Celestron G-9 1/4 Telescope

What a shame that Celestron neglects this scope, or that amateurs overlook this scope! This telescope consistently has above average optics (by numerous reviews including my own) with a very manageable tube weight and size. Apparently it uses a different optical formula than most other Schmidt-Cassegrains, as the tube is a bit longer in proportion to it's diameter than others of the same type. Also, the primary mirror is aspheric as opposed to spherical on other SCT's, giving better overall correction. Accessories included are a 25mm SMA (kellner type) eyepiece, 6 x 30 finderscope, 1 1/4" star diagonal. The CG-5 mount came with a free dual axis drive corrector when I bought it, but I'm not sure whether that was a temporary deal or not. I have several scopes from 4" to 14", and this is the one I use the most. The image sharpness is superb with nice contrast (as good or beating my 7" mak depending on the object) and the light gathering ability is noticeably better than 8" scopes. The tube assembly has a dovetail bar for mating to the supplied mount, and is very easy to lift for assembly as it is pretty light. I can't think of a better all around set of optics than this telescope, as it performs well on planets, double stars, galaxies and nebulas. I bought mine for the silly price of 1299.00 with the equally silly CG-5 mount, but sent the mount packing and now use it on Celestron's excellent CI-700 mount. The CG-5 mount would probably work ok, considering the optical tube weighs about 19 lbs, but it really needs a better tripod or pedestal. There are a couple of aftermarket vendors that have hardwood legs for the mount (Hands on Optics is one), and Ken Dauzat(listed in astromart.com) makes some really neat items for the CG-5 mount as well. with the shortcomings of the mount in mind, you won't be sorry with this purchase!