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IMPORTANT: Our store is located in Canada. All orders that include products manufactured outside of Canada or USA will be subject to tariffs and duties, regardless of the order value. US customers are responsible for all applicable duties and tariffs, and those will be billed by the carrier, except for the Lacerta upgrade kit, for which we collect them at checkout.
Celestron CGX-L Equatorial 1400 SCT
Celestron CGX-L Equatorial 1400 SCT

Celestron CGX-L Equatorial 1400 SCT

by Celestron
SKU CEL-12072
$8,999.00 - $8,999.00
$8,999.00
$8,999.00 - $8,999.00
$8,999.00
Price Match Policy!
  • 355.5mm (14") Schmidt-Cassegrain Optical Tube
  • Massive 75 lb (34 kg) instrument load capacity
  • CGX-L Computerized Equatorial Mount with 144mm worm wheels
  • 0.33 arc second Dawes Limit resolution
  • NexStar+ hand control with 40,000+ object database
  • Fastar compatible for f/2 wide-field imaging
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  • Description
  • FAQ
  • Specifications
  • In the Box
  • Downloads
  • Warranty

  • Celestron CGX-L Equatorial 1400 Schmidt-Cassegrain Telescope

    The Celestron CGX-L Equatorial 1400 Schmidt-Cassegrain Telescope combines Celestron's largest optical tube with their most stable observatory-class platform, creating a definitive instrument for serious deep-sky imaging and planetary observation. The massive 355.5mm (14") aperture gathers 2581x more light than the human eye, feeding a 3910mm focal length optical system capable of a stunning 0.33 arc second theoretical resolution. This entire 46 lb optical assembly is carried with precision by the CGX-L mount, which features a 75 lb load capacity and integrated home sensors for remote operation.

    14" Schmidt-Cassegrain Optics: 0.33 Arc Second Planetary Resolution

    At the heart of this system is the 14" Schmidt-Cassegrain OTA, an optical powerhouse designed for high-magnification views and detailed imaging. With a native focal length of 3910mm and an f/11 ratio, it delivers the image scale required to resolve Cassini's Division in Saturn's rings or the delicate spiral arms of galaxies like the Whirlpool Galaxy (M51). Celestron's StarBright XLT coatings maximize light transmission, ensuring bright, high-contrast images from its 15.3 limiting magnitude reach.

    For imagers seeking versatility, this optical tube is Fastar-compatible. By replacing the secondary mirror with an optional HyperStar lens system (sold separately), you can convert the telescope into an incredibly fast f/2 wide-field astrograph, capturing vast nebulae like the North American Nebula (NGC 7000) in a fraction of the time required at f/11.

    CGX-L Mount: 75 lb Capacity and Observatory-Grade Tracking

    The CGX-L mount is engineered to carry the 46 lb C14 optical tube and a full astrophotography payload without compromising stability. Its 75 lb instrument capacity is supported by large 144mm diameter worm wheels and a long 270mm dovetail saddle, which provide smooth, accurate tracking for long exposures. The entire system rests on a heavy-duty tripod with 2.75" diameter steel legs, ensuring vibrations are quickly dampened.

    • High-Torque Motors: DC servo motors provide the power to slew the massive optical tube at up to 3° per second, while also delivering whisper-quiet, precise tracking on celestial objects.
    • Ergonomic Design: Despite its size, the CGX-L is designed for field use. Built-in carry handles, easier latitude and azimuth adjustments, and internal cabling make transport and setup more manageable.
    • Heavy Payload Support: The mount package includes three 22 lb counterweights, providing ample balance for the C14 OTA and additional imaging gear.

    NexStar+ and CPWI: A 40,000+ Object Database with PC Control

    Locating and tracking objects is managed by Celestron's proven NexStar+ ecosystem. The included hand controller gives you direct access to a database of over 40,000 celestial objects, from planets to distant quasars. Alignment is streamlined with multiple procedures like 2-Star Align and Solar System Align, getting you observing quickly.

    For advanced users, the included CPWI Telescope Control Software unlocks the mount's full potential. Connecting via the built-in USB port, CPWI provides a graphical planetarium interface for your PC, offering more powerful alignment modeling, integrated polar alignment routines, and direct control from your computer—a critical feature for remote observatory setups.

    Remote Imaging-Ready: Dual Saddles, Autoguide Ports, and PPEC

    The CGX-L 1400 is built from the ground up for the dedicated astro-imager. The mount head features a versatile dual-format saddle plate that accepts both narrow CG-5 and wider CGE-style dovetails. Connectivity is abundant, with two autoguide ports and four auxiliary ports to power cameras, focusers, and other accessories, with several ports thoughtfully located near the saddle to minimize cable drag.

    Essential imaging features are built-in, including Permanent Periodic Error Correction (PPEC) to train out the minute errors in the worm gear for smoother guiding. Optical home and limit sensors allow the mount to always know its orientation, enabling you to start up and shut down a remote session without needing to be physically present at the telescope.

    CGX-L 1400 vs. 1100: The Trade-Off Between Aperture and Weight

    Choosing between the 14" and 11" models on the CGX-L mount comes down to a classic astronomical trade-off. The C14 optical tube offers a significant advantage in light-gathering power (2581x vs. the C11's ~1800x) and resolution (0.33 vs. 0.41 arc seconds), allowing it to resolve finer detail on planets and detect fainter deep-sky objects.

    However, this comes at the cost of size and weight. The C14 OTA weighs 46 lbs, while the C11 is a more manageable 28 lbs. For those with a permanent observatory, the C14 is the clear choice for its superior optical performance. If you need to transport your setup frequently, the C11 offers a more portable package while still delivering exceptional views on the robust CGX-L platform.

  • Can the CGX-L 1400 handle the 46 lb OTA plus a full imaging train?

    Yes, absolutely. The CGX-L mount has a 75 lb (34 kg) instrument load capacity. After accounting for the 46 lb optical tube, you have approximately 29 lbs of remaining capacity for your camera, guide scope, filter wheel, and other accessories, which is more than sufficient for most advanced imaging setups.

    How will the CGX-L 1400 perform on Jupiter's Great Red Spot?

    This is an ideal instrument for planetary observation. The 14" aperture provides a theoretical resolution of 0.33 arc seconds (Dawes Limit). Under steady seeing conditions, this is more than enough to resolve fine details within Jupiter's cloud bands, the Great Red Spot, and shadow transits from its moons. The 3910mm focal length provides high magnification straight out of the box.

    Is the CGX-L 1400 difficult to set up for a single person?

    Due to its weight, a single-person setup is challenging but possible with proper technique. The main components break down into the 46.2 lb tripod, 52.6 lb mount head, 46 lb optical tube, and 66 lbs of counterweights. We recommend a two-person team or a dedicated telescope dolly for easier and safer transport and assembly.

    What does being "Fastar-compatible" mean for the CGX-L 1400?

    Fastar compatibility allows you to remove the secondary mirror and install a third-party HyperStar lens assembly. This converts the telescope from a slow f/11 system to an extremely fast f/2 wide-field imaging system. This is ideal for capturing large nebulae and star fields with significantly shorter exposure times.

    Do I have to use the NexStar+ hand controller or can I just use the CPWI software?

    You can control the CGX-L 1400 entirely from a PC using the CPWI Telescope Control Software without needing the hand controller, which is ideal for permanent or remote setups. The hand controller is included and provides a quick, portable way to control the telescope in the field without a laptop.

    How does the dual saddle plate on the CGX-L 1400 work?

    The dovetail saddle on the mount is designed to accept two different dovetail bar standards. It can clamp onto the narrower CG-5 (Vixen-style) bars commonly found on smaller telescopes and the wider CGE (Losmandy D-style) bars used on larger instruments like the included 14" OTA. This adds flexibility if you want to use other telescopes on this mount.

  • Optical Tube Specifications
    Optical Design Schmidt-Cassegrain
    Aperture 355.5mm (14")
    Focal Length 3910mm (154")
    Focal Ratio f/11
    Optical Coatings StarBright XLT
    Highest Useful Magnification 840x
    Lowest Useful Magnification 51x
    Limiting Stellar Magnitude 15.3
    Resolution (Rayleigh) 0.39 arc seconds
    Resolution (Dawes) 0.33 arc seconds
    Light Gathering Power 2581x (Compared to human eye)
    Secondary Mirror Obstruction 114mm (4.5")
    Obstruction by Diameter 32%
    Obstruction by Area 10%
    Optical Tube Length 787mm (31")
    Optical Tube Weight 46 lbs (21 kg)
    Dovetail CGE Dovetail Bar
    Included Accessories
    Eyepiece 1 40mm (98x Magnification)
    Finderscope 9x50
    Star Diagonal 2" with 1.25" adapter
    Mount Specifications
    Mount Type Computerized Equatorial
    Instrument Load Capacity 75 lbs (34 kg)
    Mount Head Weight 52.6 lbs (23.8 kg)
    Tripod 2.75" Steel Legs
    Tripod Weight 46.2 lbs (21 kg)
    Counterweights 3 x 22 lbs
    Latitude Adjustment Range 3° - 65°
    Motor Drive DC servo motors
    Slew Speeds 9 speeds, max 3°/second
    Tracking Rates Sidereal, Solar, Lunar
    Tracking Modes EQ North, EQ South
    Dovetail Compatibility Dual saddle (CG-5 and CGE)
    Power Requirements 12V DC, 3 amps
    Electronics & Software
    Hand Control NexStar+, USB 2.0 Port
    NexStar+ Database 40,000+ objects
    Auxiliary Ports 4
    Autoguide Port 2
    USB Port Yes (Mount and Hand Control)
    Periodic Error Correction Yes
    Alignment Procedures 2-Star, 1-Star, Solar System, Last, Quick
    Software Included CPWI, Celestron Starry Night Special Edition, SkyPortal App
    Total System Weight
    Total Kit Weight 210.8 lbs (95.61 kg)

    • 14" Schmidt-Cassegrain OTA

      × 1

    • CGX-L Equatorial Head

      × 1

    • CGX-L Tripod

      × 1

    • Accessory Tray

      × 1

    • 22 lb Counterweights

      × 3

    • NexStar+ Hand Control

      × 1

    • DC Power Cable

      × 1

    • 9x50 Finderscope

      × 1

    • 40mm Eyepiece

      × 1

    • 2" Star Diagonal w/ 1.25" Adapter

      × 1

    • 8mm Allen Wrench

      × 1

  • This product is covered by Celestron's 2-Year Telescope Warranty. For complete details and to register your product, please visit the Celestron Warranty Policy page.

    Solar Warning

    Never look directly at the Sun with the naked eye or with an optic (unless you have the proper solar filter). Permanent and irreversible eye damage may result. Never use your optic to project an image of the Sun onto any surface. Internal heat build-up can damage the optic and any accessories attached to it. Never leave your optic unsupervised. Make sure an adult who is familiar with the correct operating procedures is with your optic at all times, especially when children are present.