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Askar 0.6x Reducer for 103APO
Askar 0.6x Reducer for 103APO

Askar 0.6x Reducer for 103APO

by Askar
SKU ASK-ASKRE10306
$329.00 - $329.00
$329.00
$329.00 - $329.00
$329.00
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  • Transforms Askar 103APO to an f/4.08, 420.24mm focal length system
  • Quadruplet optical design provides field flattening for full-frame sensors
  • Standard 55mm back focus for easy camera and accessory integration
  • Includes M68, M54, and M48 adapters for versatile camera connection
  • Integrated M48x0.75 thread for use with 2" filters
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  • Description
  • FAQ
  • Specifications
  • In the Box
  • Downloads
  • Warranty

  • Askar 0.6x Reducer for 103APO

    The Askar 0.6x Reducer for 103APO transforms the telescope into a fast f/4.08 astrograph, shortening the focal length to 420.24mm for capturing vast celestial targets. This dedicated quadruplet reducer is optically matched to the 103APO, delivering a flat field and maintaining sharp stars from edge to edge while adhering to a standard 55mm back focus distance for your imaging train.

    Transforming the 103APO to an f/4.08 Astrograph

    By reducing the native focal ratio to f/4.08, this accessory dramatically cuts required exposure times, allowing you to gather more signal in less time. The quadruplet optical design not only reduces the focal length but also acts as a field flattener, correcting for optical aberrations and ensuring pinpoint stars across a wide, flat image circle suitable for full-frame cameras. At a focal length of 420.24mm, you can frame large emission nebulae like the North American Nebula (NGC 7000) or the entire Andromeda Galaxy (M31) with ease.

    A Detachable-Tube Design for f/4 Speed

    Achieving this faster focal ratio requires a unique mechanical integration with the Askar 103APO. To use the 0.6x reducer, you must detach the rear section of the main telescope tube, effectively shortening the instrument to achieve focus. This purpose-built design ensures perfect spacing and optical alignment. The reducer itself adds 0.98kg to your imaging setup, a factor to consider when balancing your mount for precise tracking.

    55mm Back Focus with M48, M54, and M68 Adapters

    The Askar 0.6x Reducer simplifies camera connection by using the industry-standard 55mm back focus distance from the base of its M48 male thread. This compatibility works seamlessly with most DSLRs (with a standard T-ring) and dedicated astronomy cameras. For maximum flexibility, the reducer includes a set of adapters for M68×1, M54×0.75, and M48×0.75 threads, ensuring you can connect a wide variety of cameras, filter wheels, and off-axis guiders. The M48 adapter also features an internal thread for mounting 2-inch filters directly.

  • How does the 0.6x reducer change the Askar 103APO's imaging characteristics?

    It transforms the Askar 103APO into a faster, wider-field instrument. The focal ratio is reduced to f/4.08 and the focal length to 420.24mm. This allows for significantly shorter exposure times and the ability to frame much larger deep-sky objects in a single shot.

    Do I need to modify my Askar 103APO to use this 0.6x reducer?

    Yes. The Askar 103APO features a detachable tube design specifically for this reducer. You must remove the rear section of the optical tube to shorten the telescope, which allows the reducer to reach focus and function correctly. This is a required step for proper installation.

    What is the correct back focus for the Askar 103APO 0.6x reducer?

    The required back focus is a standard 55mm. This distance is measured from the base of the M48 male thread on the reducer to your camera's sensor. Most dedicated astronomy cameras and DSLR/mirrorless cameras with T-rings are designed around this standard distance.

    Can I use 2" filters with the Askar 103APO 0.6x reducer?

    Yes. The included M48 adapter has an internal M48×0.75 thread, which allows you to screw in standard 2-inch astronomy filters directly. This is ideal for adding light pollution or narrowband filters to your imaging train without needing a separate filter drawer or wheel.

    How will the Askar 103APO 0.6x reducer help when imaging the North American Nebula (NGC 7000)?

    The North American Nebula is a very large target, spanning several degrees of the sky. The reducer's 420.24mm focal length provides a much wider field of view than the native 103APO, allowing you to capture the entire nebula and the adjacent Pelican Nebula (IC 5070) in a single frame with most full-frame or APS-C sensors.

    Is the f/4.08 speed from this Askar reducer beneficial for imaging broadband targets like the Andromeda Galaxy (M31)?

    Absolutely. The fast f/4.08 focal ratio gathers light much more quickly than the native telescope. When imaging a broadband target like M31, this means you can capture faint outer dust lanes and details with shorter individual sub-exposures, improving your signal-to-noise ratio and reducing the impact of tracking errors or changing sky conditions.

  • Optical Design Quadruplet
    Reduction Factor 0.6x
    Reduced Focal Length (103APO) 420.24mm
    Reduced Focal Ratio (103APO) f/4.08
    Back Focus 55mm (from base of M48 thread)
    Camera Connection Threads M68×1, M54×0.75, M48×0.75
    Filter Thread M48×0.75 (internal)
    Weight 0.98kg
  • Askar 1-Year Warranty