What is the advantage of the Celestron CGX 800 HD's EdgeHD optics over a standard SCT?
The EdgeHD optical system provides a much flatter field of view than a standard Schmidt-Cassegrain. This means that stars will appear as sharp pinpoints all the way to the edge of your eyepiece or camera sensor, which is critical for astrophotography. A standard SCT may have sharp stars in the center, but they can appear elongated (comatic) near the edges.
Can I use the CGX 800 HD for deep-sky astrophotography of targets like the Orion Nebula (M42)?
Absolutely. The CGX 800 HD is an excellent deep-sky imaging platform. Its 2032mm focal length is ideal for framing mid-sized targets like the Orion Nebula (M42) or the Hercules Cluster (M13). For wider targets like the Andromeda Galaxy (M31), you can use the optional f/7 reducer or convert the scope to its f/2 Fastar configuration.
How does the CGX mount handle the 12.5 lb optical tube?
The CGX mount has a 55 lb instrument capacity, so the 12.5 lb EdgeHD 800 optical tube is very well supported. This leaves a substantial amount of extra capacity for adding guide scopes, cameras, filter wheels, and other astrophotography accessories without compromising stability or tracking accuracy.
What do I need to convert the CGX 800 HD to f/2 for wide-field imaging?
To use the Fastar capability, you will need a separate, third-party lens assembly like the Starizona HyperStar. This accessory replaces the telescope's secondary mirror, converting the optical system to an incredibly fast f/2 ratio, which dramatically reduces exposure times and provides a very wide field of view.
Is the CGX 800 HD portable enough for dark-sky sites?
Yes, it's designed to be a portable imaging rig. The optical tube weighs only 12.5 lbs, the mount head is 44 lbs, and the tripod is 19.2 lbs. While the total kit weight is 99.2 lbs, the system breaks down into manageable components that can be transported and assembled by one person.
How does the CGX 800 HD perform for planetary imaging of Jupiter or Saturn?
With its 2032mm focal length and 0.57 arc-second Dawes limit resolution, the CGX 800 HD is a superb planetary instrument. The long focal length provides high magnification for resolving details like Jupiter's cloud bands and Great Red Spot, or the Cassini Division in Saturn's rings. For even higher image scale, you can add a Barlow lens.
