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Celestron Advanced VX 8-inch Rowe-Ackermann Schmidt Astrograph (RASA) Wide-Field Imaging Telescope
AED 14,870.00
- Rowe-Ackermann Schmidt Optical Design: 8” f/2.2 flat-field imaging system with rare-earth glass, delivering sharp, defect-free images across APS-C sensors without field curvature, coma, astigmatism, or chromatic aberration.
- Camera Compatibility: Designed for color astronomical CMOS cameras, smaller CCD cameras, and mirrorless cameras (not compatible with standard DSLRs).
- Ultra-Stable Focus System: Precision linear ball bearing system minimizes image shift.
- Integrated Air-Cooling System: 12V DC MagLev fan reduces cooldown time, optimizes airflow, and filters out dust.
- Internal Filter Mount: Includes support for a Light Pollution Imaging Filter.
- Wide Spectral Performance: Operates over a wider spectral range than most telescopes, from 400-800 nm, for sharper focus.
- Advanced VX Mount: Compact German equatorial mount with 13.5 kg (30 lb) maximum weight capacity, minimal flexure, PEC, autoguider port, and meridian imaging capabilities.
- Dual Saddle Plate Compatibility: Supports CG-5 and CGE dovetails, as well as Vixen-format dovetails over 100mm (not compatible with Losmandy D plates).
- Included Accessories: M42 camera adapter, C-thread camera adapter, and fan battery pack.
Lead time delivery: 13 - 29 days
Description
Celestron Advanced VX 8-inch RASA Wide-Field Imaging Telescope Kit
This comprehensive kit pairs the 8” Rowe-Ackermann Schmidt Astrograph (RASA) with the portable yet sturdy Advanced VX (AVX) German equatorial mount. Designed for astrophotographers of all levels, this system enables spectacular wide-field deep-sky imaging with ease. Simply add a compatible mirrorless or CMOS camera to begin capturing stunning celestial vistas.
RASA Performance Made Accessible
The 8” Rowe-Ackermann Schmidt Astrograph (RASA) is designed for rapid, high-quality imaging of wide-field deep-sky objects. With its fast f/2.0 optical system, it pairs seamlessly with modern color astronomical CMOS cameras, smaller CCD cameras, and mirrorless cameras. Thanks to its innovative design and fast focal ratio, the RASA delivers sharp, detailed images, often eliminating the need for an autoguider. Weighing just 17 pounds, it’s ideal for transport to remote dark-sky locations.
Affordable and Portable Imaging Powerhouse
As the most compact and budget-friendly addition to the acclaimed RASA family, the 8” RASA makes high-performance astrophotography accessible to a broader audience. It features the same thoughtful design elements as its larger counterpart, the RASA 11, including an integrated air-cooling system, internal filter mount, and a durable CGE dovetail bar.
Note: The 8” RASA is designed exclusively for imaging and does not support visual observations due to the prime focus focal plane at the front of the optical system.
Shorter Exposures, Stunning Results
The f/2.0 optics of the RASA enable shorter exposure times, revealing fine details in faint objects. When paired with sensitive cameras and live stacking software, the RASA offers near real-time observing experiences, providing brighter and more detailed images than visual observations through larger telescopes.
The 400mm focal length reduces tracking demands, making the RASA compatible with a wide range of equatorial mounts without requiring extended autoguiding. Its lightweight 17-pound design ensures compatibility with various mount options.
Ultra-Stable Focus for Precision Imaging
The 8” RASA features Celestron’s innovative Ultra-Stable Focus System, which minimizes lateral movement of the primary mirror during focusing, slewing, or tracking. A precision linear ball bearing ensures smooth, accurate, and stable focusing, tested rigorously during assembly for optimal performance.
Designed for Today’s Latest Cameras
Optimized for color CMOS cameras, smaller CCD cameras, and mirrorless models, the 8” RASA supports sensors up to 22mm diagonal, with good performance up to 32mm. While it can accommodate APS-C sensors, full-frame sensors (42mm) may experience reduced field illumination and edge performance. DSLR cameras and camera bodies exceeding 4 inches in diameter are not recommended. Check the compatibility chart to confirm suitability for your camera.
Camera | Compatible with RASA 8? | Adapter required |
Astronomical CMOS/CCD camera with C-mount | Yes | C-mount adapter (included) |
Astronomical CMOS/CCD camera with M42-thread mount | Yes | M42 adapter (included) with M42 extension tubes (not included) |
Astronomical CMOS/CCD camera with other mount | Yes | Custom camera adapter |
Canon mirrorless with APS-C sensor | Yes | Canon mirrorless adapter (sold separately) |
Sony mirrorless with APS-C sensor | Yes | Sony mirrorless adapter (sold separately) |
Canon mirrorless with full frame (42mm) sensor | Yes, but not optimized across the full sensor | Canon mirrorless adapter (sold separately) |
Sony mirrorless with full frame (42mm) sensor | Yes, but not optimized across the full sensor | Sony mirrorless adapter (sold separately) |
DSLR | No | — |
Unique Optical Design
The 8” RASA boasts a patented optical design (US 2016/0299331 A1) featuring a Schmidt corrector, primary mirror, lens group, and an optical window. With its advanced 4-element lens group utilizing rare-earth elements, this telescope delivers exceptional performance across a wide spectral range (400–800nm), capturing more light for sharper, detailed images.
Super-fast optical systems like the RASA demand precision. Unlike standard telescopes, adding flat glass (e.g., filters) can affect performance. To counter this, the RASA features a removable optical window, maintaining peak performance when using filters or cameras with built-in windows. Celestron also offers a dedicated Light Pollution Imaging Filter for the RASA 8.
All optical surfaces are treated with StarBright XLT coatings, while the primary mirror features enhanced aluminum coatings, ensuring maximum light transmission throughout the system. Compared to Hyperstar SCT systems, the RASA 8 delivers superior optical performance and field illumination.
Advanced VX Mount and Tripod
The Advanced VX Mount is engineered for portability and precision, making it an ideal partner for smaller telescopes like the 8” RASA. Whether you’re an experienced imager or a beginner, this mount offers advanced features for effortless sky tracking.
- Computerized German Equatorial Mount: Tracks celestial objects with GoTo capability, supported by All-Star Polar Alignment, periodic error correction (PPEC), and NexStar+ hand control for intuitive operation. Ports for autoguider, hand control, and AUX accessories expand its versatility.
- Payload Capacity: With a 30 lb capacity (excluding counterweights), the mount supports the 8” RASA and accessories like the StarSense AutoAlign and Focus Motor.
- Tripod Stability: The mount rests on a sturdy tripod with 2” steel legs, offering a wide stance for excellent stability during imaging sessions.
- Dual Saddle Plate: Compatible with both CG-5 and CGE-style dovetails, the mount supports various optical tubes within its weight limit. Switching between plates is easy, enhancing flexibility.
Celestron PWI Telescope Control Software (CPWI)
Developed with PlaneWave Instruments, CPWI provides professional-level features, including:
- Graphical planetarium interface for enhanced alignment and tracking.
- Support for remote observatories with alignment model saving and scope parking.
- Full ASCOM compatibility for third-party software integration.
Starry Night Special Edition Software
Plan observing sessions and learn about celestial objects with this advanced software. It also allows telescope control via PC, adding convenience to your setup.
Accessories Included
The Advanced VX RASA 8 kit includes:
- M42 camera adapter
- C-thread camera adapter
- Fan battery pack
This complete package ensures you have everything needed to start capturing stunning wide-field images.
SOLAR WARNING
- Never look directly at the Sun with the naked eye or with an optic (unless you have the proper solar filter). Permanent and irreversible eye damage may result.
- Never use your optic to project an image of the Sun onto any surface. Internal heat build-up can damage the optic and any accessories attached to it.
- Never leave your optic unsupervised. Make sure an adult who is familiar with the correct operating procedures is with your optic at all times, especially when children are present.
Additional information
Area of application
| Moon & Planets | Yes |
|---|---|
| Nebulae & Galaxies | Yes |
| Nature Observation | No |
| Astrophotography | Yes |
| Sun (with appropriate filter) | Only with appropriate solar filters! |
Recommended For
| Beginners | No |
|---|---|
| Advanced Users | Yes |
| Experienced Amateurs | Yes |
Optics
| Type of Optics | Catadioptric |
|---|---|
| Optical Design | Rowe-Ackermann Schmidt Astrograph |
| Aperture | 203mm (8") |
| Focal Length | 400mm (15.74") |
| Focal Ratio | f/2.0 |
| Central obstruction diameter | 93mm (3.66") (46% of aperture diameter) |
| Coating | StarBright XLT |
| Resolving Power (theoretical, Rayleigh) | 0.68 arcseconds |
| Resolving Power (theoretical, Dawes) | 0.57 arcseconds |
| Light Gathering Capacity (in relation to human eye) | 843x |
| Optical tube material | Aluminum |
| Optical tube length | 628mm (24.7") |
| Optical Tube Diameter | 235mm (9.3") |
| Optical tube weight | 7.7 kg (17 lbs) |
| Image circle | 22mm (.86") Ø, 3.15° |
| Useable field | 32mm (1.26") Ø, 4.6°, only minimal performance loss at edge of FOV |
| Wavelength range | 400 – 800 nm |
| Spot size | < 4.6 μm RMS across image circle |
| Off-axis Illumination | 93% at 11mm (.43") off-axis |
| Optical Window | 46mm (1.81") Ø |
| Back focus with included camera adapter | 25mm (.98") |
| Back focus from top of threaded collar | 29mm (1.14") |
Focuser
| Type of focuser | Ultra-Stable Focusing System |
|---|
Mount
| Type of mount | Computerized Equatorial |
|---|---|
| Tracking | Yes |
| Mount weight | 7.7 kg (17 lbs) |
| Counterweights | 1 x 5.5 kg (12 lbs) |
| Payload capacity | 13.6 kg (30 lbs) |
Accessories
| Eyepiece | Not included |
|---|---|
| Finderscope | Not included |
| Barlow lens | Not included |
| Other accessories | 1 x 5.5 kg (12 lbs) counterweight, Accessory Tray, Advanced VX Equatorial Head and tripod, DC Power Cable (plugs into cigarette lighter socket), NexStar+ Hand Control |
Other
| Other features | Air-cooling system, integrated filter mount |
|---|---|
| Dovetail | CGE Dovetail Bar |
| Height adjustment range (includes mount and tripod) | 1118mm – 1626mm (44" – 64") |
| GPS | N/A |
| Dovetail Compatibility | Dual saddle plates (CG-5 and CGE saddle) |
| Power Requirements | 12V DC 3.5A (tip positive) |
| Computerized Hand Control | NexStar+ hand control with LCD display, 19 fiber-optic backlit LED buttons |
| Auxiliary Ports | 3 AUX Ports (1 hand control and 2 AUX Ports for optional accessories) |
| Autoguide Port | Yes |
| USB port | Yes (input on Hand Control) |
| Total Kit Weight | 21.3 kg (47 lbs) |
| Tripod Leg Diameter | 50.8mm (2") Stainless Steel |
| Tripod Weight | 8.2 kg (18 lbs) |
| Solar Warning | Never leave your optic unsupervised. Make sure an adult who is familiar with the correct operating procedures is with your optic at all times, especially when children are present., Never look directly at the Sun with the naked eye or with an optic (unless you have the proper solar filter). Permanent and irreversible eye damage may result., Never use your optic to project an image of the Sun onto any surface. Internal heat build-up can damage the optic and any accessories attached to it. |
Downloads
Manuals:
Nexstar Plus Hand Control Manual
8" Rowe-Ackermann Schmidt Astrograph Manual
Software & Firmware:
Periodic Error Correction Tool (PECTool)
Drawings:
Advanced VX 8" Rowe-Ackermann Schmidt Astrograph Dimensional Drawing
8" Rowe-Ackermann Schmidt Astrograph Optical Tube Assembly Dimensional Drawing
Other Product Files:
How to Align a Red Dot Finder to Your Telescope Video
Celestron NexStar+ Hand Control Troubleshooting Guide
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