Meade 14 Inch LX850 ACF Telescope with StarLock

$ 10,249.00

Meade 14 Inch LX850 ACF Telescope with StarLock

Meade SKU: ME1408-85-01 | Helix SKU: ME14088501

Overview

Meade 14" LX850-ACF (f/8) Advanced Coma-Free w/UHTC #1408-85-01. Meade Instruments proudly introduces the new standard in astrophotograhic and visual performance, the LX850. The fast f/8 Advanced Coma Free optical system produces a wider, flatter field with no coma for pinpoint stars out to the edge of larger imaging sensors and extreme wide angle eyepieces. Includes StarLock dual imager integrated full time guider, Ultra Precision Pointing and Assisted Drift Alignment, 5.8" 225 tooth polished bronze worm/gear drives with low periodic error, internal cable routing, GPS receiver, AutoStar II GOTO system with over 144,000 object library, heavy-duty adjustable height tripod with anti-vibration pads, Universal AC Adapter, Meade Zero Image Shift Electronic Micro-Focuser, telescope to computer USB cable and AutoStar Suite software.

Features top of the line Meade Advanced Coma Free (ACF) optical design offering the coma-free pinpoint star images and flatter image fields greatly desired by discerning amateur astronomers, astrophotographers and professional observatories alike. This patented system also reduces the astigmatism and eliminates diffraction spikes found in classical RC designs.

This 14" LX850 has 14" diameter f/8 ACF optics (focal length 2438mm) and Ultra-High Transmission Coatings (UHTC) for maximum image brightness and contrast. The all new OTA includes an internal Crayford style zero image shift focusing system with two speed, 7:1 reduction control.

Includes StarLock- the revolutionary new technology that makes target acquisition on your imaging sensor and accurate guiding during exposures completely automatic. With Meade's exclusive LightSwitch technology at its core, StarLock uses an 80mm f/5 optic and two camera sensor system to provide computer assisted polar alignment using the drift method. Once aligned the StarLock is guiding the mount in real time, and even automatically programs periodic error correction, achieving a guiding accuracy of up to 1 arcsecond in good seeing and with the capability of guiding on stars as faint as 11th magnitude.

The LX850 mount, constructed of machined stainless steel and aircraft grade aluminum is a rock solid platform for the most demanding applications, with a 90 pound payload capacity and pointing accuracy as good as one arcminute. Features include precision roller bearings on each axis, a 1.75 stainless steel RA shaft, 5.8" main gears, fine manual adjustment controls on both axis, illuminated reticle output port. Mount main body weight is 55 pounds. The fully height adjustable (29 to 45") tripod features massive 3" diameter legs for rock steady performance and weighs 36 pounds. Includes three 26 pound stainless steel counterweights, additional weights sold separately.

Telescope comes fully equipped with a Meade Series 5000 2" diagonal prism featuring enhanced 99% reflectivity, Series 5000 HD-60 25mm eyepiece, and 8x50 viewfinder with quick release bracket. Also includes bracket for alternate OTA mounting of StarLock if desired.

Product carries full one year Meade factory limited warranty.

Specifications

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Celestron PowerSeeker 60EQ Telescope

$ 99.95

Celestron PowerSeeker 60EQ Telescope

Celestron SKU: 21043 | Helix SKU: CT21043

Overview

• Quick and easy no-tool setup
• Slow motion controls for smooth tracking
• Erect image optics - Ideal for terrestrial and astronomical use
• Fully coated glass optical components with high transmission coatings for enhanced image brightness and clarity
• 3x Barlow lens triples the magnifying power of each eyepiece
• Accessory tray for convenient storage of accessories
• BONUS Astronomy Software download with a 10,000 object database, printable sky maps and 75 enhanced images

Description

PowerSeeker telescopes are a great way to open up the wonders of the Universe to the aspiring astronomer!

The Celestron PowerSeeker series of telescopes is designed to give the first-time buyer the perfect combination of quality, value, features and power. Offering exceptional value, these telescopes feature portable yet powerful designs with ample optical performance to excite any newcomer to the world of amateur astronomy.

Specifications

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Celestron AstroMaster 70EQ Telescope

$ 169.95

Celestron AstroMaster 70EQ Telescope

Celestron SKU: 21062 | Helix SKU: CT21062

Overview

• Quick and easy no-tool setup
• Permanently mounted StarPointer
• Erect image optics - Ideal for terrestrial and astronomical use
• Quick release dovetail attachment - no tool setup
• German Equatorial mount with Setting circles - to accurately locate and track sky objects
• Rugged pre-assembled tripod with 1.25" steel tube legs - Provides a rigid and stable platform
• All coated glass optics for clear, crisp images
• Deluxe accessory tray for convenient storage of accessories
• BONUS Astronomy Software download with a 10,000 object database, printable sky maps and 75 enhanced images

Description

If you're looking for a dual-purpose telescope appropriate for both terrestrial and celestial viewing, then the AstroMaster Series is for you. Each AstroMaster model is capable of giving correct views of land and sky. 

The AstroMaster Series produce bright, clear images of the Moon and planets. It is easy to see the moons of Jupiter and the rings of Saturn with every one of these fine instruments. For views of the brighter deep space objects like galaxies and nebulae, we recommend the larger aperture and light gathering ability of the Newtonian reflectors.

Specifications

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Celestron CGEM II 1100 EDGEHD Telescope

$ 4,399.00

Celestron CGEM II 1100 EDGEHD Telescope

Celestron SKU: 12019 | Helix SKU: CT12019

Overview

• 11“ EdgeHD optics
• CGEM II computerized equatorial mount
• Celestron’s premium StarBright XLT coatings provide maximum light transmission
• A 9x50 finderscope, 2” mirror diagonal for more comfortable viewing, and wide-angle 23 mm Luminos 2" eyepiece are all included

EDGEHD FEATURES

• EdgeHD aplanatic, flat field SCT optics for pinpoint stars to the edge of the largest imaging sensors and widest eyepieces.  Lightweight and portable
• Aluminum optical tube with tube vents featuring an integrated 95-micron mesh filter allows hot air to be released from behind the primary mirror. Mirror support knobs hold the mirror in place and reduce image shift during imaging
• Versatile design accommodates 3 focal ratios: native f/10, f/7 with the addition of a focal reducer, or ultra-fast f/2 imaging with a removable secondary mirror and third-party accessories

COMPUTERIZED MOUNT FEATURES

• 40 lbs payload capacity
• Dual-fit Vixen/CG-5 and Losmandy/CGE dovetail saddle
• 2" steel legs with height index marks for quick leveling
• USB 2.0 port on hand control for direct links to a PC via ASCOM supported software.
• 40,000 object database with over 100 user-definable objects and expanded information on over 200 objects
• Internal cabling throughout for worry-free remote operation
• Low cog DC Servo motor with integrated optical encoders offer smooth, quiet operation
• Able to track past the meridian allowing seamless imaging
• Permanent periodic error corrections allow users to train out the worm gears periodic errors once, while the mount retains the PEC recordings.
• Software Features include: Mount Calibration, Database Filter Limits, Hibernate, five Alignment Procedures, and user-defined slew limits
• Built-in polar alignment program to polar align on any star in the sky
• Longer clutch levers to make tightening and loosening of clutches easier
• Custom database lists of all the most famous deep-sky objects by name and catalog number
• Solar System alignment method allows to view the moon and planets during the day
• Custom Rate 9 feature allows to set maximum slew rate
• Tandem mode allows to star align the mount even when positioned for tandem scope use
• USB hand control to control the telescope via a personal computer
• Includes NexRemote telescope control software, for advanced control of telescope via computer
• Precision machined 40 mm diameter steel Polar shafts supported by multiple tapered roller bearings and ball bearings
• GPS-compatible with optional SkySync GPS Accessory

Description

CGEM II 1100 HD combines Celestron's newly redesigned CGEM II computerized equatorial mount with its acclaimed EdgeHD optical system.  With an optical tube assembly weighing only 28 lbs., this telescope is still portable enough to be taken to dark skies, and has 89% more light gathering power than an 8" telescope and 40% more than the 9.25".  

OPTICAL TUBE INFO:

SEE THE UNIVERSE IN HD
EdgeHD is an aplanatic, flat field Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope that produces aberration-free images across a wide visual and photographic field of view. The optical system was designed to reduce more than just off-axis star coma; it also provides an astrograph-quality flat focal plane all the way to the edge of the field of view. 

TRUE ASTROGRAPH QUALITY
Many optical designs that advertise themselves as "astrographs" actually only produce pinpoint stars across a curved focal plane. While this may be acceptable for some visual observing, stars will appear out of focus at the edge when used with the flat chip sensor of a digital camera. EdgeHD optics produce a focal plane more than three-times flatter than a standard Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope and dramatically flatter than competing coma-free designs. This guarantees you visibly sharp stars across some of the largest CCD chips available today.

IMPROVED PERFORMANCE
Superior edge performance not only creates rounder, more pleasing stars, but actually improves the resolution and limiting magnitude when compared to telescopes of equal aperture. With Celestron’s StarBright XLT optical coatings on every surface, EdgeHD optics gives you maximum light throughput across the widest visual and photographic spectrum.

MECHANICAL FEATURES
In addition to EdgeHD’s optimized optical design, the telescope tube has been redesigned to make sure you get the most from your optics each and every night.

• MIRROR CLUTCHES - Flexible tension clutches hold the mirror in place and reduce image shift when taking long exposure astro-images. Once focused, the flexible rods allow the mirror to be held in place without putting any force or pressure on the mirror assembly, keeping the image centered in the eyepiece (or on the sensor).
• TUBE VENTS - Cooling vents located on the rear cell allow hot air to be released from behind the primary mirror. Each vent has an integrated 95-micron micromesh filter guaranteed to let warm air out without letting dust in.
• FASTAR VERSATILITY - EdgeHD is the most versatile imaging telescope available today. At its native f/10, you can achieve the image scale necessary to capture the smallest of deep sky objects. Add the optional reducer lens—custom-designed for your size EdgeHD tube—and you can increase your field of view without sacrificing optical performance. A Barlow gives you added power for high-resolution planetary, lunar and solar imaging. All EdgeHD optical tubes are Fastar-compatible, allowing the secondary mirror to be removed and replaced with a third party lens accessory for ultra-fast f/2 wide field imaging.

INDIVIDUALLY TESTED
Every EdgeHD that ships has been tested not only for the surface quality of each optical component, but also with a camera and artificial star to ensure the imaging system meets our rigid quality assurance.  This “final acceptance test” confirms the EdgeHD will perform in the field and deliver high-quality astroimages.

MOUNT INFO:

A fresh update to the venerable CGEM mount, the CGEM II has a fresh, attractive, bold appearance and is capable of carrying Celestron’s higher-end SCT optical tubes (up to 11") securely and vibration free, which is ideal for both imaging and visual observing. Capable of holding 40 lbs. of payload and slewing at 5° per second, you will be able to instantly point to any of the celestial objects in the database.

ERGONOMIC DESIGN

CGEM II was designed to be ergonomically friendly with large Altitude and Azimuth adjustment knobs for quick and easy polar alignment adjustment. The internal RA and DEC motor wiring provides a clean look and an easy and trouble free set up.

INNOVATION

The CGEM II series features Celestron’s innovative Polar alignment procedure called All-Star™. All-Star allows users to choose any bright star, while the software calculates and assists with polar alignment. Another great feature of the CGEM II sure to please astroimagers, is the Permanent Periodic Error Correction (PEC) which will allow users to train out the worm gears periodic errors, while the mount retains the PEC recordings.

PERFORMANCE

For objects near the Meridian (imaginary line passing from North to South), the CGEM II will track well past the Meridian for uninterrupted imaging through the most ideal part of the sky. The CGEM II mount has a robust database with over 40,000 objects, 100 user defined programmable objects and enhanced information on over 200 objects. Celestron's CGEM II mount is the perfect fit between the Advanced Series and CGE Series. Offering the portability of the Advanced Series and the precision of the CGE.

Specifications

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Celestron CGX-L Equatorial 1100 Rowe-Ackermann Schmidt Astrograph Telescope

$ 6,499.00

Celestron CGX-L Equatorial 1100 Rowe-Ackermann Schmidt Astrograph Telescope

Celestron SKU: 12078 | Helix SKU: CT12078

Overview

• 11" RASA optical tube assembly
• CGX-L computerized equatorial mount

ASTROGRAPH FEATURES

• Ultra-fast, 11-inch f/2.2 optical design with rare-earth glass for images free of false color, coma, and field curvature.  Cuts imaging time by more than half 
• Expansive 43.3 optimized image circle maintains pinpoint stars to the far corners of even the largest astroimaging sensors, while the usable field extends even further to 52 mm for larger format sensors.
• Custom engineered linear brass focuser bearing reduces image shift, while dual-speed 10:1 FeatherTouch Micro Focus Knob provides the most precise focusing
• Quiet, high-output 12V MagLev fan reduces cooldown time and blocks dust
• Common camera adapters (T-thread and M48) included for easy attachment to popular CCD and DSLR cameras

COMPUTERIZED MOUNT FEATURES:

NEW CGX-L FEATURES

Increased 75 lb load capacity.  Exceptional load capacity to weight ratio

Additional Aux accessory ports and autoguider port on the Dec axis for better cable management

Larger 144 mm diameter worm wheels to better and more accurately drive heavier loads

Longer 270 mm dovetail saddle to better support larger optical tubes

Massive 70 mm stainless steel tripod legs with a wider stance for improved stability under heavy loads

New accessory tray holds three 1.25” and two 2” eyepieces with an upright stand for your smartphone or tablet

Heavy duty, 31.5 mm stainless steel counterweight shaft to support additional counterweights

Optional add-on polar axis finderscope custom designed for CGX and CGX-L

Supports WiFi and wireless operation accessories such as Star Sense AutoAlign and SkyPortal WiFi Module. (sold separately)

MOUNT FEATURES:

Compact, lower profile equatorial head provides improved stability and portability. Sturdier and more rigid with quicker dampening time

Improved motors provide more torque, better slewing and tracking under heavy loads

Heavy duty belt-drive system minimizes backlash while providing smooth motor operation at full capacity

Clear windows built into motor covers so pulleys and belts can be monitored

Spring-loaded brass worm wheel and stainless steel worm gear reduce friction and provide optimum gear mesh

Internal cabling for worry-free remote operation. Power input and lower accessory ports remain stationary while the mount slews to avoid snags

Internal hard stops for both axes prevent cable tension and tripod strike

Internal optical sensors on both axes for simple and safe remote operation

-Home sensors allow the mount to always start in the index position regardless of orientation before a power reset

-Limit sensors automatically shut off slewing or tracking before reaching the hard stop fail safe

Includes Celestron's new PWI telescope control software, co-developed by PlaneWave Instruments.  Software features multi-point mount modeling for extremely precise pointing accuracy

Software Polar Align: “All-Star Polar Alignment” allows quick and very precise polar alignment. Align on any bright named star without extra polar alignment accessories, apps, or other assistance

Adjustable EQ head position to optimize center of gravity over the tripod and fully utilize the increased 3º-65º latitude range

Dual-fit Vixen/CG-5 and Losmandy/CGE dovetail saddle

+20º of additional tracking past the meridian on either side

Redesigned tripod has a widened stance for added stability. The minimum tripod height has also been lowered per user feedback

Tripod legs can be collapsed with accessory tray installed for faster setup and transport

IMPROVED ERGONOMICS:

Integrated handles for easy transport and portability

All-new ergonomically designed dovetail clamping knobs

Innovative and improved polar alignment adjustment system

All-new ergonomic adjustment knobs with reduced friction for smooth and easy positioning under full loads. Stationary latitude knob with a newly-designed linkage system greatly reduces the amount of friction when polar aligning the mount. Redesigned azimuth adjustment with low-friction Teflon bearings to make adjustments easy under full load.  No more binding, rough adjustments!

Easy to read latitude scale

ELECTRONICS:

NexStar+ hand control with USB port

USB 2.0 port used to connect directly to PC with PWI Software

2 available autoguider ports for optimum cable management

PEC sensor and PPEC ready

Threaded 12VDC power input barrel connector

Internal Real Time Clock (keeps time and site information saved)

On/Off rocker switch with red LED

Description

Capturing impressive deep-sky astroimages is easier than ever with Celestron’s new Rowe-Ackermann Schmidt Astrograph, the perfect companion to today’s top DSLR or astronomical CCD cameras. This fast, wide-field f/2.2 system offers two huge advantages over traditional f/10 astroimaging: better apparent tracking and shorter exposures. That means you’ll create better-looking astroimages in a fraction of the time, even without the use of an autoguider.

The Rowe-Ackermann Schmidt Astrograph builds on the legacy of Celestron’s Schmidt Camera, which allowed astrophotographers to produce images on film in the 1970s.

Today, with CCD sensor sizes as large as film—or larger—the Schmidt Astrograph offers a 43.3mm optimized image circle to capture pinpoint stars on the largest imaging chips. (Note: We previously published 70mm which is actually the aperture of the last lens in the telescope. The optical design has not changed). Combine this large image circle with a focal length of just 620 mm 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 Rowe-Ackermann Schmidt Astrograph features newly designed 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 is 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
Advanced features like a custom engineered linear brass focuser bearing and FeatherTouch Micro Focus Knob allow you to make the fine adjustments you need to capture the perfect shot. Meanwhile, a12V 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 Rowe-Ackermann Schmidt Astrograph 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 an optional imaging filter, every component of the system has been taken into careful consideration to work together seamlessly.

CGX-L MOUNT:

Celestron's newly designed CGX-L Computerized Equatorial mount is the latest addition to our fully computerized equatorial mount series.  Capable of carrying  Celestron’s largest optical tubes with ease, CGX-L is designed for backyard observatories and remote imagers looking for exceptional load capacity to weight ratio, compact design, and innovative features that fully support large telescopes, imaging kits, and the latest in wireless tech accessories.

Key design goals included larger 144 mm diameter worm wheels which provide smoother operation and can more accurately drive heavier loads, longer 270 mm dovetail saddle to support larger optical tubes, remote operation friendly features such as home and limit optical sensors, easier polar alignment adjustments, and better cable management overall. In addition to that, we’ve made mechanical and ergonomic improvements throughout to make the mount sturdier, easier to use, and easier to transport.  COMPACT.  ERGONOMIC.  INNOVATIVE.

Specifications

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Celestron CGX Equatorial 800 Schmidt-Cassegrain Telescope

$ 2,899.00

Celestron CGX EQUATORIAL 800 SCHMIDT-CASSEGRAIN TELESCOPE

Celestron SKU: 12050 | Helix SKU: CT12050

Overview

• 8" Schmidt-Cassegrain Optical Tube Assembly
• Aluminum Optical Tube
• Celestron's premium StarBright XLT coatings
• 2032 mm focal length (f/10)
• 25 mm eyepiece included (81x)
• Visual back allows for use with 1.25" accessories
• 6x30 finderscope to help accurately find objects
• Star diagonal provides more comfortable viewing position when observing objects that are high in the sky
• Includes dovetail rail compatible with CGE mount

COMPUTERIZED MOUNT FEATURES

• All-new design. Sturdier and more rigid with quicker dampening time
• Increased load capacity to 55 lbs.
• Improved motors provide more torque, better slewing and tracking under heavy loads
• Heavy Duty belt-drive system minimizes backlash while providing smooth motor operation under heavy loads 
• Spring-loaded brass worm wheel and stainless steel worm gear reduce friction and provide optimum gear mesh
• Internal cabling for worry-free remote operation. Power input and accessory ports remain stationary while the mount slews to avoid snags
• Internal hard stops for both axes prevents cable tension and tripod strike
• Internal optical sensors on both axes for simple and safe remote operation
• Home sensors allow the mount to always start in the index position regardless of orientation before a power reset
• Limit sensors automatically shut off slewing or tracking before reaching the hard stop fail safe
• Brand new control software developed in conjunction with PlaneWave Instruments for professional level control operation and imaging
• Software includes multi-point mount modeling for extremely precise pointing accuracy and many more additional features for remote astroimaging
• Wider tripod stance for improved stability
• Adjustable EQ head position to optimize center of gravity over the tripod and fully utilize the increased 3º-65º latitude range
• Dual-fit CG-5/Vixen and CGE/Losmandy dovetail saddle

IMPROVED TRIPOD INCLUDES:

• 2" steel legs with height index marks for quick leveling
• "Jack of all trays" can hold three 1.25" eyepieces, two 2" eyepieces, your smartphone, or other accessories
• +20º of additional tracking past the meridian on either side
• Tripod legs can be collapsed with accessory tray installed for faster setup and transport

IMPROVED ERGONOMICS:

• Two handles for easy pickup and transport
• All-new ergonomically designed dovetail clamping knobs
• Innovative and improved polar alignment adjustment system
• All-new ergonomic latitude adjuster for smooth and easy adjustment under full loads
• Optional add-on polar axis finderscope - coming soon

ELECTRONICS:

• All-new NexStar+ hand control with USB port
• Two AUX accessory ports to support wireless/WiFi alignment and operation with StarSense AutoAlign and SkyPortal WiFi Module accessories (sold separately)
• USB 2.0 port, used to connect directly to PC with included software
• Autoguider port
• PPEC ready
• Threaded 12VDC power input barrel connector
• Internal Real Time Clock (keeps time and site information saved)

Description

The CGX 800 Schmidt-Cassegrain Telescope features Celestron’s premium StarBright XLT coated optics and the all-new state of the art CGX computerized equatorial mount. It is the most lightweight and portable of the three size models. This telescope is especially at home as a solid platform for long exposure photography with optional CCD cameras or photographic equipment.  At 8 inches of aperture with our premium StarBright XLT coatings, the CGX 800 gives you over 800 times the light gathering power than the unaided eye.

CGX MOUNT

Celestron’s workhorse CGEM mount lineup has been the German Equatorial backbone for telescopes ranging from 6 to 11 inches of aperture. Since that time, many more astro-imagers and planetarium controlled setups have emerged as backyard telescope technology has evolved. Celestron’s engineering team applied their years of experience designing German Equatorial mounts to the all-new CGX EQ, a culmination of all the advancements made to our technologies, value, and ease-of-use.

The new CGX was designed to better support your telescope for both visual and astro-imaging pursuits.  Key design goals included a lower profile EQ head, which provides a more compact and therefore more stable setup; a better drive system; remote operation-friendly with home and limit optical sensors; easier polar alignment adjustments; and better cable management. In addition to that, we’ve made mechanical and ergonomic improvements throughout to make the mount sturdier, easier to use, and transport. The CGX is our new Equatorial backbone to support a wide range of telescopes.

Specifications

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Celestron CGX-L Equatorial 925 Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope

$ 4,499.00

Celestron CGX-L Equatorial 925 Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope

Celestron SKU: 12070 | Helix SKU: CT12070

Overview

• 9.25" Schmidt-Cassegrain Optical Tube Assembly
• Aluminum Optical Tube
• Celestron's premium StarBright XLT coatings
• 2350 mm focal length (f/10)
• 25 mm eyepiece included (94x)
• Visual back allows for use with 1.25" accessories
• 6x30 finderscope to help accurately find objects
• Star diagonal provides more comfortable viewing position when observing objects that are high in the sky
• Includes dovetail rail compatible with CGE mount

COMPUTERIZED MOUNT FEATURES:

NEW CGX-L FEATURES

Increased 75 lb load capacity.  Exceptional load capacity to weight ratio

Additional Aux accessory ports and autoguider port on the Dec axis for better cable management

Larger 144 mm diameter worm wheels to better and more accurately drive heavier loads

Longer 270 mm dovetail saddle to better support larger optical tubes

Massive 70 mm stainless steel tripod legs with a wider stance for improved stability under heavy loads

New accessory tray holds three 1.25” and two 2” eyepieces with an upright stand for your smartphone or tablet

Heavy duty, 31.5 mm stainless steel counterweight shaft to support additional counterweights

Optional add-on polar axis finderscope custom designed for CGX and CGX-L

Supports WiFi and wireless operation accessories such as StarSense AutoAlign and SkyPortal WiFi Module (sold separately)

MOUNT FEATURES:

Compact, lower profile equatorial head provides improved stability and portability. Sturdier and more rigid with quicker dampening time

Improved motors provide more torque, better slewing and tracking under heavy loads

Heavy duty belt-drive system minimizes backlash while providing smooth motor operation at full capacity

Clear windows built into motor covers so pulleys and belts can be monitored

Spring-loaded brass worm wheel and stainless steel worm gear reduce friction and provide optimum gear mesh

Internal cabling for worry-free remote operation. Power input and lower accessory ports remain stationary while the mount slews to avoid snags

Internal hard stops for both axes prevent cable tension and tripod strike

Internal optical sensors on both axes for simple and safe remote operation

-Home sensors allow the mount to always start in the index position regardless of orientation before a power reset

-Limit sensors automatically shut off slewing or tracking before reaching the hard stop fail safe

Includes Celestron's new PWI telescope control software, co-developed by PlaneWave Instruments.  Software features multi-point mount modeling for extremely precise pointing accuracy

Software Polar Align: “All-Star Polar Alignment” allows quick and very precise polar alignment. Align on any bright named star without extra polar alignment accessories, apps, or other assistance

Adjustable EQ head position to optimize center of gravity over the tripod and fully utilize the increased 3º-65º latitude range

Dual-fit Vixen/CG-5 and Losmandy/CGE dovetail saddle

+20º of additional tracking past the meridian on either side

Redesigned tripod has a widened stance for added stability. The minimum tripod height has also been lowered per user feedback

Tripod legs can be collapsed with accessory tray installed for faster setup and transport

IMPROVED ERGONOMICS:

Integrated handles for easy transport and portability

All-new ergonomically designed dovetail clamping knobs

Innovative and improved polar alignment adjustment system

All-new ergonomic adjustment knobs with reduced friction for smooth and easy positioning under full loads. Stationary latitude knob with a newly-designed linkage system greatly reduces the amount of friction when polar aligning the mount. Redesigned azimuth adjustment with low-friction Teflon bearings to make adjustments easy under full load.  No more binding, rough adjustments!

Easy to read latitude scale

ELECTRONICS:

NexStar+ hand control with USB port

USB 2.0 port used to connect directly to PC with PWI Software

2 available autoguider ports for optimum cable management

PEC sensor and PPEC ready

Threaded 12VDC power input barrel connector

Internal Real Time Clock (keeps time and site information saved)

On/Off rocker switch with red LED

Description

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Meade Polaris 114mm German Equatorial Reflector

$ 149.95

Polaris 114mm German Equatorial Reflector - ME216004

• Telescope comes complete with everything you need to view the wonders of the night sky the first time out.
• 114mm (4.5”) Reflecting Telescope delivers bright and detailed images that is perfect for viewing celestial objects.
• Features a larger stable equatorial mount with slow motion controls that makes it easy to track celestial objects as they move across the night sky.
• Comes with 3 eyepieces that provide low, medium and high powered magnification for viewing a wide range of objects (Moon, planets, or deep-sky).
• Bonus Autostar® Suite Astronomy planetarium DVD with over 10,000 celestial objects (Windows® PC only).