CG-5 Computerized - GoTo convenience and GPS compatibility for precision accuracy
We are proud to offer
a computerized GoTo version of Celestron's sturdy CG-5 mount. Couple this solid mount with the included computerized control
system to utilize many of the same functions and features - like the NexStarcomputer control system and an Autoguider port for
long exposure deep sky astrophotography - as Celestron's most advanced GoTo telescopes.
GoTo models are also upgradeable to GPS with the optional CN16 GPS Accessory (#93966) allowing your telescope to pinpoint your
position on the earth, the date and
Celestron's C8 has been a best-selling optical system for decades. Combining a repuation for optical excellence with lightweight
portability and great value, the C8-SGT is the perfect choice if you're looking for an advanced computerized telescope or want to
upgrade to a larger aperture telescope.
An adjustable counterweight makes it easy to point, balance and use. The C8-S optical system comes with StarBright® coatings and
its large aperture offers light gathering power 843 times that of the human eye. Included are setting circles on both axes,
slow-motion controls and latitude scale. An optional polar alignment scope for quick alignment is available.
Mounted on the Advanced GT Series computerized mount, this telescope has some high performance
software features including an autoguider port for astrophotography. Operated by our proven NexStar® computer control technology
the telescope has a 40,000+ object database with 400 user-definable objects and expanded information on over 200 objects. Custom
database lists of all the most famous deep-sky objects by name and catalog number; the most beautiful double, triple and quadruple
stars; variable star; solar systems; objects and asterisms.
Using the RS-232 communication port on the hand control, you can control the telescope via a personal computer and our new flash
upgradeable hand controls allow you to update your telescope's operationg software via the internet.
CG-5 Mount - Precision engineered for stability.
Our new German Equatorial mount has precision worm gears on both axes for extremely smooth stability. The key element that makes
this system the most stable in its class is the NEW heavy-duty tripod with larger and more substantial legs that offer excellent
damping characteristics for more stable views. The CG-5 also has a convenient latitude scale for easier alignment and an optional
polar finder scope for the ultimate in precision alignments.
Celestron has brought its renowned StarBright technology to an even higher level of light transmission with the introduction of
our new optional StarBright XLT High Performance Optical Coating System.
StarBright XLT Optical System Design - You'll See The Light.
One of the most important factors in the evaluation of a Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope's optical system performance is its
transmission - the percentage of incoming light that reaches the focal plane. The design of the XLT System accomplishes two
crucial objectives: Develop a coating system that is optimized for visual use and for CCD/Photographic imaging.
The StarBright XLT System - What Makes It Different Makes It Better
There are three major components that make up our StarBright XLT high transmission optical system design:
1. Unique enhanced multi-layer mirror coatings
Our mirror coatings are made from precise layers of Aluminum (Al), SiO2 (quartz), TiO2 (Titanium Dioxide), and Si02. Reflectivity
is fairly flat across the spectrum, optimizing it for both CCD imaging and visual use. Click here to see a plot of the
reflectivity of XLT's Mirror Coatings.
2. Multi-layer anti-reflective coatings
Made from precise layers of MgF2 (Magnesium Fluoride), and HfO2 (Hafnium Dioxide) A rare element costing nearly $2000 per
kilogram, Hafnium gives us a wider band pass than Titanium, used in competing coatings. Click here to see a plot of XLT's
corrector transmission.
3. High Transmission Water White glass
Celestron Schmidt-Cassegrain optical systems with optional StarBright XLT coatings use Water White glass instead of Soda Lime
glass for the corrector lens. Water White glass transmits about 90.5% without anti-reflective coatings. That is 3.5% better
transmission than uncoated Soda Lime glass. When Water White glass is used in conjunction with StarBright XLT's anti-reflective
coatings, the average transmission reaches 97.4% - an 8% improvement! Click here to see a plot of water white glass versus soda
lime.*
These three components of our StarBright XLT coatings result in one of the finest coatings available. The peak transmission for
the systems is 89% at 520 nm. The overall system transmission is 83.5% averaged over the spectrum from 400 to 750 nm.
