Quick Answer
For ultra-fast wide-field imaging, choose the Celestron RASA 8; for crisp, color-accurate views and imaging with more versatility, choose the Meade 115mm APO.
Speed vs. Precision: The Core Trade-off
The Celestron RASA 8 is built for speed. Its fast focal ratio lets you capture deep-sky images in seconds, making it ideal for short exposure sessions or when you want to gather lots of data quickly. The Meade 115mm APO, with its true triplet ED glass, prioritizes color correction and sharpness, delivering crisp, wide-field views that are also well-suited for imaging but at a slower pace.
Versatility: Imaging vs. Observing
The RASA 8 is a dedicated astrograph—it's designed for imaging, not visual observing. The Meade 115mm APO, on the other hand, is a traditional refractor that works beautifully for both observing and imaging, making it a more versatile choice if you want one scope for multiple uses.
How to Choose Between Them
- If speed is your priority: Choose the Celestron RASA 8. Its fast focal ratio captures deep-sky images in seconds, letting you build image data quickly and work around limited clear skies. Pair the RASA 8 with a sturdy mount like the included CGEM II to handle its imaging demands.
- If you want versatility: Choose the Meade 115mm APO. It excels at both visual observing and imaging, making it a great all-around telescope for those who want one scope for multiple purposes. Expect slower imaging sessions than the RASA 8—plan for longer exposures and more integration time.
- If you're just starting in astrophotography: The Meade 115mm APO is more forgiving and easier to set up for beginners. The RASA 8, while powerful, requires more experience to get the best results. Consider your comfort with collimation and camera setup before choosing the RASA 8.
Key Product Facts
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Meade Series 6000 115mm ED Triplet APO Refractor Telescope - 4507-00-05: The Meade Series 6000 115mm ED Triplet APO Refractor features a true triple-element design for crisp wide-field observing and imaging. The triplet APO design delivers excellent color correction and sharpness, making it ideal for high-contrast lunar, planetary, and deep-sky views and images.
Meade Series 6000 115mm ED Triplet APO Refractor Telescope - 4507-00-05
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Celestron 8" Rowe-Ackermann Schmidt Astrograph with CGEM II Equatorial Mount - 12020: The Celestron 8" Rowe-Ackermann Schmidt Astrograph (RASA) with CGEM II mount is designed to capture wide-field deep-sky images in only seconds. Its fast optical system lets you gather significant image data quickly, perfect for astrophotographers who want efficient imaging sessions or who image in light-polluted skies.
Celestron 8" Rowe-Ackermann Schmidt Astrograph with CGEM II Equatorial Mount - 12020
Who Should Buy Which?
Best for
- Astrophotographers who want ultra-fast wide-field imaging and are comfortable with a dedicated astrograph.
- Observers who want a high-quality refractor for both visual use and imaging.
Not for
- Those who need a single telescope for both visual observing and fast imaging—consider the Meade 115mm APO instead.
- Beginners who want a simple, forgiving imaging setup—the RASA 8's fast optics and dedicated design may be challenging.
