Grab and Go
The Celestron C5 is a 5" Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope with XLT Starbright anti-reflective coatings, delivering 1250mm of focal length at f/10 in a remarkably compact package weighing just 6 lbs. It serves as my dedicated "grab-and-go" portable telescope — the largest scope that fits on the iOptron Cube Pro mount's 8 lb payload limit.
Portability and Versatility
At under 6 lbs, the C5 can be mounted on lightweight alt-az mounts that would buckle under a larger telescope. Celestron markets it as a spotting scope, but functionally it operates as a fully capable telescope. It accepts standard 1.25" eyepieces ranging from 32mm down to approximately 6mm, and delivers nearly three times the focal length of the AT60ED.
Visual Observation
For visual astronomy, the C5 punches well above its weight. At 1250mm, it resolves detail in planetary nebulae, splits close double stars, and provides satisfying views of the Moon and planets. The XLT coatings deliver bright, contrasty images with minimal scatter.
Planetary Imaging
Paired with a ZWO ASI224MC camera, the C5 produces surprisingly detailed planetary and lunar images for its aperture:
The C5's compact form factor makes it ideal for nights when setting up the full EdgeHD 11" rig isn't practical. It's a genuine telescope disguised as a spotting scope — and at this focal length, it captures detail that surprises people who underestimate a 5-inch aperture.