Celestron's CGX GoTo EQ Mount Head improves on their venerable CGEM platform to provide users with a heavy-duty research-quality mount for large optical tube assemblies (OTAs), accessories, and imaging rigs. Engineered to carry a 55-pound payload, it has high-torque motors and heavy-duty belt-drive system to improve tracking stability and reduce backlash which enable it to smoothly and accurately track near- and deep-sky objects for long periods of time. Its Vixen/Losmandy dual dovetail saddle makes the mount compatible with most plates in use today.

The brain of the CGX EQ is the NexStar+ computer controller. Equipped with a database of 40,000 objects, including the planets, stars, nebulae, galaxies, and the complete Messier catalog, it can also be programmed with up to 100 user-defined objects and filters for custom lists. Its intuitive menu-driven user interface allows you to observe the heavens with nine slew speeds and three tracking rates, plus anti-backlash compensation and Permanent Periodic Error Correction (PPEC) for smoother movements in the motors and improved tracking over time. Features such as guided tours, extended information on 200 popular objects, and multiple alignment options make the NexStar+ controller easy to use for new users and experienced stargazers.

Motorized EQ Mount, 55 lb Payload    High-Torque Servo Motors and Belt Drive    NexStar+ Computer Hand Controller    Dual Vixen/Losmandy Dovetail Saddle    40,000-Object Database    Multiple Assisted Alignment Processes    9 Slew and 3 Tracking Rates    Guided Tours and Custom Object Filters    Backlash Compensation and PPEC    Mount Head Only

• German equatorial mount, when properly polar aligned, provides precise tracking on the Right Ascension axis allows the optical tube to follow objects without field rotation—making it ideal for astrophotography and imaging
• 55 lb payload capacity
• 3 to 65° latitude adjustment range
• 20° of additional tracking past the meridian provides greater usability
• Dual-axis servo motors with optical encoders for smooth tracking and quiet operation
• High-torque motors provide smooth tracking and slewing for heavy OTAs
• Internal belt-drive system provides smooth, vibration-free tracking while minimizing backlash
• Spring-loaded brass worm wheel and stainless steel worm gear reduce friction and improve gear meshing
• Limit sensors automatically shut off slewing or tracking before reaching the hard stop fail-safe
• Internal hard stops for both axes prevent cable tension and tripod strike
• Autoguider port for making corrections while astroimaging
• Dual Vixen/Losmandy dovetail saddle, compatible with CG-5 and CGE bars
• Long clutch levers make tightening and loosening of clutches easier for manual movement
• Internal "Real Time Clock" keeps time and site information saved when power is turned off
• Internal cables/wires for snag-free operation
• Runs on included 12 VDC, 4A car/vehicle power supply

Features:

• Intuitive menu-driven user interface
• Nine slew speeds: 2x, 4x, 8x, 16x, 32x, 0.3°/sec, 1.0°/sec, 2°/sec, 4°/sec
• Three tracking rates: Sidereal, Lunar, and Solar
• Anti-backlash correction: Trains out intrinsic play in gears for smoother movement and tracking
• Permanent Periodic Error Correction (PPEC): Improves tracking precision for long-exposure astrophotography and imaging

• Alignment options: One or Two-star, Solar system, Quick, and Last
• Sky Tour: Based on location, date, and time, the system shows the best objects in the sky and automatically slews to them
• Object info: Provides useful information about the selected object such as magnitude and constellation; includes extended information about 200 popular objects

• 2-line, 18-character LCD window with red backlighting for comfortable viewing without affecting night-adjusted vision
• 19 function keys, backlit in red
• Mini-USB port: Connect to a computer, for use with software programs for point-and-click slewing capability and updating firmware via PC

• 40,000-object database
• 400 user-defined objects for customization
• Filters for creating custom object lists
• Solar System: All seven planets plus the moon, sun, and Pluto
• Custom lists of all the brightest stars, double stars, variable stars, and asterisms
• Custom lists of all the best galaxies, nebulae, and clusters, as well as the complete Messier catalog and select NGC objects

Related Questions and Answers

Q: 1. Hi, I would be purchasing this for my grandson, he would want to be able to operate it manually, I didn't see that feature in its description, can it be operated manually?

A: You can operate manually through the remote with the arrow keys. As in physically maneuvering the scope it cannot be done. It would strip the gears. But you can adjust it yourself with that remote.

Q: 2. Can I use DSLR adapter?

A: Yes there is a way to connect a DSLR to this scope. I would need to know exactly which DSLR you have to recommend the proper adapters.

Q: 3. Can you use the accessory that lets you take pictures with your phone through the eye piece? I bought one intending to buy a cheaper scope but really like this telescope better.

A: You can use Celestron's Basic Smartphone Adapter to hold your smartphone directly up to your telescope's eyepiece to frame your subjects.

Q: 4. is there a solar filter for this scope?

A: Alpine Astronomical 115mm Baader AstroSolar White-Light Solar Filter for Spotting Scopes, Telescopes and Lenses BH #ALASSF115 • MFR #ASSF-115 https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1348149-REG/alpine_astronomical_assf_115_baader_astrosolar_spotter_filter.html

Q: 5. What is the optical tubes weight, off the tripod?

A: Celestron does not list the weight of the Celestron 114LCM 114mm f/9 Computerized GoTo Reflector Telescope BH #CE114LCM • MFR #31150 OTA only. The total weight, OTA, mount and tripod is 15 lbs.

Q: 6. What are the dimensions of the OTA and the mount? Looking for a case to carry the telescope as check in bag.

A: Unfortunately the Manufacturer only provides the Length of the Scope it's 24 . The Mount you could fit with the Tripod in the Lightware C6042 42 Cargo Case, Padded. Website link: https://bhpho.to/2llio5l

Q: 7. What is the weight limit on the racking mount?

A: That specific information is not published by Celestron The OTA is compatible with the mount. I have known customers to add APS-C camera bodies to the scope and mount without any problems.

Q: 8. The description does not describe the telescope, only the mount. Is the Celestron 8" Newtonian is included?

A: It comes with the telescope, the Optical Tube Assembly (OTA) There is very little information available on Celestron website. 8” (200mm) f/5 optical design provides excellent wide field views Parabolic primary mirror minimizes spherical aberration to produce a better image.

Q: 9. Does Celestron have an adapter that allows use of a Sony a7r?

A: No, please contact B&H Photo for a suitable adapter for your Sony a7r.

Q: 10. What all can you see using the 114 LCM ?

A: I am a poor person to ask. The telescope is, I am sure, a fine piece of equipment. The problem is not in the stars, but in me. I had hoped that this telescope would open my granddaughter to wonderment about the stars and planets. My first attempt was in the summer. I set the telescope up under a patio umbrella draped over with mosquito netting. I could not get the three points in the sky needed to fix the computerized instrument. I managed to undrape the netting and get tangled in a web of confusion. Granddaughter gets bitten by mosquito, but not bitten by the bug of exploration. I tried again in late Fall. Too late. We had to retreat for hot chocolate inside. Mistakes were made as our politicians are wont to say. Don't mess with something you know nothing about! as my college roommate would say. Be sure you have someone who can instruct you on how to use this tool.