Reviews - Celestron CPC 1100 XLT Professional Computerized 11" Telescope w/ XLT StarBright Coating 11075 Reviews - CI-TS-CPC-11-11075-XLT

Author: Barney Myers , I am a computer expert. I have been involved in astronomy for over 15 years. , from West Leyden NY on Feb 28, 2008
Pros:  Superior 11" SCT optics with XLT coatings
Cons:  Bright red "power on" LED built into the power switch
Would recommend:  yes

Barney Myers wrote:

I looked at several dealers before deciding on Optics Planet, their customer support was outstanding, they handled all my questions. They also fixed a small shipping problem with a telescope accessory. The focus motor was not shipped with the order; when I brought this to their attention the motor was sent the next day from now on Optics Planet will be the only company I deal with for my telescope. The CPC 1100 GPS (XLT) is the finest astronomy instrument I've ever owned or used. Setting up the CPC 1100 is incredibly easy, when I first opened the box, I felt intimated by the size of the scope, and the telescope does weigh 65 pounds. However, after lifting it I immediately noticed one very curious thing: it seems to weigh much less then 65 lbs this is because, on one fork is a heavy duty, side mounted cabinet handle and on the opposite fork is a hand slot near the base of the fork. This design allows for correct posture when lifting and forces the telescope to your center of mass making ...
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Author: Randman from Great Falls MT on Nov 10, 2007
Would recommend:  yes

Randman wrote:

I just got it and let me tell all of you reading, it is fantastic! i looked at the hoarsehead nebula last night and the detail was amazing!

Author: Craig (verified customer) , Amateur astronomer for 30+ years, from Cedar Rapids, IA on Sep 1, 2007
Pros:  Rock solid, easy to align and use.
Cons:  Very heavy
Would recommend:  yes

Craig wrote:

If you want a computerized GoTo scope that is easy to set up and easy to use, with plenty of aperture, then this may be for you. The biggest drawback is the 65 lb weight. It is fairly easy to move short distances. I use a 2 wheel hand truck to move it to my backyard. The OTA with fork mount and drive base goes on the tripod easily after the initial "clean and jerk" that is needed to lift the massive scope. A "spotter" is recommended to help with this part. Moving this scope should be no problem with someone of reasonable strength and health. The GoTo function worked flawlessly 100 percent of the time. Initial GPS 3 star alignment took less than 5 minutes to perform. Collimation was "dead on" right out of the box. I have been an amateur astronomer for 30+ years and this scope impresses me!