The Celestron 8" f/2.0 Rowe-Ackermann Schmidt Astrograph?(RASA) is specifically designed for astrophotography and astro-imaging with a large aperture and fast focal ratio. Using four-element rare-earth optical glass lenses ensures accurate color rendition and eliminates aberrations such as coma and field curvatures. The improved StarBright XLT multi-coating system, which includes anti-reflection coatings on the lenses and highly reflective coatings on the mirrors, increases light transmission throughout the entire optical path. An integrated fan reduces cooldown time and provides optimal airflow through the optical tube assembly (OTA) while filtering harmful dust from the interior.





The astrograph design is defined by its fast focal ratio, which reduces exposure times without sacrificing image quality and gives you more time for multiple shots of the same object for layering or with different filters. Its internal Ultra-Stable focusing mechanism enables very precise focusing to clearly resolve topographic details on the Moon or split double stars and reveal details of most other celestial objects in between, while minimizing unwanted lateral movement of the primary mirror when focusing or slewing. Since this OTA is designed as an imaging scope, a 42mm camera T-adapter and C-mount imager adapter are included that are compatible with most camera-specific T-rings that are widely available.Engineered and optimized for astrophotography with mid-sized optical tube assemblies (OTAs), the Celestron Advanced VX GoTo German Equatorial Mount delivers the performance required for clear images through the use of dual-axis low-cog DC servo motors and backlash compensation. Added to this are encoders on the motors and Permanent Periodic Error Correction (PPEC), which help to improve positioning and tracking precision and ensure your target object stays centered for long-exposure photography techniques. Supporting the mount is a large 2" stainless steel tripod that has a wide stance for stability on most terrain and a center tray that holds 1.25" and 2" eyepieces and accessories and acts as a leg lock to further stabilize while helping to minimize vibrations.





The brain of the system is the NexStar computer controller, which is equipped with a database of over 40,000 objects, including the planets, stars, nebulae, galaxies, and the complete Messier catalog; it can also be programmed with up 100 custom user-defined objects with filters to create custom object lists. Its intuitive menu-driven user interface makes observing the heavens fast and easy; features such as guided tours, extended information on 200 popular objects, and multiple alignment options make the NexStar controller an invaluable tool to new users and experienced stargazers alike.