Celestron Telescope CGX 800 RASA, f/2.0 Review

Let’s Talk About Celestron Telescope CGX 800 RASA, f/2.0

The Celestron Telescope CGX 800 RASA, f/2.0 is not just a telescope; it’s a deep-sky imaging powerhouse designed for capturing stunning astronomical images with relative ease. This kit combines the Rowe-Ackermann Schmidt Astrograph (RASA) technology with the robust CGX German equatorial mount, offering a complete astrophotography solution for enthusiasts and seasoned imagers alike. It promises incredible speed, a wide field of view, and a user-friendly experience, which is why I was particularly interested in testing it.

I had been battling long exposure times with my previous setup, struggling to capture faint deep-sky objects without significant noise. The promise of the RASA’s f/2.0 speed was too enticing to ignore, promising to drastically cut down on exposure times and allow for more detailed images. Unboxing the Celestron Telescope CGX 800 RASA, f/2.0 was an experience in itself.

The telescope felt solid and well-constructed, with a surprisingly manageable weight for its capabilities. The CGX mount, while substantial, exuded an air of precision and stability. Compared to my previous Schmidt-Cassegrain, the RASA felt more specialized, a tool designed for a specific purpose, whereas other telescopes are more multi-purpose.

My initial impression was one of excitement mixed with a healthy dose of anticipation. This seemed like a serious piece of equipment, capable of delivering the kind of images I had only dreamed of before. I couldn’t wait to get it under the night sky.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Celestron Telescope CGX 800 RASA, f/2.0 to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the Celestron Telescope CGX 800 RASA, f/2.0 was at a dark sky site about two hours outside the city, a location known for its minimal light pollution. I primarily focused on imaging the Orion Nebula. The setup, while requiring some initial calibration, was surprisingly straightforward thanks to the CGX mount’s user-friendly features.

The performance was astonishing. Even with relatively short exposures, the RASA captured an incredible amount of detail in the nebula, revealing structures that were barely visible in my previous attempts. The telescope’s performance wasn’t impacted by moderate humidity present that evening. I was impressed by the fast focal ratio, and didn’t experience any major issues that first night.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Celestron Telescope CGX 800 RASA, f/2.0 has proven to be a reliable and robust imaging platform. The telescope exhibits minimal wear and tear, with the optical components remaining pristine after careful cleaning and maintenance. Routine maintenance involves keeping the optics clean and checking the mount’s lubrication.

Compared to my previous setup, the Celestron significantly outperforms it in terms of imaging speed and overall detail captured. The CGX mount holds steady, even with moderate wind gusts. The system has been a significant upgrade over my previous astrophotography experiences.

Breaking Down the Features of Celestron Telescope CGX 800 RASA, f/2.0

Specifications

• The Celestron Telescope CGX 800 RASA, f/2.0 features an 8-inch Rowe-Ackermann Schmidt Astrograph optical design, boasting a focal length of 400mm. The f/2.0 focal ratio is the star of the show, enabling incredibly fast image acquisition.
• The mount is the CGX German equatorial mount with a 55 lb. load capacity. This is more than enough to handle the 17 lb. RASA OTA plus camera and accessories.
• The optical tube has StarBright XLT coatings. This helps maximize light transmission.
• The telescope utilizes a CGE dovetail mounting bar. This provides a secure and stable connection to the CGX mount.
• The system operates within a wavelength range of 390-800 nm. This captures a broad spectrum of light.

These specifications translate to exceptional performance, allowing for shorter exposure times, wider fields of view, and sharper images. The stable mount ensures accurate tracking, crucial for long-exposure astrophotography.

Performance & Functionality

The Celestron Telescope CGX 800 RASA, f/2.0 excels at capturing wide-field deep-sky images with incredible speed and detail. Accuracy in tracking is exceptional thanks to the CGX mount’s precise motors and encoders. The system does require careful collimation to achieve optimal image quality.

The strengths of this system lie in its speed, wide field of view, and the stability of the mount. The need for precise collimation, although not difficult, could be seen as a minor drawback. The system exceeds expectations, delivering stunning images that were previously unattainable with my equipment.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Celestron Telescope CGX 800 RASA, f/2.0 is impressive, with high-quality materials used throughout. The telescope, while not overly heavy, feels solid and well-engineered. The CGX mount is robust and stable, inspiring confidence during long imaging sessions.

The system is relatively user-friendly, although some experience with astrophotography is recommended. The CGX mount’s NexStar+ hand controller and the included software make setup and operation straightforward. There is a bit of a learning curve for proper alignment and collimation, but the results are worth the effort.

Durability & Maintenance

The Celestron Telescope CGX 800 RASA, f/2.0 is built to last, with durable materials and a robust design. Proper care and maintenance, including cleaning the optics and lubricating the mount, will ensure years of reliable performance. Periodic cleaning of the optics with appropriate solutions is recommended.

Repairs, if needed, can be performed by experienced technicians or by Celestron service centers. The telescope and mount should last many years with reasonable care.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Celestron Telescope CGX 800 RASA, f/2.0 comes with camera adapters for C-mount cameras and cameras that mount with M42 threads. Celestron offers optional adapters for Sony and Canon mirrorless cameras. The internal filter mount allows for seamless integration of light pollution filters.

The RASA’s compatibility with various cameras and filters expands its capabilities. The ability to use different cameras and filters makes it highly customizable. Using third party accessories, such as off-axis guiders and electronic focusers, is possible and welcome.

Pros and Cons of Celestron Telescope CGX 800 RASA, f/2.0

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Who Should Buy Celestron Telescope CGX 800 RASA, f/2.0?

The Celestron Telescope CGX 800 RASA, f/2.0 is perfect for astrophotographers who want to capture stunning deep-sky images with minimal exposure time. It’s ideal for those seeking a fast, wide-field imaging system with a stable and reliable mount. This system is also great for imagers in light polluted areas that need to reduce exposure times and filter out light pollution.

This product may not be suitable for beginners who are just starting out in astronomy, as it requires some experience with astrophotography and image processing. Visual observers looking for a telescope to view planets and stars directly should also skip this product. A must-have accessory would be a dedicated astronomy camera designed for deep-sky imaging.

Conclusion on Celestron Telescope CGX 800 RASA, f/2.0

The Celestron Telescope CGX 800 RASA, f/2.0 is a powerful and capable astrophotography system that delivers exceptional results. The fast f/2.0 focal ratio and wide field of view make it a game-changer for capturing deep-sky objects, while the stable CGX mount ensures accurate tracking and minimal vibrations. While the price is significant, the performance and features justify the investment for serious astrophotographers.

I would highly recommend the Celestron Telescope CGX 800 RASA, f/2.0 to anyone looking to take their astrophotography to the next level. If you are serious about astrophotography and want to capture stunning images of the cosmos, then the Celestron Telescope CGX 800 RASA, f/2.0 is an investment you won’t regret. So, gear up, point your scope towards the heavens, and prepare to be amazed.