Celestron EdgeHD Promo (Oct 1-31, 2024)

Comparison of the Celestron EDGE HD Series

The Celestron EdgeHD series of telescopes is designed for high-performance astrophotography and visual observations, offering superior image quality with an advanced optical system. The series includes various models differentiated primarily by aperture size, optical performance, and accessories. Here's a comparison of the most popular models in the Celestron EdgeHD series:

1. Celestron EdgeHD 8"

Overview:

The EdgeHD 8" is the most compact and portable option in the series, making it a favorite among users looking for a balance of portability and performance.

Key Features:

• Aperture: 8 inches (203.2 mm)
• Focal Length: 2032 mm
• Focal Ratio: f/10 (f/7 with reducer)
• Weight: 14 lbs (6.35 kg) for the optical tube
• Optical System: Aplanatic Schmidt-Cassegrain (corrects for coma and field curvature)
• Field of View: 1.02 degrees (at 100x magnification)
• Imaging Performance: Sharp images with reduced aberrations; great for astrophotography of planets, galaxies, and deep-sky objects.

Advantages:

• Portable: Small and lightweight, perfect for on-the-go astrophotography.
• Affordable: Lower cost compared to larger models in the series, making it accessible for both beginners and intermediate users.
• Wide Field: Capable of capturing wide-field astrophotography with an additional reducer.

Disadvantages:

• Smaller Aperture: Limited light-gathering power compared to larger models, restricting the view of fainter objects.
• Less Light: Not as suitable for highly detailed deep-sky astrophotography compared to larger aperture scopes.

Best For:

• Portable astrophotography and visual observers who want a balance of quality and portability.

2. Celestron EdgeHD 9.25"

Overview:

The EdgeHD 9.25" provides an upgrade in aperture while remaining portable enough for most users.

Key Features:

• Aperture: 9.25 inches (235 mm)
• Focal Length: 2350 mm
• Focal Ratio: f/10 (f/7 with reducer)
• Weight: 20 lbs (9.07 kg)
• Optical System: Aplanatic Schmidt-Cassegrain
• Field of View: 0.83 degrees (at 100x magnification)
• Imaging Performance: Provides more light-gathering power than the 8", making it ideal for capturing faint deep-sky objects.

Advantages:

• Increased Aperture: Allows for more detailed views and better light-gathering ability for deep-sky astrophotography.
• Balanced Portability: Still relatively lightweight and portable for an intermediate scope.

Disadvantages:

• Heavier Than 8": Less portable compared to the 8", making it harder to travel with.
• Higher Cost: More expensive than the 8", requiring a larger investment.

Best For:

• Intermediate astrophotographers and visual observers who need a step up from the 8" but still value portability.

3. Celestron EdgeHD 11"

Overview:

The EdgeHD 11" is a popular choice for serious astrophotographers and visual observers due to its larger aperture and higher performance capabilities.

Key Features:

• Aperture: 11 inches (279 mm)
• Focal Length: 2800 mm
• Focal Ratio: f/10 (f/7 with reducer)
• Weight: 28 lbs (12.7 kg)
• Optical System: Aplanatic Schmidt-Cassegrain
• Field of View: 0.72 degrees (at 100x magnification)
• Imaging Performance: Capable of capturing stunning detail, especially for deep-sky objects and planetary imaging.

Advantages:

• Increased Aperture: Significant light-gathering power, making it perfect for faint deep-sky objects and planetary imaging.
• Highly Detailed Images: Provides excellent resolution and sharpness, ideal for advanced astrophotography.
• Versatile: Great for both planetary and deep-sky astrophotography.

Disadvantages:

• Heavy: Difficult to transport due to its weight and size, making it better suited for semi-permanent setups.
• Expensive: Higher price point compared to the smaller models.

Best For:

• Serious astrophotographers and visual observers who want a high-performance telescope for both planetary and deep-sky imaging.

4. Celestron EdgeHD 14"

Overview:

The EdgeHD 14" is the largest model in the EdgeHD series, offering unparalleled light-gathering power and performance for advanced astrophotographers.

Key Features:

• Aperture: 14 inches (356 mm)
• Focal Length: 3910 mm
• Focal Ratio: f/11 (f/7 with reducer)
• Weight: 46 lbs (20.9 kg)
• Optical System: Aplanatic Schmidt-Cassegrain
• Field of View: 0.50 degrees (at 100x magnification)
• Imaging Performance: Exceptional light-gathering ability for the most detailed images of faint deep-sky objects.

Advantages:

• Maximum Light Gathering: With a large aperture, this scope excels at deep-sky and planetary imaging, offering the most detailed views.
• High Resolution: Provides the highest resolution and best imaging quality in the series.
• Best for Advanced Imaging: Ideal for those looking to push the limits of what can be captured in astrophotography.

Disadvantages:

• Very Heavy: Extremely heavy and difficult to transport, making it best for fixed observatories or semi-permanent setups.
• Very Expensive: The highest price point in the EdgeHD series, making it a significant investment.

Best For:

• Advanced astrophotographers and serious visual observers who want the best possible light-gathering and imaging capabilities.

Key Comparisons:

Conclusion:

• EdgeHD 8": Best for beginners and intermediate users who want a portable and affordable option.
• EdgeHD 9.25": Offers a good balance of performance and portability for intermediate users seeking more detail.
• EdgeHD 11": Ideal for serious astrophotographers looking for a high-performance telescope for detailed planetary and deep-sky imaging.
• EdgeHD 14": Best for advanced astrophotographers or those with a fixed observatory setup who want the maximum aperture for the most detailed views and images.

Each model in the EdgeHD series is designed to meet different needs, whether you're prioritizing portability, performance, or advanced imaging capabilities.

Comparison of the Celestron Advanced VX, CGX and CGEM II Computerized Mounts

Here is a detailed comparison of the Celestron Advanced VX, CGX, and CGEM II computerized mounts. These mounts are designed for different levels of astrophotography and visual observing, each offering varying capacities and features for different user needs.

1. Celestron Advanced VX (AVX) Computerized Mount

Overview:

The Celestron Advanced VX (AVX) is an entry-level to mid-range computerized mount designed for portable astrophotography setups. It is a great choice for beginners and intermediate users who want a versatile and lightweight mount for smaller telescopes.

Key Features:

• Payload Capacity: 30 lbs (13.6 kg)
• Latitude Range: 7° - 77°
• Tracking Accuracy: Periodic error correction (PEC)
• Alignment Technology: All-Star Polar Alignment
• Ports: NexStar+ hand control port, autoguider port, and accessory port
• Tripod: 2-inch stainless steel legs
• Weight: Total mount weight of 47 lbs (21.3 kg) including the tripod

Advantages:

• Lightweight and Portable: Ideal for astrophotographers on the move.
• Affordability: More affordable than the CGX and CGEM II, making it a great choice for beginners.
• PEC: Periodic error correction improves tracking for longer exposures.
• Versatility: Handles a wide range of smaller scopes, including refractors and small Schmidt-Cassegrain telescopes (SCTs).

Disadvantages:

• Lower Payload Capacity: Not suitable for heavier telescopes or advanced imaging setups.
• Limited Features: Fewer advanced features compared to the CGX or CGEM II for experienced users.

Best For:

• Beginners and intermediate astrophotographers with lighter telescopes looking for an affordable, portable mount for visual observation and astrophotography.

2. Celestron CGX Computerized Mount

Overview:

The Celestron CGX is a high-capacity, mid-range computerized mount designed for intermediate to advanced users. It is ideal for those with larger telescope setups and those who need precision and smooth tracking for serious astrophotography.

Key Features:

• Payload Capacity: 55 lbs (25 kg)
• Latitude Range: 3° - 65°
• Tracking Accuracy: Improved PEC, low cogging motors for smoother tracking
• Alignment Technology: All-Star Polar Alignment and programmable periodic error correction (PPEC)
• Ports: Dual-axis encoders, NexStar+ hand control port, autoguider port, USB 2.0 port, and accessory port
• Tripod: 2.75-inch steel legs
• Weight: 86.4 lbs (39.2 kg) including the tripod

Advantages:

• High Payload Capacity: Can handle larger telescopes, up to 11-14 inch SCTs or heavy-duty imaging setups.
• Advanced Tracking: Precise tracking with PPEC and low cogging motors, ideal for long exposure astrophotography.
• Solid Build: More stable with heavy-duty materials, ensuring better performance with heavier equipment.
• Built-in Handles and Carrying Ease: Easier to move compared to some other mounts with similar payload capacities.

Disadvantages:

• Heavier: Much heavier and less portable than the AVX, making it more suitable for a permanent or semi-permanent setup.
• Higher Cost: More expensive due to its increased capabilities.

Best For:

• Serious astrophotographers or advanced users with larger telescope setups requiring high precision and payload capacity for long exposure astrophotography.

3. Celestron CGEM II Computerized Mount

Overview:

The Celestron CGEM II is a mid-range computerized mount that serves as an upgrade to the original CGEM. It’s designed for intermediate to advanced users and bridges the gap between the AVX and CGX mounts in terms of performance and capacity.

Key Features:

• Payload Capacity: 40 lbs (18.1 kg)
• Latitude Range: 3° - 65°
• Tracking Accuracy: Improved PEC
• Alignment Technology: All-Star Polar Alignment and PPEC
• Ports: NexStar+ hand control port, USB port, autoguider port, and accessory port
• Tripod: 2-inch steel legs
• Weight: 68 lbs (30.8 kg) including the tripod

Advantages:

• Increased Payload Over AVX: Handles heavier telescopes than the AVX but is lighter than the CGX.
• Improved Tracking: Provides smooth tracking with PPEC, good for intermediate astrophotography.
• Affordable for Its Class: A good balance between cost and performance for intermediate users.
• Sturdy Tripod: Heavy-duty steel tripod ensures better stability during long exposures.

Disadvantages:

• Middle Payload Range: Lower payload than the CGX, limiting its use for very large telescope setups.
• Less Portable Than AVX: Heavier and bulkier than the AVX, but still more portable than the CGX.

Best For:

• Intermediate astrophotographers looking for a balance between portability, payload capacity, and advanced features for longer exposure astrophotography.

Key Comparisons:

Conclusion:

• Celestron Advanced VX: Ideal for beginners and those seeking a lightweight, portable, and affordable mount for astrophotography with smaller telescopes.
• Celestron CGX: Best for advanced astrophotographers needing high precision and heavy payload capacity, especially for larger setups and long exposure astrophotography.
• Celestron CGEM II: A solid option for intermediate to advanced users who want a balance between portability and performance, with enough capacity for mid-sized telescopes but less expensive and heavy than the CGX.

Choosing between these mounts depends on your payload needs, experience level, and whether you prioritize portability or performance.