Celestron CGEM II 800 EdgeHD 8″
$3399 price checked August 2026
If you want a telescope protected against drops and spills from day one, this is the one to price-check.
What the CGEM II 800 EdgeHD Is, and Who For
The Celestron CGEM II 800 EdgeHD 8″ is for the serious amateur seeking high-magnification planetary observation, as its 8-inch aperture meets the threshold for resolving the Cassini division.
Telescope tracking errors and periodic errors can ruin long-exposure photography by causing stars to trail across the frame. Precise movement is essential for capturing deep-sky targets without distortion.
The Celestron CGEM II 800 EdgeHD 8″ provides a stable platform for these observations, featuring a 5.5-pound weight that balances portability with stability. This model ensures consistent tracking for high-magnification work.
We evaluated the other schmidt-cassegrain telescope options we compared to select this model. This review is for upgraders looking for a more capable system than their current entry-level SCT.
How RecommendedOptics picked: we started from the 42 most-reviewed schmidt-cassegrain telescope listings in our retail dataset, removed duplicates, accessories and off-category products, and 6 qualified. This product is one of 5 from that pool chosen for a full review. Our scores blend buyer satisfaction (60%), price position against comparable products (25%) and rating volume (15%). Specifications come from manufacturer listings and ratings from verified Amazon buyer reviews (data checked August 2026).
The Short Answer on the CGEM II 800 EdgeHD
Best for: you need a high-magnification system for planetary observation and deep-sky imaging that requires a compact footprint.
The Celestron CGEM II 800 EdgeHD is the recommended choice at $3399.
- Pro: The EdgeHD optics provide superior coma correction for wide-field imaging.
- Pro: The 8-inch aperture meets the threshold for resolving the Cassini division and small lunar craters.
- Pro: It includes 24/7 access to experts for setup and troubleshooting.
- Con: The 8-inch aperture is smaller than the 11-inch to 14-inch SCT reference tier used for large-scale deep-sky targets.
- Con: The weight of 5.5 pounds requires a stable mount to prevent tracking errors during long-exposure photography.
Don’t buy this if: you require a focal ratio wider than f/10 or an aperture larger than 8 inches for large-scale deep-sky targets.
Price assessment: The $3399 price point is a premium investment for the specialized EdgeHD optical system.
RecommendedOptics score: 6.1/10 (data-driven – see “How we picked” above)
You can also see which models are the best schmidt-cassegrain telescope for deep space in our dedicated guide.
Remote operation is easier when you compare the best schmidt-cassegrain telescope with Wifi options available.
The Numbers on the Spec Sheet
| Brand | Celestron |
| Model | CGEM II 800 EdgeHD |
| Aperture | 8″ |
| Item Weight | 5.5 pounds |
| Product Dimensions | 13.78 x 13.78 x 13.78 inches |
| Model Number | 12017 |
The 8″ aperture on the CGEM II 800 EdgeHD is the specific size required to resolve the Cassini division and small lunar craters.
Before You Buy: CGEM II 800 EdgeHD Checklist
The first thing to check is your setup’s weight capacity and your ability to transport the unit once fully assembled.
- ☐ Confirm the total weight—the CGEM II 800 EdgeHD weighs 5.5 pounds.
- ☐ Verify your power source—check the manufacturer’s requirements for external power supply cables.
- ☐ Measure your storage space—ensure you have room for the telescope and its associated mount.
- ☐ Budget for support—note that Asurion coverage requires purchase within 30 days of the telescope.
- ☐ Check your shipping needs—verify if you require the included shipping for parts or labor.
You should not buy this product if you require a telescope that is lighter than 5.5 pounds for extreme portability.
Performance in Practical Terms
Rapid Claim Approval Process
The Rapid Claim Approval Process allows you to receive a replacement or Amazon e-gift card within minutes of filing. Because most claims are approved this quickly, you can minimize downtime when a component fails during your observation sessions.
Extended Malfunction Coverage
Extended Malfunction Coverage begins immediately after the manufacturer’s warranty expires. This ensures your CGEM II 800 EdgeHD remains protected against hardware failures long after the initial purchase period ends.
Expert Troubleshooting Access
Expert Troubleshooting Access provides you with 24/7 support for setup, connectivity issues, and troubleshooting. You can reach specialists at any hour to resolve technical hurdles, ensuring your telescope remains functional for scheduled viewing.
Regarding tracking accuracy for long exposures, the data does not specify a periodic error rate or tracking accuracy value. You should check the manufacturer’s technical documentation for the specific arcseconds of tracking error to ensure it meets your requirements for deep-space imaging.
How the CGEM II 800 EdgeHD Compares to Alternatives
The CGEM II 800 EdgeHD provides the highest-rated performance in this group with a 4.5 rating from 4 buyers.
- The CGEM II 800 EdgeHD costs $3399, which is $400 more than the Celestron NexStar Evolution 8 EdgeHD.
- The NexStar Evolution 8 EdgeHD offers a 3.8 rating compared to the 4.5 rating of the CGEM II 800 EdgeHD.
- The NexStar Evolution 8 WiFi is priced at $1699, meaning the CGEM II 800 EdgeHD costs $1700 more than that model.
- The Celestron Advanced VX 8″ Schmidt-Cassegrain Telescope WiFi Kit also costs $1699, placing the CGEM II 800 EdgeHD $1700 above it in price.
- The Celestron NexStar Evolution 6 150mm f/10 is the most affordable option at $1199, costing $2200 less than the CGEM II 800 EdgeHD.
The CGEM II 800 EdgeHD uses EdgeHD optics to provide a wider field of view and better coma correction than standard SCT designs. While standard Newtonians of the same size offer a simpler optical path, the EdgeHD system provides a more compact form factor for the same aperture. You should check the specific optical path diagrams in the user guide to see how the EdgeHD design handles wide-field imaging compared to a standard Newtonian.
If you prefer a lower entry price over the highest-rated performance, the Celestron NexStar Evolution 8 EdgeHD is the better pick for your setup.
If you need a more automated experience, view our full NexStar Evolution 8 review for more details.
What the Price Buys
The Celestron CGEM II 800 EdgeHD sits $1540 above the $1859 average for the similar schmidt-cassegrain telescope products we compared. At the $3399 price point, you are paying for the EdgeHD optics and the CGEM II mount, which provide superior coma correction and tracking stability compared to entry-level SCTs. You give up the lower price point of the $1199 to $2999 range, but you gain a system that meets the professional and serious amateur benchmark for large-scale deep-sky targets.
This telescope is the right buy if you require a high-end system where the risk of accidental damage is mitigated by the included protection plan. The plan covers drops, spills, and cracked screens due to normal use from day one, including incidents that occur during setup. If you are upgrading from a standard SCT and prioritize long-term protection for high-end optics over a lower initial cost, this configuration provides that security.
Where this sits in the buyer data: Among the 5 products screened for this category, this one’s 4.5 rating places it #1, on 4 ratings – below the 175-rating median of that group, so treat the average as less settled than its comparables. On price it undercuts 0 of them.
Questions Buyers Ask About the CGEM II 800 EdgeHD
What happens to my investment if a major mechanical part fails after the standard warranty expires?
The plan provides no additional cost for repairs, parts, labor, or shipping for covered incidents after the manufacturer’s warranty ends. You receive a replacement or an Amazon e-gift card for the purchase price of the covered product if a malfunction occurs.
Is the CGEM II 800 EdgeHD worth the $3399 price point for an upgrader?
The CGEM II 800 EdgeHD is a significant investment that provides 24/7 access to experts for setup and troubleshooting. You gain peace of mind through a plan that covers drops and cracked screens from the date of purchase.
Does the CGEM II 800 EdgeHD include a protection plan?
Yes, the plan covers drops, spills, and cracked screens due to normal use from day one. Most claims are approved within minutes of the online or phone filing process.
How long does it take to get a replacement if the CGEM II 800 EdgeHD is damaged?
Asurion typically approves most claims within minutes of the filing. The plan covers the purchase price of the product for non-repairable items like cracked screens.
Make sure to evaluate the weight for Schmidt-Cassegrain telescopes before making your final purchase.
Is the CGEM II 800 EdgeHD Right for You?
The CGEM II 800 EdgeHD suits 5 kinds of buyer and is the wrong choice for 3 jobs, listed below with the reason for each.
Who the CGEM II 800 EdgeHD is for, and what it does well
Who the CGEM II 800 EdgeHD suits
- Amateur astronomers — the 8-inch aperture provides high-quality views of deep-sky objects
- Astrophotography hobbyists — the EdgeHD optics provide flat-field views for imaging
- Retirees with high disposable income — the $3399 price point reflects a premium, high-end optical system
- Serious backyard observers — the CGEM II mount provides the stability needed for heavy 8-inch tubes
- Tech-savvy stargazers — the 24/7 expert support for connectivity and setup ensures a smooth learning curve
What the CGEM II 800 EdgeHD handles well
- Deep-sky imaging — the EdgeHD optical design provides a flat field of view
- Planetary observation — the 8-inch aperture provides high magnification and resolution
- Long-exposure photography — the CGEM II mount provides stable tracking for heavy telescopes
- Remote troubleshooting — 24/7 access to experts ensures connectivity issues are resolved quickly
- Risk-free ownership — the coverage for drops and cracked screens provides peace of mind during outdoor use
What the CGEM II 800 EdgeHD is the wrong choice for
- Portability-focused travel — the 8-inch Schmidt-Cassegrain design is heavy and difficult to transport
- Beginner-level budget shopping — the $3399 cost is significantly higher than entry-level telescopes
- Rapid-fire setup for novices — the complexity of the CGEM II mount requires expert support for initial configuration
What to budget alongside the CGEM II 800 EdgeHD, and what to skip
Worth buying at the same time
- High-speed internet connection — required for the 24/7 expert support and connectivity troubleshooting
- Power supply — required to operate the CGEM II motorized mount
- Barlow lens — needed to achieve high magnification for planetary viewing on an 8-inch tube
- Astronomy software — needed to coordinate with the mount for tracking and alignment
- Protective carrying case — needed to prevent the drops and spills covered by the protection plan
What you can skip
- Basic repair kit — no additional cost for repairs or parts is required under the plan
- Extended shipping insurance — shipping is covered as part of the protection plan
- Basic troubleshooting guide — 24/7 expert access covers the need for manual-heavy setup
To understand the various designs, learn about the types of Schmidt-Cassegrain telescopes we have analyzed.
Where to Buy the CGEM II 800 EdgeHD
These retailers sell Schmidt-cassegrain Telescope generally – we do not track which of them has this particular model in stock, so check availability and the current price with the retailer before making a trip.
- Adorama (online only) — extensive inventory and shipping options
- High Point Scientific (online only) — specialist staff and technical expertise
- B&H Photo Video (online and physical stores) — wide selection and reliable shipping
- Amazon (online only) — broad selection and customer reviews
- Walmart (online and physical stores) — physical store availability and easy returns
- Best Buy (online and physical stores) — in-store returns and hands-on viewing
For those with limited storage, find the best schmidt-cassegrain telescope for small spaces here.
Final Verdict on the CGEM II 800 EdgeHD
If you are upgrading from a standard SCT and require the corrected field of view provided by EdgeHD optics, the Celestron CGEM II 800 EdgeHD is the correct choice at $3,399.
The CGEM II 800 EdgeHD ranks first in our comparison for its 5.5 pounds of weight, providing a portable high-magnification solution that meets the f/10 focal ratio standard for planetary observation.
Skip it if: You require a larger aperture than 8 inches to resolve the Cassini division or if you need a telescope with a larger primary mirror than this model provides.
Where to go next in our Schmidt-cassegrain coverage
- Choosing the Best Schmidt-Cassegrain Telescope for Easy Setup
- The Schmidt-Cassegrain Telescopes That Work Best for Deep Space
- Which Schmidt-Cassegrain Telescope Is Best for Small Spaces?
- Best Schmidt-Cassegrain Telescope with Wifi
- Schmidt-Cassegrain Telescopes for Planetary Viewing Compared
- Which Schmidt-Cassegrain Telescope Is Best for Deep-Sky Astrophotography?