Askar FRA 600 108mm Quintuplet APO Astrograph

Sharpstar

Regular price $2,599.00 Sale

This top-tier astrograph features a sizable 4.2” rack-and-pinion dual-speed (1:10) focuser, boasting full 360-degree rotation capability. The focuser terminates with an M90x1 thread, accompanied by adapters for seamless camera attachment, including an M90x1 to M54x0.75 adapter and M54x0.75 to M48x0.75 conical extension tube. Additionally, it comes equipped with a 2” adapter ring and 1.25”-2” adapter for versatile use with diagonals, eyepieces, or compact cameras. Perfect for visual observing (star diagonal not provided), this scope is a standout choice.

Enhancing its appeal, the FRA600's elegant optical tube is paired with practical aluminum rings, a "D" Losmandy-style dovetail, and a convenient carrying handle. The "D" rail width measures 73.2mm; ensure compatibility with your saddle (e.g., some ADM saddles may require a minimum of 75mm). The rings feature separate mounting holes for additional accessories, and the entire tube boasts a 120mm diameter and a compact length of just 493mm (dew shield retracted). With a weight of 6.5kg, it strikes a balance between portability and performance. Moreover, its generous back focus of 160mm accommodates various accessories with ease.

With its fast f/5.6 focal ratio, the FRA600 excels in deep-sky imaging, while an optional focal reducer (sold separately) further enhances its versatility, lowering the focal ratio to f/3.9 and shortening the focal length to 420mm, all while supporting full-frame imaging. Despite its competitive pricing, this high-quality apochromatic telescope delivers exceptional performance, rivaling telescopes priced significantly higher. It particularly shines when paired with astronomy cameras featuring smaller 1" and 4/3" sensors, though cameras with larger APS-C and full-frame sensors may exhibit minor aberrations at the field's edge, especially when utilizing the focal reducer.

Shipped in a foam-fitted hard case measuring 22.6" x 12.5" x 11", the ASKAR FRA600 offers unbeatable value in a premium, larger-aperture astrograph, catering to the demands of serious astronomical imaging enthusiasts.

Specifications:

  • Aperture: 108mm / 4.25"
  • Focal length: 600mm
  • Focal ratio: f/5.6
  • Objective type: Quintuplet Apo (including 2 ED elements)
  • Image circle: 66mm
  • Back focus: 160mm
  • Overall length: 493mm
  • Tube weight: 14.3 lbs
  • Conical adapter: M90x1 to M54x0.75, M54x0.75 to M48x0.75
  • Accessories: tube rings, handle, dovetail plate, conical tube adapter (with M54x0.75 and M48x0.75 male threads, checklist, and manual), and hard case
  • 0.7x f/3.9 reducer sold separately
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