What Makes the Celestron CGX 1100 HD Telescope, 11in, 12057 Stand Out?
The Celestron CGX 1100 HD Telescope, 11in, 12057 isn’t just a telescope; it’s a portal to the cosmos, engineered by Celestron to bring deep-sky objects and planetary details into breathtaking focus. With its substantial 11-inch aperture and advanced optical design, coupled with the robust CGX equatorial mount, this instrument promises serious amateur astronomers and astrophotographers a level of performance that bridges the gap between observer and the universe. It’s a significant investment, but one that, on paper, delivers exceptional capability. I’ve spent years gazing at the night sky, and I was looking for something that would finally let me see the faint fuzzies I’d only ever read about.
I was tired of squinting through smaller apertures, struggling to resolve detail in galaxies, and battling flimsy mounts that wouldn’t hold steady in even a slight breeze. This model seemed to offer the perfect blend of aperture, portability (relatively speaking, of course), and a stable, computerized mount. My initial thought was to either go with the Celestron 9.25-inch EdgeHD or a competing 10-inch Schmidt-Cassegrain from another manufacturer. Ultimately, the combination of the 11-inch aperture and the reputation of the CGX mount swayed my decision toward the Celestron CGX 1100 HD Telescope, 11in, 12057.
Unboxing the Celestron CGX 1100 HD Telescope, 11in, 12057 was an experience in itself. The sheer size of the OTA (Optical Tube Assembly) was impressive, and the weight was reassuringly solid. Everything felt well-packed and protected. The CGX mount appeared exceptionally robust, a clear step up from the lightweight mounts I was accustomed to. I was immediately excited about the potential, though also slightly intimidated by the setup process.
My first impression was excitement tempered with the realization that this was a serious piece of equipment that demanded respect and a careful learning curve. It wasn’t a “grab and go” telescope; it was an instrument meant for deliberate, planned observing sessions, and I was ready to dedicate the time to mastering it. I was excited to see if it would live up to the hype and give me the deep-sky views I’d been dreaming of.
Real-World Testing: Putting the Celestron CGX 1100 HD Telescope, 11in, 12057 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first observing session with the Celestron CGX 1100 HD Telescope, 11in, 12057 took place at a dark-sky site about an hour outside of the city. I wanted to escape the light pollution and truly test the telescope’s capabilities. The conditions were excellent: clear skies, minimal moonlight, and relatively stable air.
I spent a significant amount of time aligning the mount, a process that involved precisely leveling the tripod and performing a polar alignment. The Celestron StarSense AutoAlign accessory greatly simplified this process. Even after careful alignment, minor tracking inaccuracies were noticeable at higher magnifications, requiring occasional manual adjustments. The telescope performed admirably, revealing stunning details in familiar objects like the Orion Nebula and the Andromeda Galaxy. However, the focuser was quite stiff, making fine adjustments a bit challenging, especially while wearing gloves.
The first time using the Celestron CGX 1100 HD Telescope, 11in, 12057 was a night of many pleasant surprises. It also exposed a few areas needing improvement or simple familiarization.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Celestron CGX 1100 HD Telescope, 11in, 12057 has proven to be a reliable and capable instrument, though not without its quirks. The optical tube has shown no signs of degradation. Images remain sharp and contrasty.
The CGX mount has held up well, showing no significant wear or tear despite being transported to various observing locations. However, I did notice some backlash in the gears, which became more pronounced over time. Periodic cleaning and lubrication of the mount are essential to maintain smooth operation. Compared to my previous experiences with smaller telescopes, the Celestron CGX 1100 HD Telescope, 11in, 12057 provides significantly better views of faint deep-sky objects and allows for much higher magnification on planets and the moon. I would rate this telescope as preforming very well overall.
Breaking Down the Features of the Celestron CGX 1100 HD Telescope, 11in, 12057
Specifications
The Celestron CGX 1100 HD Telescope, 11in, 12057 boasts an impressive array of features tailored for serious astronomical observation and astrophotography.
- Aperture: 11 inches (279 mm). This is the telescope’s light-gathering ability. A larger aperture translates to brighter, more detailed images.
- Focal Length: 2800 mm. Longer focal lengths provide higher magnification, suitable for planetary and lunar viewing.
- Focal Ratio: f/10. A moderate focal ratio makes it versatile for both deep-sky and planetary observation.
- Optical Design: Schmidt-Cassegrain. Known for its compact design and good image quality over a wide field of view.
- Mount Type: CGX Equatorial. Provides a stable platform and accurate tracking for long-exposure astrophotography.
- Computerized Hand Control: Features a database of over 40,000 celestial objects. Makes it easy to locate targets automatically.
- Weight: OTA (Optical Tube Assembly) weighs 27.5 lbs (12.5 kg), Mount weighs 44 lbs (20 kg). The combined weight requires careful handling and a stable observing location.
These specifications are paramount for achieving high-quality astronomical images. The large aperture enables the capture of faint details in deep-sky objects. The precise tracking of the equatorial mount ensures sharp images during long exposures.
Performance & Functionality
The Celestron CGX 1100 HD Telescope, 11in, 12057 excels in several key areas. It delivers sharp, high-contrast images of planets, the moon, and deep-sky objects. Its goto system accurately locates targets, and the equatorial mount provides stable tracking for astrophotography.
The focuser could be smoother, and the backlash in the mount gears could be reduced, however the Celestron CGX 1100 HD Telescope, 11in, 12057 has met and exceeded my expectations. The views it provides are significantly better than those from smaller telescopes.
Design & Ergonomics
The Celestron CGX 1100 HD Telescope, 11in, 12057 is well-built, with high-quality materials used throughout. The OTA feels solid and durable, while the CGX mount provides a stable and vibration-free platform.
Setting up and using the telescope requires some experience and patience. The initial learning curve can be steep for beginners, but the included manual and online resources are helpful.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the Celestron CGX 1100 HD Telescope, 11in, 12057 should last for many years. The optical tube is well-sealed to prevent dust and moisture from entering.
Periodic cleaning of the optics is necessary to maintain optimal performance. Lubricating the mount gears will also help ensure smooth and accurate tracking.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Celestron CGX 1100 HD Telescope, 11in, 12057 comes with a basic set of accessories, including a 40mm eyepiece, a star diagonal, and a finderscope. However, upgrading to higher-quality eyepieces and accessories can significantly enhance the viewing experience.
The telescope is compatible with a wide range of aftermarket accessories, including focal reducers, coma correctors, and autoguiders. These accessories can further improve its performance for astrophotography. The Celestron CGX 1100 HD Telescope, 11in, 12057 is also compatible with numerous accessories from other brands, this is a massive benefit.
Pros and Cons of the Celestron CGX 1100 HD Telescope, 11in, 12057
Pros
- Large 11-inch aperture provides excellent light-gathering ability for detailed views of faint objects.
- Stable CGX equatorial mount enables precise tracking for long-exposure astrophotography.
- Computerized goto system with a large database of celestial objects makes it easy to find targets.
- Schmidt-Cassegrain design offers a good balance of portability and performance.
- Compatible with a wide range of aftermarket accessories for customization and improved performance.
Cons
- Relatively heavy and bulky, requiring a dedicated observing location or significant effort for transport.
- Focuser is somewhat stiff and could benefit from an upgrade.
- Backlash in mount gears can affect tracking accuracy, requiring periodic adjustment.
Who Should Buy the Celestron CGX 1100 HD Telescope, 11in, 12057?
The Celestron CGX 1100 HD Telescope, 11in, 12057 is perfect for serious amateur astronomers and astrophotographers who are looking for a high-performance instrument that can deliver exceptional views of the cosmos. It’s also well-suited for experienced observers who want to upgrade from smaller telescopes and explore fainter, more distant objects.
Beginners who are new to astronomy may find the Celestron CGX 1100 HD Telescope, 11in, 12057 overwhelming. The setup process is complex, and mastering the telescope’s features takes time and effort. A smaller, simpler telescope might be a better choice for beginners. A must-have accessory is a high-quality set of eyepieces, a dew shield, and a good power supply for the mount.
Conclusion on the Celestron CGX 1100 HD Telescope, 11in, 12057
The Celestron CGX 1100 HD Telescope, 11in, 12057 is a powerful and capable instrument that delivers exceptional performance for serious amateur astronomers and astrophotographers. While it’s a significant investment, the price is justified by its large aperture, stable mount, and advanced features.
I would definitely recommend the Celestron CGX 1100 HD Telescope, 11in, 12057 to anyone who is passionate about astronomy and looking for a telescope that can take their observing to the next level. If you’re ready to explore the cosmos in stunning detail, then this is the telescope for you. Take the plunge and unlock the universe!