Advanced VX 6" Rowe-Ackermann Schmidt Astograph (RASA) Telescope

RASA performance for all

For astrophotographers who demand speed, accuracy and convenience in a compact package, the 6" RASA is the ultimate tool. Its f/2.2 design dramatically shortens exposure times, making it easy to capture sharp, detailed images of faint deep-sky objects without the heavy burden of prolonged 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 big brothers, RASA 6 features a flat field for sharp edge-to-edge stars. With the RASA 6, you get the same technology that professionals rely on, but at a price that is affordable for most, including those looking to add a second astrograph to their arsenal.

The RASA 6 challenges the limitations of smaller, slower instruments. It collects more light and provides higher resolution than 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 the RASA 6 lies in its speed. Its f/2.2 optics allow you to image even faint objects at short exposures. When combined with sensitive cameras and live-stacking software on your laptop, you can create a near real-time imaging experience. Bright, detailed images will appear on your laptop screen in just a few short exposures.

The ultra-fast focal ratio of the system also reduces the tracking demands of the mount. Since it allows you to use much shorter underexposures, you won't need to use an autoguider in many cases, 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 distinguishes the RASA 6 from other systems. This design features:

• A Schmidt corrector and a high-precision primary mirror 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 by celestial objects is focused sharply on its sensor.
• A 2" removable clear filter: designed to maintain the maximum performance of f/2.2 when a filter is added, as no additional glass is added to the light path.
• StarBright XLT coating system for all refractive and reflective surfaces, ensuring 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 configuration.
• It can be used with sensors up to 22 mm diagonal to provide a wide field of 3.8° while offering sub-arcsecond resolution.

Advanced features and versatility

Designed with the modern astroobserver in mind, the RASA 6 is packed with features that enhance usability and adaptability:

Integrated filter system

The built-in filter drawer accommodates both 1.25" and 2" filters, giving you the flexibility to use multiple image 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 draws air through mesh vents to quickly cool the system to room temperature and provide the best images while keeping internal components dust-free.

Camera adapter M42

The included camera adapter for the RASA 6 features standard M42 threads, making it easy to mount a wide variety of astronomical CMOS cameras.

Improve your configuration

To achieve the highest level of performance, we strongly recommend combining this telescope with the Focusing Motor, the 6" Aluminum Spray Shield, the 6" Spray Ring and the 6" RASA Bag (all sold separately). The Focusing Motor allows you to achieve sharp, accurate focusing electronically from the same computer used to control your camera. To prevent dew during long image capture sessions, the Dew Protector or Dew Ring will help keep your optics clean, especially in humid conditions. When your telescope is not in use, store your RASA in this portable and protected case.

Advanced VX Mount and Intelligent Control

The RASA 6 is perfectly paired with the Advanced VX mount, the smallest and most versatile German GoTo equatorial mount in the world Celestron. This frame is designed to offer

Rock-solid stability

With a load capacity of up to 30 lbs, the Advanced VX is a rigid and stable platform, even when loaded with additional accessories such as the StarSense Autoguider (for long underexposures), dew prevention, or a focusing motor.

Innovative control functions

Equipped with All-Star polar alignment and permanently programmable periodic error correction (PPEC), the Advanced VX mount makes alignment and tracking effortless.

Its computerized GoTo capability, accessible through the NexStar+ hand control, allows you to quickly locate and track celestial objects with intuitive menu-driven operations, ideal for 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 Telescope Control Software Celestron PWI-a complete software solution co-developed with PlaneWave Instruments. With CPWI, you win:

• A graphical planetary interface with advanced PointXP mount modeling, allowing you to add more than 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.
• Perfect functions for observatory setup, such as saving and reloading the alignment and automatically parking the telescope.

A universe of possibilities in a compact package

The Advanced VX 6" RASA offers the perfect combination of speed, accuracy and portability. Its innovative optical design and robust mechanical features will allow you to capture the night sky like never before. Enjoy a portable astrograph that opens the door to a vast and limitless universe.

OPTICAL TUBE INFORMATION

Optical designRowe-Ackermann Schmidt Astrographer

Opening: 152mm (5.98")

Focal length: 335 mm (13.18")

Focal ratio: f/2,2

Central obstruction diameter77mm (3.03") (46% of aperture diameter)

Light-gathering power (compared to the human eye): 472x

Resolution (Rayleigh)0.91 seconds of arc

Resolution (Dawes)0.76 seconds of arc

Image circle: 16 mm (0.63") Ø, 2.74°.

Useful field22 mm (0.86") Ø, 3.76°, only minimal loss of performance at the edge of the field of view.

Wavelength range: 400 - 700 nm

Dot size:

Optical coatingsStarBright XLT

Off-axis lighting: 91% at 8 mm (0.31") off axis

Rear focus with included camera adapter: 17.5 mm (0.69")

Optical tubeAluminum

Optical tube length: 609.6 mm (24")

Optical tube diameter: 177.8 mm (7")

FocuserSchmidt-Cassegrain standard focuser

ViewerNot included

Optical tube weight: 3,8 kg (8,4 lbs)

Other featuresAir-cooling system, integrated filter mount

Elements includedT-threaded camera adapter 42 mm (1.65")

Battery pack with fan

Filter drawer with 2" transparent filter

DovetailDovetail rod CG-5

Filter drawer: Accepts 2" format filters, 1.25" filter adapter included

Transparent filter: 2" filter, removable, AR-coated, 2 mm glass thickness

Cooling fan: 12 V DC, MagLev

Camera mounting threads: M42

FRAME INFORMATION

Frame type: Equatorial computerized

Load capacity of the instrument: 30 pounds (13.6 kg)

Height adjustment range (including mount and tripod): 1118mm - 1626mm (44" - 64")

Diameter of tripod leg: 50,8mm (2") Stainless steel

Latitude adjustment range: 7° - 77°

Saddle head weight: 17 lbs (7.71 kg)

Tray for accessories: Yes

Tripod weight: 18 lbs (8.16 kg)

Weight of counterweights: 1 x 12 lbs

Rotational speeds: 9 rotation speeds - maximum speed 4°/second

Tracking speeds: Sidereal, Solar and Lunar

Tracking modes: EQ North and EQ South

GPSN/A

Dovetail compatibility: Dual mount plates (CG-5 and CGE mount)

Number of auxiliary ports: 3 AUX ports (1 remote control and 2 AUX ports for optional accessories)

Autoguide Port: Yes

USB port: Yes, input on the controller

Power requirements: 12V DC 3.5A (positive tip)

Motor drive: DC Servomotors

Alignment procedures: 2-Star Alignment, 1-Star Alignment, Solar System Alignment, Last Alignment, Fast Alignment

Periodic error correction: Yes

Computerized manual control: NexStar+ hand control with LCD display, 19 fiber-optic backlit LED buttons

NexStar+ database: More than 40,000 objects, 100 user-defined programmable objects. Enhanced information on more than 200 objects

Software: Celestron Starry Night Special Edition Software, CPWI, and SkyPortal App

Total kit weight55.4 pounds (25.13 kg)

Solar Warning

• Never look directly at the sun with the naked eye or with an optic (unless you have the appropriate sunscreen). Permanent and irreversible eye damage may result.
• Never use the optics to project an image of the Sun onto any surface. Internal heat build-up can damage the optics and any accessories connected to it.
• Never leave the optics unattended. Make sure that an adult familiar with proper operating procedures is with your optic at all times, especially when children are present.