Sky-Watcher Evostar ED72 refractors provide the finest images obtainable in their design class. These doublet refractors deliver dramatic, coal-black skies and faithful, contrast-rich views of planetary and deep-space phenomenon that are second to none. Sky-Watcher Evostar refractors are the logical choice for the discriminating amateur astronomer looking for an investment in advanced instrumentation for exceptional viewing and astrophotography, the focus position is designed for use with a camera.

This telescope is designed to be used as an astrograph, it short focal length make it ideal for imaging large star fields without the need for a large astronomical mount. However, we suggest the Skywatcher 0.85x Reducer / Corrector to flatten the wide field for better imaging results

It is also a perfect scope for Autoguiding with the addition of the ZWO ASI 120Mini Guider camera

FEATURES:

Specifications

Specifications

Celestron 8" F/2 RASA - Capture spectacular wide-field deep sky images in seconds with Celestron’s portable astrograph, the 8” Rowe-Ackermann Schmidt Astrograph (RASA). This incredibly fast f/2.0 system is the perfect companion to today’s color astronomical CMOS cameras, smaller CCD cameras, and mirrorless cameras. Thanks to its fast focal ratio and patented optical design, you can produce sharp, detailed images and, in many cases, skip the autoguider completely. Weighing in at just 17 pounds, it’s easy to transport your 8” RASA to the most remote dark sky locations.

RASA Performance Made for Everyone

The 8” RASA is an imaging telescope that delivers a flat field without optical aberrations for razor sharp stars across a wide field of view. It can capture stunning deep-sky astronomical images without the challenges typically presented by longer focal length instruments at a fraction of the cost of those systems.

The latest addition to the RASA family, this 8” version is a much more portable and affordable version of the heralded RASA 11, which was introduced to much acclaim in 2014. With the 8” RASA joining the lineup, a wider range of astroimagers can enjoy the benefits of the RASA design. It has many of the same thoughtfully designed features as its “big brother” RASA 11, including the integrated air-cooling system, internal filter mount, and sturdy CGE dovetail mounting bar.

Purely designed for imaging, the 8” RASA cannot be used visually. The prime focus focal plane is located at the front of the optical system, so it cannot accommodate a traditional eyepiece.

Shorter Exposure Times and Virtual “Real-Time” Observing

Since it is an F/2.0 optical system, imagers can use shorter exposure times to capture detail in faint objects. When combined with sensitive cameras and the proper “live stacking” software, the 8” RASA can provide an almost real-time observing experience. View images on a computer instantly that are brighter and more detailed than can be seen in much bigger telescopes with the naked eye.

Because shorter exposure times are possible, your equatorial mount won’t need to accurately track over extended periods. The 8” RASA’s relatively short 400mm focal length also lessens equatorial tracking demands. In many cases, autoguiding will not be required. Weighing only 17 lb, this optical tube pairs perfectly with a wide variety of mounts.

Ultra-Stable Focus System

With the launch of the 8” RASA, Celestron is unveiling a focuser design that mitigates lateral movement of the primary mirror when focusing, slewing, or tracking with the astrograph. Focusing is easier, more accurate, and more stable than ever. The key to the Ultra-Stable Focus System is two sets of precision bearings that are precisely aligned and tested during assembly to ensure optimal results.

Built for Today’s Latest Cameras

Unlike the larger RASAs that work with DSLR and large CCD cameras, the 8” model was designed with color astronomical CMOS cameras, smaller CCD cameras, and mirrorless cameras in mind. The telescope does not work with standard DSLR cameras. It is optimized for sensors with up to a 22mm diagonal, but performs well with sensors up to 32mm diagonal. The APS-C sized sensors used in many mirrorless cameras are a good choice. 42mm full frame sensors will also work, but performance will be poor at the edges of the sensor and field illumination will be reduced. Additionally, we do not recommend pairing RASA 8 with any camera body more than 4” in diameter. See the chart below to determine if your camera is compatible with RASA 8.

Unique Optical Design

RASA’s optical design is patented (US 2016/0299331 A1). The design consists of a Schmidt corrector, primary mirror, lens group, and optical window. The lens group contains 4 elements and utilizes rare-earth elements. Unlike many telescopes that only perform well over the visible spectrum (400-700nm), the 8” RASA’s optics are designed to perform over a wider spectral range, from 390-800nm. This allows more of the light emitted from the astronomical object to be sharply focused in the image.

With many imaging systems, adding an extra piece of flat glass such as a filter does not change optical performance. However, that is not the case with super-fast optical systems like the RASA. Our engineers addressed this by designing the RASA with a removeable optical window, so you can maintain peak optical performance if a filter is added or if a camera has its own optical window. Celestron offers a Light Pollution Imaging Filter designed specifically for the 8” RASA, which mounts in place of the optical window.

All refractive optical surfaces are coated with StarBright XLT coatings, while the primary mirror uses enhanced aluminum coatings. This maintains high light transmission through the entire optical system.

When compared with “Hyperstar SCT” systems, the RASA 8 provides better optical performance and field illumination.

SkyWatcher Evoguide ED50-V2

Sky-Watcher’s new Evoguide ED50-V2 with ED lenses and low dispersion 50mm diameter.

The 31.8mm ring focuser allows you to use the Evoguide ED50 both as a finder and as a guide telescope, in fact, it is equipped with a T2 thread to allow the attachment to most of the driving and shooting cameras on the market. It is obviously compatible with 31.8mm eyepieces. The Evoguide ED50 is equipped with collimated rings, each with 3 nylon-tipped screws. The Evoguide ED50 has a Vixen mini bar, compatible with the majority of commercially available bases.

Ideal as a high-quality finder and guide telescope.

EVOGUIDE 50ED-V2 Features:

• Designed for use with all Autoguiders
• High-quality ED Glass
• Small compact size
• Vixen Style Dovetail Foot
• 242mm (f/4.8) focal length
• Advanced color correction
• Helical Focuser

You might also like these accessories ...

The Sky-Watcher family of EvoStar ED telescopes started with the 80ED, a value for money favourite of astronomers all over the world.

The new Sky-Watcher Evolux 82ED refractor is perfect for those looking for a compact and ultra-transportable instrument ideal for Wide Field, Deepsky astrophotography.

An optional custom designed 0.90X reducer/ flattener is available as an option.

It flattens the field for pinpoint stars right out to the edges, whilst reducing the focal length to 480mm

The new EVOLUX 82ED continues this tradition with major enhancements including:

• Unparalleled levels of optic performance for an ED telescope
• Updated 2-lens element design
• New ED glass
• 82mm / f 6.4 (f5.8 with optional reducer)
• New optional re-designed dedicated reducer/field flattener for wider field of view and faster imaging
• Retractable integrated dewshield for improved handling
• Precision 61mm (2.4″) dual-speed focuser

Here's a great mount option:

Specifications:

• Focal length=530mm / f = 6.4
• Focal length = 480mm / f=5.8 with optional dedicated reducer/flattener for wider field of view
• Net Weight: 2.6kg
• Retractable dewshield for compact handling and storage
• High precision new 61mm (2.4″) dual-speed focuser
• Aluminium hard case
• V style Dovetail

The Sky-Watcher family of EvoStar ED telescopes started with the 80ED, a value for money favourite of astronomers all over the world.

The new Sky-Watcher Evolux 62ED refractor is perfect for those looking for a compact and ultra-transportable instrument ideal for Wide Field, Deepsky astrophotography.

An optional custom designed 0.90X reducer/ flattener is available as an option.

It flattens the field for pinpoint stars right out to the edges, whilst reducing the focal length to 360mm

The new EVOLUX 62ED continues this tradition with major enhancements including:

• Unparalleled levels of optic performance for an ED telescope
• Updated 2-lens element design
• New ED glass
• 62mm / f 6.5 (f5.8 with optional reducer)
• New optional re-designed dedicated reducer/field flattener for wider field of view and faster imaging
• Retractable integrated dewshield for improved handling
• Precision 61mm (2.4″) dual-speed focuser

Here's a great mount option:

Specifications:

• Focal length=400mm / f = 6.5
• Focal length = 360mm / f=5.8 with optional dedicated reducer/flattener for wider field of view
• Net Weight: 2.5kg
• Retractable dewshield for compact handling and storage
• High precision new 61mm (2.4″) dual-speed focuser
• Aluminium hard case
• V style Dovetail

Normally available for pickup or shipping approx. 2-3 business days from your order

Celestron EdgeHD 11 OTA

See the Universe in HD
EdgeHD is an aplanatic, flat field Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope that produces aberration-free images across a wide visual and photographic field of view. The optical system was designed to reduce more than just off-axis star coma; it also provides an astrograph-quality flat focal plane all the way to the edge of the field of view...

True Astrograph Quality
Many optical designs that advertise themselves as "astrographs" actually only produce pinpoint stars across a curved focal plane. While this may be acceptable for some visual observing, stars will appear out of focus at the edge when used with the flat chip sensor of a digital camera. EdgeHD optics produce a focal plane more than three-times flatter than a standard Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope and dramatically flatter than competing coma-free designs. This guarantees you visibly sharp stars across some of the largest CCD chips available today.

Improved Performance
Superior edge performance not only creates rounder, more pleasing stars, but actually improves the resolution and limiting magnitude when compared to telescopes of equal aperture. With Celestron’s StarBright XLT optical coatings on every surface, EdgeHD optics gives you maximum light throughput across the widest visual and photographic spectrum.

Mechanical Features
In addition to Celestron EdgeHD 11 OTA optimized optical design, the telescope tube has been redesigned to make sure you get the most from your optics each and every night.

• Mirror clutches - Flexible tension clutches hold the mirror in place and reduce image shift when taking long exposure astro-images. Once focused, the flexible rods allow the mirror to be held in place without putting any force or pressure on the mirror assembly, keeping the image centered in the eyepiece (or on the sensor).
• Tube vents - Cooling vents located on the rear cell allow hot air to be released from behind the primary mirror. Each vent has an integrated 95-micron micromesh filter guaranteed to let warm air out without letting dust in.
• Fastar versatility - EdgeHD is the most versatile imaging telescope available today. At its native f/10, you can achieve the image scale necessary to capture the smallest of deep sky objects. Add the optional reducer lens—custom-designed for your size EdgeHD tube—and you can increase your field of view without sacrificing optical performance. A Barlow gives you added power for high-resolution planetary, lunar and solar imaging. All EdgeHD optical tubes are Fastar-compatible, allowing the secondary mirror to be removed and replaced with a third party lens accessory for ultra-fast f/2 wide field imaging.

Individually Tested
Every EdgeHD that ships has been tested not only for the surface quality of each optical component, but also with a camera and artificial star to ensure the imaging system meets our rigid quality assurance. This “final acceptance test” confirms the EdgeHD will perform in the field and deliver high-quality astroimages.

Specifications

Celestron C6

Striking a comfortable balance between power and portability, the Celestron C6 -A XLT OTA 6" f/10 Schmidt-Cassegrain Telescope is an ideal choice for observing objects within or beyond our solar system. It features a Schmidt-Cassegrain optical system consisting of a corrector plate, spherical primary mirror, and secondary mirror that work together to reduce spherical and chromatic aberrations to crisp and clear high-resolution images with accurate color representation with distortion - especially at the edges. Complementing the optical system is the proprietary StarBright XLT optical coating system, which improves light transmission and reflectivity across the entire visual spectrum. Perfect for mounting on a Celestron Advanced VX or alternatively a Skywatcher HEQ5 Pro.

• 6" Schmidt-Cassegrain Optical Tube Assembly
• Aluminum Optical Tube
• Celestron's premium StarBright XLT coatings
• 1500 mm focal length (f/10)
• 25 mm eyepiece included (60x)
• Visual back allows for use with 1.25" accessories
• 6x30 finderscope to help accurately find objects
• Star diagonal provides more comfortable viewing position when observing objects that are high in the sky
• Includes dovetail rail compatible with CG-5 Advanced Series mount

Specifications

23 mm2581 x

The Celestron C9.25-A is an unusual size with its 9.25” aperture and 2350 mm focal length, but many consider it to be the Goldilocks of optical tubes—not too big, not too small. This rugged aluminum optical tube is only 558mm long and weighs just 9kgs, making it easy to transport and set up. But the views are much more impressive than what you’d expect from such a compact instrument. The tube offers a focal ratio of f/10 with the added versatility of Fastar (see below).

It is equipped with Celestron’s patented StarBright® XLT optical coatings, which visibly increase contrast and light transmission for brighter deep space images and shorter exposure times. With StarBright XLT, you’ll be able to discern subtle details while viewing the Moon and planets as well as faint galaxies and nebulae.

The Celestron C9.25-A can be mounted on a multitude of computerized telescope mounts thanks to its CGEM-style dovetail bar. This iconic optical tube provides the best balance of portability, handling ease, light gathering ability and price ever offered to the amateur astronomer.

Fastar Technology

In 1997, CCDs were making a name for themselves in the astrophotography world, quickly supplanting traditional film photography thanks to their speed and convenience. This was the year that Celestron joined forces with the Santa Barbara Instruments Group (SBIG) to produce Fastar, a revolutionary add-on to Celestron’s hugely popular Schmidt-Cassegrain (SCT) optical system.

With Fastar, the SCT’s secondary mirror can be removed and replaced with a field-flattening lens assembly (sold separately by third party manufacturers) so that a CCD camera can be used in the front of the telescope at the f/2 focus of the instrument’s primary mirror. The potential of the Fastar system is staggering: exposures are 25 times shorter than if the camera was placed at the instrument’s native f/10 focus. Imagers can capture galaxies and nebulae with exposures of just 30 seconds.

StarBright XLT coatings

StarBright XLT is Celestron’s revolutionary optical coating system. It consistently outperforms all other coatings in the commercial telescope market. There are three major components that make up our StarBright XLT high-transmission optical system design:

• Unique enhanced multi-layer mirror coatings made from precise layers of aluminum, SiO2 (quartz), TiO2 (titanium dioxide), and SiO2 (silicon dioxide). Reflectivity is fairly flat across the spectrum, optimizing it for both imaging and visual observing.
• Multi-layer anti-reflective coatings made from precise layers of MgF2 (magnesium fluoride) and HfO2 (hafnium dioxide). Hafnium—a rare element that costs nearly $2,000 per kilogram—gives us a wider band pass than the titanium used in competing coatings.
• High-transmission water white glass is used instead of soda lime glass for the corrector lens. Water white glass transmits about 90.5% of light without anti-reflective coatings; that’s 3.5% better than uncoated soda lime glass. When water white glass is used in conjunction with StarBright XLT’s anti-reflective coatings, the average transmission reaches an astonishing 97.4.

Standard features of Tele Vue 60 OTA include a 2-stage 1.25" focuser with quick-focus drawtube, plus fine-focus helical, exquisitely machined and anodized all-metal construction, and a sliding captive dew shield. Offering wide field, pristine, color free views throughout a wide range of magnification.

• 1.25" focuser accept in-line Porro Prism, 45° erectors or 60° and 90° diagonals
• Maximum True Field: 4.3° (great for terrestrial and astronomical use)
• Maximum Power: 180x (with Nagler™ 2-4mm Zoom - for lunar/planetary viewing)
• Adjustable dovetail balancing bar fits all camera tripods, Tele Vue Mounts and new mounting brackets for SCT's

It’s a super-finder, day/night scope with great telephoto and imaging capability for digital cameras. Optional padded carry bag available.

Specifications

TVP-1250 Kit includes

QBT-1006 Tele Vue Quik Point Basic

DPC-1250 Tele Vue 1.25" 90° Everbrite Diagonal

TVB-2403 Tele Vue TV60 Carry Bag

EAD-25.0 Tele Vue 25mm Plossl

TVP-6012 Kit Includes

QBT-1006 Tele Vue Quik Point Basic

DPC-6012 Tele Vue 1.25" 60° Everbrite Diagonal

TVB-2403 Tele Vue TV60 Carry Bag

EAD-25.0 Tele Vue 25mm Plossl

Reviews

Celestron C11-A XLT OTA Specifications

CDK20’s Key Features

Large Aperture and Moderate Focal Ratio

The CDK20 f/6.8 features a significant 508 mm aperture and an f/6.8 focal ratio. This combination provides excellent light-gathering capabilities and a wide field of view, enhancing its ability to capture detailed images of deep-sky objects for astrophotography and research purposes.

Advanced Optical Design

Equipped with a state-of-the-art Corrected Dall-Kirkham optical system, the CDK20 offers unmatched image clarity. It eliminates off-axis coma and astigmatism and provides a perfectly flat field, ensuring images are crisp and detailed across the entire field of view, requiring minimal post-processing.

Robust Mechanical Structure

Built with a carbon fiber optical tube, the CDK20 is both durable and lightweight. Its design minimizes thermal expansion, ensuring minimal focus shift with temperature changes, which is ideal for extended observing sessions under diverse environmental conditions.

High-Performance Mirrors and Coatings

Utilizing fused silica mirrors, the CDK20 maintains precise optical alignment and exceptional surface accuracy, even during temperature fluctuations. The high-quality coatings improve light transmission and reduce stray light, optimizing the telescope's performance for specialized observational tasks.

Thermal Management

The CDK20 has cooling fans and a Delta-T ready system to achieve thermal equilibrium swiftly. These features help reduce air turbulence within the tube, thus minimizing image distortion and maintaining consistent imaging quality.

Integrated Dew Control

The telescope includes advanced dew prevention technology with heater pads controlled by PlaneWave’s software. This ensures optical surfaces remain free from condensation in humid conditions, thus maintaining clear and consistent imaging performance.

Application-Specific Benefits

Astrophotography

With its large image circle and exceptional field flatness, the CDK20 allows astrophotographers to capture expansive and breathtaking views of the cosmos with incredible detail and clarity.

Astronomy Research

The stable and precise imaging capabilities of the CDK20 make it an invaluable asset for academic institutions and observatories engaged in sophisticated astronomical research, including deep-sky surveys and detailed photometric studies.

Visual Observations

The CDK20 excels in visual observation, providing bright and clear views ideal for star parties and serious visual astronomy. Its large aperture and superior optical quality deliver stunning views of planetary, lunar, and deep-sky objects, making every viewing session a memorable experience. Here's the updated article adapted for the CDK17 based on the features and specifications from the provided product page:

Space Situational Awareness (SSA) and Space Domain Awareness (SDA)

The CDK20 also lends itself to Space Situational Awareness and Space Domain Awareness applications. Its capability to provide detailed observations can be essential for tracking and monitoring satellites and other space debris, contributing valuable data for space traffic management and safety initiatives.

Optical Systems

Secondary Mirror

Lens Group

Primary Mirror

Designed in Japan, Made in Taiwan 

Sharp Optical System & Performance

• Superb ED class for remarkable image clarity. Crystal clear, superb sharp, almost zero aberration and distortion.
• 2 ED Glasses S-FPL 53 & S-FPL 51 & Lanthanum - Fully Separated Triplet (FST)  
  Fully Multi-coated optics ensures maximum light transmission
• Impressive user experience, designed for both visual observation and astrophotography

Precision focusing & mechanical design throughout

• Finely CNC machining aluminium body and patented rack and pinion focuser for heavy loading 360 degree rotatable for photography
• Deluxe high-glossy anodizing finish
• Retractable sunshade
• PATENTED：US 8,693,092 B2 / Taiwan 1417570
  

Design

At the heart of the Founder Optics FOT016 is premium performance 3-element ED APO triplet refractor, designed by a famous optical designer in based in Japan. The optical performance is impressive as a two ED glass elements are employed.

Unlike most ED triplet telescopes which use only 1 ED glass element, Founder Optics adopted 2 ED glass of S-FPL 53 and S-FPL 51 to bring a remarkable image that you'll immediately spot with even a casual viewing. With two fluoro-crown ED glass elements and fully multi-coated optics, these Founder Optics refractors provide a crystal clear, superb sharp, zero aberration and distortion image to your eyes or camera sensor.

In addition, each element is fully separated or air spaced which is not common even among APO triplet telescopes. This offers further improvements to the already impressive optical quality. 

Quality

In order to complete this unique design, it requires a very high level machining and assembly capability. Founder Optics partner with an experienced factory located in Taiwan with over 50 years experience in precision manufacturing, especially for Japanese companies. 

Besides manufacturing know-how, the high standard of quality control is also crucial to producing FOT86 and FOT106 telescopes. This is recorded in a Quality Certification Card.

Every unit is thoroughly tested, and these unique records help customers understand the quality of their telescope. Founder Optics take their quality checking very seriously as they aim to offer the best triplet APO telescopes to BINTEL customers. 

Focuser - 2.7'' Rack & Pinion

Perfect Hybrid Drive system with 8 Ball bearings- More Smoothly!

2sets of 4pcs ball bearing at 2 sides between the drawtube and the focuser handle linear travel of the focuser. Once the locked the knob, there is no gap among the drawtube, 8pcs ball bearings, and the focuser cover. It does not only keep the focuser always paralleled the optic axis, but also keep it moved very smoothly.

Dual Speed Focuser- 1:11 – Extremely Accurate!

Smooth focus motion and fine focus wheel allow precision adjustment from critical focusing of eyepiece or camera.

Unique Lock Function–  Heavy Loading Capability!

Special lock grabs the rack& pinion & drawtube in two directions. The design makes the focuser always paralleled the optics axis. Instead of pushing against the drawtube to eliminate focus shift while it’s focused. And it can handle up to 8kg as well for complex imaging trains.

Longer Traveling Distance– Suitable for a range of Photographing Accessories!

Unlike other focusers, the long travel 95mm provides more room for adjust for fine and accurate focus.  

It is compatibly for a wide range of photographic accessories, along with easy to use controls.  

Focuser Rotator Function 

Flexible rotated structure provides a convenience for user to have the best position to adjust focuser when observation and photography. The precision machining parts and assembly technique make a good collimation even rotate the focuser and rotator.

Loosen the rotator knob and focuser knob to rotate the focuser and rotator.

Solid, lockable Dew Shield

Built in sliding dew shield.  Three screws hold dew shield stable while imaging or observing while keeping it place during transport. 

Specifications:

Optical System: 2 ED APO Triplet (Fully Separated Elements)

Clear Aperture: 106mm

Focal Length: 636mm

Focal ratio: f/6

Image Circle (with Field Flattener): Ø44mm

Focuser: 2.7’’ Rack & Pinion Patented Focuser (Twist Lock)

Weight: OTA: 3.5kg/ with Tube Ring: 4.6kg

Diameter of Main Tube: 113mm

Tube Length: Fully Retracted: 557mm/ Fully Extended: 650mm

What's in the Box:

1)  High Quality Aluminum Case with Key
2)  FOT106/ FOT86 with Patent Rack & Pinion Focuser
3)  1.25’’/ 2’’ Twist Lock Adapter
4)  Crank Handle with 1pc 1/4"-20 Hexagon Screw
5)  Tube Rings with 4pcs Dovetail Screws
6)  Star Finder Shoe
7)  Field Flattener (M42) with Exchangeable M48 Adapter
8)  7’’ Vixen Type Mount Dovetail
9)  Quality Certification Card with Serial Number
10) Cleaning Cloth
11) Dust Caps (for Objective Lens)

Instruction FOT106 Manual 

Download here

Designed in Japan, Made in Taiwan 

Sharp Optical System & Performance

• Five-element ED APO lens delivers sharp, flat, colour-free images across the field.
• 0.83× reducer provides a fast f/3.9 system ideal for deep-sky astrophotography.
• 44mm image circle supports full-frame and APS-C sensors with no vignetting

Precision focusing & mechanical design throughout

• Integrated 2" dual-speed focuser with travel indicator, motor-ready design.
• Built-in tilt adjustment for fast and accurate optical axis correction.
• Threaded connections minimize flexure and focuser sag.
• 360° rotator with scale allows precise framing for astrophotography.
  

Mounting & use

• Comes standard with handlebar, tube rings, dovetail, and mounting rails.
• Quick-lock dew shield ring provides firm, secure attachment.
• Supports both astrophotography and visual observing use.

Tough, for the harshest environments

Nitrogen-filled optical tube is IP67-rated: waterproof, fogproof, and sealed against dust.
Lightweight design: 2.4kg OTA (3.2kg with standard accessories).

ED APO Lens
Five-element Air-space design, using ED APO lens level.

Dedicated 0.83x Reducer-f/3.9
Fast ratio f/3.9 can satisfy most deep sky astrophotography.

Waterproof & Fogproof
Nitrogen injected for waterproof IP67.

Hydrophobic coating on the air surface of the lens. Removes issues about temperature difference between indoors and outdoors found on some telescopes.

Unique Collimation Adjustment
Special design collimation function. Built-in ball bearing and a spring structure, simplifying the 12 screws into two. Makes for adjustment and accurate alignment

Mechanical Stability
Threaded components for stability. Reduces the risk of unwanted focuser movement caused by the focuser sagging during installation.

Compatibility with a wide range of Camera Adapters
Supports ZWO cameras, provides M54, M48 adapters, and can also be used with Founder Optics T2 ring mount for all camera types

Rack & Pinion focuser
One piece design- Rack & Pinion focuser and draw tube. This integrated structure reduces the mechanical clearance and assembly tolerance.

Light Weight
Only weighs 2.4kg. It’s 3.2kg including the tube ring, handle, and dovetail plate.

Ideal range of mounting accessories
Multi-functional handle, combined with the tube ring and dovetail plate. Comes with tactical slide rails to provide multiple connection options

Quick Dew Shield Lock Ring
Provides a quick dew shield locking ring, which can tighten evenly, firmly and quickly.

Visual Observation and Imaging
Support for visual astronomical observations and imaging

Specifications:

Optical System: Quintuple, air spaced ED APO lens

Clear Aperture: 62mm

Focal Length: 300mm

Focal Ratio: f/4.8, f/3.8 with 0.83x reducer

Image Circle: Ø44mm

Focuser: 2’’ Dual-Speed Rack & Pinion Focuser, 
                Helical Rotation Type

Weight OTA: 2.4kg
Weight with Tube Ring, dovetail plate, handle and mounting rail: 3.2kg

Optical system: 5+2 =7 Elements, Quintuplet refractor+ 0.83x reducer

Main lens: Quintuplet, Air-spaced ED APO lens 

Image circle: 44mm

Back focus distance: 55mm

Included in the package:

Draco 62 Quintuplet Astrophotography Refractor

• 0.83x Focal Reducer for Draco 62
• M48 Adapter for Draco 62
• M54 Adapter for Draco 62
• 1.25'' 90 degree Mirror Dielectric Diagonal
• Diagonal Adapter
• Tube Ring
• Dovetail Plate
• Tactical rail
• Product Manual
• Quality certification card
• Large hard-shelled carry backpack

The Celestron C8-A is the direct (but much improved) descendent of Celestron’s revolutionary C8 that transformed the hobby of astronomy when it was unveiled in 1970. This rugged aluminum optical tube is only 17 inches long and weighs just 13 pounds, making it easy to transport and set up. But the views are much more impressive than what you’d expect from such a compact instrument. The tube offers 2032 mm of focal length and a focal ratio of f/10, with the added versatility of Fastar (see below).

It is equipped with Celestron’s patented StarBright® XLT optical coatings, which visibly increase contrast and light transmission for brighter deep space images and shorter exposure times. With StarBright XLT, you’ll be able to discern subtle details while viewing the Moon and planets as well as faint galaxies and nebulae.

The Celestron C8-A can be mounted on a multitude of computerized telescope mounts thanks to its CGEM style dovetail bar. This iconic optical tube provides the best balance of portability, handling ease, light gathering ability and price ever offered to the amateur astronomer.

Fastar Technology

In 1997, CCDs were making a name for themselves in the astrophotography world, quickly supplanting traditional film photography thanks to their speed and convenience. This was the year that Celestron joined forces with the Santa Barbara Instruments Group (SBIG) to produce Fastar, a revolutionary add-on to Celestron’s hugely popular Schmidt-Cassegrain (SCT) optical system.

With Fastar, the SCT’s secondary mirror can be removed and replaced with a field-flattening lens assembly (sold separately by third party manufacturers) so that a CCD camera can be used in the front of the telescope at the f/2 focus of the instrument’s primary mirror. The potential of the Fastar system is staggering: exposures are 25 times shorter than if the camera was placed at the instrument’s native f/10 focus. Imagers can capture galaxies and nebulae with exposures of just 30 seconds.

StarBright XLT coatings

StarBright XLT is Celestron’s revolutionary optical coating system. It consistently outperforms all other coatings in the commercial telescope market. There are three major components that make up our StarBright XLT high-transmission optical system design:

• Unique enhanced multi-layer mirror coatings made from precise layers of aluminum, SiO2 (quartz), TiO2 (titanium dioxide), and SiO2 (silicon dioxide). Reflectivity is fairly flat across the spectrum, optimizing it for both imaging and visual observing.
• Multi-layer anti-reflective coatings made from precise layers of MgF2 (magnesium fluoride) and HfO2 (hafnium dioxide). Hafnium—a rare element that costs nearly $2,000 per kilogram—gives us a wider band pass than the titanium used in competing coatings.
• High-transmission water white glass is used instead of soda lime glass for the corrector lens. Water white glass transmits about 90.5% of light without anti-reflective coatings; that’s 3.5% better than uncoated soda lime glass. When water white glass is used in conjunction with StarBright XLT’s anti-reflective coatings, the average transmission reaches an astonishing 97.4.

150mm/1800mm Skymax 150 Maksutov-Cassegrain OTA

The ZWO FF65 APO is a refractive astrograph with a powerful flatfield optical design which saves you from the expensive cost of a field flattener. It eliminates the trouble of calculating the back focus distance of the flattener and connecting various accessories to achieve that distance. You can just connect any possible accessories you need. As long as the target is focused, the whole optical system is perfect for imaging. This makes the whole setting up process much more convenient, and saves you time, allowing you to pay more attention to the image shooting itself.

The ZWO FF65 APO is also a nice choice for your visual observation. It fits diagonals as well as various eyepieces and can achieve a perfect focus, and can even be used to observe planets with a super-high magnification eyepiece.

The whole design of the telescope is compact and lightweight. The OTA weighs only 2kg, and the full package with tube rings and other accessories weighs 2.8kg. It has an aperture of 65mm. The focal ratio is f/6.4 and the focal length is 416mm. Instead of the quadruplet structure of the other ZWO FF APO Refractors, the FF65 APO is a quintuplet, with two ed Glass elements that offer excellent control of Chromatic and other aberrations.

The ZWO FF65 APO supports the full-frame imaging circle and has a fine spot diagram with tiny distortions of the peripheral stars. The 2.5" rigid focuser comes with a new-type 360°rotator with scales and a finder base. M68, M54, and M48 camera adapters are also attached, and the M48 adapter has a 2” female thread for installing filters.

ZWO FF65 APO Main Features

Quintuplet air-spaced APO design - No need to calculate back focus

Small and round stars - with a central RMS radius of 2.5um

Various adapters - M68/ M54/ M48

Dual speed (1:10) focuser - Support both fine and coarse adjustment

No need for a separate field flattener - Self-flattening design

Supports full-frame cameras - Produces a 44mm image circle

Optional Focal Reducer -

Specifications

SKU: ZWO-FF65-APO

New from Sky-Watcher - the smallest member of their Esprit range of APO triplet refractors

The Sky-Watcher 70mm Esprit 70EDX Triplet APO Refractor is a professional instrument for the most demanding and exacting astrophotographers. The air spaced apochromatic triplet lenses have exceptional colour correction over the entire visible spectrum there is no chromatic aberration even on bright objects! Knife edge baffles reduce internal reflections and increase contrast, helping to bring out faint structure in deep sky objects.

Main Features:

• Air Spaced 70mm Apochromatic Triplet
• 490mm Focal Length
• Fully multi coated lenses
• Optional 0.92x Reducer Available

In The Box:

• 70/490 Apochromatic Refractor
• Retractable Dew Shield
• D Style dovetail Bar and rings w/handle
• Aluminium Foam-Lined Case

Specifications:

Capturing impressive deep-sky astroimages is easier than ever with Celestron’s Rowe-Ackermann Schmidt Astrograph (RASA 11) V2, the perfect companion to today’s top DSLR or astronomical CCD cameras. This fast, wide-field f/2.2 system allows for shorter exposure times compared to traditional f/10 astroimaging, without sacrificing resolution. Because shorter sub-exposure times are possible, your equatorial mount won’t need to accurately track over extended periods. The short focal length also lessens equatorial tracking demands. In many cases, autoguiding will not be required.

RASA 11 V2 builds on the legacy of Celestron’s Schmidt Cameras, which allowed astrophotographers to produce images with much shorter exposure times on film in the 1970s.

Today, with CCD sensor sizes as large as film or larger, the RASA 11 V2 offers a 43.3mm optimized image circle to capture pinpoint stars on the largest imaging chips. Optical performance for huge sensors with diagonals of up to 52mm wide is still excellent.

Combine this large image circle with a focal length of just 620mm and you have an instrument suitable for wide-field imaging, creating huge mosaics of the night sky, surveying, and even comet hunting.

Optical Performance
The RASA 11 V2 features optics with 4-element rare-earth glass for images free of false color and aberrations like coma and field curvature. The optical quality and spot size across the entire image circle are unprecedented for an astrograph in this price range—or even that of a much more expensive instrument. The design also provides minimal vignetting.

Advanced Features
RASA 11 V2 utilizes the Ultra-Stable Focus System (USFS). At the heart of this system is a precision linear ball bearing. The bearing serves to minimize focus shift (unwanted lateral motion of the primary mirror during focusing which causes shifting of the image) and mirror flop (movement of the primary mirror when the telescope is pointing to different positions in the sky). The USFS is also compatible with the optional Celestron Focus Motor (#94155-A). The integrated 12V DC MagLev fan reduces cooldown time and provides optimal airflow through the dust filtered optical tube.

Engineered as a complete astroimaging system, every component of the RASA 11 V2 is optimized for peak performance with DSLR and astronomical CCD cameras. Down to the thickness of the glass used in the included fully-multicoated optical window or optional imaging filter, every component of the system has been taken into careful consideration to work together seamlessly. The Dovetail CGE bars on the top of the optical tube provides a connection for use of optional accessories like a guidescope.

180mm/2700mm Skymax 180 Maksutov-Cassegrain OTA – High Performance Optical Tube Assembly

The Sky-Watcher Skymax 180 Maksutov-Cassegrain OTA Telescope is perfect for the seasoned enthusiast moving up to a more powerful scope. The larger aperture enables more detailed views of our close planetary neighbours and sharper images of deep space objects.

Maksutov-Cassegrain Advantage
This telescope design has the inherent advantage of minimizing coma aberrations. It also presents a flatter and a more improved edge to edge clarity. Wide angle views of star fields and clusters have never looked so good!

Bring it to Your Favorite Viewing Spot
These Optical Tube Assemblies have a distinct advantage of being designed for use with different mounts. As long as the standard adaptors are present, you should be able to attach the OTA on it. The quick release mechanism enables you to assemble the tube quickly. It also allows you to make minor adjustments to the tube like a stroll in the park.

The ZWO FF80 APO is a refractive astrograph with a powerful flatfield optical design which saves you from the expensive cost of a field flattener. It eliminates the trouble of calculating the back focus distance of the flattener and connecting various accessories to achieve that distance. You can just connect any possible accessories you need. As long as the target is focused, the whole optical system is perfect for imaging. This makes the whole setting up process much more convenient, and saves you time, allowing you to pay more attention to the image shooting itself.

The ZWO FF80 APO is also a nice choice for your visual observation. It fits diagonals as well as various eyepieces and can achieve a perfect focus, and can even be used to observe planets with a super-high magnification eyepiece.

The whole design of the telescope is compact and lightweight. The OTA weighs only 3.9kg, and the full package with tube rings and other accessories weighs 4.7kg. It has an aperture of 80mm. The focal ratio is f/7.5 and the focal length is 600mm.

The ZWO FF80 APO adopts a 3+1 quadruplet lens structure which contains two pieces of ED glass that can effectively reduce chromatic aberration and enhance clarity and sharpness. It supports the full-frame imaging circle and has a fine spot diagram with tiny distortions of the peripheral stars. The 3" rigid focuser comes with a new-type 360°rotator with scales and a finder base. M76, M68, M54, and M48 camera adapters are also attached, and the M48 adapter has a 2” female thread for installing filters.

ZWO FF80 APO Main Features

Quadruplet air-spaced APO design - No need to calculate back focus

Small and round stars - with a central RMS radius of 3um

Various adapters - M76/ M68/ M54/ M48

Dual speed (1:10) focuser - Support both fine and coarse adjustment

No need for a separate field flattener - Self-flattening design

Supports full-frame cameras - Produces a 44mm image circle

Focal reducer -

Specifications

SKU: ZWO-FF80-APO

The ZWO FF130APO is a refractive astrograph with a powerful flatfield optical design which saves you from the expensive cost of a field flattener. It eliminates the trouble of calculating the back focus distance of the flattener and connecting various accessories to achieve that distance. You can just connect any possible accessories you need. As long as the target is focused, the whole optical system is perfect for imaging. This makes the whole setting up process much more convenient, and saves you time, allowing you to pay more attention to the image shooting itself.

Compared to the ZWO FF107 APO, the ZWO FF130 APO has a larger size. The aperture is 23mm larger. The focal length at f7/7 is also longer, this will yield higher details and slightly higher magnifications but with a field of view suitable for all deep-ky objects. The longer focal length will be especially effective on planetary and larger deep-sky objects which, when combined with the larger 130mm aperture, will provide stunning details in a reasonable time.

The ZWO FF130 APO with its quadruplet lens structure which contains two pieces of ED glass will control chromatic and other aberrations. With its self-flattening design, the ZWO FF130 APO offers strong advantages in astronomical shooting. It supports a medium frame 60mm image circle, has a fine spot diagram with tiny distortion on the peripheral stars, and its central RMS radius is less than 2 microns.

The OTA weighs only 10.5 kg, and the full package with tube rings and other accessories weighs 12.5kg. The 3.4″ rigid focuser comes with a new-type 360°rotator with scales and a finder base. M86, M68, M54, and M48 camera adapters are also attached, and the M48 adapter has a 2” female thread for installing filters. When used with the 3" 0.7x flat-field reducer, the telescope can reach a focal ratio of f/5.4 and a focal length of 700mm, effectively reducing exposure time. The Multifunctional handle comes with a central slot for attaching an M6 screw with an M6 screw hole. standard KLOsmandy dovetail plate, together with sturdy double rings. It is perfectly suitable for viewing and shooting.

ZWO FF130 APO Main Features

Quadruplet air-spaced APO design – No need to calculate back focus

Small and round stars – with a central RMS radius of less than 2um

Various adapters – M86/ M68/ M54/ M48

Dual speed (1:10) focuser – Support both fine and coarse adjustment

No need for a separate field flattener – Self-flattening design

Supports medium-frame cameras – Produces a 60mm image circle

Focal Reducer -

Specifications

The ZWO FF107 APO is a refractive astrograph with a powerful flatfield optical design which saves you from the expensive cost of a field flattener. It eliminates the trouble of calculating the back focus distance of the flattener and connecting various accessories to achieve that distance. You can just connect any possible accessories you need. As long as the target is focused, the whole optical system is perfect for imaging. This makes the whole setting up process much more convenient, and saves you time, allowing you to pay more attention to the image shooting itself.

The ZWO FF107 APO is also a nice choice for your visual observation. It fits diagonals as well as various eyepieces and can achieve a perfect focus, and can even be used to observe planets with a super-high magnification eyepiece.

The whole design of the telescope is compact and lightweight. The OTA weighs only 5.7kg, and the full package with tube rings and other accessories weighs 6.9kg. It has an aperture of 107mm. The focal ratio is f/7 and the focal length is 749mm.

The ZWO FF107 APO adopts a 3+1 quadruplet lens structure which contains two pieces of ED glass that can effectively reduce chromatic aberration and enhance clarity and sharpness. It supports the full-frame imaging circle and has a fine spot diagram with tiny distortions of the peripheral stars. The 3″ rigid focuser comes with a new-type 360°rotator with scales and a finder base. M86, M68, M54, and M48 camera adapters are also attached, and the M48 adapter has a 2” female thread for installing filters.

ZWO FF107 APO Main Features

Quadruplet air-spaced APO design – No need to calculate back focus

Small and round stars – with a central RMS radius of 3um

Various adapters – M86/ M68/ M54/ M48

Dual speed (1:10) focuser – Support both fine and coarse adjustment

No need for a separate field flattener – Self-flattening design

Supports full-frame cameras – Produces a 44mm image circle

Focal Reducer -

Specifications

SKU: ZWO-FF107-APO

The BORG 107FL Telescope Set CR is the premium model BORG telescope, designed for professional astro-watchers. This telescope features a 600mm focal length objective lens that incorporates high-end apochromat fluorite glass elements from Canon Optron, Inc.

Axial chromatic aberrations are suppressed even further with the 107FL objective lens when matched against the 90FL. The BORG 107FL Telescope Set CR is constructed with a lightweight and compactable carbon fiber barrel. Arca-Swiss Quick Release base plates are included for tripod mounting. The BORG 107FL Telescope Set CR is recommended for starry sky, nebula, star cluster, and planet observation.

You can convert this telescope to tele lens by swapping the prism and eyepiece with a BORG camera mount adapter (sold separately).

Main Features

• Fluorite glass elements from Canon Optron, Inc. are incorporated in the optical design for ultimate resolution and minimal axial chromatic aberrations.
• Objective lens optical construction: 2 elements in 2 groups, fluorite apochromat, fully multicoated.
• Robust and beautiful carbon fiber barrel.
• BORG 80Ø barrel system.
• Rack & pinion focusing system.
• Erect prism (included) allows users to observe both on-ground objects and celestial bodies.
• 20mm and 9mm eyepieces included.
• Super lightweight at 3.7 kilograms (including accessories).
• Arca-Swiss Quick Release System tripod plate.
• Objective lenses and major parts are Made in Japan.

'CR' stands for carbon fiber barrel and rack & pinion focusing system.

Camera mount adapters and other camera components are sold separately.

Specifications

Superb optical performance thanks to Canon Optron, Inc. fluorite glass elements in the optical construction. The precise optical design results in an extremely sharp image with practically no chromatic aberrations.

Recommended for starry sky, nebula, star cluster, and planet observation.

Main Features

• Modular BORG Design
• Apochromat fluorite glass elements.
• Objective lens optical design: 2 elements in 2 groups, fluorite element, apochromat, fully multicoated.
• Erect prism (included) allows users to observe both on-ground objects and celestial bodies.
• 20mm and 9mm eyepieces included.
• Arca-Swiss Quick Release System tripod collar.
• Ultra-lightweight of 962 grams.
• Objective lenses and major parts are Made in Japan.

After successfully introducing the DeltaRho 350, the DeltaRho 500 is now available for transcending the challenges of-ultra wide field imaging. With a primary mirror that is fixed in place, collimation is quickly achieved with a simple adjustment to the tip and tilt of the secondary mirror. With more than twice the light-gathering power of the DeltaRho 350, maximizing the performance of your astrograph has never been easier due to PlaneWave’s pursuit of the perfect telescope!

• Corrected Cassegrain focus optical design
• Aperture – 508 mm (20″)
• Focal length – 1537 mm
• Focal Ratio – f/3.03
• 70mm Image Circle > 2.6 degrees
• Fixed Primary Mirror
• Collimation performed via 3 tip/tilt screws at the secondary mirror
• 9.166” (232.8 mm) from mounting surface (without focuser and rotator).
• Backfocus of 5.81″ (147.6mm) with Series-5XL focuser and Series-5 Rotator installed (with focuser at midpoint of travel range).
• Built-in primary and secondary dew heaters with temperature sensors
• Compatible with L-500 or 600 series direct drive mounts.

Our team at PlaneWave is passionate about designing exceptional telescopes so that users around the world are able to capture the most awe-inspiring astro images possible. From design to manufacture, our goal with the DeltaRho 500 was centered around creating a revolutionary wide-field telescope. The DeltaRho 500 is a Cassegrain Optical Design with the imaging train at the back of the telescope to prevent obstruction of the instrument. This offers a real advantage against prime focus designs, which can severely limit users’ ability to operate with filter wheels or large cameras. Witness the incredible breakthrough in telescope technology as the DeltaRho 500 operates at f/3 and 1537 mm focal length, which is sure to revolutionize your astrophotography.

Last, but not least, the DeltaRho 500 provides a flat field, which ensures stunning clarity from corner-to-corner images without field curvature degradation. The DeltaRho 500 offers the simplicity of single-mirror collimation, stray light control of advanced 3D printed baffles, and structural performance created through finite element analysis (FEA). DeltaRho 500 users can experience pinpoint stars edge-to-edge and a 2-degree field of view when using large 16803/4040 (52mm) size camera sensors. This field of view is over twice as large as our CDK 20! This kind of equipment allows users to experience a whole new level of wide-field imaging that can bring them closer than ever to deep space. The DeltaRho 500 allows nothing to stand in between the user and amazing astro images.

Through years of dreaming of the perfect telescope for wide-field imaging, our pursuit of innovation has finally been honored with PlaneWave’s revolutionary DeltaRho 350 f/3 telescope. The DeltaRho 350 is designed for unsurpassed wide-field imaging and ease of use in the field. Since the primary mirror is fixed in place, collimation is quickly achieved by adjusting the tip and tilt of the secondary mirror. With the Delta Rho 350, your astrophotography experience will be second to none!

• Corrected Cassegrain focus optical design
• Aperture – 350 mm
• Focal length – 1050 mm
• Focal Ratio – f/3
• 60mm Image Circle > 3 degrees
• Fixed Primary Mirror
• Collimation performed via 3 tip/tilt screws at the secondary mirror
• Backfocus of 5.651” (143.535 mm) from mounting surface (without focuser and rotator). This distance includes refraction from filters.
• Backfocus of 2.525″ (64.135 mm) with Series-5 focuser and Series-5 Rotator installed (with focuser at midpoint of travel range).
• Built-in primary and secondary dew heaters with temperature sensors
• *L-350 mount seen in product photo is sold separately

Capturing the most stunning astrophotographs possible is something our team is passionate about. From design to manufacture, our goal with the DeltaRho 350 was centered around creating a game-changing wide-field telescope. The DeltaRho 350 is a Cassegrain optical design which means the imaging train is secured at the back of the telescope and does not block the light path compared to prime focus designs, which severely limit users’ ability to operate with filterwheels or large cameras.

The DeltaRho 350 is an incredible breakthrough in telescope technology and ease of use. Operating at f/3 and 1050 mm focal length, the DeltaRho is a wide-field telescope that is sure to revolutionize your astrophotography!

Additionally, the DeltaRho 350 provides a perfectly flat field so your astrophotographs will have stunning clarity from corner to corner of the image without field curvature degrading the photos. Offering the simplicity of single-mirror collimation, the stray light control of advanced baffles, structural performance created through finite element analysis (FEA), and decades of telescope design experience, the DeltaRho 350 is an exceptional telescope. DeltaRho 350 users can experience pinpoint stars edge-to-edge and a 170 x 170 arcminute field of view when using large 16803/4040 size camera sensors. This field of view is nearly 3 times as large as our CDK14! When equipment fades into the background and simply performs, the astrophotography experience becomes even more fun and rewarding!

Optical System

Secondary Mirror

Primary Mirror

Lens Group

Standard Features

Shipping

Included Items

Recommended Accessories

OTA Accessories

• Series-5 Focuser (6011001)
• Series-5 Rotator (6021001)
• Series-5 Controller (600199)

Mount Accessories

• L-350 Direct Drive Mount (600549)
• DeltaRho 350 Piggyback Dovetail (140990)

Imaging Accessories

• Tip-Tilt Adapter for Series-5 Focuser or Rotator to SecureFit (6061006)