The Celestron NexStar+ Hand Control - AZ is a standard accessory on all current altazimuth mounted NexStar-style telescopes, and is compatible with the Celestron SLT, LCM, SE, and CPC computerized telescopes.

With the push of a button, you can access NexStar+’s huge database of over 40,000 celestial objects. Automatically slew to objects in a variety of catalogs, including the Messier, NGC, Caldwell, and SAO brightest stars. The planets as well as a list of the most popular objects are also included. Not sure what to look at? Use the Sky Tour, and you’ll be shown a selection of the most popular objects for the time and date you are observing!

A variety of alignment procedures are pre-programmed into the NexStar Plus Hand Control, including SkyAlign, Auto 2-Star, 1-Star, 2-Star, and Solar System. You can also choose from a variety of tracking rates (sidereal, solar & lunar) and slew speeds. Slew at 1, 2, or 3 degrees per second, or choose speeds as low as 2x or as high as 64x.

This hand control includes Flash Upgradeable Technology, allowing users to upgrade its software via the Internet.

The Celestron NexStar+ Hand Control - EQ is a standard accessory on all current equatorially mounted NexStar-style telescopes, and is compatible with the Celestron Advanced VX, CGEM, CGEM DX & CGE Pro computerized telescopes.

With the push of a button, you can access NexStar+’s huge database of over 40,000 celestial objects. Automatically slew to objects in a variety of catalogs, including the Messier, NGC, Caldwell, and SAO brightest stars. The planets as well as a list of the most popular objects are also included. Not sure what to look at? Use the Tour Mode, and you’ll be shown a selection of the most popular objects for the time and date you are observing!

A variety of alignment procedures are pre-programmed into the NexStar Plus Hand Controller, including SkyAlign, Auto 2-Star, 1-Star, 2-Star, and Solar System. You can also choose from a variety of tracking rates (sidereal, solar & lunar) and slew speeds. Slew at 1, 2, or 3 degrees per second, or choose speeds as low as 2x or as high as 64x.

This hand control includes Flash Upgradeable Technology, allowing users to upgrade its software via the Internet.

• A complete digiscoping solution: NexYZ connects your smartphone to almost any eyepiece
• NexYZ’s patented design works with telescopes (with most 1.25” or 2” eyepieces), spotting scopes, binoculars, monoculars, and microscopes (with the included adapter rings).
• Works with virtually all smartphone models, including the latest devices from Apple, Samsung, and Google.
• Features three directional knobs (X-, Y-, and Z-axis) that perfectly align your phone’s camera with the eyepiece in seconds. In addition, you can make tension adjustments to keep the phone firmly in place.
• Stands up to rigorous field use thanks to its robust, durable construction with a metal frame and polymer body.

The NexYZ 3-Axis Universal Smartphone Adapter is a great first step into the world of astroimaging or digiscoping. The NexYZ provides you everything you need to capture sharp, detailed images and video.

Patented NexYZ Smartphone Adapter

NexYZ fits any eyepiece from 35mm to 60mm in diameter, including telescopes equipped with 1.25” or 2” eyepieces, spotting scopes, monoculars, and binoculars. It also attaches to microscopes with the addition of an included adapter ring, which takes the usable diameter down to 25mm, the size of a standard microscope eyepiece.

NexYZ accommodates a wide range of smartphones including the larger “phablets” like the iPhone 11 Plus and latest Samsung Galaxy devices. The phone platform is fully adjustable and can fit any device—usually with the case still on. The secure platform stands up to the weight of these heavier devices with ease, thanks to NexYZ’s strong metal spring and threaded twist lock. Should you need to tighten the tension on each axis for a customized secure connection, click the Support & Downloads tab to read our NexYZ Tension Adjustment Guide.

Easy as X-Y-Z

What makes NexYZ’s patented design different from other smartphone adapters? The three-axis adjustment. Most adapters rely on you placing your phone perfectly on the platform and only offer limited adjustment in two axes. But NexYZ gives you the power to place your phone on the platform, center it over the eyepiece with the X and Y knobs, and then move up or down over the eyepiece until you have the entire field of view in your shot.

And even though this adjustment is ultra-precise, it’s still quicker and easier to use than other adapters. From start to finish, the process only takes about 30 seconds, including the time it takes to insert the phone into NexYZ, attach NexYZ to an eyepiece, start the camera app, and center the camera over the eyepiece using the knobs.

Switching phones, eyepieces, or optical instruments, requires only slight adjustments to re-center the camera over the new eyepiece. If multiple people want to capture a shot through your optic, NexYZ’s simple spring-loaded clamps make it easy to remove one device and replace it with another in seconds. NexYZ is the ideal solution for star parties and group bird walks where everyone wants their own shot of the action.

You can also switch your image from portrait to landscape simply by turning the padded eyepiece clamp and readjusting the X-, Y-, and Z-axis to realign your phone with the eyepiece.

NOTE: NexYZ is compatible with telescopes, spotting scopes, binoculars, monoculars, and microscopes. It does not fit riflescopes. NexYZ works with most phone cases, but if you have an especially large phone case with built-in batteries or a folio-style case, you will need to remove it.

Praise for NexYZ

“Unlike other adapters, the NexYZ features three directional knobs (X, Y and Z axes) that perfectly align your phone’s camera with the scope eyepiece in seconds. In addition, you can make tension adjustments to keep the phone firmly in place and, rather pleasingly, the clamp system allows the phone to be positioned to capture images in landscape mode as opposed to portrait, which is so often the hallmark of most smartphone images.” – from Expert Reviews, Birdwatch magazine, November 2018

“Fitting the phone to the adapter is simple and quick, and the phone is held securely in place – no need to worry about it dropping out as you move around. You then adjust the phone’s position using the X and Y axis knobs – this too is easy and relatively quick. Finally, the Z axis knob enables you to lower or raise the phone to eliminate vignetting.” – Matt Merritt, “Unlock your phone’s potential,” Gear Reviews, Birdwatching magazine, August 2018

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.

Celestron Night Vision Red LED Torch

A red flashlight is one of the most beneficial accessories you can own as an amateur astronomer, no matter how occasional your night sky observations may be. Also, if you plan to observe with other people, whether at a star party or in your own neighborhood, a red flashlight is an important part of good star party etiquette.

When you are outside doing astronomy, or any night-time activity that requires you to see as well as possible, any white light is a detriment. Every time you use white light, your eyes react. The pupils contract, making their aperture smaller, and a smaller aperture always means less light-gathering, whether we are talking about your eyes or your optical equipment.

A red flashlight allows you to see your star charts, find an eyepiece in your accessory case, or pick your way over telescope cables and other obstacles without affecting your night vision. The better your night vision, the more you can see in the eyepiece.

The Celestron Night Vision Flashlight uses two LED’s to provide variable red illumination. Use the thumb wheel to adjust the light as you need it. The square shape of the flashlight keeps it from rolling off of your observing table to the ground. A lanyard is attached so you can wear it around your neck. The Night Vision Flashlight is powered by a 9V battery (included).

Non-Illuminated Right Angle Correct Image Finderscope

The Celestron 9x50 Right Angle Correct Image (RACI) Finder is a great upgrade to the standard finderscopes included with many Schmidt-Cassegrain telescopes. The generous 50mm aperture produces bright, sharp images with a magnification of 9x and a five-degree apparent field of view. Meanwhile, the right-angle, correct-image design keeps objects right-side-up and correctly oriented left-to-right, making it easier to find objects and track them as they drift through the field of view. You can rotate the eyepiece module left or right to find the perfect viewing angle based on your setup.

The double-crosshair reticle etched in the eyepiece makes it easy to center an object, whether you are aligning your computerized telescope or finding deep-sky objects on your own. The reticle can be focused separately from the finder itself. 

The Celestron 9x50 RACI Finder comes with a sturdy bracket consisting of two rings and an integrated dovetail. The oversized thumbscrews make adjusting the finder's alignment easy. The dovetail allows for easy attachment to and removal from most Schmidt-Cassegrain and EdgeHD optical tube assemblies without affecting the finderscope's alignment. The eyepiece also features an attachment point for an aftermarket M8x1.25 thread-in illuminator.

Celestron has joined forces with master lunar cartographer Ralph Aeschliman on a two-sided Moon Map. This quality map provides you a great way to familiarize yourself with the Moon, our neighboring world. Whether you are looking for Lacus, Maria, Montes, or Valles, the Moon map will help you navigate the lunar landscape with confidence. You can observe features with your telescope and locate them on the map or vice versa. This map also features a directory of all the key lunar regions with coordinates to find them.

On the reverse side of the map, there are close-up photos and information about the most exciting lunar regions to explore. You’ll also find images of the North and South polar regions for reference​. Refer to the lunar observing tips for practical information about using your telescope or binoculars to explore the Moon.

The Observer's Map of the Moon is waterproof, tear-resistant, and can be folded into an 20cm x 10cm size, making it easy to take along on your next camping trip, star party, or evening in your backyard. When not in use, the Moon map will be a stylish decorative poster on your wall. It makes a great display for your classroom or astronomy club.

Whether you are just beginning or an advanced observer, you will find yourself viewing the Moon again and again; have the Observer's Map of the Moon be your guide.

The Celestron Off Axis Guider is an essential astroimaging accessory for long focal length telescopes that require the most accurate guiding possible. The Celestron Off Axis Guider uses a prism to intercept a small portion of the telescope’s focal plane (outside the field of view of the main imaging camera) to locate a guide star. Any movement seen by the guide star will be the exact same movement seen by the imaging camera. Guiding this way will correct for tracking errors, as well as opto-mechanical errors or flexure. The result: better astroimages with pinpoint round stars.

Off Axis Guiders have been around for a long time, but typically pose three main challenges:

Finding a guide star from the far edges of the telescope’s focal plane can be difficult, considering the small field of view and sometimes less-than-ideal illumination.
Getting both imaging camera and autoguider to reach focus with one another is time consuming and sometimes requires experimentation.
Additional spacers and adapters are usually required for your particular camera, telescope, and autoguider, which adds to cost and complexity.

The Celestron Off Axis Guider addresses these challenges by:

Providing a large 12.5mm prism that can be adjusted to move closer to the center of the telescope’s focal plane, depending on the size of the imaging camera. This results in brighter guide stars, with the help of the large prism to fully illuminate the autoguider sensor.
Featuring a high-quality, fixed-orientation Helical focuser. This provides extremely smooth and accurate focus of the autoguider without changing (or twisting) the autoguider camera orientation.

Including all the needed spacers and adapters are included for most common imaging configurations, including DSLR cameras, Nightscape CCD cameras, and more. The following adapters are included: SCT/EdgeHD, female M48, female M42 (T-thread), male M48, male M42 (T-thread), 3 T-thread spacers

Additonal Specifications

Helical Focuser Travel: 8mm
Telescope Connection: M42 T-thread, M48, and SCT/EdgeHD
Autoguider Connection: M42 T-thread, and standard 1.25" adapter
Camera Connection: M42 T-thread, and M48

Instruction Manual

Produce a larger area of illumination for your 9.25”, 11” or 14” Schmidt-Cassegrain or EdgeHD telescope by using the this adapter. When this adapter is paired with our Off-Axis Guider, these two imaging accessories allow you to use the full image circle in our larger scopes. This configuration is especially helpful to owners of larger format cameras, such as the Canon 5D or 6D, since their full frame can take advantage of the more substantial area of illumination produced by larger optical tubes.

What’s New!

The Large SCT & EdgeHD Adapter V2 for Off-Axis Guider has a longer optical length—38mm. The adapter’s longer length provides DSLR cameras back-focus spacing for Schmidt-Cassegrain and EdgeHD optical tubes in conjunction with the Off-Axis Guider without the need for extra adapters or spacers.

Body

The Large SCT & EdgeHD Adapter V2 for Off-Axis Guider is machined aluminum black anodized. The internal surfaces are sandblasted to help prevent glare and provide the highest contrast. The adapter has a knurled surface providing a great gripping surface for threading and unthreading.

Note: special order only

• Next-Generation Imaging Sensor for Celestron Origin: Upgrade your system with Sony’s latest Starvis 2 color CMOS technology, offering improved resolution and enhanced sensitivity.
• Compact Pixels, Brighter Images: Small 2.0 μm2 pixels increase resolution while Starvis 2 technology boosts light conversion efficiency. The result: brighter, sharper images with more faint object detail revealed.
• Modern 16:9 Aspect Ratio: A wide, cinematic field of view perfectly matches smartphone and tablet screens, producing images that fill the entire display for a more pleasing view.
• Easy, Tool-Free Installation: Clear, step-by-step instructions guide you through attaching your new camera using Origin’s existing adapter and retaining ring—no prior experience required.

Reveal stunning detail in your deep-sky astrophotography with the Origin 678C—Celestron’s next-generation camera for the Origin Intelligent Home Observatory. Featuring Sony’s latest Starvis 2 CMOS technology, this high-performance camera delivers increased resolution and finer detail thanks to its smaller pixel size and enhanced sensitivity.

The Origin 678C Camera replaces the original Origin 178C Camera, giving you an upgrade in image quality. Whether you're imaging galaxies, nebulae, or star clusters, you'll capture more object detail in images that better fill your smartphone or tablet’s display screen.

It’s the perfect way to further enhance your Origin experience—and your astroimaging.

What’s New with the Origin 678C Camera

The Origin 678C Camera brings meaningful enhancements to your astrophotography experience. Here’s what you can expect:

1. Increased resolution
   Although both sensors are the same physical size, the IMX678C uses smaller 2.0 μm² pixels than the 2.4 μm² pixels in the IMX178C. This results in a finer resolution of 1.2 arcseconds per pixel (down from 1.5 arcseconds per pixel), allowing you to resolve more detail and “zoom in” slightly more on celestial objects. This is especially beneficial since most night sky targets are relatively small.
2. Larger file sizes
   Because the IMX678C packs more effective pixels (8.4 MP vs. 6.4 MP), image files will be somewhat larger. As a result, you may notice slightly slower automatic image processing in the app, depending on the performance of your smartphone or tablet.
3. Increased sensitivity
   Despite having smaller pixels, the IMX678C is slightly more sensitive overall than the IMX178C. The improvement is subtle; images won’t appear dramatically brighter.
4. Different ISO response
   ISO values are not directly comparable between the two sensors. The IMX678C's default ISO is 1000, while the IMX178C’s is 200.
5. Different aspect ratio
   The IMX678C uses a 16:9 aspect ratio, compared to the 3:2 ratio of the IMX178C. This means your field of view will appear more rectangular, ideal for framing larger regions of the sky and perfectly matched to the landscape orientation of most smartphone and tablet displays—making it easier to compose, view, and share your images.

Quick and Simple Installation

Upgrading to the Origin 678C Camera is fast and hassle-free. Designed to integrate seamlessly with your Origin system, the camera installs without any complicated tools or processes. Simply remove the existing camera, attach the Origin 678C using the included adapter and retaining ring, and plug it in.

After you install the new camera, we’ll walk you through capturing new calibration frames. Dark frames reduce sensor noise, while flat frames correct for illumination variations across the image. The Origin app makes this process simple and intuitive—and you can follow along with our video, too.

For the easiest and most consistent results, we recommend the PrimaLuceLab GIOTTO for Celestron Origin— a flat-field generator custom-designed for Origin that works with the same smartphone you use to control Origin. Whether you use GIOTTO or the evening sky (i.e., “sky flats”), capturing new flat frames ensures your upgraded system is optimized and ready to deliver stunning, high-contrast astrophotography from your very next session.

Second Life for Your Origin-178C Camera

Upgrading to the Origin 678C doesn’t mean your original camera has to sit on the sidelines. The Origin-178C is a powerful tool, and now it’s free to be used with other telescopes you may own. With its standard M42 T-thread connection, it mounts easily to most optical systems and makes a great planetary or lunar imaging camera. In minutes, your 178C will be ready for a whole new role in your astrophotography toolbox.

Camera Specifications

The Celestron Origin Spare Filter Drawer is an exact replacement for the filter drawer included with your Origin telescope. Whether you've misplaced the original or simply want to speed up your imaging sessions, having a second drawer on hand makes a real difference.

Load different filters into separate drawers before you head out, then swap the entire assembly in seconds when you're ready to change targets or sky conditions. No unthreading in the dark, no risk of cross-threading or dropping a filter mid-session.

Compatible with 1.25" and 2" filters, including narrowband, broadband, and specialty options. Fits the Celestron Origin Intelligent Home Observatory and Origin Mark II.

A small accessory that keeps your imaging session running smoothly.

PLEASE NOTE: This version of the Celestron Origin Intelligent Home Observatory is no longer available

Check out the new Mark II version here

Celestron Origin stands at the forefront of a new era in amateur astronomy, blending stargazing and astrophotography into a single, user-friendly experience. This intelligent, all-in-one home observatory takes the complexity out of traditional telescopes, transforming your backyard into a gateway to the cosmos. Packed with cutting-edge technology, Celestron Origin captures the beauty of celestial objects and brings them to life on your phone or tablet.

Celestron engineers drew on their decades of expertise while designing every detail, from Origin’s patented optical technology to its intuitive companion app. The result is a revolutionary new system that builds on Celestron’s legacy and makes astronomy more accessible, exciting, and fun than ever before.

RASA Optical Technology: Unleashing the Power of Light

At the heart of Celestron Origin lies the patented Rowe-Ackermann Schmidt Astrograph (RASA)—a landmark advancement in optics. In the RASA design, the imaging sensor lies at the front of the telescope tube, not the back, creating an ultra-fast f/2.2 system with an extraordinarily wide field of view while providing sharp images to the edge. Since it launched in 2014, RASA technology has become the go-to choice for space surveillance and satellite tracking. National defense contractors, professional research astronomers, and governments trust RASA to detect tiny pieces of debris and space junk, keeping our vital communications satellites safe in orbit. For Origin, Celestron’s optical engineers developed a brand-new 6” RASA with all the same capabilities of an observatory-grade instrument in a grab-and-go package.

Thanks to RASA, Origin is in a class of its own, far outperforming other telescope designs. RASA simply delivers more photons in less time than a smaller and slower Newtonian reflector, refractor, or other entry-level telescope tube. RASA’s unique combination of speed, aperture, and performance ensures unparalleled image detail, even during short exposure times.

To take full advantage of the RASA optics, Celestron selected the Sony IMX178 color CMOS sensor to capture your data. It features STARVIS back-illuminated technology for the highest sensitivity and fast readout with low noise, helping to provide clear images as quickly as possible. This sensitive chip has small 2.4µm² pixels for high resolution—a perfect match for the fast optical design.

Turning Every Backyard Observer into an Astroimager

Celestron Origin introduces a paradigm shift in astrophotography with its built-in AI algorithms. As the telescope captures data, these intelligent algorithms automatically stack and process every frame in real time. The result is a breathtaking display of celestial objects, rich with colour and detail. For the first time, astroimaging is accessible to enthusiasts of all skill levels, including those who have never used a telescope.

A sample of what the Celestron Origin can produce - direct from the telescope with no further editing

A Universe at Your Fingertips: StarSense Technology & the Origin App

Setting up Celestron Origin is a snap, thanks to its automated initialization process powered by StarSense technology. Place Origin outside, turn it on, and connect to the app. Then, you can choose to remain with your telescope or head indoors. In less than two minutes, Origin focuses itself, scans the night sky, autonomously aligns itself by matching star patterns overhead to its internal database, and notifies you that it’s ready to begin your astronomical adventure.

The Celestron Origin app, developed in collaboration with Simulation Curriculum, the makers of SkySafari™, offers an intuitive planetarium interface that simplifies navigation through the night sky. Using the planetarium view, hold your device up to the sky to look around using “compass mode”, and tap on any object you want to see (the best ones are highlighted). Or try the Tonight’s Best list, where Origin displays all the most impressive galaxies, nebulae, star clusters, and more—based on your precise location and observing time. Forget about consulting a star chart or planning ahead; Origin is ready to show you the universe whenever you are.

Once you’ve chosen a target, Origin centres it precisely in the field of view. Switch to the camera view and press Start Imaging to begin capturing 10-second exposures. It’s that easy! You see the results come through in real-time as the target takes on more and more detail. As Origin works, it continually tracks the sky and adjusts its built-in dew prevention system to keep your images razor-sharp.

A Shared Cosmic Experience

Gone are the days of waiting in line to peer into an eyepiece. Origin fosters a sense of community as you share the awe-inspiring experience of exploring the night sky together. Whether your friends and family are in the same room or gathered outside, multiple people can connect to Origin, and stream the view with their own devices. Additionally, Origin allows you to cast the live feed to your smart TV or instantly save and share your astroimages, creating memorable moments beyond the confines of your backyard.

Ready for More? Advanced Features

As you grow in the hobby alongside Origin, it will continue to support you with more advanced features and functionality. For example, Origin has a built-in filter drawer that accepts standard 1.25” and 2” format filters. This allows you to install optional filters, which can be especially useful in imaging nebulae in light-polluted environments like the typical suburban backyard. For imaging broadband objects like galaxies and star clusters or objects from dark skies, remove the filter for more light-throughput and brighter images. Experiment with removable and interchangeable filters for results you can’t achieve with other systems’ fixed filters.

If you would like to try advanced image processing, Origin again has you covered. Unlike other systems, Origin stores all your RAW images for you. Connect via USB to import them into your favourite image-processing software for manual editing and stacking.

And how about putting Origin to work for you while you sleep? That’s no problem with the scheduled observations feature. Just tell the app which objects you want to capture. You’ll wake up to an array of spectacular images.

Gain a New Perspective Here on Earth

In addition to revealing distant worlds, Origin can also capture incredible views of land-based objects on Earth, day or night. During the day, you can manually slew Origin to capture landscapes and scenery. At night, Origin’s fast optics and sensitive camera allow you to see things in very dim ambient conditions for almost night vision-like performance. Look around your yard or campsite at night to see what you may be missing!

Take Your Astroimaging Studio Anywhere

Origin is a portable system that doesn’t require external Wi-Fi networks, so you can easily take it to remote dark skies in any car. The optical tube, mount, and tripod all easily assemble and disassemble without tools. Each component weighs less than 7.5kg. Optional carry cases are also available.

Your Origin system comes complete with everything you need to become an instant astronomer:

• 6” RASA optical tube with integrated camera
• Origin single fork-arm mount with internal lithium battery
• Built-in computer with cooling fans and WiFi
• Autofocuser
• Dew prevention system with environmental sensor, dew heater ring, and dew shield
• Integrated filter drawer
• Full-height tripod
• Lens cap
• AC charger

Future Upgrades

When you invest in Origin, you can count on Celestron’s engineers as your long-term partners in astronomy. Our technical teams are hard at work developing even more upgrades and enhancements for your Origin. For example, we provide access to Origin’s camera for potential future upgrades as technology improves. We’re also developing all-new functionality for your Origin and the Origin app.

Here’s a sneak preview of a few features that will roll out in the coming months:

• Compatibility with the StarSense Autoguider
• Compatibility with the HD Pro Wedge
• Support for polar alignment

Taken together, these features will allow you to use Origin for long exposure astroimaging. With precise polar alignment, you’ll be able to achieve exposure times as long as 10 minutes or even longer. But that’s just the beginning. We’ll keep you notified whenever we add new features to Origin so you can keep on exploring with us!

Specifications:

Optics Information

Imaging Sensor Info

Integrated Electronics Information

Port Info

Power Information

New Version! Now with upgraded Sony STARVIS 2 678C Camera

• Stargazing and Astroimaging Redefined: Celestron Origin is an intelligent, all-in-one home observatory that captures stunning views of faint, deep-sky celestial objects and delivers them to your phone or tablet. The images you capture in seconds look better than what you’d see in the eyepiece of a much larger telescope under much darker skies.
• Revolutionary RASA Optical Technology: Origin’s patented 6” Rowe-Ackermann Schmidt Astrograph (RASA) optical design places it in a class by itself. With its large aperture and fast f/2.2 focal ratio, you get unparalleled image brightness and clarity with less exposure time.
• Next-Generation 678C Camera: Sony’s latest Starvis 2 colour CMOS technology—offering improved resolution, enhanced sensitivity, and a serious leap in image quality.
• Automatic, AI-powered Astrophotography:As Origin captures data, built-in AI algorithms autonomously stack and process every frame in real-time. Galaxies and nebulae instantly come to life—sharp, detailed, and in brilliant colour—all with no user intervention.
• Automated Setup with StarSense: To get started, place Origin outside, turn it on, and connect to the app. Using Celestron’s patented StarSense technology, Origin scans the sky and autonomously focuses and aligns itself. You’re ready to select a target and start imaging in less than two minutes.
• Intuitive App Interface: The user-friendly Celestron Origin Powered by SkySafari™ app for iOS and Android, developed in partnership with Simulation Curriculum offers a simple yet powerful planetarium interface, making it easy to navigate the sky and control the system.
• Share the View with Everyone: Multiple users can use the Origin app to view the telescope’s live feed simultaneously. You can also cast the view to your smart TV or save and share it instantly.
• Advanced Features: As you grow in the hobby, download the raw image files you capture for more advanced manual processing. You can also experiment with filters and use Origin for night-vision or land-based observing during the day.

Celestron Origin Mark II stands at the forefront of a new era in amateur astronomy, blending stargazing and astrophotography into a single, user-friendly experience. This intelligent, all-in-one home observatory takes the complexity out of traditional telescopes, transforming your backyard into a gateway to the cosmos. Packed with cutting-edge technology, Celestron Origin Mark II captures the beauty of celestial objects and brings them to life on your phone or tablet.

Celestron engineers drew on their decades of expertise while designing every detail, from Origin’s patented optical technology to its intuitive companion app. The result is a revolutionary new system that builds on Celestron’s legacy and makes astronomy more accessible, exciting, and fun than ever before.

RASA Optical Technology: Unleashing the Power of Light

At the heart of Celestron Origin Mark II lies the patented Rowe-Ackermann Schmidt Astrograph (RASA)—a landmark advancement in optics. In the RASA design, the imaging sensor lies at the front of the telescope tube, not the back, creating an ultra-fast f/2.2 system with an extraordinarily wide field of view while providing sharp images to the edge. Since it launched in 2014, RASA technology has become the go-to choice for space surveillance and satellite tracking. National defense contractors, professional research astronomers, and governments trust RASA to detect tiny pieces of debris and space junk, keeping our vital communications satellites safe in orbit. For Origin, Celestron’s optical engineers developed a brand-new 6” RASA with all the same capabilities of an observatory-grade instrument in a grab-and-go package.

Thanks to RASA, Celestron Origin Mark II is in a class of its own, far outperforming other telescope designs. RASA simply delivers more photons in less time than a smaller and slower Newtonian reflector, refractor, or other entry-level telescope tube. RASA’s unique combination of speed, aperture, and performance ensures unparalleled image detail, even during short exposure times.

Now Equipped with the Celestron Origin 678C Camera

Celestron Origin Mark II now comes equipped with the Origin 678C Camera—a next-generation upgrade featuring Sony’s latest Starvis 2 CMOS technology. With 8.4 megapixels, ultra-fine 2.0 μm² pixels, and a modern 16:9 aspect ratio, this advanced sensor delivers higher resolution and increased sensitivity.

Precision-matched to Origin’s fast f/2.2 RASA optics, the 678C Camera captures fine structure in galaxies, nebulae, and star clusters. Whether you're new to astrophotography or an experienced imager, you’ll enjoy clean, crisp results—ready to stack, share, or admire on your device in near-real time.

Turning Every Backyard Observer into an Astroimager

Celestron Origin Mark II introduces a paradigm shift in astrophotography with its built-in AI algorithms. As the telescope captures data, these intelligent algorithms automatically process every frame in real time. It’s important to note that the AI imaging processing in the Origin app is not generative AI. It does not colorize or add to your image data in any way. It simply sharpens and enhances your images using the same processing techniques an advanced astroimager would use.

The images you create with Celestron Origin Mark II are 100 percent your own data, optimized to look its best. The technology works in real-time on your live-stacked images and is also applied to the final stacked master. The result is a breathtaking display of celestial objects, rich with colour and detail beyond what the human eye could perceive in an eyepiece. And you can always adjust the images yourself using the manual controls. Thanks to the Celestron Origin Mark II, astroimaging is now accessible to enthusiasts of all skill levels, including those who have never used a telescope before.

A Universe at Your Fingertips: StarSense Technology & the Origin App

Setting up Celestron Origin Mark II is a snap, thanks to its automated initialization process powered by StarSense technology. Place Origin outside, turn it on, and connect to the app. Then, you can choose to remain with your telescope or head indoors. In less than two minutes, Origin focuses itself, scans the night sky, autonomously aligns itself by matching star patterns overhead to its internal database, and notifies you that it’s ready to begin your astronomical adventure.

The Celestron Origin Powered by SkySafari™ app, developed in collaboration with Simulation Curriculum offers an intuitive planetarium interface that simplifies navigation through the night sky. Using the planetarium view, hold your device up to the sky to look around using “compass mode”, and tap on any object you want to see (the best ones are highlighted). Or try the Tonight’s Best list, where Origin displays all the most impressive galaxies, nebulae, star clusters, and more—based on your precise location and observing time. Forget about consulting a star chart or planning ahead; Origin is ready to show you the universe whenever you are.

Apple iOS Download
Google Play Download

Once you’ve chosen a target, Celestron Origin Mark II centers it precisely in the field of view. Switch to the camera view and press Start Imaging to begin capturing 10-second exposures. It’s that easy! You see the results come through in real-time as the target takes on more and more detail. As the Celestron Origin Mark II works, it continually tracks the sky and adjusts its built-in dew prevention system to keep your images razor-sharp. Using the Celestron Origin app, you can easily adjust image settings — such as brightness, contrast, and colour saturation — to bring out different details before saving or sharing with family and friends. As of 2025, the Celestron Origin Mark II can adjust the Stretch Strength in your final stacked master to tease out subtle details in faint nebulae and galaxies.

A Shared Cosmic Experience

Gone are the days of waiting in line to peer into an eyepiece. Celestron Origin Mark II fosters a sense of community as you share the awe-inspiring experience of exploring the night sky together. Whether your friends and family are in the same room or gathered outside, multiple people can connect to Celestron Origin, and stream the view with their own devices. Additionally, Celestron Origin Mark II allows you to cast the live feed to your smart TV or instantly save and share your astroimages, creating memorable moments beyond the confines of your backyard.

Ready for More? Advanced Features

As you grow in the hobby alongside Celestron Origin Mark II, it will continue to support you with more advanced features and functionality. For example, Origin has a built-in filter drawer that accepts standard 1.25” and 2” format filters. This allows you to install optional filters, which can be especially useful in imaging nebulae in light-polluted environments like the typical suburban backyard. For imaging broadband objects like galaxies and star clusters or objects from dark skies, remove the filter for more light-throughput and brighter images. Experiment with removable and interchangeable filters for results you can’t achieve with other systems’ fixed filters.

If you would like to try advanced image processing, Celestron Origin Mark II again has you covered. It can automatically save all your raw images, which you can retrieve by plugging in a USB thumb drive or by connecting to Origin’s built-in WiFi network to download the files to your computer wirelessly. Then, import them into your favorite software for manual editing and stacking.

And how about putting Origin to work for you while you sleep? That’s no problem with the scheduled observations feature. Just tell the app which objects you want to capture. You’ll wake up to an array of spectacular images.

Expand Your Astroimaging Possibilities with Celestron Origin

Celestron Origin Mark II delivers stunning deep-sky images right out of the box. But for experienced astrophotographers interested in experimenting with longer manual exposure times, there’s now an exciting new way to fine-tune performance: equatorial wedge mode, enabled by the Wedge for NexStar Evolution and the optional StarSense Autoguider.

By aligning Celestron Origin Mark II with Earth’s rotational axis, the wedge eliminates field rotation during tracking. This enables longer sub-exposures and allows imaging near or at zenith—ideal for capturing fainter details with greater clarity, since zenith (straight up) is generally the darkest part of the night sky. As with any equatorial setup, polar alignment is required before use, but the app will take you through an automated routine that makes it easy.

For exposure times beyond 30 seconds, we recommend pairing the wedge with the StarSense Autoguider. While Celestron Origin Mark II excels at short exposures (10–15 seconds), automatically rejecting frames with minor tracking errors, the Autoguider boosts tracking precision for longer manual exposures—reducing rejected frames and maximizing image quality. Together, the equatorial wedge and StarSense Autoguider offer a powerful toolkit for advanced users pursuing specialized longer-exposure imaging.

Gain a New Perspective Here on Earth

In addition to revealing distant worlds, Celestron Origin Mark II can also capture incredible views of land-based objects on Earth, day or night. During the day, you can manually slew to capture landscapes and scenery. At night, Origin’s fast optics and sensitive camera allow you to see things in very dim ambient conditions for almost night-vision-like performance. Look around your yard or campsite at night to see what you may be missing!

Take Your Astroimaging Studio Anywhere

Celestron Origin Mark II is a portable system that doesn’t require external WiFi or 5G networks, so you can easily take it to remote dark skies in any car. Perfect for exploring our southern skies from out in the bush!

The optical tube, mount, and tripod all easily assemble and disassemble without tools. Each component weighs less than 16 lb. Optional carry cases are also available.

Your Celestron Origin Mark II system comes complete with everything you need to become an instant astronomer:

• 6" RASA optical tube with integrated camera
• Origin single fork-arm mount with internal lithium battery
• Built-in computer with cooling fans and WiFi
• Autofocuser
• Dew prevention system with environmental sensor, dew heater ring, and dew shield
• Integrated filter drawer
• Full-height tripod
• Lens cap
• AC charger
   

Future Upgrades

When you invest in Origin, you can count on Celestron’s engineers as your long-term partners in astronomy. Our technical teams are hard at work developing even more upgrades and enhancements for your Origin. For example, we provide access to Origin’s camera for potential future upgrades as technology improves. We’re also developing all-new functionality for your Origin and the Origin app.

Here’s a sneak preview of what we’ll be rolling out in the coming months:

Mosaic Mode:- Capture wider fields of view by stitching multiple images together.

A:
That’s correct. Because the human eye is less efficient than CMOS sensors at low light levels, we are removing it from the equation. Origin’s sensor “sees” more photons in less time than your eye could and then delivers the images it captures to your phone or tablet. The result is “almost real-time” visual observing without an eyepiece. With Origin, you see much more detail in faint, deep-sky objects than you would through the eyepiece of a much larger telescope under dark skies.

Still carrying your bulky optical tube box to remote observing sites? Let us lighten your load with our sleek, protective optical tube carrying case, the perfect storage solution for transporting your tube anywhere with ease and confidence. It’s truly a must-have for telescope owners of all stripes.

Ultra-durable Material

The 8" Optical Tube Soft Case is constructed from 900 denier polyester for durability and weather resistance. Its walls are lined with 16mm thick EPE foam to protect your telescope. Unzip the case and you’ll discover a soft polyester interior lining with adjustable straps to hold your optical tube firmly in place.

The 8" Optical Tube Soft Case has a hidden external zipper pocket to hold eyepieces and other accessories. It is designed with cinching straps to firm up the pocket when in use and to hide it when empty.

The interior has one sewn in cinching strap to hold the optical tube firmly in place.

Grab and Go

Transport your case one of two ways: via the pair of sewn in handles or optional, clip in padded shoulder strap for hands-free carrying.

Compatible Telescopes

This optical tube soft case can hold most 8” optical tubes, under 18” in length, including these Celestron telescopes:

• EdgeHD 8" Optical Tubes
• Schmidt Cassegrain 8" Optical Tubes

What's the best telecope upgrade? A trip away from city lights to a dark-sky observing site in the country.

Let us lighten your load with our sleek, protective optical tube carrying case, the perfect storage solution for transporting your tube anywhere with ease and confidence. It’s truly a must-have for telescope owners of all stripes.

Ultra-durable Material

The 9.25" Optical Tube Soft Case is constructed from 900 denier polyester for durability and weather resistance. Its walls are lined with 16mm thick EPE foam to protect your telescope. Unzip the case and you’ll discover a soft polyester interior lining with adjustable straps to hold your optical tube firmly in place.

The 9.25" Optical Tube Soft Case has a hidden external zipper pocket to hold eyepieces and other accessories. It is designed with cinching straps to firm up the pocket when in use and to hide it when empty.

The interior has one sewn in cinching strap to hold the optical tube firmly in place.

Grab and Go

Transport your case one of two ways: via the pair of sewn in handles or optional, clip in padded shoulder strap for hands-free carrying.

Compatible Telescopes

This optical tube soft case can hold most 9.25” optical tubes, under 23” in length, including both standard and EdgeHD versions for of the Celestron 9.25.

Still carrying your bulky optical tube box to remote observing sites? Let us lighten your load with our sleek, protective optical tube carrying case, the perfect storage solution for transporting your tube anywhere with ease and confidence. It’s truly a must-have for telescope owners of all stripes.

Ultra-durable Material

The 11" Optical Tube Soft Case is constructed from 900 denier polyester for durability and weather resistance. Its walls are lined with 16mm thick EPE foam to protect your telescope. Unzip the case and you’ll discover a soft polyester interior lining with adjustable straps to hold your optical tube firmly in place.

The 11" Optical Tube Soft Case has a hidden external zipper pocket to hold eyepieces and other accessories. It is designed with cinching straps to firm up the pocket when in use and to hide it when empty.

The interior has one sewn in cinching strap to hold the optical tube firmly in place.

Grab and Go

Transport your case one of two ways: via the pair of sewn in handles or optional, clip in padded shoulder strap for hands-free carrying.

Compatible Telescopes

This optical tube soft case can hold most 11” optical tubes, under 25” in length, including these Celestron telescopes:

• EdgeHD 11" Optical Tubes
• Schmidt Cassegrain 11" Optical Tubes

Specifications

A piggyback bracket is a simple astronomical accessory that can help you produce stunning photographs of the night sky. It allows you to attach a DSLR camera and lens to any Celestron SCT optical tube assembly and take advantage of the fact that your telescope has a dual-axis motor drive. When your telescope is running with the camera attached, you can take longer exposures without star trails, and capture details in objects that would have been impossible had your camera been attached to a photographic tripod or a telescope without a drive system.

The Celestron PowerSeeker Accessory Kit is a great way to expand the enjoyment of your telescope. Inside the plastic, foam-lined carry case you’ll find these accessories:

• 15mm Kellner Eyepiece - 1.25”
• 9mm Kellner Eyepiece - 1.25”
• #80A Blue Filter - 1.25”
• #25 Red Filter - 1.25”
• Moon Filter - 1.25”
• Microfiber Cleaning Cloth

Eyepieces - The 15mm and 9mm eyepieces can be used in any telescope with a 1.25” focuser. Each eyepiece is fully coated to improve light transmission and protect the optics. The 15mm Kellner eyepiece offers a nice medium magnification view in most telescopes, and the 9mm provides high magnifications, great for the Moon and planets, especially when seeing conditions are good.

Filters - Coloured filters can be used to bring out certain details on a planet’s surface or its cloud structure. Both planetary filters, as well as the Moon filter, can be used on any 1.25” eyepiece with the proper filter threads, so they are very versatile. Just screw one onto your eyepiece of choice and slide it into the focuser.

• The #80A is a medium-blue filter that enhances the contrast of the cloud belts on Jupiter and the polar ice caps on Saturn. It also can be used to increase contrast on the Moon if you don’t mind the color shift.
• The #25 filter is a deep red color and is a good choice when you want to define the polar ice caps on Mars. It’s also fun to use this filter when observing Jupiter. The #25 Red filter blocks quite a bit of light coming through your telescope, however, so it is best used on bright objects with larger aperture telescopes.
• The Moon filter is one of the first accessories most new amateur astronomers buy, and for good reason! It helps block out a portion of the light the Moon sends into your eyepiece so that you can see details better. You can also try this filter on Venus; it helps you see which phase she’s in.

Cleaning Cloth & Case - Keep the microfiber cleaning cloth stashed in your PowerSeeker Accessory Kit case so that it will always be handy. It’s better to use a microfiber cloth on your optics than wipes or tissue, as it will not leave a residue, and can be reused. Remember to blow or brush any dust particles off of your optics before rubbing them with the cloth.

The black plastic carry case has die-cut foam inside to protect and cushion your accessories. Keep each one in its appointed place when not in use and you’ll keep them looking and performing like new.

The Celestron Prepared Slides - 25 Piece Box offers a wide assortment of specimen slides covering insect parts, plant parts, animal parts, etc.

Get the most out of your Celestron Rowe-Ackermann Schmidt Astrograph 11, even under light-polluted skies, with this Light Pollution Imaging Filter, custom-designed for the RASA. No matter which camera you use, this filter’s generous 68 mm clear aperture allows it to easily accommodate today’s largest sensors. Utilizing a machined aluminum housing and Schott B270 glass, the filter replaces the RASA’s clear optical window so the RASA’s optical performance is unaltered.

Remove Light Pollution While Keeping Your Images Bright
Light pollution limits how much of the night sky we can see and photograph. When imaging with a color camera in light polluted areas, skyglow degrades image quality. Light pollution filters help to selectively block light emitted from common streetlights and other ambient lighting. But most light pollution filters greatly compromise the total light throughput, causing dim images, and negatively impact the color balance, causing images to appear too green or blue.

The Light Pollution Imaging Filter for RASA “surgically” removes unwanted light pollution while preserving as much of the useful spectrum as possible. That means you’ll still retain over 90 percent of the light captured by your telescope at many wavelengths.

Unlike other light pollution suppression filters, the Celestron LP Imaging Filter for RASA maintains a relatively neutral color balance so you can bring out subtle color in galaxies and other faint deep sky objects. Multiple layers of specially-formulated dielectric coatings provide the desired transmission, while anti-reflective coatings minimize star halos and internal reflections.

Also included is a clear plastic case to protect the filter when not in use

Individually Tested for Quality
Every RASA 11 Light Pollution Imaging Filter is tested individually for light transmission. Inside the box, you’ll receive a graph detailing the actual transmission spectrum for your specific filter.

Capturing impressive deep-sky astroimages is easier than ever with Celestron’s Rowe-Ackermann Schmidt Astrograph (RASA 11) V2, the perfect companion to today’s top DSLR or astronomical CCD cameras. This fast, wide-field f/2.2 system allows for shorter exposure times compared to traditional f/10 astroimaging, without sacrificing resolution. Because shorter sub-exposure times are possible, your equatorial mount won’t need to accurately track over extended periods. The short focal length also lessens equatorial tracking demands. In many cases, autoguiding will not be required.

RASA 11 V2 builds on the legacy of Celestron’s Schmidt Cameras, which allowed astrophotographers to produce images with much shorter exposure times on film in the 1970s.

Today, with CCD sensor sizes as large as film or larger, the RASA 11 V2 offers a 43.3mm optimized image circle to capture pinpoint stars on the largest imaging chips. Optical performance for huge sensors with diagonals of up to 52mm wide is still excellent.

Combine this large image circle with a focal length of just 620mm and you have an instrument suitable for wide-field imaging, creating huge mosaics of the night sky, surveying, and even comet hunting.

Optical Performance
The RASA 11 V2 features optics with 4-element rare-earth glass for images free of false color and aberrations like coma and field curvature. The optical quality and spot size across the entire image circle are unprecedented for an astrograph in this price range—or even that of a much more expensive instrument. The design also provides minimal vignetting.

Advanced Features
RASA 11 V2 utilizes the Ultra-Stable Focus System (USFS). At the heart of this system is a precision linear ball bearing. The bearing serves to minimize focus shift (unwanted lateral motion of the primary mirror during focusing which causes shifting of the image) and mirror flop (movement of the primary mirror when the telescope is pointing to different positions in the sky). The USFS is also compatible with the optional Celestron Focus Motor (#94155-A). The integrated 12V DC MagLev fan reduces cooldown time and provides optimal airflow through the dust filtered optical tube.

Engineered as a complete astroimaging system, every component of the RASA 11 V2 is optimized for peak performance with DSLR and astronomical CCD cameras. Down to the thickness of the glass used in the included fully-multicoated optical window or optional imaging filter, every component of the system has been taken into careful consideration to work together seamlessly. The Dovetail CGE bars on the top of the optical tube provides a connection for use of optional accessories like a guidescope.

The Rowe-Ackermann Schmidt Astrograph (Celestron RASA 36), is a cost-effective optical system for space surveillance, Space Situational Awareness (SSA), other scientific applications, and advanced wide field astroimaging. It offers unprecedented value in aperture, speed, field of view, and optical performance. The RASA design has a convenient external prime-focus image capture location with a flat focal plane, providing small spot sizes to the edge of a wide field. The result is images free of optical defects like field curvature, off-axis coma, and astigmatism.

The 36 cm aperture version is the largest RASA Celestron manufactures; it is the biggest and fastest (f/2.2) optical instrument of its kind available off-the-shelf. Unlike most telescopes, which only focus visible light (400-700 nm), the RASA 36 cm focuses an extended spectral range (400-900 nm), allowing a brighter signal to be detected by a camera sensor. The RASA 36 cm also features a redesigned focus system, which ensures easy and stable focusing.

RASA 36 c sample back-focus distance (77.5 mm) accommodates a wide variety of imaging sensors. A custom camera adapter can be added for a field of view up to 4.4 degrees.

Important freight requirement RASA 36 is a professional-caliber, high-precision instrument. It is manufactured and aligned to an exacting standard to provide exceptional optical performance. The telescope has been packaged to ensure it retains alignment and resulting performance during transport. However, due to the weight, size, and known stresses of shipping via parcel service, Celestron has determined that the ideal transport is a palletized delivery via LTL truck freight. For all Australian deliveries, Celestron will ship via this method. Please contact us for further freight costs

• Safeguard your RASA: Store and transport your 6” RASA in a sleek, grab-and-go case that offers superior protection and portability.
• Durable triple-layer construction: Custom-designed for the 6” RASA, this bag features an ultra-durable and water-resistant 900 denier outer shell, 1.5” thick EPE foam padding, and a super-soft inner lining.
• Easy to load and unload: Multiple zippers provide instant access to the tube, making it fast and easy to set up or break down your RASA.
• Integrated storage pocket: Securely holds a filter drawer and camera adapter in the lid with a snap-button strap for quick access and protection.
• Two carrying options: Use the sewn-in carry handles or the padded, adjustable shoulder strap.

Still carrying your optical tube box to remote observing sites? Let us lighten your load with our sleek, protective optical tube carrying case. This padded bag offers the perfect storage solution, so you can carry your 6” Rowe-Ackermann Schmidt Astrograph (RASA 6) with confidence, wherever your astronomical adventures take you. Enjoy peace of mind knowing that RASA is secure and protected for both storage and transport.

Ultra-durable Materials

The RASA 6 Padded Telescope Bag features a three-layer construction. The outer fabric shell is crafted from 900 denier polyester, which is composed of 900 yarns woven into a basket-weave pattern and then treated to protect against weather and scratches. The bag's walls are lined with a robust 38mm thick EPE foam, which provides a protective cushion for the RASA tube. Inside, you’ll find a soft polyester PVC fabric interior to protect the tube's surfaces.

Convenient Storage and Carry Options

Thanks to this bag’s user-friendly design, you can easily load or unload your RASA 6 tube. Just unzip the circular zipper at the end of the bag and slide the tube in. Make sure to line up the dovetail with the zipper that runs lengthwise along the bag. You can also open the full-length zipper to help guide the tube in. It’s that easy—your RASA 6 is safely packed in seconds.

For added convenience, the inside of the bag’s lid features a dedicated storage pocket designed specifically for the RASA 6’s filter drawer and camera adapter. These components strap securely in place with a snap-button closure, keeping them protected and easily accessible when you need them. This thoughtful storage solution helps ensure that all your essential accessories stay organized and travel safely alongside your telescope.

When it’s time to go, you can carry your RASA with the sewn-in carry handles for a comfortable and secure grip. You can also attach the clip-in padded shoulder strap for a hands-free option. The adjustable strap allows you to customize so it’s the perfect length to sling over your shoulder.

Compatible Telescopes

This soft case is custom-designed exclusively for the 6” RASA and the Advanced VX 6” RASA telescope kit. This bag is not compatible with Celestron Origin.

Specifications 

Mirrorless cameras are spreading like wildfire in the astroimaging community—and for good reason. When paired with Celestron’s groundbreaking 8” Rowe-Ackermann Schmidt Astrograph (RASA), you can achieve spectacular deep-sky astronomical images.

So what makes a mirrorless camera the perfect match for RASA? First, the compact camera body provides minimal obstruction when placed on the front of the RASA optical tube. Second, the sensitive imaging chip helps capture every bit of stunning detail that the RASA optical brings in.

If you’d like to use your SONY mirrorless camera with the 8” RASA, this adapter is a must-have accessory. Using the camera’s integrated bayonet mount, it attaches securely to the front of RASA. What’s more, this adapter places the camera’s sensor at the precise backfocus distance for optimal image sharpness.

NB: ONLY SUITABLE FOR RASA 8

This dovetail bar is easily mounted to the top of the Rowe-Ackermann Schmidt Astrograph 8 with the included hardware. Once installed it will allow you to attach any astronomy accessories that use CGE or Losmandy D-series dovetail plates.

Installation Guide

Normally available for pickup or shipping approx. 2-3 business days from your order

Light pollution in the night sky can significantly degrade contrast in astronomical images. This is especially true when using very fast telescopes like the 8” RASA because the sky background saturates very quickly. The “noise” of the light pollution overwhelms the “signal” from the celestial object you are imaging, making it difficult to get the most detailed image.

The RASA 8 Light Pollution Filter remedies this by blocking light pollution while transmitting light from deep-sky objects. The result is bright, detailed objects that pop off the black sky background with superior contrast.

Fortunately, many sources of light pollution have relatively discreet emission spectra; they emit primarily at specific wavelengths of light. By strategically blocking these wavelengths, the filter greatly reduces the effects of light pollution without degrading overall image quality.

How it Works

The Light Pollution Imaging (LPI) Filter for the 8” RASA blocks light from some of the most common sources of light pollution between 400-700nm (i.e., the visible spectrum), including high- and low-pressure sodium-vapour streetlights, mercury-vapour streetlights, and natural airglow caused by oxygen in the atmosphere.

Unlike some light pollution filters, the LPI filter blocks only specific areas of the spectrum instead of wide regions. This helps to maintain image brightness and colour balance. In addition, specific wavelengths associated with emission nebulae, such as H-α(656nm), H-β (486nm), OIII (496nm and 501nm), and SII (672nm), are highly transmitted, ensuring minimal loss of image brightness for those objects.

The filter fits directly into the internal filter mount in the RASA 8’s front lens cell, where the optical window normally mounts. By removing the clear window and replacing it with the filter, optical performance for the entire system is maintained.

Each filter comes with a plastic storage case to safely store the filter or the placeholder glass that came with your RASA when not in use. You will also receive a spectral transmission graph unique to your specific unit, verifying its performance.

RASA 8 Light Pollution Filter Specifications

RASA 8 Light Pollution Filter Instruction Manual

RASA Canon Mirrorless Camera Adapter

Mirrorless cameras are spreading like wildfire in the astroimaging community—and for good reason. When paired with Celestron’s groundbreaking 8” Rowe-Ackermann Schmidt Astrograph (RASA), you can achieve spectacular deep-sky astronomical images.

So what makes a mirrorless camera the perfect match for RASA? First, the compact camera body provides minimal obstruction when placed on the front of the RASA optical tube. Second, the sensitive imaging chip helps capture every bit of stunning detail that the RASA optical brings in.

If you’d like to use your Canon mirrorless camera with the 8” RASA, this adapter is a must-have accessory. Using the camera’s integrated bayonet mount, it attaches securely to the front of RASA. What’s more, this adapter places the camera’s sensor at the precise backfocus distance for optimal image sharpness.

NB: ONLY SUITABLE FOR RASA 8

Celestron Reducer 0.7x Edge HD1100

Celestron’s new EdgeHD reducers feature a custom 5 element optical design engineered to maintain the flat-field performance of our award winning EdgeHD optical system. Unlike generic reducers, our premium reducers provide substantial back focus to accommodate an assortment of imaging accessories.

EdgeHD reducers offer high index optical elements, including extra low dispersion, exotic Lanthanum elements, which provide high contrast viewing while minimizing chromatic aberration. All air to glass lens surfaces feature multiple layers of coating for maximum light transmission and color correction and contain blacken edges to minimize internal reflection and maximize image contrast. Large diameter lens elements, up to 60 mm clear aperture, ensure that the optimized image circle remains at a generous 42 mm for use with large CCD sensors.

Incorporating computer assisted CNC machined aluminum housing, for precise spacing and alignment of optical elements, and threaded metal covers on the lens assembly to protect your investment from dust and scratches, our reducers offer you an outstanding mechanical design.

With the fastar option on all EdgeHD optical systems, coupled with the .7x reducer, your telescope becomes the most complete imaging system available in its price range today.

Performance

• Design: 5-element optical layout designed specifically for the EdgeHD11" to maintain the flat-field performance of the Edge HD optical design
• Maintains the same back focus as when used at F/10: Unlike generic reducers the EdgeHD .7x provides generous back focus to accommodate additional accessories and a wide variety of cameras. Also allows use of existing EdgeHD T-adapters and other Celestron imaging accessories
• One full F-Stop faster than f/10: Reduces the exposure time by one-half to capture the same brightness of object
• Increase field of view by 43%: Better for capturing wide field images of larger galaxies and nebulae

Glass

• Lanthanum Glass Elements: EdgeHD reducer uses "rare earth" Lanthanum glass elements for clear, high contrast viewing while minimizing chromatic aberration
• Fully multi-coated lens elements: All air-to-glass surfaces have multiple layers of coating for maximum light transmission and color correction
• Blacken edges: All lens elements have blacken edges to minimize internal reflection and maximize contrast

Full Frame Design

• Threads directly onto the 3.25" threads of the EdgeHD optical tube: Reduces mechanical vignetting and allows for use with larger (full frame) sensors and Off-Axis Guiders
• Clear aperture: 60mm clear aperture lens optimized for a 42 mm image circle for use with large CCD sensors.

Mechanical Design

• Machined aluminum housing: Computer assisted CNC machined aluminum housing for precise spacing and alignment of the optical elements.
• Threaded metal covers for both ends of the lens assembly: To protect your investment from unwanted dust and scratches.

Versatility

• Fastar compatibility and f/2 imaging with optional accessory: the EdgeHD is the most complete imaging system in its price range.
  

Instruction Manual