Project: Night Skies Telescope
Celestron CPC1100 11-inch telescope
Estimated Cost $4,000
We are in the process of enhancing a “Night Sky Program” at Great Basin National Park so that it will rival any similar offerings across the country. The night skies are so dark that the stars are distinct points of light, the Milky Way is seen at its very best, and the moon can be so bright that it hurts your eyes.
The National Park staff has the interest and expertise to share the wonders of science and myth that are offered in the planets, constellations and other heavenly bodies. However, we need additional instrumentation, and several good telescopes to demonstrate what we have. In the past, volunteer astronomers have offered the use of their telescopes, and we plan to continue in this manner. By having several telescopes permanently located at the Park, we can expand our programs and reach more park visitors.
The versatile Celestron SCT 11" telescope is ideal for viewing the Moon, planets, and deep space objects. With Celestron's "SkyAlign" technology, this telescope is computer controlled, takes about 20 minutes from out-of the box to alignment and ready to use. The handheld computer database (included) comes with thousands of objects in which the telescope will guided to with the press of a button. The unit weighs 65 lbs and is the same type equipment that is used at Bryce Canyon NP’s successful night sky program
We intend to purchase the Celestron SCT 11" telescope, as this would be ideal for park night programs. This telescope is versatile in viewing the Moon, planets, and deep space objects. This telescope is computer controlled and takes about 20 minutes from out-of the box to alignment and ready to use. With Celestron's "SkyAlign" technology this telescope would be easy to train anyone to use it. The handheld computer database (included) comes with thousands of objects in which the telescope will guided to with the press of a button. The unit weighs 65 lbs and is the same type equipment that is used at Bryce Canyon NP successful night sky program. The estimated cost for each of the elements are as follows:
- Celestron CPC1100 11inch Alt/Az mounted telescope. ~ $2,800
- MI Hard Case for CPC1100 ~ $500
- This is hard case that would hold the CPC1100 telescope assembly.
- Dew shield for CPC1100 ~ $35
- Dew shield is used to keep any moisture off the main collector glass.
- Celestron Power Tank 17 ~ $90
- This power unit would be able to provide power to the telescope for 17 amp hours (8-12 hours of continuous use)
Total Price ~$4,000 with shipping
