Celestron 7" Advanced VX Maksutov-Cassegrain Telescope

Setting a new standard for intermediate level telescopes, the Celestron Advanced VX 700 Maksutov-Cassegrain has been designed specifically for viewing the Moon and planets in high contrast. This 7" Maksutov-Cassegrain optical tube combines with a sturdy Advanced VX equatorial mount and 2" stainless steel tripod to give users the ability to enjoy incredibly detailed views of our solar system including up-close looks at craters, maria, and other features of the lunar surface.

Astronomers living in heavily light polluted metropolitan areas will especially appreciate this telescope's ability to emphasize more contrast in celestial objects. In addition, because the entire system is easily disassembled into separate, lightweight, and manageable components, it's also optimal for transporting to remote dark sky locations.

Maksutov-Cassegrain Optical Design

Maks are catadioptric telescopes, an optical design that includes both a lens and a mirror. Light entering a Mak passes through the corrector lens to the primary mirror and back to a spherical secondary mirror before making its way to the eyepiece. Resulting images are bright, sharp, and are virtually free of chromatic aberration.

The Maksutov-Cassegrain’s optical design offers several unique benefits. Instead of a secondary mirror, the Mak features a “secondary spot” of reflective coating applied directly to the inside of the corrector plate. Because of this, the telescope does not require frequent collimation like a Schmidt-Cassegrain. Also, the secondary spot is significantly smaller than a traditional Schmidt-Cassegrain secondary mirror, giving the Mak its signature high-contrast views.

With Maksutov-Cassegrain telescopes, an important thing to remember is that, compared to a Schmidt-Cassegrain of the same aperture, the larger, heavier corrector plate of the Mak-Cass does not cool down and adjust to ambient air temperature as quickly. 

Advanced VX Computerized German Equatorial Mount & Tripod

Celestron's Advanced VX equatorial mount benefits from advanced technologies such as All-Star Polar Alignment, Celestron PWI telescope control software, SkyAlign, and permanently programmable periodic error correction (PPEC) in order to facilitate premium performance for smaller telescopes.

Both seasoned imagers and those just starting out with the hobby will be able to take advantage of the Celestron Advanced VX mount. The AVX mount can be easily transported to distant dark sky sites, providing veteran astrophotographers with all of the same conveniences of a larger observatory mount in a much lighter package. For those new to imaging, the Advanced VX will prove to be a reliable component of your astronomy gear, helping you along the way as you grow into an experienced astronomer.

The Advanced VX is the smallest of Celestron’s German equatorial mounts. With computerized GoTo capability, it automatically tracks objects as they move across the night sky. Ports for a hand controller, an autoguider, and 2 AUX cables for optional accessories are all included. The NexStar hand controller gives you instant access to all the functions your mount has to offer. Features like automatic slewing and menu descriptions provide all astronomers with the tools necessary to master this mount in only a few observing sessions, regardless of skill level. Furthermore, the Advanced VX mount comes with a 2" stainless steel tripod, impressive for its class, to provide an extra-wide stance for improved stability.

Payload Capacity

Accepting up to 30 lb. payloads, the Advanced VX has enough weight capacity to provide the 7" Maksutov-Cassegrain optical tube with a solid, dependable platform that can easily take on additional accessories such as StarSense AutoAlign, Focus Motor, a finderscope, and a camera. Celestron's payload capacity does not include the weight of the counterweights.

Dual Saddle Plate

In order to accommodate both CG-5 and CGE dovetails, as of early 2019, Advanced VX mounts now include a new dual saddle plate suitable for both styles. Switching between the two saddle plates is as simple as moving the hand knobs into a separate set of holes. Now you can use your Advanced VX mount not only with the 7” Mak, but virtually any optical tube within Advanced VX’s weight limit.

Celestron PWI Telescope Control Software

All current Celestron computerized telescopes include Celestron PWI (CPWI), the most advanced astronomy software suite provided with any consumer-grade telescope. Celestron’s experts co-developed CPWI with the engineers at PlaneWave Instruments. The result is an all-in-one solution offering you many of the same features used on PlaneWave’s observatory-class telescopes.

• Graphical planetarium interface with PointXP advanced mount modelling allows you to add 100 points to your alignment model for the most accurate pointing and tracking possible.
• Ideal for remote observatory setups: save and re-load your alignment and park your scope.
• Provides a complete ASCOM telescope interface to allow control of the telescope from third party software applications.

Starry Night Software

Also included with your purchase is a free download of Celestron’s Starry Night Special Edition Software. This advanced software by Simulation Curriculum offers detailed information about celestial objects and helps you plan your next observing or imaging session. The Special Edition software also includes telescope control via your PC.