastically improved the consistency and quality of my astrophotography.

Breaking Down the Features of Celestron Focus Motor for SCT and EdgeHD

Specifications

• The Celestron Focus Motor for SCT and EdgeHD is designed for electronic focusing of Celestron Schmidt-Cassegrain (SCT) and EdgeHD telescopes. It is compatible with SCTs from 6 to 14 inches produced since 2006 (excluding 5-inch models and older).
• This Celestron Focus Motor for SCT and EdgeHD is not compatible with the 9.25″ EdgeHD, the 8″ Rowe-Ackermann Schmidt Astrograph (RASA), the 36cm RASA, or the 7″ Maksutov-Cassegrain. It can be used with the 11″ RASA with a separate Focuser Retrofit Kit.
• Celestron claims self-powering operation; power is sourced from the Celestron computerized mount or via USB when connected to a computer. The motor also features multiple speed rates, automatic GoTo indexed focuser position, and focuser backlash compensation.
• The supplied Focuser Utility software for Windows is a simple user interface for focus control and enables autofocusing with a camera and third-party software via ASCOM. The index focus position is especially useful for preventing the focus motor from reaching the end of the telescope’s mechanical travel.
• The product weight is 15 ounces. The product color is black.

These specifications translate directly into real-world performance enhancements. Electronic focusing allows for more precise adjustments than are possible manually, and the compatibility with ASCOM opens doors for automated focusing routines in astrophotography software.

Performance & Functionality

The Celestron Focus Motor for SCT and EdgeHD excels at its primary function: providing precise, repeatable electronic focusing. It allows for very fine adjustments, enabling optimal focus even with subtle changes in temperature or atmospheric conditions. It significantly improves image sharpness and contrast.

Its strengths lie in its smooth and quiet operation, ease of installation (firmware updates aside), and seamless integration with Celestron computerized mounts and software. One potential improvement would be a more intuitive software interface. The Celestron Focus Motor for SCT and EdgeHD certainly meets and, in some cases, exceeds expectations.

Design & Ergonomics

The Celestron Focus Motor for SCT and EdgeHD features a sturdy, all-black design that blends well with Celestron telescopes. Its weight is noticeable but doesn’t negatively impact the telescope’s balance. It sits firmly on the telescope without any wobble or play.

While the hardware installation is easy, the software side could be more user-friendly. The initial firmware update and ASCOM driver installation may be a little challenging for beginners. With a little experience, however, use becomes intuitive.

Durability & Maintenance

The build quality of the Celestron Focus Motor for SCT and EdgeHD suggests it will last for years with proper care. Its housing is made of high-quality materials. The motor seems well-sealed against dust and moisture.

Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning with a soft cloth. Given its solid construction and minimal moving parts, repairs should be infrequent.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Celestron Focus Motor for SCT and EdgeHD comes with a USB cable for computer control and a cable for connecting to Celestron computerized mounts. As a motorized focus controller it self powers with a Celestron computerized mount. It is compatible with ASCOM drivers.

While there aren’t many external customization options, its compatibility with ASCOM allows for seamless integration with a wide range of astrophotography software, enabling sophisticated autofocusing routines and remote control capabilities.

Pros and Cons of Celestron Focus Motor for SCT and EdgeHD

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Who Should Buy Celestron Focus Motor for SCT and EdgeHD?

The Celestron Focus Motor for SCT and EdgeHD is perfect for serious visual observers who want pinpoint focus, particularly those with dexterity issues. It is also great for astrophotographers seeking to automate their imaging process and achieve consistently sharp results. It’s a must-have for anyone operating a remote observatory.

If you’re a casual observer who only occasionally uses your telescope, or if you own a Celestron telescope that’s incompatible with the motor, you should skip this product. A must-have accessory would be a USB to serial adapter if you need to update your hand controller.

Conclusion on Celestron Focus Motor for SCT and EdgeHD

The Celestron Focus Motor for SCT and EdgeHD is a valuable addition to any serious astronomer’s toolkit. It offers significant improvements in focusing accuracy and ease of use. It enhances both visual observing and astrophotography.

At $206.47, the price is justified given the performance gains and convenience it provides. It is a worthwhile investment for anyone serious about astronomy. I wholeheartedly recommend the Celestron Focus Motor for SCT and EdgeHD to fellow stargazers looking to elevate their observing and imaging experience. Embrace the future of telescope focusing!