Celestron Rasa 8 Review

Manufacturer: Celestron

Price: $2079

The Celestron RASA 8 ( Rowe-Ackermann Schmidt Astrograph) is a specialized telescope designed specifically for astrophotography enthusiasts. Unlike traditional telescopes aimed at visual observation, the RASA 8’s design prioritizes capturing sharp, wide-field images of the night sky. Key to its performance are features like the f/2.2 focal ratio, which allows for shorter exposure times and greater image detail.

This telescope is perfect for those who want to capture stunning images of deep-sky objects. It’s geared towards intermediate to advanced astrophotographers who already have a basic understanding of astrophotography principles. Beginners might find the RASA 8 a bit overwhelming due to its advanced setup and alignment requirements, but for those ready to take their astrophotography to the next level, it’s an excellent choice.

One of the main highlights of the RASA 8 is its fast focal ratio of f/2.2. This feature significantly reduces exposure times, allowing for more detailed and less noisy images. Whether you’re capturing vast nebulae or distant galaxies, the RASA 8 delivers exceptional performance. The telescope also boasts a large image circle that’s well-suited for today’s larger format CCD and CMOS cameras, making it extremely versatile for various astrophotography setups.

The Celestron RASA 8 is also noted for its compact design. Weighing only about 17 pounds, it’s portable enough to be set up in your backyard or taken on trips to remote, dark-sky locations. Despite its relatively lightweight build, it offers impressive durability and stability, essential for high-quality imaging. The telescope comes with multiple tube vents that help with rapid cooling, ensuring you’re not waiting around for the perfect shot.

These features set the stage for an exceptional astrophotography experience. However, there’s much more to this telescope worth exploring. In the next sections, I’ll break down its specifications, weigh its pros and cons, and dive into reviews from notable astrophotography websites. Stay tuned for a detailed dive into what makes the Celestron RASA 8 a standout option for capturing the wonders of the night sky.

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Detailed Description and Specifications

The Celestron RASA 8 is packed with high-performance features that cater to the needs of dedicated astrophotographers. At the heart of the RASA 8 is its 8-inch (203.2 mm) primary mirror, which collects ample light for deep-sky imaging and ensures bright, clear images of faint astronomical objects. This makes it ideal for photographing nebulae, star clusters, and galaxies.

One of the standout specifications of the RASA 8 is its fast focal ratio of f/2.2. This allows for shorter exposure times compared to traditional telescopes, significantly reducing the time needed to acquire high-quality images. The 400 mm focal length provides a wide field of view, making it perfect for capturing expansive swathes of the night sky in a single shot.

The overall design of the RASA 8 focuses on seamless integration with modern imaging sensors. It features a Schmidt corrector plate at the front and optical windows on the sides, which reduce the chances of optical aberrations and enhance image clarity. The telescope also includes a proprietary “Ultra-Stable Focus System” that minimizes focus shift, ensuring your images remain sharp even during long exposure sessions.

When it comes to mechanical build, the RASA 8 is constructed with durability in mind. The aluminum tube provides a robust and stable platform, while still being lightweight enough for easy transport. The tube is outfitted with multiple cooling vents, facilitating quick thermal equilibrium and allowing you to start imaging sooner after setup. Additionally, a dovetail rail comes pre-installed, making it straightforward to mount on most equatorial mounts.

The RASA 8 comes with several key accessories to get you started right out of the box. This includes a custom camera adapter, Celestron’s StarBright XLT coatings for maximum light transmission, and an integrated cable management system to keep your setup tidy and functional. Whether you’re in your backyard or at a remote dark-sky site, these features ensure a hassle-free operation.

With these specifications and design features, the Celestron RASA 8 positions itself as a top-tier choice for those serious about astrophotography. Its ability to deliver high-quality images with relatively short exposure times makes it a valuable tool for capturing the awe-inspiring beauty of the cosmos.

Pros and Cons of the Celestron RASA 8

When choosing any piece of astrophotography equipment, it’s vital to weigh both strengths and weaknesses to know what you’re getting into. The Celestron RASA 8 has plenty to offer, but like all tools, it has its pros and cons.

Starting with the positives, one of the RASA 8’s biggest strengths is its fast focal ratio of f/2.0. This feature drastically reduces the necessary exposure time, meaning you can capture high-quality images in a fraction of the time it would take with other telescopes. For avid astrophotographers looking to make the most of their observing sessions, this can be a real game-changer.

Another big plus is the wide field of view, courtesy of the 400 mm focal length. This allows you to take in large sections of the sky, making it easier to photograph expansive celestial objects like nebulae and star clusters. The 22 mm image circle is also a boon, accommodating a variety of camera sensors and providing great versatility. Keep in mind that a full-frame camera sensor requires an image circle of 43 mm, so this telescope will not be fully compatible with a camera with a full-frame sensor. However, the 11″ version of this telescope does have a 43 mm image circle. Its focal ratio is a very fast f/2.2 and the focal length is 620 mm, so the field of view with an APS-C camera will be smaller, but if you use a full-frame camera, it will be comparable. These scopes are not universally compatible with cameras. Make sure you check the compatibility before purchasing. Some cameras will require separate adapters.

The build quality and design add more to the list of pros. The RASA 8 is compact and lightweight, making it easier to transport and set up. The multiple cooling vents ensure it reaches thermal equilibrium quickly, and the integrated cable management system helps keep everything organized, which is especially helpful in the dark.

Of course, the RASA 8 isn’t without its drawbacks. One notable downside is its limited suitability for visual observation. Since it’s designed primarily for imaging, trying to use it for regular stargazing might leave you disappointed. For those who want a dual-purpose telescope for both imaging and visual use, this could be a deal-breaker.

Another potential con is the learning curve associated with its setup and use. While the RASA 8 offers excellent features, they come with complexity that might be challenging for beginners. Ensuring precise alignment and optimal performance can take some practice and patience. A seasoned astrophotographer might navigate these hurdles easily, but newcomers could find it frustrating.

Price point is another consideration. The RASA 8 is a higher-end piece of equipment, and its cost reflects that. For budget-conscious users, the investment might seem steep. However, given its capabilities, the price can still be seen as a reasonable investment for serious astrophotography enthusiasts.

The RASA 8 excels in many areas but also presents some challenges. Knowing these pros and cons will help you determine if this telescope aligns with your needs and expectations.

User Reviews from Notable Astrophotography Websites

When it comes to choosing the right telescope, hearing from other users can offer invaluable insights. The Celestron RASA 8 has garnered attention across several notable astrophotography platforms. Below, I’ve compiled reviews from Astrobin, CloudyNights, Amazon, and Agena Astro to give you a well-rounded perspective.

On Astrobin, users frequently praise the RASA 8 for its fast focal ratio and image quality. Several photographers noted how the telescope’s f/2.2 ratio allowed them to capture stunning deep-sky images with shorter exposure times. A recurring theme was how quickly they could achieve detailed shots of nebulae and galaxies. However, some users mentioned the telescope’s steep learning curve, pointing out the necessity for patience and practice to fully exploit its capabilities.

CloudyNights, a community known for its in-depth discussions and reviews, also has positive feedback for the RASA 8. Members of this forum highlight the wide field of view and the telescope’s sturdy yet portable build. Many users appreciate the integrated cooling vents which permit rapid thermal equilibrium. Nonetheless, there are mentions of its limitations for visual astronomy and challenges with setting up for the first time. In several threads, experienced users provided tips and tricks, making this forum a useful resource for troubleshooting and advice.

Amazon reviews typically offer a broader range of perspectives. Many customers on Amazon commend the telescope’s ease of transport and solid construction. The majority of the reviews focus on the exceptional imaging performance, especially when photographing deep-sky objects. However, some users express concerns about the cost, pointing out that additional accessories are often required for optimal performance, which adds to the overall investment. Another common issue noted is the need for a sturdy mount to keep the RASA 8 stable during imaging sessions.

Agena Astro, a well-respected retailer and review site, has also featured the RASA 8. Professional reviews on this platform often underline the telescope’s high-quality optical design and swift focal ratio. According to Agena Astro, the RASA 8 is well-suited for both seasoned astrophotographers and those looking to upgrade their equipment. However, they do caution that the telescope is less suitable for beginners due to its specialized nature and the preparation required for optimal use. The site’s in-depth analysis provides a balanced view, advising potential buyers to consider their experience level before making a purchase.

In summary, the consensus across these platforms is that the Celestron RASA 8 excels in capturing detailed, wide-field images with reduced exposure times. While the telescope has a few limitations, particularly for visual astronomy and those new to astrophotography, its many strengths make it a highly recommended choice for serious enthusiasts.

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In the Box

• M42 camera adapter
• C-thread camera adapter
• Fan battery pack
• Dovetail: CGE Dovetail Bar

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

The Celestron RASA 8 stands out as a specialized, high-performance telescope designed expressly for the needs of dedicated astrophotographers. Its cornerstones, including the fast f/2.2 focal ratio and the wide-field 400 mm focal length, provide impressive imaging capabilities that drastically cut down on exposure times and showcase the fine details of deep-sky objects.

Ideal for those who are serious about astrophotography, the RASA 8 offers a combination of top-notch optical performance and a user-friendly design. Its lightweight yet durable build makes it portable without compromising stability or image quality. The cooling vents, integrated cable management system, and overall thoughtful design simplifies the setup process, allowing more focus on capturing the sky’s wonders.

However, it’s clear that the RASA 8 is aimed at a specific audience. While its exceptional imaging capabilities are a major advantage, the telescope’s limited suitability for visual observation and its complexity may pose challenges for beginners. The investment required for the RASA 8, both in terms of cost and learning curve, should not be taken lightly. Those new to astrophotography might find it beneficial to start with a more beginner-friendly model and graduate to the RASA 8 as their skills and understanding advance.

Feedback from users across various platforms like Astrobin, CloudyNights, Amazon, and Agena Astro reinforces its reputation as a reliable, high-quality instrument for astrophotography. The community’s shared experiences and insights are invaluable for maximizing the telescope’s potential and overcoming any initial hurdles.

Verdict

In closing, the Celestron RASA 8 is undoubtedly a standout choice for astrophotographers looking to capture breathtaking images of the night sky. Its features cater to experienced users who demand quality and efficiency. For those ready to invest the time and resources, the RASA 8 promises a rewarding and awe-inspiring exploration of the cosmos.

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