Celestron 11” RASA V2

1. Ultra-Fast f/2.2 Optics: The Celestron 11” RASA V2 is a dedicated astrograph, uniquely designed for incredibly fast, wide-field deep-sky astrophotography. Its extreme f/2.2 focal ratio allows for significantly shorter exposure times compared to traditional f/10 or f/8 telescopes, making it possible to capture faint celestial objects like nebulae and galaxies with greater detail and efficiency. This speed reduces the impact of read noise and allows more light to be collected in a given timeframe.

2. Rowe-Ackermann Schmidt Astrograph Design: This advanced catadioptric telescope employs a sophisticated optical system that combines a primary mirror, a secondary mirror, and a four-element lens group, including rare earth glass, positioned at the front. This innovative design delivers a truly flat field, ensuring pinpoint stars from the center to the very edge of the large image circle, even with full-frame camera sensors. This is crucial for high-quality astrophotography, eliminating common optical aberrations found in conventional designs.

3. Superior Image Quality: Engineered to provide exceptional optical performance, the RASA 11 V2 virtually eliminates common imaging imperfections such as coma, field curvature, and astigmatism. The precise manufacturing and careful alignment of its optical components ensure stunningly sharp and high-contrast images across the entire field of view. The corrected optical path is optimized specifically for prime-focus imaging, making it a professional-grade instrument for capturing breathtaking celestial photographs.

4. Robust and Optimized Construction: The optical tube assembly features a carbon fiber construction, which provides superior thermal stability and reduced flexure compared to aluminum tubes. This material choice helps maintain precise focus during long imaging sessions as temperatures fluctuate. An integrated 12V MagLev fan system provides active cooling, drawing air through the rear cell to help the primary mirror reach ambient temperature quickly, minimizing thermal currents for optimal image quality from the start of your session.

ABOUT THE CELESTRON 11” RASA V2

The Celestron 11” RASA V2 stands out in the realm of optical instruments, representing a significant advancement in dedicated astrophotography. Unlike traditional telescopes, this Rowe-Ackermann Schmidt Astrograph (RASA) is specifically engineered for ultra-fast, wide-field deep-sky imaging. Its unique catadioptric design employs an advanced optical system with a primary and secondary mirror, combined with a four-element lens group, to deliver stunningly flat fields and sharp stars across the entire image sensor. The remarkable f/2.2 focal ratio allows for incredibly short exposure times, capturing faint nebulae and galaxies with exceptional detail and speed. This makes it an invaluable tool for serious astrophotographers seeking maximum light gathering capability and a broad field of view, significantly reducing necessary imaging time. Constructed with a lightweight carbon fiber optical tube, it ensures thermal stability and rigidity. The main function of this telescope is to serve as a high-performance imaging platform, meticulously designed for modern large-sensor cameras to produce exquisite astrophotos.

ABOUT CELESTRON

Celestron, a world-leading designer and manufacturer of telescopes, was founded in 1960 in Torrance, California, USA. The company quickly became known for its innovative optical products, including pioneering the mass production of Schmidt-Cassegrain telescopes. Celestron is renowned for its commitment to combining cutting-edge technology with user-friendly design, making astronomy accessible to enthusiasts of all levels. Their product philosophy emphasizes optical excellence, durability, and technological innovation, particularly in computerized GoTo mounts and advanced imaging instruments. Celestron’s reputation is built on delivering high-quality, reliable, and technologically advanced optics to the global astronomy community.

MAIN FEATURES

• Optical Design: Rowe-Ackermann Schmidt Astrograph (RASA)

• Aperture: 279 mm (11 inches)

• Focal Length: 620 mm

• Focal Ratio: f/2.2

• Optical Quality: Delivers sharp stars and a flat field across a wide imaging sensor

• Compatibility: Designed for prime-focus astrophotography with most modern CCD/CMOS cameras (adapters for various sensor sizes often sold separately)

• Back Focus: Specific back focus distance is critical and usually around 72.8 mm from the front of the lens group

• Construction: Optimized for astrophotography, features a carbon fiber optical tube for rigidity and reduced thermal expansion

• Weight: Approximately 19.5 kg (43 lbs) for the optical tube assembly (OTA) alone

• Mounting Standard: Compatible with CGE/Losmandy-style dovetail bars for robust equatorial mounts

WARRANTY

This product is covered by a 2-year global warranty that includes defects in materials and manufacturing under normal use.

IN THE BOX

• Celestron 11” RASA V2 Optical Tube Assembly

• Integrated fan for faster cool-down

• CGE/Losmandy-style dovetail bar

• Front lens cover

• Instruction manual

• Imaging train adapters (specific ones may vary or require separate purchase)