Before you embark on your celestial exploration, consider the Advanced VX 8" Schmidt-Cassegrain Telescope, a high-quality, powerful tool that sets a new standard in mid-level telescopes. This innovative device offers many of the sophisticated features found on Celestron's top-tier German equatorial mounts, all at an accessible price point. Designed for both imagers and visual observers, this telescope is a more portable alternative to the traditional reflector or refractor. Its 8" optical tube provides an impressive 84% more light gathering ability than a 6" telescope, ensuring clear, detailed views of the night sky. The Schmidt-Cassegrain design effectively eliminates chromatic aberration, making it an excellent choice for astroimaging.The Advanced VX mount is engineered to deliver superior performance, incorporating Celestron's most advanced technologies. These include All-Star Polar Alignment, Celestron PWI telescope control software, SkyAlign, and permanently programmable periodic error correction (PPEC). Whether you're an experienced imager seeking a portable mount for a dark sky site, or a beginner in astroimaging, the Advanced VX is designed to meet your needs for years to come. Its computerized German equatorial mount, the smallest in Celestron's range, features GoTo capability that automatically tracks celestial objects as they traverse the night sky. The Advanced VX mount also includes ports for a hand control, an autoguider, and 2 AUX ports for optional accessories. The NexStar+ hand control provides instant access to all the mount functions, with automatic slewing and menu descriptions that make mastering this mount a breeze for astronomers of any level. The Advanced VX boasts a robust tripod with 2" diameter steel legs, providing an extra-wide stance for improved stability. Its payload capacity is 30 lb, offering a sturdy platform for any of the Advanced VX optical tubes, even when paired with optional accessories. As of early 2019, Advanced VX mounts now include a dual saddle plate that accommodates both CG-5 and CGE-style dovetail, making it compatible with virtually any optical tube within its weight limit. The telescope comes with the Celestron PWI Telescope Control Software, an advanced astronomy software suite co-developed with the engineers at PlaneWave Instruments. This all-in-one solution offers many of the same features used on PlaneWave's observatory-class telescopes. Additionally, your purchase includes a free download of Celestron's Starry Night Special Edition Software. This advanced software offers detailed information about celestial objects and helps you plan your next observing or imaging session. In summary, the Advanced VX 8" Schmidt-Cassegrain Telescope is a durable, advanced, and powerful tool for any astronomer, complete with a night vision flashlight, sky maps, a moon filter, and an optical cleaning kit. It's designed to enhance your viewing experience, whether you're a novice or an experienced stargazer.
