Celestron EdgeHD 8" Optical Tube Assembly

Description

Precision Optics for High-Resolution Observing and Imaging

The Celestron EdgeHD 8" Optical Tube Assembly is a high-performance Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope designed for astronomers who demand sharp, well-corrected images across the entire field. With a 203 mm aperture, 2032 mm focal length, and a native focal ratio of f/10, it is particularly well suited for detailed lunar and planetary observation, as well as deep-sky imaging of compact objects.

Thanks to its EdgeHD optical design, the telescope produces a flat, coma-free field, ensuring pinpoint stars not only at the center but also toward the edge of the field—an essential advantage for modern astrophotography.

Optimized for Lunar, Planetary, and Deep-Sky Observation

With a theoretical resolution of 0.57 arcseconds (Dawes) and a maximum useful magnification of 480×, the EdgeHD 8" is capable of resolving fine surface details on the Moon and planets under good atmospheric conditions. The long focal length naturally provides high image scale, making it ideal for planetary imaging and high-resolution visual work.

Its light-gathering power of 843× the human eye and a limiting stellar magnitude of 14 allow observers to explore globular clusters, planetary nebulae, and distant galaxies with clarity and contrast.

Flat-Field Performance for Astrophotography

Unlike standard Schmidt-Cassegrain telescopes, the EdgeHD system is engineered to deliver a corrected, flat focal plane, making it highly suitable for astrophotography. This design minimizes off-axis aberrations and keeps stars sharp across wide camera sensors, eliminating the need to compromise between center and edge focus.

The telescope’s versatility allows imaging at multiple focal ratios:

• f/10 for small and detailed targets
• f/7 (with optional reducer) for wider fields and faster exposures
• Ultra-fast f/2 imaging using Fastar-compatible third-party accessories

This flexibility makes the EdgeHD 8" an excellent long-term imaging platform as your experience and equipment evolve.

Mechanical Stability and Thermal Control

The aluminum optical tube integrates rear cooling vents with dust-filtered mesh, allowing warm air behind the primary mirror to escape efficiently. This helps the telescope reach thermal equilibrium faster, which is critical for achieving the resolution limits of an 8-inch aperture.

The internal focusing system includes mirror support clutches that reduce image shift during long-exposure imaging, improving framing stability and focus reliability.

Included Accessories and Mount Compatibility

The optical tube is supplied with:

• A 9×50 finderscope for precise target acquisition
• A 1.25" mirror diagonal for comfortable visual observing
• A 40 mm Plössl eyepiece, delivering 51× magnification

The included CGE dovetail bar ensures secure compatibility with heavy-duty equatorial mounts capable of supporting astrophotography payloads.

Important Note on Solar Observing

Solar observation is not possible without a dedicated solar filter (not included). Never observe the Sun directly through this telescope without proper certified solar protection.