Celestron CGEM II 800 EdgeHD 8" Schmidt-Cassegrain optic

Optical Performance

The 8-inch Schmidt-Cassegrain tube uses StarBright XLT coatings to deliver over 800 times the light gathering power of the unaided eye. An aplanatic, flat-field EdgeHD design produces aberration-free images across a wide visual and photographic field. The focal plane is more than three-times flatter than a standard Schmidt-Cassegrain, keeping stars sharp to the edge of a digital sensor. Highest useful magnification reaches 480x for detailed planetary and deep-sky observation.

Mount and Alignment

The redesigned CGEM II computerized equatorial mount provides a stable platform that minimises vibrations for steady viewing and precise tracking. It supports payloads up to 40 lbs, accommodating the optical tube and imaging accessories. Multiple alignment procedures including AutoAlign, 2-Star Align and Solar System Align make setup straightforward for beginners and experienced users alike. The system is described as the lightest and most portable telescope in its class.

Astrograph-Ready Design

EdgeHD optics deliver true astrograph quality with a flat focal plane that matches the flat chip sensor of a digital camera, eliminating the out-of-focus stars at the field edge common with curved-plane designs. This optical correction works across both visual and photographic use without additional accessories. The combination of flat-field performance and a high-capacity equatorial mount creates a complete platform for serious astrophotography and visual astronomy.