CPC Deluxe HD Powered by PrimaLuceLab
Observatory-Class Imaging with the Convenience of a Fork-Mounted Design
Imagine viewing Saturn's rings through an eyepiece, capturing detailed images of Jupiter, and revealing distant galaxies and nebulae through long-exposure astrophotography all in one night—with one telescope.
The CPC Deluxe HD Powered by PrimaLuceLab makes it possible. Combining Celestron's acclaimed EdgeHD optics and computerized CPC Deluxe fork mount with advanced PrimaLuceLab automation technology, this powerful platform supports visual observing, planetary imaging, electronically assisted astronomy (EAA), and long-exposure deep-sky astrophotography.
Featuring robotic focusing, automated alignment, field de-rotation, and optional onboard computing, these integrated systems transform a proven EdgeHD telescope into an all-in-one observing and imaging solution.
Whether you're upgrading from visual astronomy, expanding your imaging capabilities, or seeking an alternative to a traditional German equatorial mount, the CPC Deluxe HD Powered by PrimaLuceLab offers professional-level performance in a streamlined, easy-to-use design.
The Foundation: EdgeHD Optics & CPC Deluxe Mount
At the heart of every system is a Celestron EdgeHD optical tube, available in 8”, 9.25”, and 11” apertures.
Unlike conventional Schmidt-Cassegrain telescopes, EdgeHD corrects off-axis aberrations like field curvature and coma, producing a flat image plane across the entire field of view. The result is pinpoint stars from center to edge, whether you're observing visually or using a full-frame astronomy camera.
Each EdgeHD optical tube is paired with Celestron's CPC Deluxe dual-fork mount, engineered to provide the stability and tracking accuracy needed for both visual observing and advanced imaging. The mount drive train features a 6-inch brass gear, stainless steel worm gear, and both steel and nylon ball bearings. Precision DC servo motors deliver smooth, reliable tracking and accurate GoTo performance. The robust fork design minimizes vibration while maintaining excellent rigidity, creating a stable platform for the advanced imaging accessories included in the PrimaLuceLab system.
Choose the Aperture That's Right for You
CPC Deluxe 800HD Powered by PrimaLuceLab
The most portable configuration in the lineup, the 8” model offers an excellent balance of aperture, imaging capability, and portability. It’s ideal for observers who frequently travel to dark-sky locations.
CPC Deluxe 925HD Powered by PrimaLuceLab
Widely regarded as one of the most versatile Schmidt-Cassegrain optical designs ever produced, the 9.25” EdgeHD delivers exceptional contrast, excellent planetary performance, and increased aperture for deep-sky imaging.
CPC Deluxe 1100HD Powered by PrimaLuceLab
The largest system in the series provides maximum light-gathering ability and resolution. Ideal for advanced observers seeking greater reach into faint galaxies, nebulae, and high-resolution planetary imaging.
The ARCO Field De-Rotator: Deep-Sky Imaging Without Polar Alignment
No matter which optical tube you choose, one of the most innovative components in the CPC Deluxe HD Powered by PrimaLuceLab system is the ARCO field de-rotator, which addresses the primary challenge of alt-azimuth astrophotography: field rotation.
As an alt-azimuth mount tracks an object across the sky, the image orientation gradually rotates relative to the camera’s sensor. While this effect is often negligible during visual observing or short exposures, it becomes increasingly problematic during longer imaging sessions, causing stars to appear smeared or rotated across the frame.
ARCO continuously rotates the camera assembly in precise synchronization with the telescope's tracking motion, counteracting field rotation in real time. This allows the system to maintain a consistent image orientation throughout an imaging session while preserving the simplicity and stability of the CPC Deluxe's dual-fork mount design.
By eliminating the need for an equatorial wedge or German equatorial mount, ARCO enables deep-sky imaging without the added complexity of polar alignment. It also simplifies setup by allowing the telescope to mount directly onto the tripod, avoiding the awkward and often challenging process of lifting a fully assembled telescope onto a tilted wedge. You get the convenience of a fork-mounted telescope with the ability to capture extended exposures of galaxies, nebulae, star clusters, and other deep-sky objects.
Fully integrated with PrimaLuceLab PLAY software, ARCO operates seamlessly as part of the overall imaging workflow, allowing users to focus on acquiring data rather than managing equipment. For astronomers seeking a simpler path to advanced astrophotography, ARCO represents a unique solution that expands the capabilities of the CPC Deluxe platform well beyond traditional expectations.
ESATTO and SESTO SENSO: Precision Electronic Focusing
Achieving and maintaining critical focus is essential for high-resolution astronomical imaging. Even slight focus errors can reduce image sharpness, especially when capturing fine planetary detail or faint deep-sky objects. Since ARCO integrates with the telescope's focusing system to correct field rotation, it requires either an ESATTO robotic focuser or a SESTO SENSO robotic focusing motor. The CPC Deluxe HD Powered by PrimaLuceLab system offers both options, allowing users to choose the solution that best fits their observing and imaging goals.
ESATTO Robotic Focuser
For users focused primarily on astrophotography, the ESATTO robotic focuser provides the highest level of focusing precision and mechanical stability. Installed behind the telescope, ESATTO keeps the EdgeHD primary mirror locked during imaging, eliminating focus shift and mirror flop. Its rigid design enables highly accurate electronic focusing through the PLAY software. ESATTO also supports advanced features such as automated focusing routines and temperature compensation to maintain optimal focus throughout the night.
SESTO SENSO Robotic Focusing Motor
For users who regularly switch between visual observing and imaging, the SESTO SENSO motorized focus controller offers a flexible alternative. Rather than adding an external focuser, SESTO SENSO motorizes the telescope's native focusing mechanism, providing convenient electronic focus control while preserving the full focusing range of the optical system. This approach is especially useful for observers who frequently change accessories or alternate between eyepieces and cameras. Automated focusing and remote operation are supported, allowing precise focus adjustments without touching the telescope.
Note: Choose from ESATTO or SESTO SENSO for the 8” and 11” models. The 9.25” model uses ESATTO.
Unified Control with PLAY Software
Advanced astrophotography systems often require multiple software applications to control the telescope, camera, focuser, and other accessories. PLAY simplifies this experience by bringing the entire PrimaLuceLab ecosystem together in a single software environment.
PLAY serves as the central command center for the CPC Deluxe HD Powered by PrimaLuceLab system. Through one intuitive interface, users can control the CPC Deluxe HD telescope, electronic focusing, ARCO field de-rotation, camera operation, image acquisition, and automated imaging workflows.
PLAY also incorporates advanced tools, including plate solving, automated alignment, and live image stacking. Rather than constantly switching between multiple devices and applications, users can manage an entire imaging session from one unified interface.
Optional EAGLE Integrated Computing System
For astronomers seeking the highest level of integration and automation, the optional EAGLE system transforms the CPC Deluxe HD Powered by PrimaLuceLab into a self-contained imaging platform.
Mounted directly on the telescope, EAGLE combines an onboard Windows computer, intelligent power distribution system, USB connectivity, and advanced cable management into a single compact unit. The EAGLE Expansion Kit also includes a CompactGuide guide scope, along with the mounting hardware, balancing components, and cables required to integrate the system cleanly with the telescope. EAGLE eliminates much of the complexity typically associated with astrophotography setups, reducing cable clutter and simplifying equipment management.
Because the computer travels with the telescope, imaging devices remain connected and configured as a single integrated system. This approach minimizes setup time, improves reliability, and creates a cleaner, more professional installation for both portable and permanent observatory applications.
EAGLE also enables advanced automation and remote operation capabilities. Imaging sessions can be managed from a nearby location or remotely, allowing astronomers to monitor equipment, acquire data, and manage observing workflows without being physically at the telescope throughout the night. When paired with the expansion kit’s guide scope, EAGLE supports autoguided imaging for even greater tracking accuracy during long-exposure imaging sessions.
When combined with EdgeHD optics, ESATTO or SESTO SENSO focusing, ARCO field de-rotation, and PLAY software, EAGLE serves as the foundation of a fully integrated observatory-grade imaging system.
Optimized for Modern Astronomy Cameras
Today's astronomy cameras feature increasingly large sensors and smaller pixels, placing greater demands on optical performance and mechanical precision.
The combination of EdgeHD optics, CPC Deluxe mount, electronic focusing, field de-rotation, and integrated imaging control makes these systems exceptionally well-suited for modern astrophotography.
Compatible with a wide range of planetary, cooled CMOS, CCD, DSLR, and mirrorless cameras, the platform can be configured to support virtually any imaging goal.
Comprehensive Documentation and Learning Resources
The CPC Deluxe HD Powered by PrimaLuceLab includes extensive documentation written by PrimaLuceLab CEO Filippo Bradaschia, designed to help users get up and running quickly, whether they are new to astrophotography or expanding an existing imaging setup.
A dedicated installation and user manual, created specifically for the CPC Deluxe HD Powered by PrimaLuceLab system, provides step-by-step guidance through every stage of setup and operation. The manual covers telescope assembly, installation of PrimaLuceLab components, connecting accessories for visual observing and astrophotography, installing software and drivers, configuring the PLAY software environment, and completing your first imaging session under the night sky.
In addition to the system guide, users receive the individual manuals for each PrimaLuceLab and Celestron component, providing detailed reference information for advanced configuration and operation.
To help users develop their imaging skills, the package also includes Filippo Bradaschia's book, Explore the Universe Through Astrophotography: Capturing Pictures with Telescopes and PLAY Software. The book introduces core astrophotography concepts, image acquisition techniques, and image processing workflows, helping users build confidence as they progress from their first observations to more advanced imaging projects.
The Best of Both Worlds
Most telescopes excel at one thing. Altazimuth telescopes prioritize simplicity and ease of use, while German equatorial imaging systems enable long exposure times but often add complexity and a steeper learning curve.
The CPC Deluxe HD Powered by PrimaLuceLab brings you the best of both systems. It offers the intuitive experience and proven performance of a CPC Deluxe HD while incorporating sophisticated imaging technologies that dramatically expand what's possible. Whether you're enjoying a visual tour of the night sky or capturing deep-sky targets for hours at a time, the system adapts to the way you want to explore.