The Celestron CPC 800 Deluxe HD combines the 8" EdgeHD aplanatic Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope with the rock solid CPC computerized dual fork arm Alt-Azimuth mount. This an exceptional instrument for visual observation with the widest eyepieces as well as serious astrophotography (when used with an equatorial wedge - sold separately). 

Celestron's EdgeHD series combines the strengths of Schmidt-Cassegrains with imaging performance of modern Corrected Dall-Kirkham designs, all in an affordable package. The classic SCT is well corrected on-axis but suffers from coma and field curvature, making them unsuitable for deep sky imaging. By adding a two-element corrector lens and optimizing the overall optical design, the EdgeHD solves these problems while keeping costs low for a full frame-corrected instrument. The EdgeHD series includes Celestron's StarBright XLT optical coatings on each surface, giving maximum light transmission across the visual and photographic spectrum between 400 - 750nm.

In addition to the optimized optical design, the EdgeHD includes flexible tension mirror clutches which reduce image shift over long exposures. This allows the mirror to be held securely in place without putting additional force or pressure on the mirror assembly. Filtered cooling vents on the rear cell let hot air to be expelled from behind the primary mirror.

The EdgeHD is an incredibly versatile instrument, with a 0.7x reducer available separately and Fastar/Hyperstar compatibility for super-fast imaging at f/2. Every EdgeHD is tested in-house by Celestron to ensure its high optical performance and the surface quality of each optical surface. 

The CPC mount uses Celestron's proven NexStar computer control technology with an target database of over 40,000 objects. The re-designed drive base and mechanics offer quiet slewing, larger drive gears and quick release clutch for reliable and easy operation. Star alignment is fast thanks to the 3-star SkyAlign process and the included 9 x 50 finderscope makes centering objects pain-free.

These mounts are heavy duty and stand up to frequent use even in harsh environments. We successfully employed them for nightly star parties in Uluru for many years without any problems.

The mount features an auxiliary port for autoguider and GPS accessory (sold separately). Mount and motor controller firmware can be upgraded via the handset over the internet. An RS-232 cable is included for advanced control over the telescope using a computer. The CPC mount has Permanent PEC (periodic error correction) ensuring stable tracking. The included tripod's 2" stainless steel legs provide a rock solid platform.

Note: if you are purely interested in astrophotography, you can purchase the EdgeHD 800 tube on its own with a dovetail allowing connection to suitable equatorial mounts. 

Specifications

Mount specifications

Items included

• Optical tube
  
• Mount and tripod
  
• Accessory tray
• Nexstar+ hand controller
• 50mm 9 x 50 finderscope with bracket
  
• 1.25" star diagonal
• 40mm 1.25" eyepiece
• Instruction manual