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 to bridge the gap between their Advanced VX & heavy-duty CGX-L mounts, the Celestron CGEM II GoTo German Equatorial Mount delivers the performance required for capturing clear images during astrophotography sessions or resolving dim details when observing through an eyepiece. To make it compatible with a wide assortment of optical tube assemblies, Celestron outfitted the CGEM II with a dovetail saddle designed to accept the standard Vixen-style (Celestron's CG-5) and the larger Losmandy (Celestron CGE) dovetail bars.





Through the use of high-torque dual-axis low-cog DC servo motors, optical encoders on the motors, backlash compensation, and Permanent Periodic Error Correction (PPEC) the mount is capable of precise positioning and tracking accuracy to ensure your target object stays centered while constantly improving its performance the more you use it.





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 sky, day and night, 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.The Celestron CGEM II Tripod has 2" diameter steel legs with graduated markings that make it easy to extend the legs to the same height. It comes with a 17 lb counterweight.