The Rowe-Ackermann Schmidt Astrograph, known mainly as the Celestron RASA, became one of the best astrophotography telescopes the moment it was released. Since then, its popularity has only grown due to the incredibly fast optics for efficient imaging, absurdly clear optics from edge-to-edge of the aperture, and the fact that it's one of the most reasonably priced, professional-grade telescopes available. Any astrophotographer will say the same great things about the Celestron RASA astrograph telescope. Experience as close to perfection as you can get in a portable package with the RASA series telescopes.  

Fast Optics for Short Exposures and "Real-Time" Observing

Use shorter exposure times to capture details in faint objects with its f/2.2 optical system. When combined with sensitive cameras and the proper live-stacking software, the 8-inch RASA can provide an almost real-time observing experience. Instantly view images on a computer that are brighter and more detailed than what you would see with the naked eye threw bigger telescopes.

Because shorter exposure times are possible, your equatorial mount won’t need to accurately track over extended periods. The 8-inch RASA’s relatively short 400 mm focal length also lessens equatorial tracking demands. In many cases, autoguiding will not be required.  

An Astrograph for Everyone

The 8-inch RASA is an imaging telescope that delivers a flat-field without optical aberrations for razor-sharp stars across a wide field-of-view. It can capture stunning deep-sky astronomical images without the challenges typically presented by longer focal length instruments at a fraction of the cost.

It has many of the same thoughtfully designed features as its “big brother” RASA 11, including; the integrated air-cooling system, internal filter mount, and sturdy CGE dovetail mounting bar.

Focusing Made Easy

Focusing is easier, more accurate, and more stable with its new focuser design that mitigates lateral movement of the primary mirror when tracking, focusing, or slewing. Two sets of precision bearings are precisely aligned and tested during assembly to ensure optimal results.

Imaging in the Modern Age

Designed to pair with color astronomical CMOS cameras, smaller CCD cameras, and mirrorless cameras, it is optimized for sensors with up to a 22 mm diagonal. It can accept larger sensors (up to a 32 mm diagonal) as well as APS-C sized sensors used in many mirrorless cameras.

Below you'll see an incredible image of the Rosette Nebula taken by Jason Guenzel using the Triad Ultra filter on the super-fast f/2.2 Celestron RASA telescope! 

Camera adapters, to connect C-mount cameras and cameras which mount with M42 threads are included.  

Please note: The 8-inch RASA will not work with standard DSLR + T-Ring systems. OPT offers optional adapters to connect your 8-inch RASA to a Sony(#CE-93405), Canon(#CE-93406), or other mirrorless cameras.

Highlighted Features of the Celestron RASA

• Designed with a Schmidt corrector, primary mirror, lens group, and optical window.
• The 8-inch RASA’s optics are designed to perform over a wider spectral range, from 390 to 800 nm. This allows more of the light emitted from the astronomical object to be sharply focused in the image.
• A removable optical window, so you can maintain peak optical performance if a filter is added or if a camera has its own optical window.
• OPT offers a Celestron light pollution imaging filter designed specifically for the 8-inch RASA, which mounts in place of the optical window.
• All refractive optical surfaces are coated with StarBright XLT coatings, while the primary mirror uses enhanced aluminum coatings.

• Incredibly fast image capture capabilities with f/2.2 focal ratio.
• Edge-to-edge clarity in your image circle.
• Portable and powerful for all astrophotographers.
• Aperture: 203 mm (8-inch) 
• Telescope weight: 17-pounds.
• Back focus: 29 mm (25 mm with included adapters).
• Optimized for sensors with a 22 mm diagonal.
• PLEASE NOTE: The 8-inch RASA will not work with standard DSLR + T-ring systems.

• 8-inch RASA Telescope.
• M42 camera adapter.
• C-thread camera adapter.
• Fan battery pack.