Celestron Schmidt-Cassegrain Telescope SC 279/2800 CGEM II 1100 GoTo

The Celestron Schmidt-Cassegrain Telescope SC 279/2800 CGEM II 1100 GoTo is a powerful telescope with observatory-level performance in a transportable setup. The classic Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with an aperture of 279 mm and a focal length of 2800 mm (f/10) offers maximum light output, high resolution and versatility for both visual observation and astrophotography.

Thanks to the StarBright XLT coating this telescope achieves exceptionally high light transmission, making faint deep-sky objects visible with sharply defined details. The long focal length provides impressive magnifications, perfect for planets, binary stars and compact nebulae. At the same time, the optics remain versatile: with an optional Celestron f/6.3 reducer/corrector the system becomes faster and more suitable for deep-sky photography with shorter exposure times.

The CGEM II mount forms a stable base with a carrying capacity of 18 kg, designed to reliably support heavy optics such as this 11″ Schmidt-Cassegrain. The mount features Permanent Periodic Error Correction (PPEC). for accurate tracking, which is essential in astrophotography with long exposures. The 51 mm steel legs and wider mounting base ensure vibration-free operation even in windy or uneven terrain.

The NexStar+ hand controller provides access to more than 40,000 objects and uses All-Star Polar Alignment for easy alignment. The CGEM II can follow objects smoothly through the meridian, so observations and recordings need not be interrupted. Via Celestron CPWI or the optional SkyPortal WiFi module the mount is also fully controllable via computer or tablet.

The Celestron SC 279/2800 CGEM II 1100 GoTo is a telescope for serious observers and astrophotographers who want maximum performance from a mobile system. The combination of large aperture, long focal length and rugged mount makes this a setup that will last you for decades.

What you can see with it:

• Subtle cloud bands, lunar shadows and storm structures on Jupiter
• The Cassini separation and color differences on Saturn
• Fine detail on the Moon to several hundred meters
• Structures in nebulae such as Orion (M42) and Lagoon (M8)
• Compact planetary nebulae such as Ring Nebula (M57)
• Distant galaxies, including Andromeda (M31), Sombrero (M104) and Whirlpool (M51)

Application
The SC 279/2800 CGEM II 1100 GoTo is ideal for advanced and semi-professional observers who want to combine stability, carrying capacity and optical performance. The telescope is excellent for high-resolution planetary photography and deep-sky observation under dark sky conditions.

Specifications
Type: Schmidt-Cassegrain
Opening: 279 mm
Focal length: 2800 mm
Aperture ratio: f/10
Coating: StarBright XLT
Resolution: 0.41″
Boundary magnitude: 14.7
Max. useful magnification: 550×
Focuser: 1.25″ visual back
Viewfinder: 9×50 optical
Eyepiece: 40 mm (1.25″)
Reducer compatible: f/6.3 (optional)

Mounting: CGEM II GoTo
Carrying capacity: 18 kg
Motors: Servo with PPEC
Alignment: 1-/2-Star, Quick Align, Solar System Align, All-Star Polar Alignment
Tracking: sidereal, sun, moon
GoTo database: 40,000 objects
Power supply: 12 V / 3.5 A
Hand controller: NexStar+
Compatibility: CPWI, SkyPortal (WiFi optional)
Tripod: Steel, 112-163 cm, 51 mm legs
Counterweights: 2 × 7.7 kg
Total weight of set: ±45 kg

Suitable for
Moon & planets: ✔
Nebulae & galaxies: ✔
Astrophotography: ✔
Nature observation: ✗
Beginners: ✗
Advanced / semi-pro: ✔
Sun: Only with suitable sunscreen