Celestron Deluxe Off-Axis Guider - Precision Guiding for Astroimaging

In this review the Celestron Deluxe Off-Axis Guider is examined as a precision accessory for serious astroimagers using Schmidt-Cassegrain and EdgeHD telescopes. The bottom line: this guider is for photographers who need the most accurate way to guide without the differential flexure of a separate guide scope. Its 12.5mm multi-coated prism and 48mm clear aperture deliver a bright pickoff and support full-frame imaging while included adapters simplify spacing for DSLR and common CCD cameras. Expect improved guiding precision and tighter, rounder stars when used with compatible setups.

Key Features

• Prism pickoff: The 12.5mm multi-coated prism with aluminized backing provides maximum reflectivity to the autoguider, producing a bright guide star for accurate corrections.
• Large aperture: The 48mm clear aperture supports full frame cameras without vignetting, so the guider does not compromise the imaging field for most sensors.
• Fixed-orientation focuser: The helical focuser gives smooth, repeatable adjustments so the autoguider can be brought to precise focus quickly.
• Correct spacing adapters: Included adapters are sized for DSLR, Nightscape CCD and other common astroimaging cameras, ensuring the guider sits at the proper flange distance.
• SCT compatibility: Designed with Schmidt-Cassegrain and EdgeHD telescopes in mind, it integrates cleanly with longer focal length optical trains used for deep-sky imaging.

Who It's For

The Deluxe Off-Axis Guider is aimed at intermediate and advanced astrophotographers who use long focal length SCT or EdgeHD scopes and need the most accurate guiding possible for long exposures. It benefits anyone who wants to eliminate guide-scope flexure and achieve pinpoint round stars by guiding from the exact focal plane.

Less experienced users who want a plug-and-play solution might find the small field of view and the fiddly process of locating guide stars more challenging, and those needing extreme durability in every mechanical detail should be aware of some user reports about thumb screw breakage and mixed impressions of the focuser.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Accurate guiding by using a prism to sample the same focal plane as the imaging camera, reducing flexure errors.
• Large 48mm clear aperture that supports full-frame cameras without vignetting.
• Good build quality and a useful selection of adapters for DSLR and popular CCD cameras.

Cons

• Some users report mixed feelings about the helical focuser's feel and a few instances of broken thumb screws, which may affect perceived sturdiness.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The Celestron Deluxe Off-Axis Guider is a practical, well-spec'd solution for astrophotographers who need accurate guiding without a separate guide scope. It offers a large clear aperture, effective prism pickoff and helpful adapters that deliver value to SCT and EdgeHD users, though a few mechanical details could be more robust. For those prioritizing guiding precision and image quality, it is a worthwhile addition to an astroimaging toolkit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will this cause vignetting on full-frame cameras?
With its 48mm clear aperture the guider is designed to support full-frame cameras without vignetting in most setups.

Does it include spacing for common DSLR and CCD cameras?
Yes, the package includes adapters with the correct spacing for DSLR, Nightscape CCD and other popular astroimaging cameras.

Is it compatible with Schmidt-Cassegrain telescopes?
Yes, it is ideal for Schmidt-Cassegrain and EdgeHD telescopes and integrates with long focal length optical trains.