Celestron Advanced VX 8'' Schmidt-Cassegrain Telescope

Celestron Advanced VX 8'' Schmidt-Cassegrain Telescope

The Advanced VX (AVX) redefines mid-level telescope performance, offering many of the same capabilities found on Celestron’s premium German equatorial mounts at a remarkably affordable price. Paired with an 8” Schmidt-Cassegrain optical tube, this system is an outstanding choice for both astrophotographers and visual astronomers who want greater light-gathering power in a portable design. The 8” SCT provides 84% more light than a 6” telescope, producing brighter, more detailed views. Its Schmidt-Cassegrain optical design also eliminates chromatic aberration, making it especially well-suited for imaging.

The AVX mount is built to deliver top-notch performance while incorporating advanced features such as All-Star Polar Alignment, Celestron PWI telescope control software, and permanently programmable periodic error correction (PPEC), ensuring accuracy and reliability for every observing or imaging session.

If you’re a seasoned imager, you’ll appreciate bringing this lightweight system to dark-sky locations while enjoying the benefits typically reserved for larger observatory-class mounts. If you’re just beginning your imaging journey, the AVX provides an ideal starting point and the capability to grow with you over the years.

Computerized German Equatorial Mount

The Advanced VX is Celestron’s most compact German equatorial mount, yet it delivers the same powerful computerized GoTo tracking used in their larger systems. Once aligned, the mount automatically follows celestial targets as they drift across the sky. It comes with connection ports for a hand control, an autoguider, and two AUX ports for optional accessories.

With the NexStar+ hand control, you gain instant access to every mount function. Automatic slewing and easy-to-read menu options allow astronomers of any level to quickly master the system after just a few observing sessions. Supporting the mount is a 2” diameter steel tripod with a wide stance, providing excellent stability for its class.

Payload Capacity

The AVX mount supports a 30 lb payload capacity, offering a strong and steady platform for any Advanced VX-compatible optical tube-even when paired with imaging accessories such as a camera, finder, Focus Motor, or StarSense AutoAlign. (Note: the payload capacity does not include counterweight mass.)

Dual Saddle Plate

Since early 2019, the Advanced VX has been equipped with a dual saddle plate that accommodates both CG-5 and CGE-style dovetails. Switching between dovetail formats is as simple as moving the hand knobs to the alternate mounting holes. This makes the AVX compatible with nearly any OTA within its weight range. It supports Vixen-format dovetails 100mm or longer, but is not compatible with Losmandy D-style plates, regardless of manufacturer.

Software

Celestron PWI Telescope Control Software

Every AVX includes Celestron PWI (CPWI), Celestron’s most advanced telescope control suite, developed in partnership with PlaneWave Instruments. CPWI gives you access to many of the same features found in professional observatory systems.

   ➤  Planetarium-style interface with PointXP advanced modeling, allowing 100+ alignment points for maximum accuracy in pointing and tracking

   ➤  Observatory-friendly tools: save/load alignments and park your scope between sessions

   ➤  Full ASCOM integration for seamless control with third-party astronomy applications

Starry Night Special Edition

Your telescope also comes with a free download of Starry Night Special Edition software by Simulation Curriculum. This powerful program provides detailed sky maps, extensive object data, and advanced planning tools for observing and imaging. It also lets you control your telescope directly through your computer.