Celestron C11

Product Description

The Celestron C11 telescope is a high-performance Schmidt-Cassegrain Telescope (SCT) with excellent optical capabilities. Celestron C11 features a large 280 mm (11 inch) aperture and 2800 mm (110 inch) focal length, producing crisp, clear images with high contrast. Celestron C11 utilizes patented StarBright XLT coatings for enhanced light transmission and image quality. Celestron C11 includes a 9×50 finderscope and a 1.25-inch eyepiece, allowing for visual observation, astrophotography, and video recording. Serious astrophotographers and amateur astronomers choose the Celestron C11 for its compact design, portability, and ability to provide exceptional views of celestial objects.

The precision optical system of the Celestron C11 includes an 11-inch aperture and 2800mm focal length. It is equipped with StarBright XLT coatings to maximize light transmission. The coatings improve color rendition, contrast, sharpness, and resolution. Celestron C11 packs significant light-gathering ability, allowing observation of faint objects in the night sky.

Celestron C11 has an aluminum optical tube for durability and stability. The tube supports the telescope’s optics and ensures proper alignment. Celestron C11 is suitable for various astronomical applications, including visual observation, astrophotography, and planetary imaging. It allows users to study fine details on the Moon’s surface, Jupiter’s cloud bands, and Saturn’s rings.

Should you buy Celestron C11 as your first telescope?

We strongly advise against purchasing Celestron C11 as a first telescope. Beginners find C11 overwhelming due to its large 11-inch aperture, complex setup, and high cost. Experienced astronomers highly regard C11 for excellent optics. Starting astronomers should choose smaller, portable telescopes in 60-80mm range. Smaller telescopes offer great views, easier handling, and affordability.

Is Celestron 11″ Telescope OTA easy to use?

The Celestron 11″ Telescope OTA is moderately easy to use for advanced astronomers but may challenge beginners. Its 34 kg (75 lbs) weight remains manageable for transport by car or dolly. The telescope mounts easily on the included CG-5 equatorial mount and assembles in minutes. Computerized GoTo controls and DC servo motors enhance operation ease. The 2800 mm focal length allows high magnifications up to 560x, ideal for planetary imaging and deep sky views. Light gathering ability impresses users with a limiting stellar magnitude of 14.7. Hands-free focusing system and software assistance provide user convenience. Astrophotographers and visual observers benefit from the telescope’s capabilities. Improper use risks motor strain or burnout, requiring adherence to manufacturer guidelines.

Should you buy Celestron 11″ Schmidt-Cassegrain for kids?

The Celestron 11″ Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope is not recommended for children. We caution against purchasing this telescope for kids due to its size and weight of 34 kg (75 lbs), making it difficult for young users to handle and maneuver. The complex setup process challenges young minds and may lead to frustration. The telescope’s eyepiece is designed for advanced users to linger and observe, which children might find challenging. Proper use of the telescope requires maturity and attention to detail, qualities lacking in young users. Refractor telescopes are preferred for kids due to their simpler design, easier handling, and minimal setup requirements. Children’s behavior and safety are important considerations when choosing a telescope. Kids need to understand the importance of handling the instrument with care, following directions, and respecting its limitations.

What can you see with Celestron C11 Telescope OTA?

The celestial wonders you can see with Celestron C11 Telescope OTA are listed below.

• The Moon (craters, mountains, lava flows)
• Jupiter (cloud bands)
• Mars (polar ice caps)
• Saturn (rings)
• Double stars (with separations as small as 1.4 arcseconds)
• Globular clusters
• Planetary nebulae
• Small galaxies
• Galaxies up to magnitude 14.7
• Messier 31 (M31)
• Messier 81 (M81)
• Messier 82 (M82)
• Orion Nebula (M42)
• Lagoon Nebula (M8)
• Eagle Nebula (M16)
• Star clusters (open and globular)
• Pleiades (M45)
• Messier 13 (M13)
• Over 100 Messier objects
• Over 50 Caldwell objects
• NGC 253
• NGC 891

Should you buy Celestron C11 Schmidt-Cassegrain Telescope to observe planets?

Celestron C11 Schmidt-Cassegrain Telescope is an excellent choice for planet observation. Large 11-inch aperture and 2800mm focal length provide superior light gathering and high magnification. Scope captures detailed views of planetary surfaces, especially Jupiter and Saturn. Long focal length enables high-resolution imaging. Sturdy construction and smooth controls suit serious amateur astronomers for extended planetary viewing sessions.

Should you buy Celestron 280mm Telescope to observe galaxies?

Celestron 280mm Telescope offers good galaxy observation capabilities. 280mm aperture provides decent light-gathering power. 1200mm focal length balances magnification and field of view. Larger apertures (300mm or greater) enhance faint galaxy viewing. Telescope suits brighter galaxies and large clusters best. Realistic expectations are important for galaxy observation with this model.

Should you buy Celestron C11 Optical Tube Assembly for astrophotography?

Yes, you should buy the Celestron C11 Optical Tube Assembly for astrophotography. The Celestron C11 is an ideal instrument for serious astrophotography. It provides excellent views of celestial objects with its 280mm aperture and 2800mm focal length. The telescope performs high magnifications for capturing detailed night sky images. Mounted on equatorial telescopes, it excels at planetary and deep-space astrophotography. The Schmidt-Cassegrain design combines optical advantages of a closed-tube system with benefits of a Cassegrain reflector. The C11 captures stunning images of the Moon, planets, bright nebulae, and faint galaxies. It requires the right corrector to optimize performance for specific types of astrophotography. The Celestron C11 Optical Tube Assembly offers a versatile all-purpose telescope with exceptional performance and versatility.

Is Celestron 11-Inch SCT Telescope portable?

The Celestron 11-Inch SCT Telescope is moderately portable. It weighs 75 pounds and measures 66 cm x 41 cm x 28 cm (26 in x 16 in x 11 in), allowing a single person to manage setup and transport. The telescope’s compact design and stubby length make it convenient to handle and store. Users can take it to dark sky locations for improved stargazing experiences. Celestron offers this telescope as an affordable option in its class, providing high-quality optics and sturdy construction without breaking the bank. The telescope’s portability allows astronomers to explore the night sky from various locations. Some users may find it unwieldy compared to smaller telescopes, especially when considering the added weight of the tripod and mount.