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Whether you’re a novice stargazer taking your first steps in astronomy or a seasoned observer seeking to elevate your celestial exploration, choosing the right telescope can make a difference.
Among the plethora of options, the Celestron CPC 1100 StarBright XLT GPS stands out as a star performer, combining advanced technology with high-quality optics.
This review will take you on a journey through the ins and outs of this sophisticated instrument.
Celestron CPC 1100 StarBright XLT GPS in a nutshell
The Celestron CPC 1100 StarBright XLT GPS is an outstanding telescope that combines advanced features and excellent build quality to deliver an unparalleled stargazing experience.
This Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope is designed to meet the needs of both beginners and seasoned astronomers.
It employs StarBright XLT coatings for enhanced light transmission, ensuring bright, clear, and high-contrast views of various celestial objects.
Coupled with the GPS system for precise alignment and tracking, the CPC 1100 StarBright XLT GPS is an excellent telescope for observing objects across our solar system and beyond.
Celestron CPC Deluxe 1100 HD Computerized Telescope
The Celestron CPC Deluxe 1100 HD Computerized Telescope is an upgraded version of the classic CPC 1100 StarBright XLT GPS model. It offers an EdgeHD optical system designed to produce aberration-free images across a wide visual and photographic field of view.
This version maintains the light-gathering power of its predecessor but improves the optical performance and the user interface.
The additional HD feature renders it a suitable telescope for astrophotography, making it possible to capture clear, detailed images of bright celestial objects, the solar system, and even some deep sky objects.
Celestron CPC 1100 GPS XLT computerized telescope vs Celestron CPC Deluxe 1100 HD Computerized Telescope
While both telescopes have similar basic specifications, there are noticeable differences.
The CPC 1100 GPS XLT Computerized Telescope focuses on general stargazing and planetary viewing, offering excellent light-gathering power and the ease of a GPS system for quick alignment and tracking.
On the other hand, the CPC Deluxe 1100 HD Computerized Telescope takes these features and enhances them for astrophotography. The EdgeHD optical system reduces off-axis star coma, delivering sharp stars across a wider field of view.
If you’re passionate about astrophotography or want a telescope that leaves room for growth in this area, the Deluxe 1100 HD may be worth the additional investment.
What can I see with Celestron CPC 1100 StarBright XLT GPS?
You can see the following with the Celestron CPC 1100 StarBright XLT GPS:
The solar system
Using the Celestron CPC 1100 StarBright XLT GPS, you can observe various objects within our solar system with remarkable clarity. This includes our moon, with its numerous craters and valleys visible in great detail.
The telescope’s light-gathering power allows you to view planets such as Jupiter, along with its four major moons, and Saturn, with its beautiful ring system.
You can also spot Mars, Venus, and even distant Uranus and Neptune on a clear night.
Deep sky objects
The optical tube diameter and light-gathering ability of this telescope make it possible to observe famous deep-sky objects. This includes various nebulae, galaxies, and star clusters.
With good viewing conditions, you can view objects like the Andromeda Galaxy, Orion Nebula, Ring Nebula, Hercules Globular Cluster, and much more.
Bright celestial objects
The CPC 1100 StarBright XLT GPS can also observe variable stars and other bright celestial objects. Depending on the time of year and your location, you can observe numerous stars, double stars, and other luminous bodies.
Is Celestron CPC 1100 StarBright XLT GPS suitable for beginners?
The Celestron CPC 1100 StarBright XLT GPS is a remarkable telescope that caters to users of various experience levels, including beginners. The automated hand control and revolutionary SkyAlign alignment technology make it user-friendly and easy to set up.
The telescope can orient itself and, with the help of built-in GPS, align to the night sky when you input the date, time, and location.
However, the high price point and advanced features may be overwhelming for some beginners.
Is Celestron CPC 1100 StarBright XLT GPS good for astrophotography?
The CPC 1100 StarBright XLT GPS, with its impressive optical quality and advanced control, offers some astrophotography capabilities. The NexRemote telescope control software allows for precise tracking, which is essential for long-exposure astrophotography.
It also has auxiliary ports that can accommodate various accessories like a camera.
However, it is worth noting that the telescope’s Alt-Az mount is not the ideal choice for astrophotography, especially for exposures beyond a few minutes.
An equatorial mount or a wedge addition to convert the Alt-Az mount into an equatorial setup might be necessary for serious astrophotography.
You may also like: 15 Best Telescopes for Astrophotography (with camera)
Pros of the Celestron CPC 1100 StarBright XLT GPS
Here are some of the pros of this telescope:
High light-gathering power
Thanks to its large 11-inch aperture and the quality of the StarBright XLT coatings, this telescope can gather a considerable amount of light.
This feature enables the telescope to reveal detailed views of planets, deep-sky objects, and other celestial bodies.
The high light-gathering power can make a substantial difference in the details and clarity of the observed objects.
Revolutionary SkyAlign alignment technology
Celestron’s NexStar software technology, combined with the integrated GPS, simplifies the alignment process, even for novice stargazers.
With the revolutionary SkyAlign alignment technology, the telescope aligns itself with the night sky just by pointing it at three bright celestial objects.
The built-in GPS automatically downloads the date, time, and location, making the setup quick and simple.
High-quality optics with StarBright XLT coatings
The Celestron CPC 1100 employs a Schmidt-Cassegrain optical tube with StarBright XLT coatings. These coatings increase the light transmission, ensuring maximum brightness and detail in the observed images.
The unsurpassed optical quality due to the coatings provides excellent views, whether you’re observing solar system objects or deep sky objects.
Ease of use
Despite its advanced features, the CPC 1100 StarBright XLT GPS is relatively user-friendly. The motor control units provide quiet operation, and the hand control is simple to use, making the telescope accessible for users of different experience levels.
Furthermore, the telescope’s computerized hand control allows for auto two-star align, solar system align, and even the tracking of over 40,000 celestial objects, enhancing the user experience.
Cons of the Celestron CPC 1100 StarBright XLT GPS
Despite the many advantages of the Celestron CPC 1100 StarBright XLT GPS, there are a few drawbacks to consider:
Weighty
While it comes with a sturdy heavy-duty tripod, the weight and the size of the telescope can make transportation and setup challenging, particularly in remote locations.
This is a significant factor to consider if you plan to transport your telescope frequently.
Limited astrophotography capabilities
While this telescope has some astrophotography capabilities, as mentioned earlier, its Alt-Az mount limits long-exposure astrophotography.
Serious astrophotographers may need to invest in additional equipment, such as a wedge, to convert the mount into an equatorial setup.
High price point
The Celestron CPC 1100 StarBright XLT GPS is on the higher end of the price scale for consumer telescopes. This could be a limiting factor for beginners or those on a tighter budget.
Features of the Celestron CPC 1100 StarBright XLT GPS
The Celestron CPC 1100 StarBright XLT GPS comes packed with numerous features that make it a standout option for astronomy enthusiasts.
Here’s a look at some of its top features:
StarBright XLT optical coatings
One of the notable features of the Celestron CPC 1100 StarBright XLT GPS is its StarBright XLT optical coatings.
These multi-layer mirror coatings are made from highly reflective materials that significantly increase the amount of light captured, resulting in brighter, sharper images.
Schmidt-Cassegrain optical design
The telescope employs a Schmidt-Cassegrain optical design, a widely used design known for providing excellent optical performance in a compact package.
The design combines the best attributes of refractor and reflector telescopes, enabling high-quality, high-contrast views of celestial bodies.
Integrated GPS
The built-in GPS is a feature that enhances the usability of this telescope. With the GPS, the Celestron CPC 1100 can quickly and accurately identify its location and time.
This functionality simplifies the process of aligning the telescope, making it easier to locate and observe celestial objects.
NexRemote Telescope Control Software
To enhance the user experience, the Celestron CPC 1100 StarBright XLT GPS features a convenient remote hand control holder. This thoughtful addition allows you to go hands-free when using the telescope, providing a place to hold the remote while you’re observing securely.
This means you can adjust your telescope’s position or change viewing objects without needing to juggle the controller.
Motor control units and quiet operation
The DC servo motors provide accurate tracking and positioning of the telescope. They also ensure quiet operation, which is a desirable feature when observing in a quiet outdoor setting.
Altazimuth Mount with full computerization
This feature ensures that the Celestron CPC 1100 StarBright XLT GPS is capable of offering smooth, accurate tracking of celestial objects.
Once the telescope is properly aligned, the fully computerized system can take over, accurately pointing the telescope and following the apparent motion of the stars across the sky.
This is especially beneficial for long-exposure astrophotography, where precise tracking is paramount.
The dual fork arm design provides stability and strength to support the optical tube securely.
Redesigned robust tripod
The Celestron CPC 1100 StarBright XLT GPS has a newly designed, heavy-duty tripod that provides a stable observation platform.
Made of sturdy legs, this tripod can support the weight of the telescope even when it’s fully extended. The tripod leg diameter is 50.8mm.
User-centric design
The Celestron CPC 1100 StarBright XLT GPS has been designed with the user’s comfort and convenience in mind. The design allows for easy lifting and moving of the telescope from one location to another.
This is particularly important for those who frequently transport their telescope to dark sky sites. The ergonomic design reduces strain and makes the telescope easier to handle.
Periodic Error Correction
Periodic Error Correction (PEC) is an important feature incorporated in the Celestron CPC 1100 StarBright XLT GPS telescope. This technology helps to correct the periodic errors in the gears of the mount that may cause slight inaccuracies in tracking over time.
By recording and averaging out these errors, the PEC system enhances the precision of the telescope’s tracking, thus offering a smoother, more accurate observing and astrophotography experience.
NexStar+ Database
The NexStar+ Database is a noteworthy feature of the telescope’s software. It provides a comprehensive database of tens of thousands of celestial objects, offering users a vast choice of targets to observe.
This built-in database includes stars, galaxies, nebulae, and solar system objects, allowing you to effortlessly locate and explore the universe’s fascinating phenomena.
The user-friendly interface makes it easy for beginners to navigate the database and select their desired objects.
Celestron Starry Night Special Edition Software and SkyPortal App
The Celestron CPC 1100 StarBright XLT GPS telescope comes bundled with the Celestron Starry Night Special Edition Software and the SkyPortal App.
The Starry Night Special Edition Software is an advanced planetarium software that provides realistic simulations of the night sky, along with a wealth of information about celestial bodies.
It helps you plan your observing sessions, learn more about what they are observing, and even control their Celestron telescope from their computer.
On the other hand, the SkyPortal App turns your smartphone or tablet into a personal planetarium and telescope control system.
With a user-friendly interface and extensive database of celestial objects, SkyPortal enables you to align your telescope, select your target, and navigate the heavens with ease.
It is compatible with iOS and Android devices, making it accessible to a wide range of users.
Celestron CPC 1100 StarBright XLT GPS specifications
Here are the key specifications of the Celestron CPC 1100 StarBright XLT GPS:
| Specifications | Details |
| Optical Design | Schmidt-Cassegrain |
| Aperture | 279.4mm (11″) |
| Focal Length | 2800mm (110″) |
| Focal Ratio | f/10 |
| Mount Type | Altazimuth |
| Optical Tube | Aluminum |
| Light Gathering Power | 1593x |
| Limiting Stellar Magnitude | 14.7 |
| Secondary Mirror Obstruction | 95mm (3.75″) |
What magnification is Celestron CPC 1100 StarBright XLT GPS?
The Celestron CPC 1100 StarBright XLT GPS offers a wide range of magnification possibilities, largely dependent on the eyepiece being used.
With the included 40mm eyepiece, the telescope can reach a magnification of 70x.
However, with a different eyepiece, for instance, one with a lower mm rating, you could reach higher magnifications.
It’s crucial to note that a balance must be found between magnification and clarity, as higher magnification may lead to image degradation.
What is the focal length of Celestron CPC 1100 StarBright XLT GPS?
The Celestron CPC 1100 StarBright XLT GPS has a substantial focal length of 2800mm. This long focal length, coupled with its 11-inch aperture, makes the telescope highly suitable for detailed observations of both planetary and deep-sky objects.
How much does the Celestron CPC 1100 StarBright XLT GPS weigh?
The total weight of the Celestron CPC 1100 StarBright XLT GPS is 84 lbs (38.1 kg).
While this weight might seem considerable, it’s pretty standard for a telescope of this size and capability. The heavy-duty tripod ensures stability, which is crucial for clear, precise observations.
What accessories come with the Celestron CPC 1100 StarBright XLT GPS?
The Celestron CPC 1100 StarBright XLT GPS comes with a variety of accessories to enhance your stargazing experience.
Here is a closer look at each:
40mm eyepiece
The telescope comes with a 40mm eyepiece, which provides a relatively wide field of view. A larger eyepiece like this one is perfect for observing extended objects such as large nebulae, star clusters, or galaxies.
The 40mm eyepiece provides a lower magnification, which offers brighter images and a wider field of view, thus ideal for quick sky scanning or deep-sky object observation.
Accessory tray
An accessory tray is included in the telescope’s package. This feature, situated within the tripod, is designed for convenient storage of telescope accessories such as eyepieces, filters, or lens caps.
It offers quick access to these essentials while you’re observing, thus eliminating the need to fumble in the dark for them.
1.25″ star diagonal
The 1.25″ Star Diagonal that comes with the telescope allows for comfortable viewing, especially when observing celestial objects that are high in the sky.
The star diagonal makes it easier for the observer to look into the telescope, significantly reducing neck strain during lengthy observing sessions by directing the eyepiece to a 90-degree angle from the optical tube.
50mm 9×50 finderscope with bracket
The package includes a 50mm 9×50 finderscope along with a bracket. A finderscope is an essential tool for locating objects in the sky. It has a wider field of view than the main telescope and less magnification, which helps you navigate the night sky.
The 9×50 finderscope offers 9x magnification and a 50mm aperture for brighter and wider views, making it easier to pinpoint celestial objects before viewing them through your telescope.
Instruction manual
An instruction manual is also included, providing step-by-step guidance on how to set up and use the telescope. It’s an essential resource for beginners, helping them understand the various features and functionalities of the telescope and how to use them for the best viewing experience.
The bracket instruction manual is also a handy reference tool for experienced users, offering troubleshooting advice and maintenance tips to keep the telescope in top working condition.
FAQs about Celestron StarBright telescope
Let’s address some frequently asked questions:
Should I buy a used Celestron CPC 1100 StarBright XLT GPS?
Purchasing a used Celestron CPC 1100 can be a cost-effective way to acquire this high-quality telescope. However, it’s important to check the condition of the telescope thoroughly.
Pay particular attention to the optics, as scratches or mold can severely affect the viewing experience. Ensure the telescope’s mount and motor function smoothly.
What does the StarBright XLT coating do?
The StarBright XLT coating is a multi-layer mirror coating made from highly reflective materials. It increases the amount of light captured, which results in brighter, sharper images.
It is particularly effective when observing dim, deep-sky objects.
How does the GPS functionality improve my stargazing experience?
The integrated GPS in the Celestron CPC 1100 StarBright XLT GPS simplifies the process of aligning the telescope, a task that can be time-consuming and complex.
The GPS quickly and accurately identifies its location and time, making locating and observing celestial objects easier.
Does the Celestron CPC 1100 StarBright XLT GPS come with any warranty?
Celestron offers a limited two-year warranty for the CPC 1100 StarBright XLT GPS. This warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship but does not cover damage due to normal wear and tear, mishandling, or natural disasters.
Can the Celestron CPC 1100 StarBright XLT GPS Telescope be easily transported and set up in a different location?
While the CPC 1100 StarBright XLT GPS is somewhat heavy, it is still possible to transport and set up in a different location with some effort. It’s a good idea to have a plan for transport, such as a wheeled carrying case or a sturdy vehicle.
Does Celestron CPC 1100 StarBright XLT GPS Telescope require additional accessories?
The CPC 1100 StarBright XLT GPS has everything you need to start observing immediately. However, you might consider additional accessories depending on your specific needs and interests.
Additional eyepieces can provide different magnifications, and specialized filters can enhance contrast and detail when observing certain objects.
Takeaway: The Celestron CPC 1100 StarBright XLT GPS is a stellar choice for your stargazing sessions
If you are seeking a high-quality telescope for serious stargazing, the Celestron CPC 1100 StarBright XLT GPS should be on your shortlist.
Its combination of powerful optics, advanced features, and user-friendly design makes it a standout choice for both beginners and seasoned astronomers.
Its large aperture and high-quality StarBright XLT coatings provide excellent light-gathering power, allowing you to view bright celestial objects as well as fainter deep-sky objects.
The built-in GPS and advanced computerized hand control make finding these objects a breeze, even for beginners.
The Celestron XLT optical tube length is designed to offer an optimal balance between portability and light-gathering ability, making it an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced astronomers.
This telescope is undoubtedly an investment, but its robust features and powerful performance offer valuable returns for astronomy enthusiasts.
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