Ed - I am new to the observing part of astronomy. Your CZcams channel is invaluable to someone trying to learn about the gear and many other aspects of the hobby for those with experience. Your videos are excellent; thank you so much.
I'm in the same boat and agree with you. I have just got some bins to start with while trying to work out what scope I should get. I'm one week in and Ed's podcasts explain things simply enough for me to learn from 👍
It is SO much easier when you properly use the lower handle on the other side. I sold tons of these when i worked at opt 2006-2011. They far outsold the lx200s. At the time they were $2999. A 12" lx90 was comparable in price, but very shakey, only the 8" lx90 was stable. And meade has even less of a mounting system for lx90s and lx200z, no centering pin and just one bolt. Landing pads were absolutely necessary on the meades, but the cpc is much easier to mount, and it clunks into place just by rotating it once you have it on the pin. I demoed mounting it countless times in the showroom. It is much easier to lift than how you did it in this video. Lx200 handles are designes for 2 people, because you really need someone to help you lift it. Hard to believe it is almost 20 years since this model came out. Celestron really got it right with this one.
It's too bad you missed the recessed handle (I know you know this already). One of the really nice design features of this scope is the handle combo-- the silver one for lifting the scope out of a case and carrying like a suitcase to the tripod, the recessed handle in combination with the silver for lifting and placing the scope. It's really amazing how much more stable, and almost "light" the scope feels when the combo is in use...
This was extremely helpful. I recognize how much time and effort went into making this so I really appreciate the review and your tips on setting up the scope. The only thing that I might add to this review is that whenever you put in a 2 inch diagonal, the clearance can be challenging when observing at zenith.
I have a CPC 1100 and my advise to anyone is buy it. I built a 4 wheel dolly to roll it in and out of my garage. I’ve been using it for about 10 years and all of my grandkids love astronomy. It’s a workhorse for sure.
I was going to say something like “it’s not that bad.” Until you said it’s 65lbs. That’s a heavy scope! I’d be asking a friend for help with setup and takedown.
Thank you for your help. I've been on the fence whether to spend my money on this scope. You seemed out of breath lifting that heavy OTA. Thanks again.
I had the pleasure of helping a couple of friends of ours set up the 8" version of this beautiful machine and it got me winded just putting it together. But, I was lucky just like you were, in that I got the scope onto the pin the first time and all by myself. Once put together it was a piece of cake to get the accessories on and I powered it up but the weather here in TX is fickle and by that time the clouds had come in and I couldn't finish the alignment and visual testing piece. So, we wait until we get another good and clear night to finish the job. Thanks for your review, Ed, and keep up the fun and good work you do for the rest of us who are constantly trying to get better at our hobby. Cheers.
Observed through the 9.25 and the 11s at my astro club... gotta say, it makes me love my light and nimble 6SE. Yes, the big boys show a bit more, but my whole body hurts after handling that beast. I'd rather take my 6" to darker skies and get the same experience.
I have a CPC-800 and a CPC-1100 EdgeHD. The 8" is easy to center on the tripod. The 11" is hard, which is why I bought the Starizona Landing Pad after the second time setting up the 11". The CPC-1100 Edge HD is a phenominal scope. With it I have seen the hexagon on Saturn's north pole, two of Uranus' moons (I have seen 4 in a friend's 20"), Triton, Mayall II, and a bunch of other things I either couldn't see in the 8" or could only see under pristine skies with averted vision. BTW, a TeleVue 41mm Panoptic provides a true field of view of one degree at 68x. Also, I installed the Starizona counterweight set and that really helps with power usage because a balanced scope requires less power to move.
This has been my first Telescope. I used a wedge also. It was not so much fun to put that thing onto the wedge in darkness. But it is an amazing device. I still use the tube but have it set up now in my backyard observatory sometimes on a different mount. Probably it is still my most used telescope and do not regret to by it back then. Having said that - this is not what I recommend either for beginners when I get asked :-). Maybe for those who really know that they will stick with the hobby it might be something (like it was for me) as it is pretty easy to use (after it is set up). For astrophotography the scope is great - but from my experience it was not quite accurate enough while being on the wedge. That was the main reason I bought a strong mount later on.
I have a Meade 12 inch coma corrected behemoth. Unless your into heavy awkward items and lifting these things around in the dark, I would recommend that you make a permanent home for it. I hauled around a Coulter 13.1 inch dob I purchased back in 1981 for over 18 years, and I can honestly say that my dob was much more fun to set up and use. I bought the Meade to get into Astro-photography, but my plans for that have been put on hold due to financial conditions. Ed is correct in saying that if you want to take good pictures with one of these instruments you will need to buy a "wedge" to obtain proper polar alignment. Cheers! Telrads are awesome btw.
I have subscribed! I think you're fantastic in front of the camera. A natural, very entertaining and knowledgeable on the topics! Thanks, Ed from Tod in Las Vegas where many years ago I bought an 8" LX200 GPS before I considered the light pollution of the strip and the weight of the scope. Oh well....
A few things I should mention about this scope (nickname: Soulshine, see the blue decal on the ota). How do I know this, it's my scope! I am HANDICAPPED, and 72yo. It was getting harder for me to set it up. Solution: notice the white pvc tubes on the side of the JMI case. When I take the lid off the case and remove the finder scope and telerad, I then insert two metal pipes (1 on each side) into the tubes. With a rope attached to the handle on the top of the case, I can pull up the ota while it's still in the case. Pipe length had to be measured to take the bottom of the case to the same height as the tripod. With practice, you learn where the pipes had to hit the ground to bring the case (with ota still in it) right next to the tripod top. Then just slide the ota from the case to the tripod, let the empty case fall back to the ground (the JMI can take it), center the ota on the pin on the tripod and you're ready to go. Breakdown is easy since gravity will help. Position yourself so that all you need to do is using the ota handle, lift the ota and place it in the case at your feet. No pipes needed, just a good grip and good positioning. What ever you do moving this ota, make sure your body is positioned so movement around the case isn't necessary 😉 Carrying it like Ed (sorry Ed) will make setup and breakdown much harder. If you do buy a CPC1100, you will love the views, and with a 21mm eyepiece you will be a hit at skywatchs. Starnek
Thanks for the clarifications, Ken. Looking back at these early reviews, I sometimes think I need do-overs on some of them. This is one of them. I'm not sure I got the tone right on this one.
Ive had the CPC-1100 for about 11 years and love it, but its definitely a handful. I honestly only drag her out for big sky weekends because it takes takes alot to get her up in running with the dew heaters batteries, etc., in my often high-humidity area. Most nights, I stick with one of my smaller Dobs, Newts, or Maks.
Thanks Ed. I chanced upon a used C11/Orion Atlas combo and couldn't say no. The focal length issue is no joke. I have 2" hardware train (visual back, diagonal, 42mm eyepiece) ordered just to make DSO observations more enjoyable
I started with the CPC-8 in the 1980’s, got a CPC -11 in 2010 and a CPC -11 Edge in 2018. All have been permanently pier mounted with a wedge in a roll- off-roof observatory. Great scopes, but can’t imagine lugging the 11” around. They are great when permanently mounted!
Ed it Sounded like you'd just done a workout after getting it on to the tripod! On a dark, damp night setting it up in the garden could be a bit of a nightmare. Lovely big 'scope though, thanks for posting.
I have the 800 and I find that serves all my needs especially when paired with a focal reducer I find the cpc800 is plenty heavy enough anything more would be to much hassle Great video thanks I look forward to more equipment reviews
Good review! I have had both the Meade 8in and 10in LX200 and also a Celestron Nexstar 11. The Celestron was the easiest to set up because of where the handles were. However at 70ish pounds lifting it correctly is key. The handles are just better placed on the Celestron. The Meade tripod also is a weak link. Regarding eyepieces, with a large CAT a 55mm plossl or a 40mm Konig eyepiece is pretty much a necessary accessory.
You said it is fun to find a galaxy that no one else has seen. But 9 out 10. everyone is looking at and photographing the exact same galaxies and nebulae that million others have as well.
A year or so after I got my 11" a 9.25" setup next to me. The 11" is ever so slightly brighter. His wife was able to see a difference that he and I were reluctant to declare. In practice there will be no difference to speak of.
Anything bigger then an 8 inch, can benefit from having TWO PEOPLE to perform the initial "Set up" operations when "in the field"! And honestly, how often will you find yourself ALL ALONE when trying to get set up for a Star Gazing secession??? I can't even put up my 6 inch Newtonian without drawing a genuine Crowed in my neighborhood! Teenagers, Grandparents, Mom's, Dad's, everyone is excited about getting a chance to "Look through the telescope!" And I'm only too glad to accommodate them. There will be dozens of questions, lots of "How do I get started" discussions. And plenty of "Which scope should I buy first!" Etc, etc., etc., .
Great overview of what must be a fabulous observing telescope! You hit all the salient points about assembly and overall level of effort needed to transport and set this up. And....just when you could consider it a time and money pit, the optics and image quality put it right back on the "wish list !" Ha! Ha!
I talked myself into the NexStar11GPS when they first came out as it was the same price (at the time) as an Astro Physics Travel - and it came with the mount! Got it home, set it up and was not impressed. The views, compared to my 70mm Pronto, were no much brighter (my backyard in Phoenix - before the freeway was built right next door). Then I took it to the All Arizona Star Party at Farnsworth Ranch - holy moly! Totally different scope! Couple years later, very early in the morning, we had extremely special skies and you could see the festoons of clouds on Jupiter. It was incredible. Alas; never to be repeated (at least while I was behind an eye piece). At first it was difficult to dock the scope to the tripod (and I'm out of practice now) but you do get used to it. She gets used for public outreach now, I have easier scopes to set up when I get the urge to observe. A buddy man handles his C14 up onto a big EQ mount (I just shake my head) so bigger cats are doable. I was motivated to go smaller. I think the NexStar mount was better than the next generation of mounts, but the 3rd (maybe even 4th?) generation mount is really nice. One would think Celestron would have made docking the scope on the tripod even easier (especially for new owners), and a quick 2 minute lesson on how to grab and lift the scope would have saved you some grief. :^) My other nit pik; the straight through finder is a product of the devil, I upgraded to a right angle unit, much more user friendly.
I've never used a right angle finder scope. Seems counter productive to me. I like looking down the finder scope tube like a gun to initially point it at what I want and then look in the eyepiece to do the fine 'tuning'. I would be totally lost trying to point a scope looking 90° to where it is actually pointed at. JMO I also have a NX11 ! Great scope!
A fantastic scope, highly recommended, it will take your observing to the next level. The portability issues are overstated here, you just need to work out a system.
Hi Ed, I like your practical demonstrations of the sizes of telescopes. Seeing a telescope lifted and moved is so much more useful than someone standing next to it and quoting the weight. On one hand, I would like something bigger than my 8 inch SCT. On the other hand, I'm not sure that I would get it out at night. This video makes me okay with I have for now. I think it would safer for ones spine to plan on lifting this telescope with two people. It not so much the weight, it is just awkward to get it out of the case and onto the tripod. Lots of twist and bending of the spine demonstrated in this video that would be best avoided.
My C11 OTA had optics that were rough and 1/2 wave overcorrected going on the views at high power on stars and the amount of rings around the Airy Disc and the bending of the Ronchi gram lines. Oh well. Still gave very good planets views but with scattered light. Double star views were great because of the high resolving power!
@@msroper5287 I collimate my C11 dead on at 500x magnification in focus, same as the 12" ACF F10 of Meade that I am currently using. The Meade has no bowing of the Ronchi lines, and no "wibbling" of the Ronchi lines (133 LPI, single pass), the C11 has bowing of the lines and the lines are wobbly. If the C11 can't even pass the Ronchi test then the optics are poor, simple as that. My C11 and 12" ACF both show no Astigmatism, so at least that's something. On Izar the double star at 350x with my C11 there is quite a bit of scattered light compared with my 12" ACF. My mirror coatings on the C11 look fine on both the primary and secondary, by eye. The optical surface(s) are simply rough. I didn't claim that C11's are like this, just MY Celestron C11. I believe mine is from a package with a CL700 mount or similar, as my OTA had no serial number on the secondary mirror holder. BTW my secondary holder (which says "Celestron" moulded into it and the tube graphics say Celestron in the usual way and all looks genuine enough) is PLASTIC (another poor choice of materials). It's a year 2000 model, Starbright (non-XLT) coated. It may have had several owners, I bought it in 2006 when I was way less experienced with testing scopes. Planetary details with my C11 were OK but not wonderful, I still got detail within the bands of Jupiter and some Albeido shading on Ganymede (I get better detail in my 12" ACF), and it still gave better details than my excellent 7" Meade Mak, because of the C11's aperture (modulation transfer, resolving power, brightness, amount of real color). The patterns on the Star Test looked barely tolerable, the simulation I did with Aberrator 2.5 and 3 compared to my C11 looked to show that my C11 was 1/2 wave overcorrected, magnitude 2 stars in focus show a lot of rings, indicating Spherical Aberration. My optics are always cooled before I observe, my scopes are stored outside under covers, and I even cool them with medical gel ice packs before I observe, so there is no thermal plume. So please don't tell me that I don't know what I am doing with optical tests. Also, when Wolfgang Rohr and Moscow AS tested many Celestron and Meade SCT's on their Interferometers, they found very large variations in quality, the errors being mainly Spherical Aberration and roughness. Lots of 1/2 wave PTV mirror sets, no where near this 1/10 wave that Celestron used to claim. Also, I own a Takahashi CN-212 to use as a reference, it has like 1/7 or 1/8 wave optics, and NO roughness. Also I own a Takahashi FC-100 Fluorite APO to compare with. Face it, SCT optics from 20 years ago were often rough and often had Spherical Aberration, it's just how it was. Also check out the CN forums, where many many users complain of problems with their SCT's.
I purchased the CPC 100 back in April after my NexStar 8se fell off it's mount and shattered the glass (I;ll probably have to send it to Celestron to get fixed) I love this scope and have seen the Andromeda galaxy far more clearly than I did with my 8SE. I use it in conjunction with the Star Sense and I still haven't decided with I like better. Sky Portal or SkySafari 6 Pro. ( I've had issues aligning the scope with SkySafari 6 Pro and have found there are issues with it. SkyPortal has done better . When I first got the scope and got it setup I went to plug the power tank into the power Outlet (?) on the mount only to have it suddenly sink quuickly all the way into the mount I was able to get it back out but subsequenly it got to the point where I had to take off the mount cover and push the power outlet back up against the the inside of the cover and tighten the nut. So far it has worked. My only complaint with the scope is actually with the slew direction. If I move it to the left it moves just fine but movement to the right is on the slow side. I've tried to adjust this in Sky Porta and SkySafari with little or no success. Any suggestion on that would be e helpful. I have used this scope for astro photography and have gotten a couple of good pics of Jupiter and Saturn but think they could be better and will have to wait until Next Spring to get more I couldn't find anything other than the JMI cases for my CPC 1100 so one day I was at Home Depot and found a very large portable tool box for about $87.00 I purchased some egg grate phone and put it on all 4 sides plus top & Bottom ( I had to use a hack saw blade and saw off to small studs on the "bottom of the lid while it is open as the lid won't close properly as the clasps won't close ( I had them both pop off the case but I was able to get one of them back on) The scope arms sit at an able but the foam padding seems to help with that. The only thing I haven't done yet is add my auto-focuser on. I enjoyed your review on this scope very much and while I am not a novice I'm also no expert but I do love this for viewing.
I love your review; shoot from the hip with warts and all. I love your practical demo. Someone has one for sale; I was seriously considering it until your video. Unless I have an observatory, this is not going to work for me. Thanks you for the reality check.
Love your channel, and your reviews. I’ve got a Nexstar 4SE and and EVO 8”. I’m with you, a couple hours observing and I’m done for the night. And I hardly ever go out when its cold. My moniker on CN is fair weather backyard astronomer. Thanks again and I’ll be watching. Cheers.
My c-11 ota is 28 pounds with losmandy mounting on an equatorial mount. Even at half the weight of this setup it is still a challenge setting up and tearing down.
I’ve had one for 15 years (was my first telescope)and I agree its a handful… but I’ve never had any problem setting it up. I’ve also used it with a wedge mount by myself and it’s doable. That said, at home (not under dark skies) I’m more inclined to use my 8 inch Evolution HD. But put in the dessert I much prefer the 1100CPC.
Great video Ted. Though i can afford but very Heavy though. i think il settle for the lighter Celestron nextstar c8 or nextstar evo 8. Thanks Sir. great scope and info as well.
Hi Ed.. I got a Meade 8" LX200 classic for free over the weekend and boy, I had the hardest time trying to get that mounted.. it took me forever.. No hand controller came with it but I did order a Clearline joystick emulator and rs232 module.. planning to use it for moon/planetary only.. I need to practice getting this thing mounted..
I had the CPC 9.25" with JMI case. The case $550 back then. I eventually sold the setup and purchased a 16" Dob. with Sky Commander in 2014. I am looking to add StellarCat and an Evolution 6" for Grab'n Go and that should do it.
Good to see you're using a wireless mic - Wires present dangerous obstacles in setting up gear. But a finesse point: the 'screen' of that Rode Go should face toward your chest, tucked inside your shirt. The clip should be on the outside. It's exactly the same sound, but looks less obtrusive, and the centre of gravity of the mic inside the shirt makes the shirt dress (hang) better.
3 comments. 1, there is a recessed handle at the bottom opposite the handle. It makes it easy to carry the scope in a bear hug manner. 2. For astrophotography you should try mounting it on the tripod plus wedge. 3. Newer version is FastStar compatible. It gets you to f/2 at 1754mm. Still too long for big nebula but you can mount a top rail with a wide field compact refractor and use the 11 for guiding LoL
Thanks for the comments. There should be a subtitle in the video about the recessed handle. Having said that, this is one of the early reviews where I wouldn't mind having a do-over. I'd do it differently today.
@@edting I also realized after I commented that the original CPC1100 was not FastStar compatible. It's a later version that was sold with XLT coatings that is FastStar compatible. Of course there's the deluxe HD version with its HD version of optics. I really appreciate your review though because you talk about the "BIG Cat" elephant in the room that I dare say keeps most of these larger telescopes packed and unused. 65 lbs is a lot to lift.
I know this is an old video, but I have a question... Does the CPC1100 allow the OT to come off and place another telescope on the mount, namely one with a Vixen dovetail?
LOL,, JMI, “i don’t know what goes into these cases... but..”.. Perfect example of companies .. assuming anybody doing astrophotography/planetary is basically just looking for something to waist money on. .p.s. I love the channel Ed!
Hey Ed, really enjoy your channel. I'm planning on upgrading from my Orion Starblast 6I to the CPC 1100 in a few months. I am thinking about getting a SVBONY 50mm guidescope to substitute as a finderscope. I'm not planning to do any astrophotography just visual use for DSO. What do you think about that and do you have any recommendations for accessories to pair with the scope?
@@edting I can understand that. I have an old canon 60D I'm wanting to attach while imaging. I know the general rule is to use a wedge which I intend on grabbing. Thank you good sir.
Funny you say that cause my mindset was the same cause of the aperture not being as fast as imaging scopes, but then a friend of mine that owns an 8inch Celestron SCT F10 with F6 reducer was able to capture the Cigar Galaxy using a Canon 90D (unmodified) camera on his default Alt Az mount. We haven't quite seen the processed image version yet, but we were definitely excited and found proof that it CAN be done! 😁
Hi Ed! I know that these are different, but, for visual use, do you prefer the cpc 11 or the dobson skywatcher goto 14? I'm really doubting, now I have a 12 inch solid tube manual dobson, and I want a goto scope, I don't know which one is better between the two, they both have pros and cons. The dob has more aperture, more fov, less dew problem. Instead the cpc is more practical and more comfortable at the eyepiece. Anyway I would like to use both with a chair (a bigger chair for the dob). Thank you!
To increase the field of view/reduce magnification, I assume you need a really low power eyepiece. What is the lowest power that is available and works for a telescope like this? Or is it better to use the C9.25 CPC to begin with ? I read the C9.25 has better optics to begin with, apart from the focal length
I'm wondering why you can't mount this scope on a set of heavy duty wheeley bars (spelling?) and move it around that way. Even better would be a set of wheeley bars that are vibration-free so that you can leave the scope fully mounted on the bars at all times. This setup in principle would work well in your backyard.
@@edting Thanks for your reply! I have a set of the JMI Wheeley Bars (JMI is now owned by Farpoint). I have a medium weight set with an iOptron AZ Mount Pro on top. This lets me operate two telescopes at one go, a 3" refractor and a 6" Maksutov newtonian. The wheeley bars are fantastic. They allow me to observe from any point in the yard and to move outdoors and indoors with no lifting. The cost is reasonable. If I lived in a more astronomy-friendly city I would buy a heavy duty set of wheeley bars with a 10" ACF mounted on it. But it's not worth the effort given my light-polluted, zero-lot-line location. One point: wheeley bars are a substitute for backyard observatories. You can put the bars in your shed or garage in most cases and no observatory is needed.
From a jung and somewhat strong man: this one is not that heavy. Don't be scared. In my option every healthy man can carry this thing without any problem. My dad is 60 and he has no issues
I have had the CPC 800 since 2007 and wanted the case for it but it's way over priced. $100 case for $799 is ludicrous. Paying for a name. As for the telescope love it.
@@edting Apologies, thats not what I meant. I meant the design of these scopes would be better, if the mounts could assemble, separate of the OTA. Even my fairly lightweight EQ, I assemble in parts and then mount the tube, because Im paranoid about banging it around.
I have a CPC 1100. In alt-azm, I can get 12 to 15 seconds before I see rotation. Programs like SharpCap can align frames while capturing and I can get nice 5 to 10 min stacks. So in alt-azm mode, it’s great for EAA (electronically assisted astronomy). I just purchased a used HD wedge and I’m super impressed with how sturdy it is. I’m looking forward to longer subs.
That was very helpful to me to take a decision to buy my new cpc 1100. One question for you: when i rotate it manually azimuth direction it feels notchy every 5 degree or so. Is that normal for this scope ? Tracking is ok.
Congrats on your new CPC. Hmmm...I've never experienced what you describe. If there's an astronomy club near you, you might want to have them take a look at it.
I just found your channel. What do you think of the Meade LX200 16"? The price tag is $18,300.00, so not exactly a small investment. Thank you. I wish I would have known about you sooner!
It needs to be in a permanent observatory. Don't believe the silly claims about that thing being portable. Also, with Meade's future in some question, I'd be concerned about legacy support. LX200s can be wonky.
Those are OK. The main problem with any table-top style telescope is finding something sturdy to set it on. You need to get the eyepiece up to eye level, and you need to be able to walk around the scope. Everyone has this issue, so you're not alone. Good luck!
Ed, i had the CPC1100, you may have overlooked the second handle on the other fork arm which is at the bottom of the arm where it meets the base. When i watched your right hand grasping for some grip as you lifted it i was cringing thinking it would fall for sure.
@@edting Your scope videos are fantastic, I have only discovered them recently, your professionalism and the fact you cover all bases is so valuable to one who may be buying a scope. I’ll have to admit, even as an experienced amateur of 20 years, whether I’m buying a scope or not it’s just plain fun to hear about them.
@@edting do you think this telescope is worth it if it has the alt azmith mount but no tripod and costs $1000 used? I would be using it to view moon and planets and later astrophotography with an equatorial mount. My daughter actually showed an interest in viewing nebulae if I purchased it but her interest would be secondary as I'm not sure she would continue. Also, there is heavy chemtrailing here in Phoenix Az and I am not sure i want to spend 1000 plus with filters and extra eyepieces if I won't be able to see much.
@@discernment7471 I'd say it is more than worth it with the following caveat... make sure NOTHING is wrong with the optics or the drives and all associated components... ie:hand controller and electronics! (edit) Even with that said for just a 11" Celestron optical tube you are looking at about 2200$ for the base model. So if the mount works too.... Bazinga!! Bargain city!
I had one of these. Long term be aware the power switch can become faulty and if using the power port for external battery is prone to stress from cord wrap. It's a great planet killer and typical advantages of SCTs for sub half degree targets.
i just inherited one of these, and another telescope. but the other one is massive. however i am ignorant to scopes. ive alays wanted to go over to my dads house and soak up as much knowledge as i could. but its too late now. rather ironic in hindsight. but i need to learn as much as i can, i honestly dont even know what all i have. i have many different "eye pieces" and a few boxes of (probably) every filter known to man. i really want to use this thing and show my kids some neat things. but i am completely ignorant to telescopes and the various jargon that goes along with it. all i know right now, is that this is the exact scope and mount that i have. i just need to know how to use it properly. does anyone have any directions in which to point me so i can get started? please help if you can. thank you in advance.
Hi, this is the kind of thing that is very difficult to go in writing. If there is a local astronomy club near you, seek them out. There will almost surely be someone there who can walk you through this. Nice inheritance, by the way!
As a body builder and athlete.. this is right up my alley. No offense but a lot of you astro guys are frail. I don't see any issue carrying this stuff around, personally.
Ed - I am new to the observing part of astronomy. Your CZcams channel is invaluable to someone trying to learn about the gear and many other aspects of the hobby for those with experience. Your videos are excellent; thank you so much.
I'm in the same boat and agree with you. I have just got some bins to start with while trying to work out what scope I should get. I'm one week in and Ed's podcasts explain things simply enough for me to learn from 👍
Had this scope, great for visual, great for astrophotography, not great for a beginner! Bigger is not always better!! Sold it!!
Why did you sell it?
@@flatandmotionless4608
Because the most important thing for a beginner, is for it to be *easy* so you'll actually use it.
It is SO much easier when you properly use the lower handle on the other side.
I sold tons of these when i worked at opt 2006-2011. They far outsold the lx200s. At the time they were $2999. A 12" lx90 was comparable in price, but very shakey, only the 8" lx90 was stable.
And meade has even less of a mounting system for lx90s and lx200z, no centering pin and just one bolt. Landing pads were absolutely necessary on the meades, but the cpc is much easier to mount, and it clunks into place just by rotating it once you have it on the pin.
I demoed mounting it countless times in the showroom. It is much easier to lift than how you did it in this video.
Lx200 handles are designes for 2 people, because you really need someone to help you lift it.
Hard to believe it is almost 20 years since this model came out. Celestron really got it right with this one.
It's too bad you missed the recessed handle (I know you know this already). One of the really nice design features of this scope is the handle combo-- the silver one for lifting the scope out of a case and carrying like a suitcase to the tripod, the recessed handle in combination with the silver for lifting and placing the scope. It's really amazing how much more stable, and almost "light" the scope feels when the combo is in use...
This was extremely helpful. I recognize how much time and effort went into making this so I really appreciate the review and your tips on setting up the scope. The only thing that I might add to this review is that whenever you put in a 2 inch diagonal, the clearance can be challenging when observing at zenith.
Thanks. Looking over these older videos, I wish I had do-overs on this one. It would be a much better review if I did it today.
I have a CPC 1100 and my advise to anyone is buy it. I built a 4 wheel dolly to roll it in and out of my garage. I’ve been using it for about 10 years and all of my grandkids love astronomy. It’s a workhorse for sure.
I was going to say something like “it’s not that bad.” Until you said it’s 65lbs. That’s a heavy scope! I’d be asking a friend for help with setup and takedown.
Thank you for your help. I've been on the fence whether to spend my money on this scope. You seemed out of breath lifting that heavy OTA. Thanks again.
I had the pleasure of helping a couple of friends of ours set up the 8" version of this beautiful machine and it got me winded just putting it together. But, I was lucky just like you were, in that I got the scope onto the pin the first time and all by myself. Once put together it was a piece of cake to get the accessories on and I powered it up but the weather here in TX is fickle and by that time the clouds had come in and I couldn't finish the alignment and visual testing piece. So, we wait until we get another good and clear night to finish the job. Thanks for your review, Ed, and keep up the fun and good work you do for the rest of us who are constantly trying to get better at our hobby. Cheers.
Observed through the 9.25 and the 11s at my astro club... gotta say, it makes me love my light and nimble 6SE. Yes, the big boys show a bit more, but my whole body hurts after handling that beast. I'd rather take my 6" to darker skies and get the same experience.
I have a CPC-800 and a CPC-1100 EdgeHD. The 8" is easy to center on the tripod. The 11" is hard, which is why I bought the Starizona Landing Pad after the second time setting up the 11". The CPC-1100 Edge HD is a phenominal scope. With it I have seen the hexagon on Saturn's north pole, two of Uranus' moons (I have seen 4 in a friend's 20"), Triton, Mayall II, and a bunch of other things I either couldn't see in the 8" or could only see under pristine skies with averted vision. BTW, a TeleVue 41mm Panoptic provides a true field of view of one degree at 68x. Also, I installed the Starizona counterweight set and that really helps with power usage because a balanced scope requires less power to move.
First demo I have seen on the effects of gravity x scope, now I know smaller is better for me. Very useful Ed.
Regards, 66yr old Mike.
I wish I had do-overs on some of these early reviews. If I did this review today I'd do it a lot differently.
This has been my first Telescope. I used a wedge also. It was not so much fun to put that thing onto the wedge in darkness. But it is an amazing device. I still use the tube but have it set up now in my backyard observatory sometimes on a different mount. Probably it is still my most used telescope and do not regret to by it back then. Having said that - this is not what I recommend either for beginners when I get asked :-). Maybe for those who really know that they will stick with the hobby it might be something (like it was for me) as it is pretty easy to use (after it is set up). For astrophotography the scope is great - but from my experience it was not quite accurate enough while being on the wedge. That was the main reason I bought a strong mount later on.
I have a Meade 12 inch coma corrected behemoth. Unless your into heavy awkward items and lifting these things around in the dark, I would recommend that you make a permanent home for it. I hauled around a Coulter 13.1 inch dob I purchased back in 1981 for over 18 years, and I can honestly say that my dob was much more fun to set up and use. I bought the Meade to get into Astro-photography, but my plans for that have been put on hold due to financial conditions. Ed is correct in saying that if you want to take good pictures with one of these instruments you will need to buy a "wedge" to obtain proper polar alignment. Cheers! Telrads are awesome btw.
I have subscribed! I think you're fantastic in front of the camera. A natural, very entertaining and knowledgeable on the topics! Thanks, Ed from Tod in Las Vegas where many years ago I bought an 8" LX200 GPS before I considered the light pollution of the strip and the weight of the scope. Oh well....
Never in the owner's mind: It is wiser and less expensive to let the telescope drop than incur hospital bills and a damaged back.
A few things I should mention about this scope (nickname: Soulshine, see the blue decal on the ota). How do I know this, it's my scope!
I am HANDICAPPED, and 72yo. It was getting harder for me to set it up. Solution: notice the white pvc tubes on the side of the JMI case. When I take the lid off the case and remove the finder scope and telerad, I then insert two metal pipes (1 on each side) into the tubes. With a rope attached to the handle on the top of the case, I can pull up the ota while it's still in the case. Pipe length had to be measured to take the bottom of the case to the same height as the tripod. With practice, you learn where the pipes had to hit the ground to bring the case (with ota still in it) right next to the tripod top. Then just slide the ota from the case to the tripod, let the empty case fall back to the ground (the JMI can take it), center the ota on the pin on the tripod and you're ready to go.
Breakdown is easy since gravity will help. Position yourself so that all you need to do is using the ota handle, lift the ota and place it in the case at your feet. No pipes needed, just a good grip and good positioning. What ever you do moving this ota, make sure your body is positioned so movement around the case isn't necessary 😉 Carrying it like Ed (sorry Ed) will make setup and breakdown much harder.
If you do buy a CPC1100, you will love the views, and with a 21mm eyepiece you will be a hit at skywatchs.
Starnek
Thanks for the clarifications, Ken. Looking back at these early reviews, I sometimes think I need do-overs on some of them. This is one of them. I'm not sure I got the tone right on this one.
Great video! Have this scope and it's the only one I'll ever need.
I’m thinking of buying it for my first one should I ? And where should I buy it
@@K3YSOPENDOORS first one? Doubt it. Was my fourth and a bit shocked lol. You sure you don't want to start with a 6"?
@@permafrost7781 this was ur fourth one? I just want to buy a good one and be done with it
Ive had the CPC-1100 for about 11 years and love it, but its definitely a handful. I honestly only drag her out for big sky weekends because it takes takes alot to get her up in running with the dew heaters batteries, etc., in my often high-humidity area. Most nights, I stick with one of my smaller Dobs, Newts, or Maks.
Hi Ed. Great to see you are making content again!
Thanks Ed. I chanced upon a used C11/Orion Atlas combo and couldn't say no. The focal length issue is no joke. I have 2" hardware train (visual back, diagonal, 42mm eyepiece) ordered just to make DSO observations more enjoyable
I started with the CPC-8 in the 1980’s, got a CPC -11 in 2010 and a CPC -11 Edge in 2018. All have been permanently pier mounted with a wedge in a roll- off-roof observatory. Great scopes, but can’t imagine lugging the 11” around. They are great when permanently mounted!
The CPC line was released in 2005. You probably meant C8?
Yep, you are right, I was thinking that CPC meant a fork mounted scope when I wrote that.@@donnazeidler2218
Ed it Sounded like you'd just done a workout after getting it on to the tripod! On a dark, damp night setting it up in the garden could be a bit of a nightmare. Lovely big 'scope though, thanks for posting.
I have the 800 and I find that serves all my needs especially when paired with a focal reducer I find the cpc800 is plenty heavy enough anything more would be to much hassle
Great video thanks I look forward to more equipment reviews
Good review!
I have had both the Meade 8in and 10in LX200 and also a Celestron Nexstar 11. The Celestron was the easiest to set up because of where the handles were. However at 70ish pounds lifting it correctly is key. The handles are just better placed on the Celestron. The Meade tripod also is a weak link.
Regarding eyepieces, with a large CAT a 55mm plossl or a 40mm Konig eyepiece is pretty much a necessary accessory.
An excellent, informative & very sensible review. Many Thanks Ed! 🤝
Fantastic I used to read your material now I see your live thank you
You said it is fun to find a galaxy that no one else has seen. But 9 out 10. everyone is looking at and photographing the exact same galaxies and nebulae that million others have as well.
Thanks Ed, I just purchased a 9.25 edge HD, but haven't taken delivery yet. You just confirmed I made the correct choice!
A year or so after I got my 11" a 9.25" setup next to me. The 11" is ever so slightly brighter. His wife was able to see a difference that he and I were reluctant to declare. In practice there will be no difference to speak of.
Same one I'm leaning towards. As of right now have it narrowed down to 3 with the 9.25 Edge HD leading and gaining on that lead.
Anything bigger then an 8 inch, can benefit from having TWO PEOPLE to perform the initial "Set up" operations when "in the field"!
And honestly, how often will you find yourself ALL ALONE when trying to get set up for a Star Gazing secession??? I can't even put up my 6 inch Newtonian without drawing a genuine Crowed in my neighborhood! Teenagers, Grandparents, Mom's, Dad's, everyone is excited about getting a chance to "Look through the telescope!"
And I'm only too glad to accommodate them. There will be dozens of questions, lots of "How do I get started" discussions. And plenty of "Which scope should I buy first!" Etc, etc., etc., .
Great overview of what must be a fabulous observing telescope! You hit all the salient points about assembly and overall level of effort needed to transport and set this up. And....just when you could consider it a time and money pit, the optics and image quality put it right back on the "wish list !" Ha! Ha!
I had a CPC 800 and sold it to get a CPC 1100 HD. It came with a scope buggy that way I can just roll it out my garage when I’m ready to explore.
I talked myself into the NexStar11GPS when they first came out as it was the same price (at the time) as an Astro Physics Travel - and it came with the mount! Got it home, set it up and was not impressed. The views, compared to my 70mm Pronto, were no much brighter (my backyard in Phoenix - before the freeway was built right next door). Then I took it to the All Arizona Star Party at Farnsworth Ranch - holy moly! Totally different scope! Couple years later, very early in the morning, we had extremely special skies and you could see the festoons of clouds on Jupiter. It was incredible. Alas; never to be repeated (at least while I was behind an eye piece).
At first it was difficult to dock the scope to the tripod (and I'm out of practice now) but you do get used to it. She gets used for public outreach now, I have easier scopes to set up when I get the urge to observe. A buddy man handles his C14 up onto a big EQ mount (I just shake my head) so bigger cats are doable. I was motivated to go smaller.
I think the NexStar mount was better than the next generation of mounts, but the 3rd (maybe even 4th?) generation mount is really nice. One would think Celestron would have made docking the scope on the tripod even easier (especially for new owners), and a quick 2 minute lesson on how to grab and lift the scope would have saved you some grief. :^)
My other nit pik; the straight through finder is a product of the devil, I upgraded to a right angle unit, much more user friendly.
I've never used a right angle finder scope. Seems counter productive to me. I like looking down the finder scope tube like a gun to initially point it at what I want and then look in the eyepiece to do the fine 'tuning'. I would be totally lost trying to point a scope looking 90° to where it is actually pointed at. JMO I also have a NX11 ! Great scope!
A fantastic scope, highly recommended, it will take your observing to the next level. The portability issues are overstated here, you just need to work out a system.
Or 'work out' in general. Good excuse to hit the gym. 😆
Hi Ed, I like your practical demonstrations of the sizes of telescopes. Seeing a telescope lifted and moved is so much more useful than someone standing next to it and quoting the weight.
On one hand, I would like something bigger than my 8 inch SCT. On the other hand, I'm not sure that I would get it out at night. This video makes me okay with I have for now.
I think it would safer for ones spine to plan on lifting this telescope with two people. It not so much the weight, it is just awkward to get it out of the case and onto the tripod. Lots of twist and bending of the spine demonstrated in this video that would be best avoided.
Great video! Thank you. I wish you were my neighbor...
Ed, when are you going to do videos on those lovely vintage scopes you have decorating your set?
My C11 OTA had optics that were rough and 1/2 wave overcorrected going on the views at high power on stars and the amount of rings around the Airy Disc and the bending of the Ronchi gram lines. Oh well. Still gave very good planets views but with scattered light. Double star views were great because of the high resolving power!
@@msroper5287 I collimate my C11 dead on at 500x magnification in focus, same as the 12" ACF F10 of Meade that I am currently using. The Meade has no bowing of the Ronchi lines, and no "wibbling" of the Ronchi lines (133 LPI, single pass), the C11 has bowing of the lines and the lines are wobbly. If the C11 can't even pass the Ronchi test then the optics are poor, simple as that. My C11 and 12" ACF both show no Astigmatism, so at least that's something. On Izar the double star at 350x with my C11 there is quite a bit of scattered light compared with my 12" ACF. My mirror coatings on the C11 look fine on both the primary and secondary, by eye. The optical surface(s) are simply rough. I didn't claim that C11's are like this, just MY Celestron C11. I believe mine is from a package with a CL700 mount or similar, as my OTA had no serial number on the secondary mirror holder. BTW my secondary holder (which says "Celestron" moulded into it and the tube graphics say Celestron in the usual way and all looks genuine enough) is PLASTIC (another poor choice of materials). It's a year 2000 model, Starbright (non-XLT) coated. It may have had several owners, I bought it in 2006 when I was way less experienced with testing scopes. Planetary details with my C11 were OK but not wonderful, I still got detail within the bands of Jupiter and some Albeido shading on Ganymede (I get better detail in my 12" ACF), and it still gave better details than my excellent 7" Meade Mak, because of the C11's aperture (modulation transfer, resolving power, brightness, amount of real color). The patterns on the Star Test looked barely tolerable, the simulation I did with Aberrator 2.5 and 3 compared to my C11 looked to show that my C11 was 1/2 wave overcorrected, magnitude 2 stars in focus show a lot of rings, indicating Spherical Aberration. My optics are always cooled before I observe, my scopes are stored outside under covers, and I even cool them with medical gel ice packs before I observe, so there is no thermal plume. So please don't tell me that I don't know what I am doing with optical tests. Also, when Wolfgang Rohr and Moscow AS tested many Celestron and Meade SCT's on their Interferometers, they found very large variations in quality, the errors being mainly Spherical Aberration and roughness. Lots of 1/2 wave PTV mirror sets, no where near this 1/10 wave that Celestron used to claim. Also, I own a Takahashi CN-212 to use as a reference, it has like 1/7 or 1/8 wave optics, and NO roughness. Also I own a Takahashi FC-100 Fluorite APO to compare with. Face it, SCT optics from 20 years ago were often rough and often had Spherical Aberration, it's just how it was. Also check out the CN forums, where many many users complain of problems with their SCT's.
I purchased the CPC 100 back in April after my NexStar 8se fell off it's mount and shattered the glass (I;ll probably have to send it to Celestron to get fixed) I love this scope and have seen the Andromeda galaxy far more clearly than I did with my 8SE. I use it in conjunction with the Star Sense and I still haven't decided with I like better. Sky Portal or SkySafari 6 Pro. ( I've had issues aligning the scope with SkySafari 6 Pro and have found there are issues with it. SkyPortal has done better .
When I first got the scope and got it setup I went to plug the power tank into the power Outlet (?) on the mount only to have it suddenly sink quuickly all the way into the mount I was able to get it back out but subsequenly it got to the point where I had to take off the mount cover and push the power outlet back up against the the inside of the cover and tighten the nut. So far it has worked. My only complaint with the scope is actually with the slew direction. If I move it to the left it moves just fine but movement to the right is on the slow side. I've tried to adjust this in Sky Porta and SkySafari with little or no success. Any suggestion on that would be e helpful.
I have used this scope for astro photography and have gotten a couple of good pics of Jupiter and Saturn but think they could be better and will have to wait until Next Spring to get more
I couldn't find anything other than the JMI cases for my CPC 1100 so one day I was at Home Depot and found a very large portable tool box for about $87.00 I purchased some egg grate phone and put it on all 4 sides plus top & Bottom ( I had to use a hack saw blade and saw off to small studs on the "bottom of the lid while it is open as the lid won't close properly as the clasps won't close ( I had them both pop off the case but I was able to get one of them back on) The scope arms sit at an able but the foam padding seems to help with that. The only thing I haven't done yet is add my auto-focuser on.
I enjoyed your review on this scope very much and while I am not a novice I'm also no expert but I do love this for viewing.
I love your review; shoot from the hip with warts and all. I love your practical demo.
Someone has one for sale; I was seriously considering it until your video. Unless I have an observatory, this is not going to work for me.
Thanks you for the reality check.
Taking a big scope setup down in the dark is precarious at best. I always setup in daylight.
I can't imagine having a scope like this, without its own house to live in.
Check out videos of a C-14 one man setup. They make it look easy.
Love your channel, and your reviews. I’ve got a Nexstar 4SE and and EVO 8”. I’m with you, a couple hours observing and I’m done for the night. And I hardly ever go out when its cold. My moniker on CN is fair weather backyard astronomer. Thanks again and I’ll be watching. Cheers.
My c-11 ota is 28 pounds with losmandy mounting on an equatorial mount. Even at half the weight of this setup it is still a challenge setting up and tearing down.
I’ve had one for 15 years (was my first telescope)and I agree its a handful… but I’ve never had any problem setting it up. I’ve also used it with a wedge mount by myself and it’s doable. That said, at home (not under dark skies) I’m more inclined to use my 8 inch Evolution HD. But put in the dessert I much prefer the 1100CPC.
Great video Ted. Though i can afford but very Heavy though. i think il settle for the lighter Celestron nextstar c8 or nextstar evo 8. Thanks Sir. great scope and info as well.
That JMI case must be made by Gucci!
Hi Ed.. I got a Meade 8" LX200 classic for free over the weekend and boy, I had the hardest time trying to get that mounted.. it took me forever.. No hand controller came with it but I did order a Clearline joystick emulator and rs232 module.. planning to use it for moon/planetary only.. I need to practice getting this thing mounted..
Celestron cpc 11 , tanks!
I had the CPC 9.25" with JMI case. The case $550 back then. I eventually sold the setup and purchased a 16" Dob. with Sky Commander in 2014. I am looking to add StellarCat and an Evolution 6" for Grab'n Go and that should do it.
Thanks for the great video, Ed!
And here I thought my 11-year-old self could lift this scope on the tripod. XD
Good to see you're using a wireless mic - Wires present dangerous obstacles in setting up gear. But a finesse point: the 'screen' of that Rode Go should face toward your chest, tucked inside your shirt. The clip should be on the outside. It's exactly the same sound, but looks less obtrusive, and the centre of gravity of the mic inside the shirt makes the shirt dress (hang) better.
Thanks for that, Dave!
Superb information video Dear, thank you for sharing 🙏❤️😀....
Nice review Ed.
3 comments.
1, there is a recessed handle at the bottom opposite the handle. It makes it easy to carry the scope in a bear hug manner.
2. For astrophotography you should try mounting it on the tripod plus wedge.
3. Newer version is FastStar compatible. It gets you to f/2 at 1754mm. Still too long for big nebula but you can mount a top rail with a wide field compact refractor and use the 11 for guiding LoL
Thanks for the comments. There should be a subtitle in the video about the recessed handle. Having said that, this is one of the early reviews where I wouldn't mind having a do-over. I'd do it differently today.
@@edting I also realized after I commented that the original CPC1100 was not FastStar compatible. It's a later version that was sold with XLT coatings that is FastStar compatible. Of course there's the deluxe HD version with its HD version of optics.
I really appreciate your review though because you talk about the "BIG Cat" elephant in the room that I dare say keeps most of these larger telescopes packed and unused.
65 lbs is a lot to lift.
I know this is an old video, but I have a question... Does the CPC1100 allow the OT to come off and place another telescope on the mount, namely one with a Vixen dovetail?
Yes, people do it all the time, especially as these mounts age. The only thing - please put it on a D plate, not a Vixen plate which is too small.
Its been in my wish list for a couple years haven't pulled the trigger yet
Your spouse knows that purchase is always on your mind?
@@mikewallace8087 YUP :)
Very nice scope.
Hi and tanks, a question ; where can i found a dissamble manual che maintenance ?
Regards
Tanks
LOL,, JMI, “i don’t know what goes into these cases... but..”.. Perfect example of companies .. assuming anybody doing astrophotography/planetary is basically just looking for something to waist money on. .p.s. I love the channel Ed!
Hey Ed, really enjoy your channel. I'm planning on upgrading from my Orion Starblast 6I to the CPC 1100 in a few months. I am thinking about getting a SVBONY 50mm guidescope to substitute as a finderscope. I'm not planning to do any astrophotography just visual use for DSO. What do you think about that and do you have any recommendations for accessories to pair with the scope?
Thank you for a great review on this scope good sir! What are your feelings on Astrophotography with it while still on the default mount?
Stock SCTs are very useful for webcam lunar/planetary imaging. On deep sky, things start to get complicated.
@@edting I can understand that. I have an old canon 60D I'm wanting to attach while imaging. I know the general rule is to use a wedge which I intend on grabbing. Thank you good sir.
Maybe you're better than I am, but I have always found deep sky imaging through SCTs to be very difficult. See what you think.
Funny you say that cause my mindset was the same cause of the aperture not being as fast as imaging scopes, but then a friend of mine that owns an 8inch Celestron SCT F10 with F6 reducer was able to capture the Cigar Galaxy using a Canon 90D (unmodified) camera on his default Alt Az mount. We haven't quite seen the processed image version yet, but we were definitely excited and found proof that it CAN be done! 😁
Hi Ed! I know that these are different, but, for visual use, do you prefer the cpc 11 or the dobson skywatcher goto 14? I'm really doubting, now I have a 12 inch solid tube manual dobson, and I want a goto scope, I don't know which one is better between the two, they both have pros and cons. The dob has more aperture, more fov, less dew problem. Instead the cpc is more practical and more comfortable at the eyepiece. Anyway I would like to use both with a chair (a bigger chair for the dob). Thank you!
Hey Riccardo, did you happen to pick one over the other?
Great videos. Keep it up 👍
Luckily for me I can deadlift way way more than 65lbs. I can do Turkish get-ups with 65lbs…
To increase the field of view/reduce magnification, I assume you need a really low power eyepiece. What is the lowest power that is available and works for a telescope like this? Or is it better to use the C9.25 CPC to begin with ? I read the C9.25 has better optics to begin with, apart from the focal length
I’ve done the same thing with the Meade 12” LX200 many times. No more. Lol
I'm wondering why you can't mount this scope on a set of heavy duty wheeley bars (spelling?) and move it around that way. Even better would be a set of wheeley bars that are vibration-free so that you can leave the scope fully mounted on the bars at all times. This setup in principle would work well in your backyard.
James, thanks for writing. Yes, you can! They make these and they are very handy. I didn't have a set on hand though.
@@edting Thanks for your reply! I have a set of the JMI Wheeley Bars (JMI is now owned by Farpoint). I have a medium weight set with an iOptron AZ Mount Pro on top. This lets me operate two telescopes at one go, a 3" refractor and a 6" Maksutov newtonian. The wheeley bars are fantastic. They allow me to observe from any point in the yard and to move outdoors and indoors with no lifting. The cost is reasonable. If I lived in a more astronomy-friendly city I would buy a heavy duty set of wheeley bars with a 10" ACF mounted on it. But it's not worth the effort given my light-polluted, zero-lot-line location. One point: wheeley bars are a substitute for backyard observatories. You can put the bars in your shed or garage in most cases and no observatory is needed.
I have a 12 inch goto Dob and would never set up in the dark.
Thank you.
Ed…what is the difference in the optic coatings between the Celestron CPC 1100 and the Edge HD 11” SCT’s? Can the 1100 be made to fit an EQ mount?
From a jung and somewhat strong man: this one is not that heavy. Don't be scared. In my option every healthy man can carry this thing without any problem. My dad is 60 and he has no issues
Now turn the lights out and set it up again!
Why is it that the astronomy CZcams channels are all hosted by such nice people? I thought amateur astronomers were supposed to be antisocial hermits.
I have had the CPC 800 since 2007 and wanted the case for it but it's way over priced. $100 case for $799 is ludicrous. Paying for a name. As for the telescope love it.
Just ordered a CPC 800. Super excited
@permafrost77 this would be my first one. Do u recommend? Where could I buy this in Canada
The CO on that looks like the size of a medium pizza. Is that a 6" f/8 Newt over your left shoulder?
It would help if you could assemble the mount and then mount the tube.
Of the early reviews on this channel, this is the one where I would like do-overs. I would do this review differently today.
@@edting
Apologies, thats not what I meant. I meant the design of these scopes would be better, if the mounts could assemble, separate of the OTA. Even my fairly lightweight EQ, I assemble in parts and then mount the tube, because Im paranoid about banging it around.
CPC 1100 is my dream telescope but it not good for Astrophotography due to Alt-Azimuth mount
I have a CPC 1100. In alt-azm, I can get 12 to 15 seconds before I see rotation. Programs like SharpCap can align frames while capturing and I can get nice 5 to 10 min stacks. So in alt-azm mode, it’s great for EAA (electronically assisted astronomy). I just purchased a used HD wedge and I’m super impressed with how sturdy it is. I’m looking forward to longer subs.
I'm using one with the HD Wedge, working quite alright as long as I am guiding. About 1arc-sec guiding error.
That was very helpful to me to take a decision to buy my new cpc 1100. One question for you: when i rotate it manually azimuth direction it feels notchy every 5 degree or so. Is that normal for this scope ? Tracking is ok.
Congrats on your new CPC. Hmmm...I've never experienced what you describe. If there's an astronomy club near you, you might want to have them take a look at it.
@@edting Thank you. The local service says that the scope is designed for electronic movements so as long this is ok (which it is) it's ok
65 pounds... hmmm... wonder how heavy it is in kg... **converts 65 pounds to kg**.... OMG That is heavy! And you did it in one go! Good on you, mate!
I just found your channel. What do you think of the Meade LX200 16"? The price tag is $18,300.00, so not exactly a small investment. Thank you. I wish I would have known about you sooner!
It needs to be in a permanent observatory. Don't believe the silly claims about that thing being portable. Also, with Meade's future in some question, I'd be concerned about legacy support. LX200s can be wonky.
Whats that box you have there? I need one. This is heavier than my dob lol
I have one for sale on eBay.. brand new.
수평계를 놓은 자리가 어디인지 궁금합니다
Is a SCT of the same diameter as a Classical Cassigrain better?
Ed, im trying to figure out what the difference is in the cpc 1100 deluxe hd ota and the edge HD 11 ota...the pricing structure doesn't make sense.
The Edge version has additional corrective optics. The differences are mainly seen in imaging.
@@edting thank you...your channel is great!
Ed, i bought a 5 inch bresser dobsonian and waiting for it, is this a stupid purchase or a good way to start? My budget was limited.
Those are OK. The main problem with any table-top style telescope is finding something sturdy to set it on. You need to get the eyepiece up to eye level, and you need to be able to walk around the scope. Everyone has this issue, so you're not alone. Good luck!
@@edting thank you Ed
Darn if I try to pickup the scope like that I would be lying on my bed for two weeks with pain killers and muscle relaxers 🤣🤣🤣🤣
Do Celestron's dual-fork mounts have slow-motion controls?
@@msroper5287 How limiting. If the mount's electronics ever fail, the mount is inoperable?
Ed, i had the CPC1100, you may have overlooked the second handle on the other fork arm which is at the bottom of the arm where it meets the base. When i watched your right
hand grasping for some grip as you lifted it i was cringing thinking it would fall for sure.
Hi thanks. Yes, I found the recessed handle! (There should be a text graphic to that effect on the video).
@@edting Your scope videos are fantastic, I have only discovered them recently, your professionalism and the fact you cover all bases is so valuable to one who may be buying a scope. I’ll have to admit, even as an experienced amateur of 20 years, whether I’m buying a scope or not it’s just plain fun to hear about them.
Ha, thanks for your nice comments. Hopefully I get it right (or close to it) once in a while...
@@edting do you think this telescope is worth it if it has the alt azmith mount but no tripod and costs $1000 used?
I would be using it to view moon and planets and later astrophotography with an equatorial mount. My daughter actually showed an interest in viewing nebulae if I purchased it but her interest would be secondary as I'm not sure she would continue.
Also, there is heavy chemtrailing here in Phoenix Az and I am not sure i want to spend 1000 plus with filters and extra eyepieces if I won't be able to see much.
@@discernment7471 I'd say it is more than worth it with the following caveat... make sure NOTHING is wrong with the optics or the drives and all associated components... ie:hand controller and electronics! (edit) Even with that said for just a 11" Celestron optical tube you are looking at about 2200$ for the base model. So if the mount works too.... Bazinga!! Bargain city!
is this good for an apartment balcony?
Putting a cpc on the tripod is easy, trying to mount and unmount on a wedge is precarious
I had one of these. Long term be aware the power switch can become faulty and if using the power port for external battery is prone to stress from cord wrap.
It's a great planet killer and typical advantages of SCTs for sub half degree targets.
i just inherited one of these, and another telescope. but the other one is massive. however i am ignorant to scopes. ive alays wanted to go over to my dads house and soak up as much knowledge as i could. but its too late now. rather ironic in hindsight. but i need to learn as much as i can, i honestly dont even know what all i have. i have many different "eye pieces" and a few boxes of (probably) every filter known to man. i really want to use this thing and show my kids some neat things. but i am completely ignorant to telescopes and the various jargon that goes along with it. all i know right now, is that this is the exact scope and mount that i have. i just need to know how to use it properly. does anyone have any directions in which to point me so i can get started? please help if you can. thank you in advance.
Hi, this is the kind of thing that is very difficult to go in writing. If there is a local astronomy club near you, seek them out. There will almost surely be someone there who can walk you through this. Nice inheritance, by the way!
It like a R2D2 😄
As a body builder and athlete.. this is right up my alley. No offense but a lot of you astro guys are frail. I don't see any issue carrying this stuff around, personally.
Hi where can you get the cpc series.?
What does the wedge do?
It converts it into an equatorial mount.
65 pound OTA
LOL
Watch your back!