{"title":"iOptron Telescopes","description":"\u003cp\u003eiOptron telescopes are optical tubes aimed mainly at deep-sky astrophotography. The f\/4 Imaging Newtonians, in 150, 200, 250 and 300mm, give fast, wide fields, while the Photron Ritchey-Chretien range from 6\" to 16\" offers long focal lengths for galaxies and small nebulae, including an RC10 with a 3\" focuser.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe line also includes a MAK 150mm OTA for lunar and planetary viewing and an 80mm refractor.\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"ioptron-photron-8-ritchey-chretien","title":"iOptron Photron 8\" Ritchey-Chretien","description":"\u003cul class=\"DAV-feature-list\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e200mm (8\") Ritchey-Chretien Optical Design\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1624mm Focal Length at f\/8\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eComa-Free Optics for Flat-Field Astrophotography\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e2\" 10:1 Dual-Speed Crayford Focuser\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLosmandy-style Bottom Dovetail and Vixen-style Top Accessory Rail\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWeighs 18 lbs\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c!-- more --\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"tabs\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"active\"\u003eDescription\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFAQ\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSpecifications\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIn the Box\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWarranty\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"tabs-content\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"active\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section-center\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eiOptron Photron 8\" f\/8 Ritchey-Chretien Telescope\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe iOptron Photron 8\" Ritchey-Chretien delivers a pure, coma-free imaging field with its 200mm hyperbolic primary mirror and 1624mm focal length. Its native f\/8 optical system is purpose-built for astrophotography, achieving a theoretical resolving power of 0.58 arc seconds. The entire optical tube assembly weighs only 18 lbs, making it a powerful imaging instrument for a wide range of equatorial mounts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eComa-Free Imaging: The 200mm f\/8 Ritchey-Chretien Advantage\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Ritchey-Chretien (RC) is the design of choice for professional observatories, and the Photron 8\" brings that optical pedigree to your backyard. Unlike Newtonians that suffer from coma or Schmidt-Cassegrains that require correctors for field curvature, the RC's hyperbolic mirrors produce naturally sharp stars across the entire field of view. This makes it ideal for cameras with APS-C or larger sensors.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt a focal length of 1624mm, this telescope provides the ideal image scale for capturing details in medium-sized galaxies like the Whirlpool Galaxy (M51) or resolving individual stars in globular clusters like the Great Cluster in Hercules (M13). The open-tube design also eliminates the front corrector plate, allowing for faster thermal acclimation and preventing dew formation on the primary optics.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eImaging-Ready Mechanics: 10:1 Focuser and Dual Dovetails\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo complement its optics, the Photron 8\" RC is equipped with hardware designed for the demands of imaging. A robust 2\" Crayford focuser with a 10:1 dual-speed knob enables the precise, minute adjustments necessary to achieve critical focus. The focuser includes a 2\" to 1.25\" adapter and a set of extension tubes (two 1\" and one 2\") to correctly position your camera at the focal plane.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDual Dovetail Bars:\u003c\/strong\u003e A Losmandy-style \"D\" plate provides a secure, wide mounting surface on your primary mount, while a Vixen-style \"V\" bar on top is ready for guide scopes, finder scopes, or other accessories.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eExtension Tubes Included:\u003c\/strong\u003e The package includes two 1\" and one 2\" extension tubes, giving you the flexibility to reach focus with DSLRs, dedicated astronomy cameras, and various filter wheel or off-axis guider combinations.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eRigid Steel Tube Construction at 18 lbs\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Photron RC's optical tube is constructed from steel, providing excellent rigidity to maintain collimation as the telescope moves across the sky. This thermal stability helps keep focus sharp during temperature drops over a long imaging session. The entire assembly weighs just 18 lbs and has a length of 22.0 inches, placing it well within the capacity of popular mid-range equatorial mounts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003ePhotron 8\" RC vs. a Standard 8\" SCT: An Imager's Choice\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor astronomers deciding on an 8-inch class telescope, the choice often comes down to an RC like the Photron or a Schmidt-Cassegrain (SCT). While both are powerful, they are optimized for different tasks.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSCT Advantage:\u003c\/strong\u003e A standard 8\" SCT is typically more compact and often serves better as a dual-purpose visual and imaging instrument due to its smaller secondary obstruction and sealed tube. It operates at a slower focal ratio, around f\/10, which can be forgiving for visual use.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePhotron RC Advantage:\u003c\/strong\u003e The RC is an imaging specialist. Its f\/8 optics are faster, and the field is inherently flat and free of coma without needing an extra corrector lens. The lack of a corrector plate means faster cooldown and one less surface to attract dew, simplifying your imaging workflow.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhat kind of equatorial mount is needed for the iOptron Photron 8\" RC?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Photron 8\" RC OTA weighs \u003cstrong\u003e18 lbs\u003c\/strong\u003e. For stable astrophotography, you should choose a mount that can handle at least 1.5 to 2 times the OTA weight once you add a camera, guide scope, and accessories. A mount in the 30-40 lb payload capacity class, such as an iOptron GEM28\/CEM26 or larger, is recommended.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eHow does the Photron 8\" RC perform on small galaxies like the Whirlpool Galaxy (M51)?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003e1624mm focal length\u003c\/strong\u003e is excellent for imaging galaxies. Paired with a modern astronomy camera with small pixels (e.g., 2.9µm - 3.76µm), the Photron 8\" RC will frame targets like M51 or the Sombrero Galaxy (M104) perfectly, with enough image scale to resolve spiral arms and dust lanes from a dark sky site.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eHow do I use the included extension tubes with the Photron 8\" RC?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRitchey-Chretien telescopes have a long back focus distance to accommodate various imaging accessories. You will need to use the included \u003cstrong\u003e1\" and 2\" extension tubes\u003c\/strong\u003e between the focuser and your camera to reach focus. Start by adding the 2\" extension, and then add or remove the 1\" extensions until you are close to focus with the focuser racked about halfway out.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eIs the Photron 8\" RC a good telescope for visual observing?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhile you can use it for visual observing, the Photron 8\" RC is optimized for imaging. It has a large secondary mirror (\u003cstrong\u003e95mm\u003c\/strong\u003e) which creates a significant central obstruction. This reduces contrast on planets compared to a dedicated planetary scope like a Maksutov-Cassegrain. However, it can still provide pleasing views of deep-sky objects.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eDo I need a field flattener or coma corrector with the iOptron Photron 8\" RC?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo. The primary advantage of the \u003cstrong\u003eRitchey-Chretien optical design\u003c\/strong\u003e is that it is inherently corrected for coma and produces a flat field without any additional lenses. You can connect your camera directly to the telescope (using the required extension tubes) and get sharp stars across the frame.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhat is the purpose of the Vixen-style bar on top of the Photron 8\" RC?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe top-mounted \u003cstrong\u003eVixen-style dovetail bar\u003c\/strong\u003e is an accessory rail. It is not intended for mounting the main telescope. Its purpose is to provide a convenient and sturdy platform for attaching accessories like a guide scope, a heavy-duty finderscope, or a piggyback camera mount.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"DAV-specifications\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eOptical Design\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eRitchey-Chretien\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eClear Aperture\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e200mm (8\")\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFocal Length\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e1624mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFocal Ratio\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ef\/8\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eResolving Power\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e0.58 arc seconds\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eLimiting Magnitude\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e14.2\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eHighest Useful Magnification\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e236X\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSecondary Mirror Size\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e95mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFocuser\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e2” 10:1 Crayford dual-speed\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMounting Dovetail (Bottom)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eLosmandy-style\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAccessory Rail (Top)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eVixen-style\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFinderscope Base\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eYes (Finderscope optional)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eIncluded Accessories\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e2” to 1.25” adapter, 2x 1\" extension tubes, 1x 2\" extension tube\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTube Material\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSteel\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTube Length\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e22.0” (559mm)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTube Weight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e18 lbs (8.2 kg)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eShipping Weight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e25 lbs\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eShipping Dimensions\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e27 x 14 x 14 in\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"DAV-grid\"\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/davidastro.com\/pages\/ioptron-warranty-policy\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eiOptron 2-Year Limited Warranty\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"iOptron","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44968071430429,"sku":"IOP-6112","price":1649.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0753\/5280\/1565\/products\/iOptron-Photron-8__65470.1673470512.1280.1280.jpg?v=1684348671"},{"product_id":"ioptron-photron-6-ritchey-chretien","title":"iOptron Photron 6\" Ritchey-Chretien","description":"\u003cul class=\"DAV-feature-list\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e150mm (6\") Ritchey-Chretien Optical Design\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1370mm Focal Length\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ef\/9 Focal Ratio\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e10:1 Dual-Speed 2\" Crayford Focuser\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e12 lbs Tube Weight\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c!-- more --\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"tabs\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"active\"\u003eDescription\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFAQ\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSpecifications\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIn the Box\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWarranty\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"tabs-content\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"active\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section-center\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eiOptron Photron 6\" f\/9 Ritchey-Chretien OTA\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe iOptron Photron 6\" Ritchey-Chretien combines a 150mm coma-free optical system with a 1370mm focal length, delivering sharp, flat-field images ideal for modern astrophotography. Its optical system achieves a resolving power of 0.76 arc seconds, while the entire tube weighs only 12 lbs and measures 19.1\" long, making it a perfect match for a wide range of equatorial mounts. Focusing is managed by a 2\" 10:1 dual-speed Crayford focuser, ensuring you can achieve the critical sharpness required for high-resolution imaging.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eThe 150mm f\/9 Coma-Free Ritchey-Chretien Design\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Ritchey-Chretien (RC) design is renowned for its excellent off-axis correction, producing round, pinpoint stars across the entire field without the need for an additional coma corrector. The Photron's 150mm aperture and 1370mm focal length create an f\/9 system that is perfectly suited for imaging smaller deep-sky objects like planetary nebulae and galaxies at high resolution. With a theoretical resolving power of 0.76 arc seconds, you can capture fine details in galactic dust lanes and planetary cloud bands.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eA 10:1 Dual-Speed Crayford for Precision Focus\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAchieving perfect focus is critical, and the Photron 6\" RC includes a robust 2\" Crayford focuser with a 10:1 dual-speed mechanism for fine adjustments. This allows for smooth, backlash-free operation, preventing image shift during critical focusing. To accommodate a wide range of cameras and accessories, the package includes two 1\" extension tubes, one 2\" extension tube, and a 2\" to 1.25\" adapter, giving you the flexibility to reach focus with nearly any imaging train.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eA Portable 12 lb Imaging Platform for Smaller Mounts\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWeighing just 12 lbs and measuring 19.1\" in length, the Photron 6\" RC is an exceptionally portable imaging instrument. Its low weight and compact size mean it doesn't require a massive, expensive mount to perform well, making it an accessible entry point into high-resolution astrophotography. The included Vixen-style dovetail bar ensures compatibility with a vast number of popular German Equatorial Mounts, allowing for a quick and secure setup.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003ePhotron 6\" RC vs. 6\" SCT: Field Flatness and Focal Ratio\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhile a 6\" Schmidt-Cassegrain Telescope (SCT) offers a more compact tube and the potential for faster imaging with a reducer, it requires additional correctors to produce a flat, coma-free field suitable for astrophotography. The Photron 6\" RC's primary advantage is its native optical correction.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eComa-Free Field:\u003c\/strong\u003e The RC design corrects for coma inherently, providing sharp stars to the edge of the field without extra lenses in the light path. An SCT will show significant coma without a dedicated corrector.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFixed Mirrors:\u003c\/strong\u003e Unlike the moving primary mirror of an SCT, the RC's fixed mirrors eliminate the potential for image shift during focusing, a critical feature for long-exposure imaging and autofocus routines.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFocal Ratio:\u003c\/strong\u003e At f\/9, the Photron provides more magnification than an SCT with an f\/6.3 reducer, making it better suited for smaller targets right out of the box.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhat kind of mount is required for the iOptron Photron 6\" RC?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith a tube weight of only \u003cstrong\u003e12 lbs\u003c\/strong\u003e, the Photron 6\" RC is well-supported by many entry-level to mid-range German Equatorial Mounts. A mount with a payload capacity of 20-25 lbs or more would be ideal to handle the OTA plus cameras and accessories. The scope comes with a \u003cstrong\u003eVixen-style dovetail bar\u003c\/strong\u003e for broad compatibility.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eIs the Photron 6\" RC good for visual observing?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhile optimized for astrophotography, the Photron 6\" RC can be used for visual astronomy. However, Ritchey-Chretien telescopes have a larger secondary mirror (\u003cstrong\u003e67mm\u003c\/strong\u003e in this case) compared to other designs, which reduces contrast slightly. This makes them better for high-power views of the Moon, planets, and bright deep-sky objects rather than wide-field, low-power sweeping.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eHow do I use the included extension tubes with the Photron 6\" RC?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe included extension tubes (two \u003cstrong\u003e1\"\u003c\/strong\u003e and one \u003cstrong\u003e2\"\u003c\/strong\u003e) are used to adjust the distance between the focuser and your camera to achieve focus. The exact combination you need depends on your specific camera's sensor depth and any accessories like filter wheels or off-axis guiders. Start with the 2\" extender for a DSLR, or a 1\" extender for many dedicated astronomy cameras, and adjust as needed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhat is the advantage of the Photron 6\" RC over a Newtonian for astrophotography?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe primary advantage of the Ritchey-Chretien design is the absence of coma, an optical aberration that makes stars at the edge of the field appear comet-shaped. While a fast Newtonian requires a separate coma corrector lens, the Photron 6\" RC is inherently corrected. Additionally, its \u003cstrong\u003e1370mm focal length\u003c\/strong\u003e provides more magnification in a shorter \u003cstrong\u003e19.1\" tube\u003c\/strong\u003e than a Newtonian of similar focal length.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eCan I image small galaxies like the Whirlpool Galaxy (M51) with the Photron 6\" RC?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes, absolutely. The \u003cstrong\u003e1370mm focal length\u003c\/strong\u003e and \u003cstrong\u003e150mm aperture\u003c\/strong\u003e are an excellent combination for framing and resolving details in moderately sized galaxies like M51 or the Sombrero Galaxy (M104). The f\/9 focal ratio provides enough image scale to capture the spiral arms and dust lanes when paired with a camera with small pixels.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhat results can I expect on the Orion Nebula (M42) with this 150mm f\/9 telescope?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Orion Nebula (M42) is a very large and bright target. With the Photron 6\" RC's 1370mm focal length, you will be able to tightly frame the core region, including the Trapezium cluster. The scope's \u003cstrong\u003e0.76 arc second resolving power\u003c\/strong\u003e will allow you to capture intricate details and structure within the nebula's gas clouds, especially with short, stacked exposures.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"DAV-specifications\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eOptical Design\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eRitchey-Chretien\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eClear Aperture\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e150mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFocal Length\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e1370mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFocal Ratio\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ef\/9\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eResolving Power\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e0.76 arc seconds\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eLimiting Magnitude\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e13.6\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eHighest Useful Magnification\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e180X\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSecondary Mirror Size\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e67mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFocuser\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e2” 10:1 Crayford dual-speed\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eDovetail Bar\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eVixen-style\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTube Material\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSteel\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTube Length\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e19.1”\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTube Weight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e12 lbs\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFinderscope\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eOptional (base included)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eIncluded Accessories\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e2” to 1.25” adapter, 2x 1\" extension tubes, 1x 2\" extension tube\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eGross Weight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e18 lbs\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eShipping Dimensions\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e24 x 13 x 12 in\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"DAV-grid\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"DAV-grid-item\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-title\"\u003ePhotron 6\" Ritchey-Chretien OTA\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-subtitle\"\u003e× 1\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"DAV-grid-item\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-title\"\u003e2\" to 1.25\" Compression Ring Adapter\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-subtitle\"\u003e× 1\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"DAV-grid-item\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-title\"\u003e1\" Extension Tube\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-subtitle\"\u003e× 2\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"DAV-grid-item\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-title\"\u003e2\" Extension Tube\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-subtitle\"\u003e× 1\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/davidastro.com\/pages\/ioptron-warranty-policy\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eiOptron 2-Year Limited Warranty\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"iOptron","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44968081359133,"sku":"IOP-6111","price":781.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0753\/5280\/1565\/products\/ioptron-photron-6__35063.1681926345.1280.1280.jpg?v=1684348859"},{"product_id":"ioptron-photron-14-ritchey-chretien","title":"iOptron Photron 14\" Ritchey-Chretien","description":"\u003cul class=\"DAV-feature-list\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e14\" (355mm) Ritchey-Chretien Optical Design\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e2848mm Focal Length at f\/8\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCarbon Fiber Truss Tube for Thermal Stability\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHeavy-duty 3\" Dual-Speed 10:1 Focuser\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThree Integrated Primary Mirror Cooling Fans\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWeighs 66 lbs\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c!-- more --\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"tabs\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"active\"\u003eDescription\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFAQ\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSpecifications\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIn the Box\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWarranty\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"tabs-content\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"active\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n  \u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section-center\"\u003e\n      \u003ch2\u003eiOptron Photron 14\" Ritchey-Chretien Telescope\u003c\/h2\u003e\n      \u003cp\u003eThe iOptron Photron 14\" Ritchey-Chretien delivers professional-grade imaging with its 355mm (14\") hyperbolic primary mirror and 2848mm focal length. This f\/8 optical system provides a naturally coma-free field ideal for modern sensors, all housed within a thermally stable carbon truss tube assembly weighing 66 lbs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n    \u003c\/div\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n\n  \u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n      \u003ch3\u003e14\" f\/8 Ritchey-Chrétien Optics: Coma-Free Imaging at 2848mm\u003c\/h3\u003e\n      \u003cp\u003eThe Ritchey-Chrétien is the design of choice for professional observatories, and for good reason. By using hyperbolic primary and secondary mirrors, the Photron 14\" eliminates off-axis coma, producing sharp stars across a wide, flat field without the need for additional corrector lenses. At a focal length of 2848mm, you have the image scale needed to resolve fine details in distant galaxies and planetary nebulae.\u003c\/p\u003e\n      \u003cp\u003eUnlike designs that use refractive elements, this pure two-mirror system has zero chromatic aberration. This ensures that all wavelengths of light come to the same focal point, resulting in higher contrast and tighter stars without color fringing, which is critical for both scientific measurement and aesthetic imaging.\u003c\/p\u003e\n    \u003c\/div\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n\n  \u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n      \u003ch3\u003eCarbon Truss and 3 Fans for Thermal Stability\u003c\/h3\u003e\n      \u003cp\u003eA large mirror is susceptible to focus shift as ambient temperature changes. The Photron 14\" addresses this with a carbon truss tube, which has a near-zero coefficient of thermal expansion. This structure maintains the critical 2848mm focal length throughout the night, minimizing the need for constant refocusing during long imaging sessions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n      \u003cp\u003eTo reach thermal equilibrium quickly, the OTA is equipped with three built-in cooling fans behind the primary mirror. These fans accelerate the cooling of the 14\" mirror, reducing tube currents and ensuring the sharpest possible views much faster than a passively cooled system.\u003c\/p\u003e\n    \u003c\/div\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n  \n    \u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n      \u003ch3\u003e3\" Dual-Speed Focuser for Heavy Imaging Loads\u003c\/h3\u003e\n      \u003cp\u003eTo support modern imaging trains, the Photron 14\" features a robust 3” dual-speed focuser. The large diameter prevents vignetting on full-frame and larger sensors, while the 10:1 fine focus knob allows for the precise adjustments required at an f\/8 focal ratio. This heavy-duty focuser is designed to carry a full payload of a camera, filter wheel, and off-axis guider without flexure.\u003c\/p\u003e\n      \u003cul\u003e\n        \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDual Losmandy-Style Dovetails:\u003c\/strong\u003e A mounting bar on the bottom provides a secure connection to your mount, while a second bar on top serves as a rigid platform for guide scopes, power distribution boxes, or other accessories.\u003c\/li\u003e\n        \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eExtension Tubes:\u003c\/strong\u003e Two 1\" extension tubes and one 2\" extension tube are included to help you achieve the correct back-focus distance for your specific camera and accessory combination.\u003c\/li\u003e\n      \u003c\/ul\u003e\n    \u003c\/div\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n\n  \u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n      \u003ch3\u003ePhotron 14\" RC vs. a 14\" SCT: A 66 lb Imaging Specialist\u003c\/h3\u003e\n      \u003cp\u003eWhile a 14\" Schmidt-Cassegrain (SCT) with a corrector is a versatile instrument, the Photron 14\" RC is a specialist built for one purpose: uncompromising imaging. The RC's open-truss design and active cooling allow it to reach ambient temperature faster than a sealed SCT, and its lack of a corrector plate means one less surface to collect dew.\u003c\/p\u003e\n      \u003cp\u003eAn SCT may offer more flexibility with options like HyperStar for f\/2 wide-field imaging. However, for deep-sky imaging at native focal length, the RC's inherent coma correction and absence of chromatic aberration provide a distinct advantage for capturing the highest resolution data possible with a 14\" aperture.\u003c\/p\u003e\n    \u003c\/div\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n  \u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n    \u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhat kind of mount do I need for the iOptron Photron 14\" RC?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n  \u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003eWith a tube weight of \u003cstrong\u003e66 lbs\u003c\/strong\u003e before adding any camera gear, the Photron 14\" requires a high-capacity equatorial mount. For reliable imaging, you should choose a mount with a rated payload capacity of at least 90-100 lbs, such as an iOptron CEM120, a Losmandy Titan, or a similar class of observatory-grade mount.\u003c\/p\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n  \u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n    \u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhy is a Ritchey-Chretien design better for astrophotography?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n  \u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003eThe Ritchey-Chretien (RC) design uses two hyperbolic mirrors to correct for \u003cstrong\u003ecoma\u003c\/strong\u003e, an optical aberration that makes stars at the edge of the field of view look like comets. This correction is inherent to the design and works across the visual spectrum. It also has no refractive lenses, meaning it is completely free of \u003cstrong\u003echromatic aberration\u003c\/strong\u003e (color fringing).\u003c\/p\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n  \u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n    \u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eHow will the Photron 14\" RC perform on small galaxies like the Whirlpool Galaxy (M51)?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n  \u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003eThe Photron 14\" RC is ideal for targets like M51. Its long \u003cstrong\u003e2848mm focal length\u003c\/strong\u003e provides the perfect image scale to frame the galaxy and its companion, while the 14\" aperture resolves fine details like dust lanes and spiral arms, especially with good seeing conditions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n    \u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eIs the iOptron Photron 14\" suitable for imaging the entire North American Nebula (NGC 7000)?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n  \u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003eNo, this telescope is not designed for extremely wide-field targets like NGC 7000. Its 2848mm focal length creates a very narrow field of view, making it a \"galaxy hunter\" and planetary nebula instrument. To image the entire North American Nebula, you would need a short focal length refractor or a faster system like a Rowe-Ackermann Schmidt Astrograph (RASA).\u003c\/p\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n    \u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhat are the included 1\" and 2\" extension tubes for?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n  \u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003eThe extension tubes are used to set the correct back-focus distance between the focuser and your camera sensor. Different cameras, filter wheels, and off-axis guiders have different thicknesses. The included \u003cstrong\u003etwo 1\" extensions and one 2\" extension\u003c\/strong\u003e allow you to configure your imaging train to reach focus properly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n    \u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eDoes the Photron 14\" RC require collimation?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n  \u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003eYes, like all reflector telescopes, the Photron 14\" RC will require periodic collimation. Aligning the hyperbolic primary and secondary mirrors is more sensitive than on a standard Newtonian but is essential for achieving sharp, uniform stars across the field. It is recommended to use a laser collimator or Cheshire eyepiece for this process.\u003c\/p\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n  \u003ctable class=\"DAV-specifications\"\u003e\n    \u003ctbody\u003e\n      \u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eOptical Design\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eRitchey-Chretien\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n      \u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAperture\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e14\" (355mm)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n      \u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFocal Length\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e2848mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n      \u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFocal Ratio\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ef\/8\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n      \u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFocuser\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e3” 10:1 dual-speed\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n      \u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTube Material\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eCarbon truss tube\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n      \u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTube Length\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e960mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n      \u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTube Weight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e66 lbs\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n      \u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePrimary Mirror Cooling\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eYes (three built-in fans)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n      \u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eDovetail (Bottom)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eLosmandy-style\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n      \u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMounting Bar (Top)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eLosmandy-style\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n      \u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eIncluded Accessories\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e2x 1\" extension tubes, 1x 2\" extension tube\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n      \u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eShipping Weight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e88 lbs\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n      \u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eShipping Dimensions\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e55 x 27 x 26 in\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n    \u003c\/tbody\u003e\n  \u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n  \u003cul class=\"DAV-grid\"\u003e\n    \u003cli class=\"DAV-grid-item\"\u003e\n      \u003cdiv\u003e\n        \u003cp class=\"DAV-item-title\"\u003ePhotron 14\" RC OTA\u003c\/p\u003e\n        \u003cp class=\"DAV-item-subtitle\"\u003e× 1\u003c\/p\u003e\n      \u003c\/div\u003e\n    \u003c\/li\u003e\n    \u003cli class=\"DAV-grid-item\"\u003e\n      \u003cdiv\u003e\n        \u003cp class=\"DAV-item-title\"\u003e1\" Focuser Extension Tube\u003c\/p\u003e\n        \u003cp class=\"DAV-item-subtitle\"\u003e× 2\u003c\/p\u003e\n      \u003c\/div\u003e\n    \u003c\/li\u003e\n    \u003cli class=\"DAV-grid-item\"\u003e\n      \u003cdiv\u003e\n        \u003cp class=\"DAV-item-title\"\u003e2\" Focuser Extension Tube\u003c\/p\u003e\n        \u003cp class=\"DAV-item-subtitle\"\u003e× 1\u003c\/p\u003e\n      \u003c\/div\u003e\n    \u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/davidastro.com\/pages\/ioptron-warranty-policy\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eiOptron 2-Year Telescope Warranty\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"iOptron","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44968081457437,"sku":"IOP-6116","price":9379.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0753\/5280\/1565\/products\/iOptron-RC-Photron-14__83140.1682950317.1280.1280.jpg?v=1684348861"},{"product_id":"ioptron-photron-10-ritchey-chretien","title":"iOptron Photron 10\" Ritchey-Chretien","description":"\u003cul class=\"DAV-feature-list\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e10\" (254mm) Ritchey-Chretien Optical Design\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e2032mm Focal Length\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ef\/8 Focal Ratio\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCarbon Fiber Truss Tube for Thermal Stability\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e3-inch, 10:1 Dual-Speed Crayford Focuser\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e3 Integrated Primary Mirror Cooling Fans\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWeighs 34 lbs\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c!-- more --\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"tabs\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"active\"\u003eDescription\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFAQ\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSpecifications\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIn the Box\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWarranty\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"tabs-content\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"active\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section-center\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eiOptron Photron 10\" Ritchey-Chretien\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe iOptron Photron 10\" Ritchey-Chretien combines a 254mm aperture with a 2032mm focal length in a coma-free optical design built specifically for astrophotography. Its f\/8 focal ratio provides high-resolution sampling for galaxies and planetary nebulae, while the carbon truss tube holds the 34 lb optical assembly at a stable 650mm length regardless of temperature swings. A heavy-duty 3-inch, 10:1 dual-speed Crayford focuser manages heavy camera payloads, and three integrated cooling fans ensure rapid thermal stabilization for sharp, steady images.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e10\" f\/8 Ritchey-Chretien Optics: Coma-Free Imaging at 2032mm\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Ritchey-Chretien (RC) optical design uses hyperbolic primary and secondary mirrors to eliminate off-axis coma, an aberration that distorts stars into comet-like shapes at the edge of the field in other reflector designs. This means you get pinpoint stars across a large, flat field without needing a separate coma corrector lens. With a 2032mm focal length and 10\" of aperture, the Photron RC delivers the image scale required to resolve fine details in distant galaxies and small planetary nebulae.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCarbon Truss Tube and 3-Fan Cooling System\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFocus stability is critical for long-exposure imaging, especially at a 2032mm focal length. The Photron 10\" RC uses a carbon fiber truss tube, which has a near-zero coefficient of thermal expansion. This prevents the focal point from shifting as ambient temperature drops throughout the night, keeping your images sharp without constant refocusing. To achieve thermal equilibrium quickly, three built-in cooling fans actively circulate air behind the primary mirror, reducing tube currents and ensuring your imaging session starts with the sharpest possible views.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e3\" Dual-Speed Focuser and Dual Losmandy Bars\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis telescope is built to support a serious imaging train. The massive 3-inch Crayford focuser prevents vignetting with large-format camera sensors and can handle the weight of a filter wheel, off-axis guider, and camera without flexure. The 10:1 dual-speed mechanism allows for precise, critical focusing adjustments. For mounting, the Photron 10\" RC includes two Losmandy-style dovetail bars; one for attaching to your mount and a second on top for mounting guide scopes, power distribution boxes, or other accessories.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003ePhotron 10\" RC vs. a 10\" SCT: The Astrophotographer's Choice\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor imagers choosing a 10-inch instrument, the primary alternative is a Schmidt-Cassegrain Telescope (SCT). While an SCT is often more compact and versatile for visual use, the Photron RC presents key advantages for dedicated astrophotography.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eComa Correction:\u003c\/strong\u003e The RC design is natively coma-free. An SCT exhibits significant coma and requires an additional corrector lens to produce sharp stars edge-to-edge, adding cost and complexity.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFocuser Design:\u003c\/strong\u003e The Photron's external Crayford focuser eliminates the \"image shift\" common to SCTs, which move the primary mirror to focus. This provides a more stable and repeatable focusing platform for imaging.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFixed Mirrors:\u003c\/strong\u003e The mirrors in the RC are fixed in place, leading to better collimation stability compared to the moving-mirror design of an SCT.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhat is the main advantage of the iOptron Photron 10\" RC's optical design?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe primary advantage of the \u003cstrong\u003eRitchey-Chretien\u003c\/strong\u003e design is its intrinsic correction for coma. This means stars remain sharp, pinpoint objects across the entire photographic field without the need for an extra coma corrector lens, making it a superior choice for imaging with large camera sensors.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhy is the Photron 10\" RC's carbon truss tube important?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003ecarbon fiber truss tube\u003c\/strong\u003e has a very low coefficient of thermal expansion. This prevents the telescope's 2032mm focal length from changing as temperatures drop overnight, which keeps the focus stable during long imaging sessions. An aluminum or steel tube would shrink in the cold, causing focus shift.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhat kind of mount is required for the 34 lb iOptron Photron 10\" RC?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor an optical tube weighing \u003cstrong\u003e34 lbs\u003c\/strong\u003e with a long focal length of \u003cstrong\u003e2032mm\u003c\/strong\u003e, you need a very stable equatorial mount. We recommend a mount with a payload capacity of at least 50-60 lbs to ensure steady tracking and guiding. Mounts in the iOptron CEM60\/CEM70, Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro, or Celestron CGX\/CGX-L class are appropriate.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eDo I need the included extension tubes for the Photron 10\" RC?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes, most likely. Ritchey-Chretien telescopes have a long back focus distance to accommodate various imaging accessories like off-axis guiders and filter wheels. The included \u003cstrong\u003e1\" and 2\" extension tubes\u003c\/strong\u003e are used to place your camera or eyepiece at the correct focal plane. The exact combination you need will depend on your specific imaging train.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eHow does the Photron 10\" RC perform on small galaxies like the Whirlpool Galaxy (M51)?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003e2032mm focal length\u003c\/strong\u003e at f\/8 is ideal for targets like the Whirlpool Galaxy (M51). The 10\" aperture gathers enough light to capture faint details, while the long focal length provides the necessary image scale to clearly resolve the spiral arms and the connecting bridge to its companion galaxy, NGC 5195.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eIs the Photron 10\" RC's f\/8 focal ratio suitable for imaging the Ring Nebula (M57)?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAbsolutely. The f\/8 focal ratio is a great match for small, bright planetary nebulae like the Ring Nebula (M57). It provides high magnification to make the nebula's structure apparent, and with modern CMOS cameras, exposure times are very manageable. This setup will easily resolve the central star within M57 from a dark site with good seeing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"DAV-specifications\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eOptical Design\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eRitchey-Chretien\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eClear Aperture\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e10\" (254mm)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFocal Length\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e2032mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFocal Ratio\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ef\/8\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFocuser\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e3” 10:1 Crayford dual-speed\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTube Material\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eCarbon truss tube\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePrimary Mirror Cooling\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eYes (three built-in fans)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eDovetail (Bottom)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eLosmandy-style\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMounting Bar (Top)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eLosmandy-style\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTube Length\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e650mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eOTA Weight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e34 lbs\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eShipping Weight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e50 lbs\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eShipping Dimensions\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e33 x 21 x 20 in\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eIncluded Accessories\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e2x 1\" Extension Tubes, 1x 2\" Extension Tube\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"DAV-grid\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"DAV-grid-item\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-title\"\u003ePhotron 10\" Ritchey-Chretien OTA\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-subtitle\"\u003e× 1\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"DAV-grid-item\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-title\"\u003e1\" Extension Tube\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-subtitle\"\u003e× 2\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"DAV-grid-item\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-title\"\u003e2\" Extension Tube\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-subtitle\"\u003e× 1\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/davidastro.com\/pages\/ioptron-warranty-policy\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eiOptron 2-Year Limited Warranty\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"iOptron","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44968091549981,"sku":"IOP-6114","price":4477.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0753\/5280\/1565\/products\/6114-4__81737.1683224337.1280.1280.jpg?v=1684348984"},{"product_id":"ioptron-photron-12-ritchey-chretien","title":"iOptron Photron 12\" Ritchey-Chretien","description":"\u003cul class=\"DAV-feature-list\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e12\" (304mm) Ritchey-Chretien Optics\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e2432mm Focal Length\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ef\/8 Focal Ratio\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCarbon Fiber Truss Tube Design\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e3\" Dual-Speed 10:1 Crayford Focuser\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e53 lb Optical Tube Weight\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c!-- more --\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"tabs\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"active\"\u003eDescription\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFAQ\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSpecifications\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIn the Box\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWarranty\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"tabs-content\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"active\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section-center\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eiOptron Photron 12\" Ritchey-Chretien Telescope\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe iOptron Photron 12\" Ritchey-Chretien delivers professional-grade imaging capabilities through its pure two-mirror optical design. Its 12\" (304mm) aperture and 2432mm focal length provide the image scale needed for high-resolution views of distant galaxies and nebulae at a native f\/8 focal ratio. The entire 53 lb optical assembly is supported by a rigid carbon truss tube and features a robust 3\" dual-speed focuser, ensuring a stable platform for demanding astrophotography.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eRitchey-Chretien Optics: The 12\" Coma-Free Astrograph\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Ritchey-Chretien (RC) design uses hyperbolic primary and secondary mirrors to eliminate off-axis coma, a critical aberration that distorts stars at the edge of the field in other reflector designs. This makes the Photron 12\" a true astrograph, producing pinpoint stars across a wide, flat field without the need for a separate coma corrector. It's the same optical system trusted by professional observatories, scaled for the advanced amateur imager.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCarbon Truss Tube: 53 lbs of Thermally Stable Structure\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWeighing in at 53 lbs, the Photron 12\" is built around a carbon fiber truss tube. This material choice is critical for long-exposure imaging, as carbon fiber has a near-zero coefficient of thermal expansion. As temperatures drop during the night, the 2432mm focal length remains constant, preventing focus shift that can ruin an image. The open truss design also allows the optics to cool to ambient temperature more quickly than a closed-tube system.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eImaging-Ready Mechanics: A 3\" Focuser and Dual Losmandy Bars\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis telescope is engineered to support a complete imaging payload. The massive 3\" Crayford focuser features a 10:1 dual-speed mechanism for precise adjustments and can handle heavy cameras, filter wheels, and off-axis guiders without flexure. To accommodate various back-focus requirements, the OTA includes two 1\" and one 2\" extension tubes. Dual Losmandy-style dovetail bars provide a secure connection to the mount and offer ample space on top for mounting guide scopes and other accessories.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eActive Thermal Control: Triple Fans for a 304mm Primary\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA large 304mm primary mirror can hold significant heat, which creates tube currents that degrade image sharpness. To combat this, the Photron 12\" incorporates three built-in cooling fans behind the primary mirror. These fans accelerate the cooling process, allowing the mirror to reach thermal equilibrium quickly so you can start capturing stable, high-resolution data sooner.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003ePhotron 12\" RC vs. 11\" SCT: Optical Design and Field Purity\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAn imager considering the Photron 12\" RC might also look at a popular 11\" Schmidt-Cassegrain Telescope (SCT). While similar in aperture, their designs serve different priorities.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSCT Advantage:\u003c\/strong\u003e SCTs are typically more compact and lighter for their aperture. Their closed-tube design protects the optics from dust and dew, and they are often excellent visual instruments.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRC Advantage:\u003c\/strong\u003e The Photron RC provides a coma-free field by design, without any corrector lenses in the light path. This optical purity is a major advantage for imaging. The open truss tube provides superior thermal management, a critical factor for maintaining focus and image stability over long sessions. The primary trade-off for the RC's optical purity is that it requires more precise collimation than an SCT.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhy choose a Ritchey-Chretien like the Photron 12\" for astrophotography?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Ritchey-Chretien design is a dedicated astrograph, meaning it's optimized for photography. It uses two hyperbolic mirrors to eliminate an optical aberration called coma, resulting in sharp, pinpoint stars across the entire imaging field without needing an extra corrector lens. This makes the \u003cstrong\u003eiOptron Photron 12\" RC\u003c\/strong\u003e ideal for capturing wide, clean fields of view.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhat kind of mount is needed for the 53 lb iOptron Photron 12\" RC?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith an optical tube weight of \u003cstrong\u003e53 lbs\u003c\/strong\u003e, plus the weight of your camera and guide scope, you will need a heavy-duty equatorial mount with a payload capacity of at least 70-80 lbs for stable imaging. Mounts in the Losmandy G11, iOptron CEM70\/CEM120, or Celestron CGX-L class are appropriate.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eHow does the carbon truss tube on the Photron 12\" help with imaging?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCarbon fiber has a very low thermal expansion rate. This means that as the temperature changes overnight, the \u003cstrong\u003e2432mm focal length\u003c\/strong\u003e of the telescope remains stable. This prevents your focus from shifting, which is a common problem with metal-tube telescopes and can ruin long exposures.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhat are the included extension tubes with the Photron 12\" RC for?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Photron 12\" comes with two 1\" and one 2\" extension tubes for the focuser. These are used to adjust the spacing between the focuser and your camera to achieve proper focus. Different cameras, filter wheels, and other accessories require different amounts of back focus, and these rings provide the flexibility to accommodate most imaging setups.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eHow will the Photron 12\" RC perform on a small galaxy like the Whirlpool Galaxy (M51)?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003e2432mm focal length\u003c\/strong\u003e of the Photron 12\" is ideal for targets like the Whirlpool Galaxy (M51). This long focal length provides high magnification, allowing you to frame the galaxy and its companion, NGC 5195, perfectly while resolving fine detail like spiral arms and dust lanes. The \u003cstrong\u003e12\" aperture\u003c\/strong\u003e gathers enough light to capture faint structures in a reasonable amount of exposure time.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWill I need a field flattener with the iOptron Photron 12\" RC on a large sensor?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhile the Ritchey-Chretien design is inherently free from coma, it does have some natural field curvature, especially noticeable on full-frame or larger sensors. For the most demanding applications and perfectly flat fields edge-to-edge, a dedicated field flattener or reducer\/flattener is recommended. For sensors of APS-C size or smaller, the native field is often flat enough not to require one.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"DAV-specifications\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eOptical Design\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eRitchey-Chretien\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eClear Aperture\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e12\" (304mm)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFocal Length\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e2432mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFocal Ratio\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ef\/8\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFocuser\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e3\" 10:1 Dual-Speed Crayford\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTube Material\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eCarbon truss tube\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMounting Dovetail (Bottom)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eLosmandy-style\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAccessory Rail (Top)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eLosmandy-style\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePrimary Mirror Cooling\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eYes (Three built-in fans)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eIncluded Extension Tubes\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e2x 1\" and 1x 2\"\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eOptical Tube Length\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e850mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eOptical Tube Weight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e53 lbs\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eShipping Weight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e78 lbs\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eShipping Dimensions\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e43 x 25 x 23 in\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"DAV-grid\"\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/davidastro.com\/pages\/ioptron-warranty-policy\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eiOptron 2-Year Limited Warranty\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"iOptron","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44968091582749,"sku":"IOP-6115","price":5821.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0753\/5280\/1565\/products\/6115-2__65464.1683224704.1280.1280.jpg?v=1684348985"},{"product_id":"ioptron-photron-16-ritchey-chretien","title":"iOptron Photron 16\" Ritchey-Chretien","description":"\u003cul class=\"DAV-feature-list\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e16\" (406mm) Aperture\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e3248mm Focal Length\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ef\/8 Focal Ratio\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRitchey-Chretien Optical Design\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCarbon Fiber Truss Tube\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e3\" 10:1 Dual-Speed Focuser\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c!-- more --\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"tabs\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"active\"\u003eDescription\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFAQ\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSpecifications\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIn the Box\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWarranty\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"tabs-content\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"active\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section-center\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eiOptron Photron 16\" f\/8 Ritchey-Chretien Truss Tube OTA\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe iOptron Photron 16\" Ritchey-Chretien delivers the optical purity required for serious deep-sky imaging, combining a massive 16\" (406mm) aperture with a 3248mm focal length for high-resolution views of distant galaxies and nebulae. Its carbon truss tube construction maintains thermal stability while keeping the total OTA weight to 93 lbs for an instrument of this scale. The system is anchored by a robust 3\" 10:1 dual-speed focuser and includes three primary mirror cooling fans to ensure your optics reach equilibrium quickly for sharp, stable images.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e16\" f\/8 Ritchey-Chrétien Optics for Coma-Free Imaging\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Ritchey-Chretien (RC) design utilizes hyperbolic primary and secondary mirrors to eliminate off-axis coma, a critical aberration that distorts stars at the edge of the field in other reflector designs. This creates a wide, flat, and corrected field of view, making the Photron 16\" an ideal platform for cameras with large sensors. The 406mm aperture gathers immense amounts of light, while the 3248mm focal length provides the image scale needed to resolve fine details in targets like the spiral arms of M51 or the jets in M87.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCarbon Truss Tube and 3 Fans for Thermal Stability\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt a focal length of 3248mm, even minute changes from thermal expansion can cause significant focus shift during an imaging session. The Photron 16\" RC uses a carbon fiber truss tube, which has a near-zero coefficient of thermal expansion, ensuring the distance between the primary and secondary mirrors remains constant as temperatures drop. The open truss design also promotes airflow, and three integrated cooling fans on the primary mirror accelerate thermal equalization, minimizing tube currents and delivering sharp images faster.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e3\" Dual-Speed Focuser and Dual Losmandy Bars\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAn instrument of this caliber requires a focuser that can support a heavy imaging train without flexure. The 3\" dual-speed Crayford focuser provides a rigid connection point for large cameras, filter wheels, and off-axis guiders, while its 10:1 fine focus knob allows for the precise adjustments essential at an f\/8 focal ratio. The scope includes two 1\" and one 2\" extension tubes to help you achieve the correct back focus for your specific camera setup. Dual Losmandy-style dovetail bars—one for mounting and one on top for accessories—provide a secure and versatile platform for your entire rig.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003ePhotron 16\" RC vs. 14\" SCT: An Imager's Choice\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen considering a large-aperture imaging scope, many compare an RC like the Photron 16\" to a high-end Schmidt-Cassegrain (SCT). While a 14\" SCT is often more compact and its sealed tube offers protection from dust, the Photron 16\" RC presents distinct advantages for the dedicated astrophotographer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAperture:\u003c\/strong\u003e The Photron's 16\" mirror provides roughly 30% more light-gathering area than a 14\" optic, allowing you to capture fainter details in less time.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eOptical Purity:\u003c\/strong\u003e As a pure two-mirror system, the RC has no corrector plate, eliminating potential chromatic aberration and providing maximum light transmission without extra glass surfaces.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eThermal Management:\u003c\/strong\u003e The open truss design and active cooling fans allow the Photron 16\" to acclimate to ambient temperatures much faster than a sealed SCT, which can suffer from heat trapped inside the tube.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFixed Mirrors:\u003c\/strong\u003e The RC's primary mirror is fixed in place, preventing the \"mirror flop\" that can occur in some SCTs during focusing, which is a critical benefit for long-exposure imaging.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhat kind of mount is required for the iOptron Photron 16\" RC?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith an OTA weight of \u003cstrong\u003e93 lbs\u003c\/strong\u003e, the Photron 16\" RC requires a very substantial equatorial mount. You should look for a mount with a minimum instrument capacity of 100-120 lbs to ensure stability for imaging. Mounts in the class of the iOptron CEM120, Losmandy Titan, or Software Bisque Paramount are appropriate choices.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eIs the Photron 16\" RC a good telescope for visual observing?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhile you can certainly use the Photron 16\" for visual astronomy, it is specifically designed for astrophotography. Ritchey-Chretien telescopes have a large secondary mirror, which increases the central obstruction. This reduces contrast slightly compared to a Newtonian or Dobsonian of the same aperture, which are typically preferred for visual work. However, on planets and bright deep-sky objects, the views will still be impressive due to its large 16\" aperture.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eHow do I collimate the iOptron Photron 16\" RC?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCollimating an RC involves adjusting both the secondary and primary mirrors, which is more complex than collimating a simple Newtonian. It typically requires a high-quality laser collimator and often a Cheshire or a specialized tool like a Takahashi collimating scope. Precise collimation is absolutely essential to take advantage of the coma-free optics, especially at its long \u003cstrong\u003e3248mm focal length\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhat kind of image scale will the Photron 16\" RC provide for imaging the Andromeda Galaxy (M31)?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Photron 16\" RC's \u003cstrong\u003e3248mm focal length\u003c\/strong\u003e is designed for high-magnification imaging of smaller deep-sky objects like galaxies and planetary nebulae. When aimed at a vast target like the Andromeda Galaxy (M31), it will produce a very detailed, high-resolution view of the galaxy's core. However, you would need to create a large mosaic to capture the entire galaxy, as it will not fit in the field of view of most common astronomy cameras.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWill the 3\" focuser on the Photron 16\" RC illuminate a full-frame sensor without vignetting?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes, the \u003cstrong\u003e3\" focuser\u003c\/strong\u003e is specifically chosen to provide a large, unvignetted field of view suitable for full-frame (35mm format) sensors and even larger sensors with the appropriate field flattener or reducer. This ensures that the corners of your images are fully illuminated, which is a key requirement for serious astrophotography.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhy does the Photron 16\" RC use a carbon truss tube?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe carbon fiber truss tube provides two key advantages for a long focal length imaging telescope. First, its low weight-to-stiffness ratio helps manage the OTA's total weight (\u003cstrong\u003e93 lbs\u003c\/strong\u003e). Second, and more importantly, carbon fiber has a very low coefficient of thermal expansion, which prevents the telescope's focus from shifting as the temperature changes throughout the night.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"DAV-specifications\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eOptical Design\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eRitchey-Chretien\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eClear Aperture\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e16\" (406mm)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFocal Length\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e3248mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFocal Ratio\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ef\/8\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFocuser\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e3\" Crayford, 10:1 dual-speed\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTube Material\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eCarbon truss tube\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTube Length\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e1114mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eOTA Weight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e93 lbs\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePrimary Mirror Cooling\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eThree built-in fans with battery holder\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMounting Dovetails\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eDual Losmandy-style bars (top and bottom)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eIncluded Accessories\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e2x 1\" Extension Tubes, 1x 2\" Extension Tube\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eShipping Weight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e99 lbs\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eShipping Dimensions\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e55.5 x 29.5 x 27.5 in\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"DAV-grid\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"DAV-grid-item\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-title\"\u003ePhotron 16\" Ritchey-Chretien OTA\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-subtitle\"\u003e× 1\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"DAV-grid-item\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-title\"\u003e1\" Focuser Extension Tube\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-subtitle\"\u003e× 2\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"DAV-grid-item\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-title\"\u003e2\" Focuser Extension Tube\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-subtitle\"\u003e× 1\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/davidastro.com\/pages\/ioptron-warranty-policy\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eiOptron 2-Year Telescope Warranty\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"iOptron","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44968091615517,"sku":"IOP-6117","price":12319.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0753\/5280\/1565\/products\/6117-2__46241.1683224893.1280.1280.jpg?v=1684348987"},{"product_id":"ioptron-150mm-f-4-imaging-newtonian","title":"iOptron 150mm f\/4 Imaging Newtonian","description":"\u003cul class=\"DAV-feature-list\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e150mm (6\") Newtonian Reflector\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e600mm Focal Length\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFast f\/4 Focal Ratio\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e10:1 Dual-Speed Crayford Focuser\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOTA Weight: 9 lbs. 10 oz.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c!-- more --\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"tabs\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"active\"\u003eDescription\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFAQ\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSpecifications\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIn the Box\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWarranty\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"tabs-content\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"active\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section-center\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eiOptron 150mm f\/4 Imaging Newtonian\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe iOptron 150mm f\/4 Imaging Newtonian is engineered for one primary purpose: capturing wide-field deep-sky images with minimal exposure time. Its 150mm aperture gathers significant light, while the fast f\/4 focal ratio and 600mm focal length create a bright, expansive field of view ideal for large nebulae and galaxies. Weighing just 9 lbs. 10 oz., this optical tube assembly (OTA) is built to perform on a wide range of mid-sized equatorial mounts without demanding observatory-class capacity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eFast f\/4 Optics: 150mm Aperture for Wide-Field Imaging\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe optical system's f\/4 focal ratio is its defining feature, allowing you to collect four times the light in a given period compared to an f\/8 system of the same aperture. This dramatic reduction in exposure time means you can capture fainter details in objects like the North American Nebula (NGC 7000) or the Andromeda Galaxy (M31) before tracking errors or skyglow can degrade the image. The 600mm focal length is a sweet spot, providing enough image scale to resolve details in star clusters while being wide enough to frame entire nebular complexes with a typical APS-C or smaller sensor.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eImaging-Ready Mechanics: A 10:1 Focuser in a 9 lb. OTA\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAchieving critical focus is non-negotiable with a fast optical system, and the included 10:1 dual-speed Crayford focuser provides the necessary precision for the task. The fine-focus knob allows for minute adjustments, ensuring your stars are perfectly sharp. At a manageable 22 inches in length and a weight of 9 lbs. 10 oz., this OTA pairs well with modern, transportable equatorial mounts. A 2-inch, 35mm long extension tube is included to help achieve the correct spacing for various cameras and accessories.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eComa Correction (Required):\u003c\/strong\u003e Like all fast Newtonian reflectors, this f\/4 optical system will exhibit coma at the edges of the field. A third-party coma corrector is essential to achieve sharp, point-like stars across your entire imaging sensor.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMounting Hardware (Required):\u003c\/strong\u003e This is an optical tube assembly only. You will need to supply your own tube rings and a dovetail mounting bar appropriate for your equatorial mount.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhat kind of mount is needed for the iOptron 150mm f\/4 Newtonian?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith an OTA weight of 9 lbs. 10 oz., you should use a German Equatorial Mount with a payload capacity of at least 20-25 lbs for imaging. This ensures stability and tracking accuracy. Mounts like the iOptron GEM28 or CEM26, or other similar-class mounts, are a good match.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eDo I absolutely need a coma corrector with this iOptron f\/4 telescope?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. For astrophotography, a coma corrector is considered an essential accessory for any Newtonian telescope with a focal ratio of f\/5 or faster. Without one, stars towards the edge of your images will appear elongated or comet-shaped. A corrector will ensure your stars are round and sharp across the entire frame.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eHow will the iOptron 150mm f\/4 perform on the Andromeda Galaxy (M31)?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis telescope is exceptionally well-suited for imaging the Andromeda Galaxy. Its 600mm focal length, when paired with a common APS-C sensor, can frame the entire galaxy, including its faint outer arms and satellite galaxies M32 and M110. The fast f\/4 optics will help you capture significant detail and color in the dust lanes with relatively short sub-exposures.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eIs the iOptron 150mm f\/4 good for viewing or imaging planets like Jupiter?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhile you can certainly see planets with this telescope, it is not its primary design. The short 600mm focal length is optimized for wide-field deep-sky objects, not high-magnification planetary work. To get a detailed view of Jupiter's cloud bands or Saturn's rings, you would need to use a high-quality 3x or 5x Barlow lens to increase the effective focal length.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhat is the included 2\" extension tube for?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe included 35mm long, 2\" diameter extension tube is used to help your camera reach focus. Different cameras (DSLR, mirrorless, dedicated astronomy cameras) have different sensor depths. The extension tube adds extra length to the focuser drawtube, ensuring you have enough \"out-travel\" to achieve a sharp focus with your specific imaging setup.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eDoes this iOptron imaging newtonian come with tube rings and a dovetail bar?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo, this product is the optical tube assembly (OTA) only. It does not include tube rings or a dovetail mounting bar. You will need to purchase these items separately based on the 7-inch outside diameter of the tube and the type of saddle plate on your mount (Vixen-style or Losmandy-style).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"DAV-specifications\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eOptical Design\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eNewtonian Reflector\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eClear Aperture\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e150mm (6\")\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFocal Length\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e600mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFocal Ratio\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ef\/4\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFocuser\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e10:1 Dual-Speed Crayford\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eOTA Length\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e22 inches\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eOTA Outside Diameter\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e7 inches\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eOTA Weight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e9 lbs. 10 oz.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eIncluded Extension Tube\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e2\" Diameter, 35mm Length\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eShipping Weight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e17 lbs\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eShipping Dimensions\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e26 x 15 x 10 inches\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"DAV-grid\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"DAV-grid-item\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-title\"\u003e150mm f\/4 Imaging Newtonian OTA\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-subtitle\"\u003e× 1\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"DAV-grid-item\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-title\"\u003e2\" Extension Tube (35mm)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-subtitle\"\u003e× 1\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/davidastro.com\/pages\/ioptron-warranty-policy\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eiOptron 2-Year Limited Warranty\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"iOptron","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47391546769693,"sku":"IOP-6311","price":641.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0753\/5280\/1565\/files\/iOptron-150mm-imaging-newtonian.jpg?v=1704394648"},{"product_id":"ioptron-200mm-f-4-imaging-newtonian","title":"iOptron 200mm f\/4 Imaging Newtonian","description":"\u003cul class=\"DAV-feature-list\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e200mm (8\") Newtonian Reflector\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e800mm Focal Length\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFast f\/4 Focal Ratio\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e10:1 Dual-Speed Crayford Focuser\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOTA Weight: 20 lbs 6 oz\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c!-- more --\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"tabs\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"active\"\u003eDescription\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFAQ\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSpecifications\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIn the Box\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDownloads\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWarranty\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"tabs-content\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"active\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section-center\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eiOptron 200mm f\/4 Imaging Newtonian\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe iOptron 200mm f\/4 Imaging Newtonian combines a large 200mm aperture with a fast 800mm focal length, creating an f\/4 optical system designed for deep-sky astrophotography. Weighing in at 20 lbs 6 oz, this Optical Tube Assembly (OTA) is built to gather significant light on large targets while remaining manageable for a wide range of equatorial mounts. The design is centered around a 10:1 dual-speed Crayford focuser, delivering the critical focus precision required for modern imaging sensors.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e200mm f\/4 Optics: Capture More Light in Less Time\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe core of this telescope is its fast f\/4 optical system. Compared to a more common f\/5 Newtonian of the same aperture, an f\/4 instrument captures the same amount of light in significantly less time, allowing you to complete projects faster or go deeper on faint targets. The 200mm primary mirror provides ample light-gathering power to resolve details in galaxies and bring out faint structures in nebulae, while the 800mm focal length offers a wide field of view perfect for framing large targets like the Andromeda Galaxy (M31) or the Veil Nebula complex.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eImaging-Ready Mechanics: A 10:1 Crayford Focuser and 20 lb OTA\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAchieving perfect focus with a fast optical system is critical, and the included 10:1 dual-speed Crayford focuser is built for this task. The fine-focus knob allows for minute adjustments, eliminating image shift and ensuring stars are perfectly sharp. At a weight of 20 lbs 6 oz and a length of 27.75 inches, this OTA requires a stable equatorial mount in the 40-pound payload class or higher for reliable, long-exposure imaging. The package also includes a 35mm-long, 2-inch diameter extension tube to help achieve focus with a variety of camera and accessory combinations.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eThe f\/4 Advantage: iOptron 200mm vs. a Standard f\/5 Newtonian\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhile an f\/5 Newtonian is often more forgiving to collimate and exhibits less natural coma, the iOptron 200mm f\/4 provides one overriding benefit for the dedicated imager: speed. Shorter sub-exposures reduce the demands on your mount's tracking and autoguiding, which can be the difference between a successful night and a lost one. This speed allows you to gather more data in the limited hours of darkness, a crucial factor for producing high-quality images. To get the most out of this OTA, precise collimation and the use of a third-party coma corrector are essential to achieve sharp stars across the entire field.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhat kind of mount do I need for the iOptron 200mm f\/4 Newtonian?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor astrophotography, the OTA's weight of \u003cstrong\u003e20 lbs 6 oz\u003c\/strong\u003e requires a robust equatorial mount. As a general rule, the OTA weight should not exceed 50-60% of the mount's stated payload capacity. Therefore, a mount with a payload capacity of at least 40 lbs is recommended for stable, long-exposure imaging.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhat is the benefit of the 10:1 dual-speed Crayford focuser on this 200mm Newtonian?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003e10:1 dual-speed focuser\u003c\/strong\u003e is critical for imaging with a fast f\/4 telescope. The coarse knob allows for quick initial focusing, while the fine-adjustment knob moves the focuser drawtube ten times slower. This precision is necessary to hit the very narrow critical focus zone of an f\/4 system, ensuring your stars are as sharp as possible.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eDo I need a coma corrector with the iOptron 200mm f\/4 OTA?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. All fast Newtonian reflectors inherently produce an optical aberration called coma, which makes stars at the edge of the field of view appear elongated. For imaging, a coma corrector is considered an essential accessory to achieve sharp, point-like stars across the entire sensor. This OTA does not include one.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eHow does the 800mm focal length of the iOptron Newtonian affect my choice of deep-sky targets?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003e800mm focal length\u003c\/strong\u003e provides a relatively wide field of view, making it ideal for large deep-sky objects. It is perfectly suited for framing targets such as:\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe North America Nebula (NGC 7000)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe Andromeda Galaxy (M31)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe Orion Nebula (M42)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe Veil Nebula complex in Cygnus\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\nFor smaller targets like most galaxies and planetary nebulae, this focal length still provides enough image scale to capture significant detail.\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eIs the iOptron 200mm f\/4 Newtonian good for planetary imaging?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhile this telescope is optimized for deep-sky imaging, it can be used for planetary work. To achieve the high magnification needed for planets like Jupiter and Saturn, you will need to use a 3x or 5x Barlow lens. This will increase the effective focal length and make it easier to capture fine details in planetary atmospheres. However, its primary strength remains wide-field, deep-sky astrophotography.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhat does the included 35mm extension tube do?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe included \u003cstrong\u003e2\" diameter, 35mm extension tube\u003c\/strong\u003e is used to push the camera further back from the focuser to reach the focal plane. Depending on your specific camera, filter wheel, or off-axis guider, you may need this extra back-focus travel. It threads into the focuser to provide a rigid, non-flexing extension.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"DAV-specifications\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eOptical Design\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eNewtonian Reflector\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eClear Aperture\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e200mm (8\")\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFocal Length\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e800mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFocal Ratio\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ef\/4\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFocuser\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e10:1 dual-speed Crayford\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eOTA Length\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e27.75 inches\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eOTA Outside Diameter\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e9.5 inches\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eOTA Weight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e20 lbs 6 oz\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eIncluded Extension Tube\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e2\" diameter, 35mm length\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eShipping Weight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e29 lbs\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eShipping Dimensions\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e34 x 16 x 13 inches\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis product includes the Optical Tube Assembly (OTA) and a 35mm extension tube only. Tube rings, a dovetail bar, finder scope, and other mounting accessories are not included.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis optical tube assembly does not require software and does not have a dedicated manual available for download.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/davidastro.com\/pages\/ioptron-warranty-policy\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eiOptron 2-Year Limited Warranty\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"iOptron","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47391575441693,"sku":"IOP-6312","price":879.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0753\/5280\/1565\/files\/iOptron-200mm-Imaging-Newtonian.jpg?v=1704921679"},{"product_id":"ioptron-250mm-f-4-imaging-newtonian","title":"iOptron 250mm f\/4 Imaging Newtonian","description":"\u003cul class=\"DAV-feature-list\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e250mm (10\") Parabolic Primary Mirror\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1000mm Focal Length\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFast f\/4 Focal Ratio\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e10:1 Dual-Speed Focuser\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e34 lb 1 oz Optical Tube Assembly Weight\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c!-- more --\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"tabs\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"active\"\u003eDescription\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFAQ\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSpecifications\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIn the Box\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWarranty\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"tabs-content\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"active\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section-center\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eiOptron 250mm f\/4 Imaging Newtonian\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe iOptron 250mm f\/4 Imaging Newtonian combines a massive 250mm aperture with a fast f\/4 optical system to create a powerful instrument for deep-sky astrophotography. Its 1000mm focal length provides an ideal image scale for capturing galaxies and nebulae, while the 34 lb 1 oz optical tube assembly is built for serious imaging platforms. Fine focusing is achieved with a 10:1 dual-speed focuser, ensuring critically sharp stars across your field of view.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e250mm f\/4 Optics: A Wide-Field, Light-Gathering Powerhouse\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe heart of this telescope is its 250mm (10-inch) primary mirror. This large aperture gathers a tremendous amount of light, allowing you to resolve faint details in distant celestial objects. Paired with a fast f\/4 focal ratio, this Newtonian drastically reduces required exposure times compared to slower f\/8 or f\/10 systems, letting you collect more data in a single night.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe 1000mm focal length offers a generous field of view, perfect for framing large targets like the Andromeda Galaxy (M31) or the North American Nebula (NGC 7000). For imagers using modern CMOS or DSLR cameras, this combination of aperture and speed is purpose-built for capturing high-signal, low-noise images of the deep sky.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eImaging-Ready Design: 34 lb OTA with a 10:1 Dual-Speed Focuser\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEngineered for astrophotography, this OTA includes critical features for obtaining the best results. The 10:1 dual-speed focuser allows for precise, minute adjustments, which is essential for achieving perfect focus at a fast f\/4 focal ratio. An included 2-inch, 35mm long extension tube helps ensure your camera can reach focus with various imaging train configurations.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt 34 lb 1 oz, the optical tube requires a substantial equatorial mount with sufficient payload capacity to ensure stable, accurate tracking for long exposures. The 12-inch outside diameter means standard, widely available tube rings and accessories will be compatible with this instrument.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e250mm vs. 200mm Newtonians: The 56% Light-Gathering Advantage\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen choosing an imaging Newtonian, aperture is a primary consideration. Compared to a smaller 200mm (8-inch) Newtonian, the iOptron 250mm model offers a significant step up in light-gathering capability.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLight Grasp:\u003c\/strong\u003e A 250mm mirror has approximately 56% more surface area than a 200mm mirror. This translates directly into brighter images and the ability to capture fainter details in the same amount of time.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eResolution:\u003c\/strong\u003e The larger aperture also provides higher theoretical resolution, allowing you to resolve finer details in globular clusters like M13 or planetary nebulae like the Ring Nebula (M57), assuming good seeing conditions.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMount Requirements:\u003c\/strong\u003e The trade-off for this increase in aperture is weight. The 34 lb 1 oz OTA weight necessitates a more robust (and costly) mount than a typical 8-inch Newtonian requires.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhat kind of mount is required for the iOptron 250mm f\/4 Newtonian?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith an optical tube weight of \u003cstrong\u003e34 lb 1 oz\u003c\/strong\u003e, you will need a robust equatorial mount. For imaging, a good rule of thumb is to keep the payload at 50-60% of the mount's stated capacity. Therefore, a mount in the 60-70 lb payload class (like an iOptron CEM70 or similar) is recommended for stable, precise tracking.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eHow does the f\/4 focal ratio of the iOptron 250mm Newtonian affect imaging times?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe f\/4 focal ratio is considered very fast in astrophotography. Compared to an f\/8 system of the same aperture, an f\/4 system is four times faster. This means you can capture the same amount of signal in one-quarter of the time, allowing you to complete projects more quickly or go deeper on faint targets.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eIs the iOptron 250mm f\/4 Newtonian suitable for visual astronomy?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhile designed for imaging, this telescope is also a capable visual instrument. The large \u003cstrong\u003e250mm aperture\u003c\/strong\u003e will provide stunning, bright views of deep-sky objects. However, the f\/4 focal ratio will be demanding on eyepieces and will show significant coma away from the center of the field without a visual coma corrector.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhat accessories are needed to start imaging with the iOptron 250mm f\/4 OTA?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis product is an Optical Tube Assembly (OTA) only. To begin imaging, you will need to supply several key components separately:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTube Rings and a Dovetail Plate:\u003c\/strong\u003e To attach the telescope to your mount.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eA Coma Corrector:\u003c\/strong\u003e Essential for achieving sharp stars across the field with a fast f\/4 Newtonian.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eA Finder Scope or Guide Scope:\u003c\/strong\u003e For locating objects and autoguiding.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAn Equatorial Mount:\u003c\/strong\u003e With sufficient payload capacity (see above).\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eA Camera:\u003c\/strong\u003e A dedicated astronomy camera or DSLR.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eHow will the iOptron 250mm f\/4 Newtonian perform on large targets like the Andromeda Galaxy (M31)?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003e1000mm focal length\u003c\/strong\u003e combined with the f\/4 speed makes it an excellent choice for large targets like M31. When paired with a camera sensor like an APS-C or even full-frame (with a suitable coma corrector), you can frame the entire galaxy, including its faint outer arms, in a single shot while the \u003cstrong\u003e250mm aperture\u003c\/strong\u003e resolves dust lanes and star-forming regions within its spiral structure.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eDo I need a coma corrector with the iOptron 250mm f\/4 Imaging Newtonian?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes, for imaging, a coma corrector is considered mandatory for an f\/4 Newtonian. Coma is an optical aberration inherent to parabolic mirrors that makes stars at the edge of the field appear comet-shaped. A coma corrector is a lens assembly that corrects this, ensuring pinpoint stars across your entire camera sensor.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"DAV-specifications\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eOptical Design\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eNewtonian\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eClear Aperture\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e250mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFocal Length\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e1000mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFocal Ratio\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ef\/4\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFocuser\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e10:1 dual-speed\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eOTA Weight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e34lb. 1oz\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eOutside Diameter\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e12 inches\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eExtension Tube\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e2\" diameter 35mm L |\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eOTA Length\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003einches\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eGross Weight (Shipping)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e48 lbs\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eShipping Dimensions\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e44 x 20 x 18 in\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"DAV-grid\"\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/davidastro.com\/pages\/ioptron-warranty-policy\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eiOptron 2-Year Telescope Warranty\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"iOptron","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47391767822621,"sku":"IOP-6313","price":1119.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0753\/5280\/1565\/files\/iOptron-250mm-Imaging-Newtonian.jpg?v=1704921597"},{"product_id":"ioptron-300mm-f-4-imaging-newtonian","title":"iOptron 300mm f\/4 Imaging Newtonian","description":"\u003cul class=\"DAV-feature-list\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eClear Aperture:\u003c\/strong\u003e 300mm (11.8\")\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFocal Ratio:\u003c\/strong\u003e f\/4\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFocal Length:\u003c\/strong\u003e 1200mm\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eOTA Weight:\u003c\/strong\u003e 48 lbs\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFocuser:\u003c\/strong\u003e 10:1 dual-speed\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c!-- more --\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"tabs\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"active\"\u003eDescription\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFAQ\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSpecifications\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIn the Box\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWarranty\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"tabs-content\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"active\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section-center\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eiOptron 300mm f\/4 Imaging Newtonian\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe iOptron 300mm f\/4 Imaging Newtonian combines a massive 300mm (11.8\") primary mirror with a fast f\/4 optical system to deliver a powerful instrument for deep-sky astrophotography. Its 1200mm focal length provides ideal image scale for large nebulae and galaxies, while the 48 lb optical tube assembly is built for stability. A precision 10:1 dual-speed focuser ensures you can achieve the critical focus required by the fast optical design.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e300mm Aperture and f\/4 Speed for Deep-Sky Imaging\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe core of this telescope is its large 300mm aperture, which gathers a tremendous amount of light to resolve faint details in distant galaxies and nebulae. Paired with a fast f\/4 focal ratio, this instrument significantly reduces required exposure times, allowing you to capture more data in a single night compared to slower f\/8 or f\/10 systems. This speed is a critical advantage for capturing faint, extended objects from the Messier and NGC catalogs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is important to note that all fast Newtonian reflectors exhibit coma at the edge of the field. To achieve pinpoint stars across the entire frame, pairing this OTA with a high-quality coma corrector is essential for serious imaging.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eA 48 lb OTA with a 10:1 Dual-Speed Focuser\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis optical tube weighs in at a substantial 48 lbs and measures 45.5 inches in length, demanding a robust equatorial mount for stable, untrailed astrophotography. Mounts in the CEM70, EQ6-R, or a higher payload class are required to carry this instrument effectively. The solid construction ensures that the optical elements remain aligned during long imaging sessions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor astrophotography, precise focus is non-negotiable. The included 10:1 dual-speed focuser allows for extremely fine adjustments, which is critical for hitting the narrow critical focus zone of an f\/4 optical system. This ensures your images are as sharp as the optics will allow.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eFraming Large Nebulae at a 1200mm Focal Length\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe 1200mm focal length provides a versatile image scale that is well-suited for a wide range of deep-sky targets. It can comfortably frame large objects like the Andromeda Galaxy (M31) or the Orion Nebula (M42) using common APS-C or full-frame sensors. This makes it an ideal workhorse for capturing showcase celestial objects in high resolution.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWide-Field Capability:\u003c\/strong\u003e Captures expansive nebulae and star clusters in a single frame.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eIncluded Extension Tube:\u003c\/strong\u003e A 2-inch, 35mm long extension tube is included to help achieve the correct spacing for various cameras and accessory combinations.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHigh-Resolution Views:\u003c\/strong\u003e The combination of large aperture and moderate focal length resolves fine details in planetary nebulae and globular clusters like the Hercules Cluster (M13).\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhat kind of mount is required for the 48 lb iOptron 300mm f\/4 Newtonian?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDue to its 48 lb weight and 45.5-inch length, a heavy-duty equatorial mount is mandatory for astrophotography. Look for mounts with a payload capacity of at least 60-70 lbs to ensure stability and reliable tracking. Mounts like the iOptron CEM70, Sky-Watcher EQ8-R, or similar are appropriate choices.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eHow will the iOptron 300mm f\/4 Imaging Newtonian frame a target like the Orion Nebula (M42)?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith its 1200mm focal length, this telescope will provide a relatively tight field of view that is perfect for capturing the core of the Orion Nebula (M42), including the Trapezium, in high detail with most astronomy cameras. On a camera with an APS-C sensor, you will frame the brightest regions of the nebula beautifully, while a full-frame sensor will capture more of the surrounding nebulosity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eDo I need a coma corrector with this iOptron Imaging Newtonian?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. It is highly recommended. The fast f\/4 focal ratio inherent to this telescope's design will naturally produce coma, an optical aberration that makes stars at the edge of the field of view appear elongated. A coma corrector is a necessary accessory to achieve sharp, round stars across your entire image sensor.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhy is an f\/4 focal ratio important for an imaging telescope?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAn f\/4 system is considered \"fast\" because it allows the camera sensor to collect the same amount of light in a fraction of the time compared to a \"slower\" telescope (like an f\/8 or f\/10). For example, an f\/4 scope gathers light four times faster than an f\/8 scope. This means shorter sub-exposures, less chance for tracking errors to ruin a shot, and more total imaging time in a single session.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhat is the 10:1 dual-speed focuser used for?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe 10:1 dual-speed focuser provides two focusing knobs. The larger knob makes coarse adjustments to get the image roughly in focus. The smaller knob moves the focuser 1\/10th as much for each rotation, allowing for the extremely precise, fine adjustments needed to achieve perfect focus for sharp, high-resolution astrophotography.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhat is the purpose of the included 2\" 35mm extension tube?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe 35mm extension tube is used to adjust the spacing between the focuser and your camera. Different cameras, filter wheels, and off-axis guiders require different amounts of back focus. The extension tube helps ensure you can reach focus with a variety of imaging train configurations.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"DAV-specifications\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eOptical Design\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eNewtonian\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eClear Aperture\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e300mm (11.8\")\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFocal Length\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e1200mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFocal Ratio\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ef\/4\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFocuser\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e10:1 dual-speed\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eOTA Length\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e45.5 inches\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eOTA Outside Diameter\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e14 inches\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eOTA Weight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e48 lbs\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eExtension Tube\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e2\" diameter, 35mm length\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eShipping Weight \u0026amp; Dimensions\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e65 lbs, 52 x 22 x 20 inches\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"DAV-grid\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"DAV-grid-item\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-title\"\u003e300mm f\/4 Newtonian Optical Tube Assembly\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-subtitle\"\u003e× 1\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"DAV-grid-item\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-title\"\u003e2\" Extension Tube (35mm)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-subtitle\"\u003e× 1\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/davidastro.com\/pages\/ioptron-warranty-policy\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eiOptron 2-Year Telescope and 1-Year Accessory Warranty\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"iOptron","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47391792136477,"sku":"IOP-6315","price":1539.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0753\/5280\/1565\/files\/iOptron-300mm-Imaging-Newtonian.jpg?v=1704921633"},{"product_id":"ioptron-6101","title":"iOptron MAK 150mm Telescope OTA","description":"\u003cul class=\"DAV-feature-list\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e150mm Rumak-style Maksutov-Cassegrain Optics\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1800mm Focal Length\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ef\/12 Focal Ratio\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e0.77 Arc Second Resolving Power\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e13.4 lbs Tube Weight\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDual-Speed Focuser\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c!-- more --\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"tabs\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"active\"\u003eDescription\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFAQ\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSpecifications\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIn the Box\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDownloads\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWarranty\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"tabs-content\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"active\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section-center\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eMAK 150mm Telescope OTA\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe MAK 150mm optical tube delivers high-contrast, high-magnification views through its 150mm Rumak-style Maksutov-Cassegrain optical system. Its long 1800mm focal length produces an f\/12 focal ratio ideal for planetary and double-star observation, capable of reaching a theoretical resolving power of 0.77 arc seconds. With a dual-speed focuser for critical adjustments and a tube weight of just 13.4 lbs, this OTA provides serious planetary imaging capabilities in a compact package.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eRumak-Maksutov Optics: 1800mm Focal Length at f\/12\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis telescope's Rumak-Maksutov design uses a separate secondary mirror, distinct from the central aluminized spot on a standard Maksutov corrector. This provides an additional degree of freedom for optical correction, resulting in a flatter field of view and better-corrected images, especially critical for astrophotography. The native 1800mm focal length and f\/12 ratio are engineered for high power, allowing you to achieve the 300X maximum magnification with common eyepieces to study fine details on Jupiter, Saturn, and Mars.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003ePlanetary Detail at 0.77 Arc Second Resolution\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith a diffraction-limited resolving power of 0.77 arc seconds, the MAK 150mm has the optical potential to split tight double stars and reveal intricate planetary features under steady skies. This level of resolution makes it possible to discern the Cassini Division in Saturn's rings, resolve individual craterlets on the Moon, and track storm systems in Jupiter's cloud belts. The optical system can detect stars down to a visual limiting magnitude of 12.8, pulling in faint moons around gas giants and the central stars of planetary nebulae.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eImaging-Ready with a Dual-Speed Focuser\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAchieving perfect focus at 1800mm is critical, and the included dual-speed focuser provides the fine control necessary for sharp planetary imaging. The coarse focus knob gets you close, while the fine-adjustment knob allows for precise, minute changes without image shift. For convenience and protection, a twist-lock aluminum dew shield is integrated, extending the tube length to 27 1\/8 inches to block stray light and delay the formation of dew on the corrector plate.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eAdapts to 1.25\", 2\", and SCT Standards\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe MAK 150mm is equipped to handle a wide array of accessories right out of the box. It includes a 2-inch to 1.25-inch compression ring adapter for using standard eyepieces and an adapter ring that allows you to attach accessories designed for Schmidt-Cassegrain telescopes (SCTs). For astrophotography, a T-ring adapter is also included, providing a direct, secure connection for your DSLR or dedicated astronomy camera.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eMAK 150mm vs. a 6-inch SCT: Focal Ratio and Field Flatness\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen choosing a 150mm-class catadioptric, the main alternative is often a 6-inch Schmidt-Cassegrain. The SCT offers a faster f\/10 focal ratio, better suited for a wider range of deep-sky objects. However, the MAK 150mm's advantages lie in planetary and lunar observing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFocal Ratio:\u003c\/strong\u003e The MAK's f\/12 focal ratio provides higher native magnification for any given eyepiece compared to an f\/10 SCT, often yielding sharper, higher-contrast planetary views without needing a Barlow lens.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eField Flatness:\u003c\/strong\u003e The Rumak optical design in this MAK provides a flatter, better-corrected field than a standard SCT, which suffers from field curvature. This results in sharper stars toward the edge of the frame, a key benefit for imaging.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCentral Obstruction:\u003c\/strong\u003e Maksutov-Cassegrains typically have a smaller central obstruction than SCTs, which translates directly to improved image contrast, making subtle planetary details easier to see.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhat is a Rumak-Maksutov and how does it benefit the MAK 150mm?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA \u003cstrong\u003eRumak-Maksutov\u003c\/strong\u003e is a specialized catadioptric design that uses a separate, curved secondary mirror instead of the simple aluminized spot found on the back of the corrector plate in a standard Gregory-Maksutov. This gives optical designers more control over correcting for aberrations, typically resulting in a flatter field of view and sharper stars away from the center of the image compared to other compact designs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eHow does the MAK 150mm perform on Jupiter with its 1800mm focal length?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe 1800mm focal length is ideal for observing Jupiter. With a moderate eyepiece (e.g., 9-12mm), you can easily reach magnifications of 150-200x, which is perfect for resolving Jupiter's main cloud belts, the Great Red Spot, and the Galilean moons. On a night of good seeing, the 0.77 arc second resolving power allows you to push magnification toward 300x to see finer details like smaller ovals and festoons within the cloud bands.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eIs the MAK 150mm a good telescope for deep-sky objects like the Andromeda Galaxy (M31)?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhile the MAK 150mm excels at high-magnification targets, its long f\/12 focal ratio results in a narrow field of view, making it less ideal for very large deep-sky objects like the Andromeda Galaxy (M31) or the North American Nebula (NGC 7000). It is, however, excellent for smaller, brighter deep-sky targets such as:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eGlobular Clusters:\u003c\/strong\u003e Resolving individual stars in the cores of clusters like the Hercules Cluster (M13).\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePlanetary Nebulae:\u003c\/strong\u003e Observing details in objects like the Ring Nebula (M57) and the Dumbbell Nebula (M27).\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBright Galaxies:\u003c\/strong\u003e Viewing the core regions of galaxies like Bode's Galaxy (M81).\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhat kind of mount do I need for the 13.4 lb MAK 150mm OTA?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith a tube weight of \u003cstrong\u003e13.4 lbs\u003c\/strong\u003e, the MAK 150mm requires a sturdy equatorial or alt-azimuth mount. For visual use, a mount with a payload capacity of at least 20-25 lbs is recommended to ensure stability. For long-exposure astrophotography, a robust German Equatorial Mount in the 30-40 lb payload class (like an iOptron GEM28 or CEM26) would be a more appropriate choice to handle the telescope and additional imaging gear.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eCan I use my existing 2-inch Schmidt-Cassegrain accessories with the MAK 150mm?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. The MAK 150mm includes an \u003cstrong\u003eAdapter Ring for Schmidt-Cassegrain Accessories\u003c\/strong\u003e. This allows you to attach devices that use the standard SCT thread, such as focal reducers, off-axis guiders, and specific visual backs, making it highly compatible with the most popular accessory ecosystem on the market.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhy is a dual-speed focuser important on an f\/12 telescope like the MAK 150mm?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTelescopes with long focal ratios like f\/12 have a very narrow \"critical focus zone,\" meaning even a tiny error in focusing can soften the image. A \u003cstrong\u003edual-speed focuser\u003c\/strong\u003e provides a fine-adjustment knob (typically 10:1 ratio) that moves the focuser much more slowly than the coarse knob. This precision is essential for achieving the sharpest possible focus when doing high-magnification visual observation or planetary imaging.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"DAV-specifications\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eOptical Design\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eCatadioptric Rumak style Maksutov-Cassegrain\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eClear Aperture\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e150mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFocal Length\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e1800mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFocal Ratio\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ef\/12\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eResolving Power\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e0.77 arc seconds\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eVisual Limiting Magnitude\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e12.8\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eHighest Magnification\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e300X\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFocuser\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eDual speed\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFinder Scope\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e8x50 with finder ring\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eDew Shield\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTwist-lock aluminum shield\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAdapters\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e2” to 1.25” compression ring adapter, T-ring adapter, Adapter Ring for Schmidt-Cass Accessories\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTube Length\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e21.75” (Without dew shield) | 27.125” (With dew shield)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTube Weight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e13.4 lbs\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eShipping Weight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e22 lbs\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eShipping Dimensions\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e32 x 14 x 12 in\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"DAV-grid\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"DAV-grid-item\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-title\"\u003eMAK 150mm Optical Tube Assembly\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-subtitle\"\u003e× 1\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"DAV-grid-item\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-title\"\u003e8x50 Finder Scope with Mounting Rings\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-subtitle\"\u003e× 1\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"DAV-grid-item\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-title\"\u003eTwist-Lock Aluminum Dew Shield\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-subtitle\"\u003e× 1\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"DAV-grid-item\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-title\"\u003e2\" to 1.25\" Compression Ring Adapter\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-subtitle\"\u003e× 1\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"DAV-grid-item\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-title\"\u003eAdapter Ring for Schmidt-Cassegrain Accessories\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-subtitle\"\u003e× 1\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"DAV-grid-item\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-title\"\u003eT-Ring Adapter\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-subtitle\"\u003e× 1\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"DAV-grid-item\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-title\"\u003eDust Cover\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-subtitle\"\u003e× 1\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"DAV-grid\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"DAV-grid-item\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0753\/5280\/1565\/files\/iOptron_MAK150_Manual.pdf\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003csvg class=\"DAV-img-box\" viewbox=\"0 0 512 512\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"\u003e\u003cpath d=\"M0 64C0 28.7 28.7 0 64 0L224 0l0 128c0 17.7 14.3 32 32 32l128 0 0 144-208 0c-35.3 0-64 28.7-64 64l0 144-48 0c-35.3 0-64-28.7-64-64L0 64zm384 64l-128 0L256 0 384 128zM176 352l32 0c30.9 0 56 25.1 56 56s-25.1 56-56 56l-16 0 0 32c0 8.8-7.2 16-16 16s-16-7.2-16-16l0-48 0-80c0-8.8 7.2-16 16-16zm32 80c13.3 0 24-10.7 24-24s-10.7-24-24-24l-16 0 0 48 16 0zm96-80l32 0c26.5 0 48 21.5 48 48l0 64c0 26.5-21.5 48-48 48l-32 0c-8.8 0-16-7.2-16-16l0-128c0-8.8 7.2-16 16-16zm32 128c8.8 0 16-7.2 16-16l0-64c0-8.8-7.2-16-16-16l-16 0 0 96 16 0zm80-112c0-8.8 7.2-16 16-16l48 0c8.8 0 16 7.2 16 16s-7.2 16-16 16l-32 0 0 32 32 0c8.8 0 16 7.2 16 16s-7.2 16-16 16l-32 0 0 48c0 8.8-7.2 16-16 16s-16-7.2-16-16l0-64 0-64z\" fill=\"#0047a7\"\u003e\u003c\/path\u003e\u003c\/svg\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-title\"\u003eDownload Manual\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/davidastro.com\/pages\/ioptron-warranty-policy\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eiOptron 2-Year Telescope Warranty and 1-Year Accessory Warranty\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"iOptron","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52917293220125,"sku":"IOP-6101","price":1049.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0753\/5280\/1565\/files\/iOptron-MAK-150mm-1_8947f705-e7a8-46f4-9e3f-3b65b6fe39b6.jpg?v=1789142076"},{"product_id":"ioptron-6113","title":"iOptron Photron™ 10-inch Ritchey-Chrétien Telescope (RC10) 3'' Focuser","description":"\u003cul class=\"DAV-feature-list\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e250mm (10-inch) Ritchey-Chrétien Optical Design\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e2000mm Focal Length at f\/8\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e0.46 arc second Resolving Power\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e3-inch Dual Speed Focuser\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e35 lb Steel Tube with Three Cooling Fans\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDual Losmandy-style Dovetail Bars\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c!-- more --\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"tabs\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"active\"\u003eDescription\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFAQ\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSpecifications\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIn the Box\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWarranty\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"tabs-content\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"active\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section-center\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003ePhotron™ 10-inch Ritchey-Chrétien Telescope (RC10) 3'' Focuser\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Photron™ RC10 combines a large 250mm aperture with a 2000mm focal length in a native f\/8 Ritchey-Chrétien optical design, delivering a coma-free imaging field ideal for modern sensors. This astrograph achieves a theoretical resolving power of 0.46 arc seconds, enabling you to capture fine details in distant galaxies and planetary nebulae. The robust imaging platform is built around a heavy-duty 3-inch dual-speed focuser and a 35 lb steel optical tube equipped with three primary mirror cooling fans for rapid thermal stabilization.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e10-inch f\/8 Ritchey-Chrétien Optics: 0.46 Arc Second Resolution\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Ritchey-Chrétien configuration uses hyperbolic primary and secondary mirrors to eliminate coma, an optical aberration that distorts stars at the edge of the field in other reflector designs. With a 250mm clear aperture and 2000mm focal length, the Photron RC10 provides the image scale necessary for resolving small targets like the Whirlpool Galaxy (M51) or the Ring Nebula (M57). The system's 0.46 arc second resolution and 14.7 limiting magnitude give you the power to pull in faint details from your backyard observatory.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e3-inch Dual-Speed Focuser: Support for Heavy Imaging Payloads\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA key feature of the RC10 is its massive 3-inch dual-speed focuser, a significant upgrade for serious imagers. This large-format focuser minimizes vignetting on full-frame and larger sensors and provides the rigidity to carry heavy camera packages, filter wheels, and off-axis guiders without flexure. The fine-focus knob is critical for achieving sharp stars at the 2000mm focal length. To accommodate a wide range of cameras and accessories, the telescope includes two 1-inch and one 2-inch extension tubes to correctly set the back focus distance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e35 lb Steel Tube Construction with Active Cooling\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Photron RC10 is built with a steel tube, which provides excellent rigidity and thermal stability, though it contributes to a total OTA weight of 35 lbs. To combat thermal currents inside the closed tube, three built-in fans are mounted behind the primary mirror to accelerate cooling to ambient temperature, reducing tube seeing and ensuring the sharpest possible images. The OTA is equipped with two Losmandy-style dovetail bars—one for mounting to your equatorial mount and a second on top for attaching guide scopes, computers, or other accessories.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003ePhotron RC10 vs. Other 10\" RCs: Focuser and Tube Material\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen comparing the Photron RC10 to other 10-inch Ritchey-Chrétien telescopes, such as those from GSO or Astro-Tech, the primary differences lie in the focuser and tube material.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCompetitor Advantage:\u003c\/strong\u003e Many competing 10\" RCs are available with carbon fiber tubes. Carbon fiber is lighter than steel and has a lower coefficient of thermal expansion, which can reduce the need for focus adjustments during temperature drops.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePhotron RC10 Advantage:\u003c\/strong\u003e The included 3-inch focuser on the Photron is a significant upgrade over the 2-inch focusers commonly found on standard models. For imagers using large sensors or heavy equipment, the larger, more robust focuser of the RC10 is a decisive benefit that prevents both vignetting and mechanical flex.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhat kind of mount does the Photron RC10 require?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Photron RC10 has an optical tube weight of \u003cstrong\u003e35 lbs\u003c\/strong\u003e. For astrophotography, you should add the weight of your camera, guide scope, and all accessories, which can easily bring the total payload to 40-45 lbs. A mount with a payload capacity of at least 50-60 lbs, such as an iOptron CEM60\/70 or Celestron CGX, is recommended for stable, long-exposure imaging.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eIs the Photron RC10 good for imaging small galaxies like the Sombrero Galaxy (M104)?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes, absolutely. The \u003cstrong\u003e2000mm focal length\u003c\/strong\u003e provides the ideal image scale for capturing details in smaller deep-sky objects like M104 or planetary nebulae like the Dumbbell Nebula (M27). The coma-free field ensures that stars across the frame remain sharp, highlighting the structure of your target.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eDoes the Photron RC10 need a field flattener or reducer?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhile the Ritchey-Chrétien design is inherently free of coma, it does have natural field curvature. For cameras with smaller sensors (APS-C or smaller), this may not be noticeable. However, for full-frame or larger sensors, a dedicated field flattener is recommended to achieve perfectly sharp stars across the entire image. Reducers are also available to shorten the focal ratio for wider-field imaging.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eCan I use the Photron RC10 for visual observing?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou can, but it is not its primary design purpose. RCs are optimized for photographic use. The large \u003cstrong\u003e110mm secondary mirror\u003c\/strong\u003e creates a significant central obstruction, which reduces image contrast compared to a Newtonian or refractor of similar aperture. While planets and bright objects will be sharp, it will not deliver the same high-contrast views as a dedicated visual telescope.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhy are there three extension tubes included with the Photron RC10?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRitchey-Chrétien telescopes have a long back focus distance to accommodate various imaging accessories. The included \u003cstrong\u003e1-inch (x2) and 2-inch (x1) extension tubes\u003c\/strong\u003e are used to bridge the gap between the focuser and your camera's sensor. The combination you use will depend on your specific imaging train, whether you're using a DSLR, a cooled CMOS camera, an off-axis guider, or a filter wheel.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eHow difficult is it to collimate the Photron RC10?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCollmating an RC is more involved than a Newtonian or SCT because both the primary and secondary mirrors are adjustable and hyperbolic. It requires patience and precision, and typically involves using a Cheshire eyepiece and a high-quality laser collimator. However, once collimated, a well-built RC like the Photron RC10 tends to hold its alignment very well.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"DAV-specifications\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eOptical Design\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eRitchey-Chretien\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eClear Aperture\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e250mm (10\")\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFocal Length\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e2000mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFocal Ratio\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ef\/8\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eResolving Power\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e0.46 arc seconds\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eLimiting Magnitude\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e14.7\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eHighest Useful Magnification\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e295X\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSecondary Mirror Diameter\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e110mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFocuser\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e3\" dual speed focuser\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFocuser Drawtube Size\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e3.3”\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePrimary Mirror Cooling\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eThree built-in fans (battery holder included)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTube Material\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSteel\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTube Length\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e28.4”\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTube Weight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e35 lbs\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMounting Dovetail (Bottom)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eLosmandy-style\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAccessory Dovetail (Top)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eLosmandy-style\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFinderscope Base\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eInstalled\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eShipping Weight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e48 lbs\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eShipping Dimensions\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e34.5\" x 17\" x 16.75\"\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"DAV-grid\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"DAV-grid-item\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-title\"\u003ePhotron 10\" f\/8 Ritchey-Chrétien OTA\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-subtitle\"\u003e× 1\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"DAV-grid-item\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-title\"\u003e2\" Extension Tube\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-subtitle\"\u003e× 1\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"DAV-grid-item\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-title\"\u003e1\" Extension Tube\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-subtitle\"\u003e× 2\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"DAV-grid-item\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-title\"\u003e2\" to 1.25\" Compression Ring Adapter\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-subtitle\"\u003e× 1\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ePhotron Manufacturer's Warranty\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"iOptron","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52917293351197,"sku":"IOP-6113","price":4043.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0753\/5280\/1565\/files\/iOptron-Photron-10-inch-Ritchey-Chr-tien-Telescope-RC10-3-Focuser-1_a6043c6d-be43-498f-baa2-bcaa743362b9.jpg?v=1789142084"},{"product_id":"ioptron-8710","title":"iOptron 80mm Refractor","description":"\u003cul class=\"DAV-feature-list\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e80mm Achromatic Refractor Optics\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e400mm Focal Length (f\/5)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLightweight 2.2 lbs Optical Tube\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIncludes 25mm and 9mm 1.25\" Eyepieces\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e45º Erect Image Diagonal for Day and Night Viewing\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c!-- more --\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"tabs\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"active\"\u003eDescription\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFAQ\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSpecifications\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIn the Box\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWarranty\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cul class=\"tabs-content\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"active\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n  \u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section-center\"\u003e\n      \u003ch2\u003e80mm Refractor\u003c\/h2\u003e\n      \u003cp\u003eThe 80mm Refractor combines an 80 mm aperture with a short 400 mm focal length for a fast f\/5 optical system designed for wide-field stargazing and easy portability. This compact optical tube assembly delivers a resolving power of 1.4 arc seconds and weighs only 2.2 lbs, making it an excellent grab-and-go instrument for sweeping the Milky Way or for daytime terrestrial viewing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n    \u003c\/div\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n\n  \u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n      \u003ch3\u003e80mm f\/5 Optics: A Portable Window for Wide-Field Views\u003c\/h3\u003e\n      \u003cp\u003eWith its 80 mm aperture and fast f\/5 focal ratio, this refractor excels at low-power, wide-field observation. Using the included 25mm eyepiece, you can frame large open star clusters like the Pleiades (M45) or scan the rich star fields of Cygnus. Its compact size and 2.2 lbs weight make it easy to mount on any light-duty photo tripod or astronomical mount for quick sessions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n      \u003cp\u003eAs an achromatic refractor, especially at a fast f\/5 ratio, this design prioritizes brightness and field of view over perfect color correction. On very bright objects like the Moon, Jupiter, or brilliant stars like Vega, you will notice some chromatic aberration, or \"false color,\" which is a characteristic trade-off for this portable and affordable optical design.\u003c\/p\u003e\n    \u003c\/div\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n\n  \u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n      \u003ch3\u003eDay and Night Ready: 45º Diagonal for Terrestrial and Celestial Use\u003c\/h3\u003e\n      \u003cp\u003eThis refractor includes a 45º erect image diagonal, a key component that makes it suitable for both astronomical and terrestrial viewing. Unlike standard 90º star diagonals that show a mirror-reversed image, the 45º diagonal provides an image that is correctly oriented both up-down and left-right. This makes it intuitive to use for birdwatching, landscape viewing, or tracking boats on the water.\u003c\/p\u003e\n      \u003cp\u003eThe package comes with two 1.25\" eyepieces to get you started: a 25mm for low-power, wide-field scanning and a 9mm for higher magnification views of the Moon's craters or Jupiter's moons. The simple and reliable 1.25” rack-and-pinion focuser allows for easy and smooth focusing for any target, day or night.\u003c\/p\u003e\n    \u003c\/div\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n  \u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n    \u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eHow will the Andromeda Galaxy (M31) look through this 80mm Refractor?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n  \u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003eWith the included 25mm eyepiece, the 80mm Refractor provides a wide field of view that can frame the entirety of the Andromeda Galaxy's bright core and a significant portion of its surrounding dust lanes from a dark sky site. Its fast f\/5 optics make it well-suited for observing large, diffuse objects like M31.\u003c\/p\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n  \u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n    \u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eCan I see the rings of Saturn with this 80mm Refractor?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n  \u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003eYes, using the included 9mm eyepiece, you will be able to see Saturn's rings as distinct from the planet itself. While an 80mm telescope won't resolve fine detail like the Cassini Division, the iconic shape of the ringed planet will be clearly visible.\u003c\/p\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n    \u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhat is a 45º erect image diagonal and why is it useful for this 80mm refractor?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n  \u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003e45º erect image diagonal\u003c\/strong\u003e corrects the image to be both upright and non-reversed (left-to-right correct). This is essential for daytime terrestrial viewing, such as birdwatching or observing scenery, where a reversed image would be disorienting. It also provides a more comfortable viewing angle than looking straight through the telescope.\u003c\/p\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n    \u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWill I see color fringing (chromatic aberration) with this 80mm refractor?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n  \u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003eYes, as an achromatic refractor with a fast f\/5 focal ratio, some chromatic aberration is expected. You will likely notice a slight purple or yellow halo around very bright objects like the Moon, Venus, Jupiter, and the brightest stars. This is a normal optical characteristic for this type of telescope design.\u003c\/p\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n    \u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhat kind of mount do I need for this 80mm Refractor OTA?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n  \u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003eWeighing only \u003cstrong\u003e2.2 lbs\u003c\/strong\u003e, this optical tube assembly (OTA) is very lightweight and versatile. It can be used on a sturdy photographic tripod with a fluid head for simple terrestrial and wide-field sky viewing. For more serious astronomical use, a light-duty alt-azimuth mount like an iOptron Cube or Sky-Watcher AZ-GTi would be an excellent choice.\u003c\/p\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n    \u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eIs this 80mm refractor a good choice for a beginner?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n  \u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003eAbsolutely. Its light weight, simple rack-and-pinion focuser, and included accessories make it very easy to set up and use. The ability to use it for both daytime land viewing and nighttime stargazing provides a great introduction to telescopes without the complexity of larger, more specialized instruments.\u003c\/p\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n  \u003ctable class=\"DAV-specifications\"\u003e\n    \u003ctbody\u003e\n      \u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eOptical Design\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAchromatic Refractor\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n      \u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eClear Aperture\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e80 mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n      \u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFocal Length\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e400 mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n      \u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFocal Ratio\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ef\/5\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n      \u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eResolving Power\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e1.4 arc sec\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n      \u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFocuser\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e1.25” rack-and-pinion\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n      \u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eEyepiece Adapter\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e1.25 inch\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n      \u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eIncluded Eyepiece 1\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e25mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n      \u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eIncluded Eyepiece 2\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e9mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n      \u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eIncluded Diagonal\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e45º erect\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n      \u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eOTA Weight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e2.2 lbs\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n      \u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eShipping Weight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e4 lbs\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n      \u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eShipping Dimensions\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e18 x 7 x 7 in\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n    \u003c\/tbody\u003e\n  \u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n  \u003cul class=\"DAV-grid\"\u003e\n    \u003cli class=\"DAV-grid-item\"\u003e\n      \u003cdiv\u003e\n        \u003cp class=\"DAV-item-title\"\u003e80mm f\/5 Refractor OTA\u003c\/p\u003e\n        \u003cp class=\"DAV-item-subtitle\"\u003e× 1\u003c\/p\u003e\n      \u003c\/div\u003e\n    \u003c\/li\u003e\n    \u003cli class=\"DAV-grid-item\"\u003e\n      \u003cdiv\u003e\n        \u003cp class=\"DAV-item-title\"\u003e25mm Eyepiece\u003c\/p\u003e\n        \u003cp class=\"DAV-item-subtitle\"\u003e× 1\u003c\/p\u003e\n      \u003c\/div\u003e\n    \u003c\/li\u003e\n    \u003cli class=\"DAV-grid-item\"\u003e\n      \u003cdiv\u003e\n        \u003cp class=\"DAV-item-title\"\u003e9mm Eyepiece\u003c\/p\u003e\n        \u003cp class=\"DAV-item-subtitle\"\u003e× 1\u003c\/p\u003e\n      \u003c\/div\u003e\n    \u003c\/li\u003e\n    \u003cli class=\"DAV-grid-item\"\u003e\n      \u003cdiv\u003e\n        \u003cp class=\"DAV-item-title\"\u003e45º Erect Image Diagonal\u003c\/p\u003e\n        \u003cp class=\"DAV-item-subtitle\"\u003e× 1\u003c\/p\u003e\n      \u003c\/div\u003e\n    \u003c\/li\u003e\n    \u003cli class=\"DAV-grid-item\"\u003e\n      \u003cdiv\u003e\n        \u003cp class=\"DAV-item-title\"\u003eLens Cap\u003c\/p\u003e\n        \u003cp class=\"DAV-item-subtitle\"\u003e× 1\u003c\/p\u003e\n      \u003c\/div\u003e\n    \u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n  \u003cp\u003eFor warranty information, please refer to the documentation provided by the manufacturer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"iOptron","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52917293777181,"sku":"IOP-8710","price":181.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0753\/5280\/1565\/files\/iOptron-80mm-Refractor-1_a45219d1-ad26-406f-ae32-9d7211c92ace.jpg?v=1789142111"}],"url":"https:\/\/davidastro.com\/en-us\/collections\/ioptron-telescopes.oembed","provider":"David Astro","version":"1.0","type":"link"}