What cameras are compatible with the Celestron Advanced VX 800 RASA?
The 8" RASA is designed for color astronomical CMOS cameras, smaller CCD cameras, and mirrorless cameras. It is optimized for sensors with a diagonal up to 22mm, such as those with an APS-C format. It includes M42 and C-thread adapters. Due to its specific 25mm back focus requirement (with the M42 adapter) and the physical obstruction it would cause, it is not compatible with standard DSLR cameras.
Can I use the Celestron Advanced VX 800 RASA for visual observing with an eyepiece?
No. The RASA is a dedicated astrograph, meaning it is designed exclusively for photography. The focal plane is located at the front of the telescope where the camera is mounted, so there is no provision for attaching a star diagonal or an eyepiece for visual use.
Is the 30 lb payload capacity of the AVX mount sufficient for the RASA 8 and imaging gear?
The 30 lb capacity offers a sturdy platform for the 8" RASA optical tube (17 lbs), even with optional accessories like StarSense AutoAlign, a Focus Motor, a finderscope and a camera. The capacity does not include the counterweight.
Do I need an autoguider with the Advanced VX 800 RASA?
Not always. Because shorter exposure times are possible at f/2.0, and the 400mm focal length lessens tracking demands, autoguiding will not be required in many cases. The Advanced VX has a dedicated autoguider port when you want to guide.
How does Celestron's All-Star Polar Alignment work on the Advanced VX 800 RASA if I can't see Polaris?
Roughly point the mount north, then align on two stars plus at least one calibration star. Slew to any bright star in the Named Star list (high in the sky near the meridian works best), press Align and choose Polar Align, then Align Mount. Re-center the star when asked and press Align; the mount syncs and slews to where the star would be if it were accurately polar aligned. Then use the mount's latitude and azimuth adjustments, not the hand control buttons, to center the star and press Enter.
What is the purpose of the removable optical window on the RASA 8?
In a super-fast f/2.0 optical system, every piece of glass in the light path affects performance. The RASA 8 includes a removable 46mm optical window to maintain peak optical quality. If you add a filter (like a light pollution filter) or use a camera that has its own optical window, you should remove the RASA's built-in window to maintain peak optical performance.
How do I power the Advanced VX 800 RASA in the field?
The system requires 12V DC at 3.5A. It comes with a DC power cable that features a standard cigarette lighter plug. Plug it into a car's cigarette lighter outlet or a portable power supply.
What kind of maintenance does the RASA 8 require?
The RASA 8 is a closed-tube system and requires minimal maintenance. The primary concerns are keeping the Schmidt corrector plate and the front lens group clean and free of dew. Use an optional dew shield to prevent condensation. If cleaning is necessary, use a blower bulb to remove dust, followed by an optical cleaning solution and lens tissue. Collimation is factory-set and should not normally require adjustment.
Can I control the Advanced VX 800 RASA with my computer?
Yes. The NexStar+ hand control includes a USB port for connecting to a PC. The package includes Celestron's Starry Night Special Edition software, which provides a planetarium interface and telescope control. Celestron PWI (CPWI) also provides a complete ASCOM telescope interface, so third-party software can control the mount.
