Advanced VX 6" Rowe-Ackermann Schmidt Astrograph (RASA) Telescope
$2,699.00
Backordered
- Lightning-Fast Imaging: RASA’s legendary ultra-fast f/2.2 optics let you capture deep-sky images with briefer sub-exposures and less total exposure time —often eliminating the need for autoguiding.
- Mobile But Mighty: Weighing just 8.4 lb and featuring a versatile CG-5 dovetail, the RASA 6 is ready to image wherever you are.
- Sub-Arcsecond Potential: With advanced optics capable of sub-arcsecond resolution, RASA 6 perfectly pairs with a high-resolution camera and favorable sky conditions to reveal fine structures in galaxies and nebulae.
- Expansive Field of View: Designed for sensors up to 22mm diagonal, RASA 6 offers a generous 3.8° view that effortlessly frames wide celestial targets.
- Maximized Light Throughput: Celestron’s proprietary XLT coatings ensure every image bursts with brightness and contrast.
- Convenience & Customization: With built-in features like a filter drawer and cooling fan—and optional upgrades—RASA 6 adapts to your evolving astroimaging needs.
- Advanced VX Mount: The perfect platform for RASA 6, this capable and portable German equatorial mount delivers rock-solid stability, precise tracking, and robust support for payloads up to 30 lb.
Overview
- Lightning-Fast Imaging: RASA’s legendary ultra-fast f/2.2 optics let you capture deep-sky images with briefer sub-exposures and less total exposure time —often eliminating the need for autoguiding.
- Mobile But Mighty: Weighing just 8.4 lb and featuring a versatile CG-5 dovetail, the RASA 6 is ready to image wherever you are.
- Sub-Arcsecond Potential: With advanced optics capable of sub-arcsecond resolution, RASA 6 perfectly pairs with a high-resolution camera and favorable sky conditions to reveal fine structures in galaxies and nebulae.
- Expansive Field of View: Designed for sensors up to 22mm diagonal, RASA 6 offers a generous 3.8° view that effortlessly frames wide celestial targets.
- Maximized Light Throughput: Celestron’s proprietary XLT coatings ensure every image bursts with brightness and contrast.
- Convenience & Customization: With built-in features like a filter drawer and cooling fan—and optional upgrades—RASA 6 adapts to your evolving astroimaging needs.
- Advanced VX Mount: The perfect platform for RASA 6, this capable and portable German equatorial mount delivers rock-solid stability, precise tracking, and robust support for payloads up to 30 lb.
Includes These Celestron Technologies
Compatible With
Description
Meet the Rowe-Ackermann Schmidt Astrograph (RASA) 6—a compact powerhouse that delivers spectacular astroimages, anywhere. Engineered with ultra-fast f/2.2 optics, the smallest member of the RASA family proves that you don’t have to sacrifice performance for portability. Whether you’re chasing dark skies in remote locations or elevating your backyard setup, RASA 6 opens the door to new possibilities.
RASA Performance for Everyone
For astrophotographers who demand speed, precision, and convenience in a compact package, the 6” RASA is the ultimate tool. Its f/2.2 design dramatically shortens exposure times, making it easier to capture crisp, detailed images of faint deep-sky objects without the heavy burden of extended tracking.
Since RASA technology debuted in 2014, it has become the trusted choice for space surveillance and satellite tracking, relied upon by defense contractors, professional researchers, and governments alike. Like its bigger brothers, RASA 6 features a flat field for sharp stars from edge to edge. With RASA 6, you get the same technology trusted by the pros, but at a price that’s within reach for most, including those looking to add a second grab-and-go astrograph to their arsenal.
RASA 6 defies the limitations of smaller and slower instruments. It collects more light and provides higher resolution than the refractors in its price range, allowing you to capture faint details in galaxies, nebulae, and star clusters in less time.
Shorter Exposures for a “Near-Real Time” Experience
The magic of RASA 6 is in its speed. Its blazing f/2.2 optics mean that even faint objects can be imaged in short exposures. When paired with sensitive cameras and live-stacking software on your laptop, you can create an almost real-time imaging experience. Bright, detailed images appear on your laptop screen in just a few short exposures.
The system’s ultra-fast focal ratio also eases the tracking demands on your mount. Since it allows using much shorter sub-exposures, you won’t need to use an autoguider in many instances, so you’ll spend less time dealing with equipment and more time exploring the universe.
RASA Optical Design: Engineering Excellence
The patented Rowe-Ackermann Schmidt optical design sets RASA 6 apart from other systems. This design features:
- A Schmidt corrector and a high-precision primary mirror that work in tandem to minimize optical aberrations.
- A specialized three-element lens group using rare-earth glass, which ensures that more of the light emitted from celestial objects is sharply focused onto your sensor.
- A removable 2” clear filter – engineered to maintain peak f/2.2 performance when you add a filter, as no extra glass is added into the light path.
- StarBright XLT coating system for all refractive and reflective surfaces, guaranteeing maximum light transmission and superior field illumination.
- The RASA optical design provides better overall performance and field illumination than a Schmidt-Cassegrain in the Fastar-style configuration.
- Can be used with sensors up to 22mm diagonal to provide a wide 3.8° while delivering sub-arcsecond resolution.
Advanced Features & Versatility
Designed with the modern astroimager in mind, RASA 6 is loaded with features that enhance usability and adaptability:
Built-in Filter System
The integrated filter drawer accepts both 1.25” and 2” filters, giving you the flexibility to use various imaging filters. The removable 2” clear filter (i.e. optical window) allows you to add optional filters if desired, without introducing additional glass into the optical path that could compromise performance at f/2.2.
Integrated Cooling System
A 12V MagLev fan pulls air through mesh vents to rapidly cool the system to the ambient temperature to provide best images while keeping internal components dust-free.
M42 Camera adapter
The included camera adapter for the RASA 6 features standard M42 threads, making it easy to mount a wide variety of astronomical CMOS cameras.
Enhance your setup
To achieve the highest level of performance, we strongly recommend pairing this telescope with the Focus Motor, 6” Aluminum Dew Shield, 6” Dew Ring, and 6” RASA bag (all sold separately). The Focus Motor allows you to achieve sharp, precise focus electronically from the same computer used to control your camera. For dew prevention during long imaging sessions, the dew shield or dew ring will help keep your optics clear, especially in humid conditions. When your telescope is not in use, store your RASA in this protected, portable, grab-and-go case.
Advanced VX Mount & Intelligent Control
The RASA 6 is perfectly paired with the Advanced VX mount, Celestron’s smallest and most versatile GoTo German equatorial mount. This mount is engineered to deliver:
Rock-Solid Stability
With a payload capacity of up to 30 lb, Advanced VX is a rigid, stable platform even when loaded with additional accessories like StarSense Autoguider (for long sub-exposures), dew prevention, or a focus motor.
Innovative Control Features
Equipped with All-Star Polar Alignment and permanently programmable periodic error correction (PPEC), the Advanced VX mount makes aligning and tracking effortless.
Its computerized GoTo capability, accessible via the NexStar+ hand control, lets you quickly locate and track celestial objects with intuitive menu-driven operations—ideal both beginners and experienced astronomers alike.
Together, the RASA 6 and Advanced VX form a synergistic system capable of delivering high-quality images in a truly portable design.
CPWI Software Integration
Every advanced imaging system needs equally advanced software, and this kit comes with Celestron PWI Telescope Control Software—a comprehensive software solution co-developed with PlaneWave Instruments. With CPWI, you gain:
- A graphical planetarium interface featuring PointXP advanced mount modeling, allowing you to add over 100 alignment points for pinpoint accuracy.
- Seamless integration with ASCOM, providing control of your Advanced VX mount from a wide range of third-party applications.
- Features perfect for observatory setups, such as saving and reloading your alignment and automatically parking your scope.
A Universe of Possibilities in a Compact Package
The Advanced VX 6” RASA offers the perfect blend of speed, precision, and portability. Its game-changing optical design and robust mechanical features empower you to capture the night sky like never before. Embrace a grab-and-go astrograph that opens up a big, boundless universe.
Specifications
| Optical Tube Info: | |
|---|---|
| Optical Design: | Rowe-Ackermann Schmidt Astrograph |
| Aperture: | 152mm (5.98") |
| Focal Length: | 335mm (13.18") |
| Focal Ratio: | f/2.2 |
| Central obstruction diameter: | 77mm (3.03") (46% of aperture diameter) |
| Light Gathering Power (Compared to human eye): | 472x |
| Resolution (Rayleigh): | 0.91 arc seconds |
| Resolution (Dawes): | 0.76 arc seconds |
| Image Circle: | 16mm (0.63") Ø, 2.74° |
| Useable field: | 22mm (0.86") Ø, 3.76°, only minimal performance loss at edge of FOV |
| Wavelength range: | 400 - 700 nm |
| Spot size: | < 1.5 μm RMS across image circle |
| Optical Coatings: | StarBright XLT |
| Off-axis Illumination: | 91% at 8mm (0.31") off-axis |
| Back focus with included camera adapter: | 17.5mm (0.69") |
| Optical Tube: | Aluminum |
| Optical Tube Length: | 609.6mm (24") |
| Optical Tube Diameter: | 177.8mm (7") |
| Focuser: | Standard Schmidt-Cassegrain focuser |
| Finderscope: | Not included |
| Optical Tube Weight: | 8.4 lbs (3.8 kg) |
| Other Features: | Air-cooling system, integrated filter mount |
| Included items: |
42mm (1.65") T-thread camera adapter Fan battery pack Filter drawer with 2" clear filter |
| Dovetail: | CG-5 Dovetail Bar |
| Filter Drawer: | Accept 2" format filters, includes 1.25" filter adapter |
| Clear Filter: | 2" filter, removable, AR coatings, 2mm glass thickness |
| Cooling Fan: | 12V DC, MagLev |
| Camera Mounting Threads: | M42 |
| Mount Info: | |
| Mount Type: | Computerized Equatorial |
| Instrument load capacity: | 30 lbs (13.6 kg) |
| Height adjustment range (includes mount and tripod): | 1118mm - 1626mm (44" – 64") |
| Tripod Leg Diameter: | 50.8mm (2") Stainless Steel |
| Latitude adjustment range: | 7° - 77° |
| Mount Head Weight: | 17 lbs (7.71 kg) |
| Accessory Tray: | Yes |
| Tripod Weight: | 18 lbs (8.16 kg) |
| Weight of Counterweights: | 1 x 12 lbs |
| Slew Speeds: | 9 slew speeds - max speed 4°/second |
| Tracking Rates: | Sidereal, Solar and Lunar |
| Tracking Modes: | EQ North and EQ South |
| GPS: | N/A |
| Dovetail Compatibility: | Dual saddle plates (CG-5 and CGE saddle) |
| Number of Auxiliary Ports: | 3 AUX Ports (1 hand control and 2 AUX Ports for optional accessories) |
| Autoguide Port: | Yes |
| USB Port: | Yes, input on Hand Control |
| Power Requirements: | 12V DC 3.5A (tip positive) |
| Motor Drive: | DC servo motors |
| Alignment Procedures: | 2-Star Align, 1-Star Align, Solar System Align, Last Alignment, Quick Align |
| Periodic Error Correction: | Yes |
| Computerized Hand Control: | NexStar+ hand control with LCD display, 19 fiber-optic backlit LED buttons |
| NexStar+ Database: | 40,000+ objects, 100 user defined programmable objects. Enhanced information on over 200 objects |
| Software: | Celestron Starry Night Special Edition Software, CPWI, and SkyPortal App |
| Total Kit Weight: | 55.4 lbs (25.13 kg) |
| Solar Warning |
|
| California Residents | View Proposition 65 Warning WARNING: Cancer and Reproductive Harm - www.P65Warnings.ca.gov. |
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FAQ
Why can’t the Rowe-Ackermann Schmidt Astrograph (RASA) 6 be used visually?
The optics produce an image at the front end of the telescope, not the back. Therefore, you cannot look through the RASA 6 with your eyes because your head will block the light from entering the telescope. The RASA 6 is an astrograph designed specifically for deep-sky astronomical imaging.
Why was the RASA 6 designed to have a camera mount at the front of the telescope?
The RASA 6 optical design uses a prime focus focal plane position in order to obtain its super-fast F/2.2 focal ratio. This necessitates the camera having to be mounted at the front of the astrograph.
Won’t the camera block the incoming light?
The RASA 6 optical design has its own central obstruction which is caused by the sub-aperture lens assembly at the front of the telescope. The lens assembly has an outer diameter of 77mm. If a camera’s body is smaller than this, it will not block any light from reaching the camera sensor. If the camera body is larger than this, then it will block some of the incoming light. As long as the camera body does not greatly exceed about 90mm diameter, the effect on images is negligible.
What cameras can be used with the RASA 6?
The RASA 6 can be used with many astronomical CMOS cameras. Two key considerations are the size of the camera body (should not exceed about 90mm in diameter), and the camera’s backfocus distance (cannot exceed 17.5mm). Color or monochrome sensors can be used.
Why can’t a DSLR be used with the RASA 6?
The body size of a DSLR or mirrorless camera is too large compared to the front aperture of the RASA 6 and therefore blocks too much of the incoming light. Also, DSLRs and mirrorless cameras generally require too much backfocus for the RASA 6, so the camera sensor cannot be placed at the required location relative to the astrograph.
What about camera cables in front of the optics?
Camera cables which cross the front of the RASA 6 do not block much light and, don’t have a significant effect on images. To minimize any potential diffraction spike around the brightest stars, camera cables can be positioned to cross the aperture in a curved pattern, rather than a straight line.
Will I need additional camera adapters for my camera?
It depends on what camera you are using. For cameras with a C-mount, you’ll need a T-to-C thread adapter. For cameras which mount with a 42mm thread, a 42mm (or T-thread) spacer ring to place the camera sensor at the proper backfocus distance relative to the optics may be needed. (Note: With the included 42mm camera adapter, the backfocus distance required is 17.5mm. So, subtract the backfocus distance specification for your camera from 17.5mm, and that is the length of the M42 spacer ring you will need. If the camera has a backfocus distance of more than 17.5mm, it cannot be used with the RASA 6.)
What is the difference between the image circle and the useable field?
The image circle is the diameter at the focal plane (i.e. where the camera sensor is positioned) which the astrograph’s performance was optimized for. The useable field is the diameter at the focal plane where the performance of the astrograph is excellent. Most astrographs only mention the useable field in their specifications.
What if my camera’s sensor is larger than the useable field?
The RASA 6 has a useable field of 22mm. A sensor with a diagonal size larger than that can be used, but there will be some drop off in optical performance and field illumination in the corners of the image. This may require cropping during image processing.
Can a filter wheel be used with the RASA 6?
No, a filter wheel cannot be used, since the filter wheel would have to mount in front of the optics and would block too much of the incoming light.
Why does the RASA 6 need a 2” clear filter glass when no other filters are in use?
With such a fast optical system, you cannot add additional filter glass into the light path without adversely affecting the optical performance. With a removeable 2” clear filter, you can replace the filter with no loss of performance.
Why is the fast focal ratio (F/2.2) of the RASA 6 such a big deal?
Because it allows much shorter exposures to be used to capture detail in faint astronomical objects. This makes getting good images much easier and quicker – with short sub-exposures you may not even need to employ an autoguider for your mount. With a sensitive high-speed camera along with live image stacking software, you can even see images in almost “real-time” on your computer screen.
Will I need to collimate (i.e. align) the optics?
The optics are aligned at the factory and should not normally need adjustment. However, there are screws which adjust the tilt of the lens assembly should collimation adjustment ever be needed.
What is the purpose of the integrated air-cooling system?
The RASA 6 will perform the best when its optics have reached thermal equilibrium with the outside air. The cooling system uses a fan and vents to pull air through the astrograph and around the primary mirror to help the RASA 6 reach thermal equilibrium more quickly.
What is the difference between RASA 6 and an 6” SCT using the Starizona Hyperstar accessory?
The RASA 6 provides better optical performance and better field illumination than a 6" SCT with a Hyperstar accessory. The Hyperstar accessory provides great flexibility for an SCT optical system, as it allows the telescope to be used at two different focal lengths. When imaging at F/2 however, it cannot provide the performance of the RASA 6.
What about dew?
Just like any telescope design which uses a lens at the front of the telescope, the RASA 6 Schmidt corrector lens can be susceptible to dew under certain environmental conditions. To prevent dew when the outside temperature drops below the dew point, we recommend using a dew shield or dew heater ring.
What is the heaviest recommend load for mounting a camera onto the RASA 6?
We recommend a load of no more than 10 lbs. at 4 inches away from the 6" Schmidt corrector.
Support & Downloads
| Manuals: |
|---|
| Advanced VX Manual |
| NexStar Plus Hand Control Manual |
| Whitepaper RASA |
| RASA 6 Optical Tube Manual |
| Software & Firmware: |
| CPWI Software |
| Celestron Firmware Manager (CFM) Software |
| Other Product Files: |
| Celestron NexStar+ Hand Control Troubleshooting Guide |
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