What accessories can I mount on the Celestron Dovetail Bar for the RASA 8?
This bar is compatible with the CGE or Losmandy-D "wide" dovetail standard. You can mount any accessory that uses a corresponding saddle clamp, such as guide scope rings, piggyback camera adapters, or mounting plates for focus controllers and USB hubs.
How does the Celestron RASA 8 Dovetail Accessory Bar install on the telescope?
Installation is straightforward. The bar is designed to mount directly to the existing factory-drilled threaded holes on the top of the RASA 8" optical tube. All necessary mounting hardware is included for a secure attachment.
Is this the same dovetail bar that comes on the bottom of the RASA 8?
Yes, this is the same dovetail bar as the one that comes standard on the bottom of the RASA 8" optical tube. This ensures a perfect match in fit, finish, and compatibility.
Can I use this bar to mount a guide scope on my RASA 8?
Absolutely. Mounting a guide scope is the primary reason for adding this accessory bar. It provides a stable, secure platform for a secondary scope, allowing you to achieve the long, precisely guided exposures that the RASA 8" is designed for.
If I mount a heavy accessory on the RASA 8 using this bar, will it be stable?
Yes. The bar is made from solid aluminum and bolts directly into the telescope's main body, creating a very rigid and sturdy platform. It is designed to securely hold common imaging accessories like guide scopes and control units without introducing flexure.
What is the Celestron RASA 8 Accessory Bar made of?
The dovetail bar is constructed from aluminum, providing a strong yet lightweight platform that matches the build quality of the RASA 8" telescope itself.