The new CGX was designed to better support your telescope for both visual and astro-imaging pursuits. Key design goals included a lower profile EQ head, which provides a more compact and therefore more stable setup; a better drive system; remote operation-friendly with home and limit optical sensors; easier polar alignment adjustments; and better cable management. In addition to that, Celestron made mechanical and ergonomic improvements throughout to make the mount sturdier, easier to use, and transport.

Features

The computerized mount holds a 55 lb load capacity. It contains worm wheels that are constructed with spring-loaded brass worm wheel and stainless steel worm gear that reduce friction and provide optimum gear mesh for heavier loads. The dual-fit dovetail saddle accepts both the wide, Losmandy/CGE style and the narrower Vixen/CG-5 style dovetails. The stainless steel counterweight shaft is used to accept 11 lbs. counterweights.

The two integrated handles on the mount allow for easy pickup and transport. The ergonomically designed dovetail clamping knobs help keep the OTA on securely. When polar aligning the mount, the latitude adjuster allows for smooth and easy adjustment under full loads and there is an optional add-on polar axis finderscope for better results. The adjustable EQ head position optimizes the center of gravity over the tripod and fully utilizes the increased 3-65 latitude range making the mount sturdier with a quicker dampening time. The mount allows for +20 of additional tracking past the meridian on either side.

Motor

Improved motors provide more torque and tracking under heavy loads and the heavy duty belt-drive system minimizes backlash while providing smooth motor operation at full capacity. The mount has internal cabling for worry-free remote operation. Power input and lower accessory ports remain stationary while the mount slews to avoid snags.

Internal Sensors

There are two internal optical sensors for simple and safe remote operation. The Home sensor allows the mount to always start in the index position regardless of orientation before a power reset and the Limit sensor automatically shuts off slewing or tracking before reaching the hard stop fail safe. The internal hard stops for both axes prevent cable tension and tripod strike.

New Software

The mount includes control software developed in conjunction with PlaneWave Instruments for professional level control operation and imaging. Software includes the multi-point mount modeling for extremely precise pointing accuracy and many more additional features for remote astroimaging.

Electronics

The mount comes with two Aux accessory ports and an autoguider port. NexStar+ hand control with USB port tells you much about the night sky with a press of a button. The USB 2.0 port is used to connect directly to the PC with PWI Software. The mount is PPEC ready. There is a threaded 12VDC power input barrel connector for added comfort and an Internal Real Time Clock which saves time and site information. The mount supports WiFi and wireless operation accessories which are sold separately.

Tripod

The 2″ stainless steel tripod legs have a wider stance for improved stability under heavy loads. Tripod legs can be collapsed with accessory tray installed for faster setup and transport. The new accessory tray holds three 1.25 and two 2 eyepieces with an upright stand for your smartphone or other accessories.