What kind of mount is required for the RASA 36 V2?
The RASA 36 V2 optical tube weighs 75 lbs (34.02 kg). You will need a robust, observatory-class equatorial mount with a payload capacity of at least 100 lbs to handle the OTA and a full imaging train. Precise tracking and guiding are essential to take advantage of the instrument's high resolution.
What is the Ultra-Stable Focus System (USFS) on the RASA 36?
The USFS is a mechanical upgrade that supports the primary mirror on a precision linear ball bearing. This system prevents the mirror from tilting or shifting during focusing (focus shift) or when the telescope points to different parts of the sky (mirror flop). It ensures your target stays perfectly centered and in focus, which is critical for automated imaging.
Can I use my DSLR or mirrorless camera with the RASA 36 V2?
While physically possible with the correct adapters, DSLR and mirrorless camera bodies are often too large and will obstruct a significant portion of the telescope's 355.6mm aperture. The RASA 36 is designed for use with cylindrical, low-profile dedicated astronomy cameras to minimize this central obstruction, which is already 158mm wide.
How does the RASA 36's f/2.2 speed affect imaging the Andromeda Galaxy (M31)?
The RASA 36's f/2.2 speed and 790mm focal length allow you to capture the entire Andromeda Galaxy (M31) in a single frame with a large sensor. You can acquire deep, high-signal data in a fraction of the time needed for a typical f/7 or f/10 system. A single 5-minute exposure on the RASA 36 can reveal details that might take over 30 minutes to capture on a slower telescope.
What is the benefit of the extended 400-900 nm wavelength range for the RASA 36?
Most telescopes are corrected for visible light (400-700 nm). The RASA 36's optics are designed to focus light well into the near-infrared (up to 900 nm). Modern CMOS and CCD sensors are sensitive to this light, so the extended range allows the telescope to gather a brighter signal, effectively increasing its sensitivity and further reducing exposure times.
I have a large format camera. How do I attach it to the RASA 36 V2 to use the full 70mm field?
To utilize the full 70mm usable field, you will likely need a custom camera adapter. The RASA 36 has a native back focus of 77.5mm from the threaded collar. You'll need to calculate the distance required by your specific camera, filter wheel, and any other accessories to have an adapter machined that places your sensor at this focal plane.
