Celestron RASA 6 Rowe-Ackermann Schmidt Astrograph – f/2.2 Imaging Power in a Compact Package
Celestron’s RASA 6 brings the blazing speed and razor-sharp resolution of Rowe-Ackermann Schmidt Astrograph optics to a compact, ultra-portable format. Weighing just 8.4 pounds and sporting a fast f/2.2 focal ratio, this 6" astrograph is a deep-sky imaging powerhouse designed for on-the-go astrophotographers and backyard imagers alike.
With its proven RASA optical design, the 6" model delivers professional-grade performance in a package small enough to travel with. Whether you're capturing wispy nebulae from a dark-sky site or building a wide-field imaging setup in your backyard, the RASA 6 makes it faster and easier to produce stunning results—no matter where the night takes you.
Ultra-Fast f/2.2 Optics for Rapid Deep Sky Imaging
At the heart of the RASA 6 is Celestron’s proprietary f/2.2 optical system, engineered to dramatically reduce exposure times. Compared to conventional telescopes, this blazing-fast design allows you to collect more light in less time, making it easier to image faint deep-sky targets like emission nebulae, galaxies, and globular clusters—even under less-than-ideal conditions.
Shorter sub-exposures also mean you can often ditch the autoguider altogether. With a capable equatorial mount, the RASA 6 allows you to achieve crisp, detailed results with minimal fuss. Live-stacking software can turn your setup into a near real-time imaging machine—perfect for public outreach, EAA (Electronically Assisted Astronomy), or simply enjoying your data as it's captured.
Advanced Optics with Sub-Arcsecond Resolution
Despite its modest aperture, the RASA 6 delivers performance that rivals—and often exceeds—much larger and more expensive refractors. A key feature is its ability to produce sub-arcsecond star images across a flat, well-corrected field. When paired with a high-resolution CMOS camera and good sky conditions, the RASA 6 can reveal intricate structures within galaxies and diffuse nebulae, offering a level of detail that belies its size.
The optical design accommodates sensors up to 22mm diagonal, making it an ideal match for most popular one-shot-color and mono astro cameras. The result is a generous 3.8° field of view—perfect for framing large targets like the North America Nebula, the California Nebula, the Heart and Soul, or even sprawling star fields along the Milky Way.
Trusted by the Pros—Now in Your Hands
Originally introduced in 2014, the Rowe-Ackermann Schmidt Astrograph line has become a go-to tool for satellite tracking, near-Earth object detection, and advanced astroimaging by professionals and government agencies alike. The RASA 6 continues this legacy by offering the same optical excellence in a format and price point accessible to amateur astronomers.
This isn’t just a fast telescope—it’s a serious scientific instrument capable of producing observatory-quality results, whether you're imaging for art, science, or both.
Precision Engineering, Premium Coatings
The RASA 6 employs a sophisticated optical layout including a Schmidt corrector plate, high-precision spherical primary mirror, and a rare-earth glass three-element lens group—all optimized for pinpoint star images and flat-field performance.
Celestron's StarBright XLT coatings are applied to all optical surfaces, maximizing light throughput and enhancing image contrast. These coatings ensure you capture the most light possible across the visual and near-infrared spectrum, preserving subtle structures and delicate gradients in your final images.
Built-In Flexibility and Smart Features
Celestron didn’t just design a telescope—they engineered a complete imaging platform. The RASA 6 comes loaded with features that make imaging easier, cleaner, and more reliable.
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Filter Drawer System: Accepts 1.25" and 2" filters and includes a removable 2" clear optical window. Easily swap filters without disrupting your setup or adding optical path errors.
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Cooling Fan: A quiet 12V MagLev fan brings the system down to ambient temperature quickly while minimizing dust intake—ideal for night-to-night thermal stability.
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Camera Adapter Included: The M42-threaded adapter offers broad compatibility with many popular astronomy cameras and accessories.
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CG-5 Dovetail Bar: Mounts easily to any standard Vixen-style saddle, ensuring compatibility with most equatorial mounts on the market.
Recommended Accessories
To get the most out of your RASA 6, consider pairing it with these Celestron accessories (sold separately):
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Celestron Focus Motor: Enables remote, computer-controlled focusing with pinpoint precision.
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6” Dew Shield or Dew Ring: Prevents moisture build-up on the corrector plate during long imaging sessions.
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RASA 6 Padded Carry Bag: A dedicated, form-fitting soft case to protect your scope during travel and storage.
Performance That Outpaces Refractors
In terms of light grasp, focal speed, and resolution per dollar, the RASA 6 is in a class of its own. Compared to similarly priced refractors—many of which top out at f/5 to f/7 and require expensive flatteners—the RASA 6 offers greater sensitivity, faster results, and superior imaging potential for wide-field deep-sky work.
If you're looking for a second scope to complement your long focal length rig, or if you're ready to jump into astrophotography with a system that delivers breathtaking results from day one, the RASA 6 should be at the top of your list.
In Summary
The Celestron RASA 6 Rowe-Ackermann Schmidt Astrograph is the ideal fusion of speed, performance, and portability. Its ultra-fast f/2.2 optics make deep-sky imaging faster and more accessible, while its compact footprint and smart design features make it easy to transport, set up, and adapt to your imaging workflow.
Whether you're a seasoned astrophotographer looking for a wide-field solution or a beginner ready to capture stunning deep-space images without long hours of tracking, the RASA 6 opens the door to a universe of creative potential.
