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IMPORTANT: Our store is located in Canada. All orders that include products manufactured outside of Canada or USA will be subject to tariffs and duties, regardless of the order value. US customers are responsible for all applicable duties and tariffs, and those will be billed by the carrier, except for the Lacerta upgrade kit, for which we collect them at checkout.
Starlight Instruments 3.5" Adapter for Takahashi FSQ106N Telescopes
Starlight Instruments 3.5" Adapter for Takahashi FSQ106N Telescopes
Starlight Instruments 3.5" Adapter for Takahashi FSQ106N Telescopes

Starlight Instruments 3.5" Adapter for Takahashi FSQ106N Telescopes

by Starlight Instruments
SKU SI-A35-503-FSQ106
$250.00 - $250.00
$250.00
$250.00 - $250.00
$250.00
Price Match Policy!
  • Adapts 3.5" Feather Touch focusers to the Takahashi FSQ106N
  • Designed specifically for pre-2009 FSQ106N models
  • Provides a rigid, thread-on connection for heavy imaging payloads
  • Eliminates flexure and sag common with slip-fit adapters
  • Precision machined by Starlight Instruments in the USA
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  • Description
  • FAQ
  • Specifications
  • In the Box
  • Downloads
  • Warranty

  • Starlight Instruments 3.5" Adapter for Takahashi FSQ106N Telescopes

    This Starlight Instruments adapter enables the direct installation of a 3.5" Feather Touch focuser onto any pre-2009 Takahashi FSQ106N telescope, creating a robust, zero-flexure connection essential for modern astrophotography systems.

    A Direct-Fit Upgrade for pre-2009 FSQ106N Scopes

    This adapter is engineered for a single purpose: to seamlessly integrate the legendary optics of a pre-2009 Takahashi FSQ106N with the mechanical precision of a Starlight Instruments 3.5" Feather Touch focuser. It replaces the stock components with a solid, threaded connection that becomes a rigid part of the optical tube, ensuring perfect alignment and stability.

    Unlike generic solutions, this component is custom-machined to the exact tolerances of the FSQ106N's tube, guaranteeing a secure fit. This is the critical first step in upgrading your telescope to handle the weight of modern CCD or CMOS cameras, large filter wheels, and off-axis guiders without introducing sag or tilt.

    The 3.5" Feather Touch Advantage on the FSQ106N

    Pairing this adapter with a 3.5" Feather Touch focuser transforms the imaging capability of your FSQ106N. The focuser's helical rack-and-pinion drive and robust internal bearings are designed to carry heavy loads with virtually zero backlash or image shift—a critical factor for automated focusing routines with a fast f/5 astrograph.

    The renowned 10:1 fine-focus reduction of the Feather Touch system allows for extremely precise adjustments, letting you achieve critical focus that the fast optics of the FSQ106N demand. This upgrade moves your system from a capable visual instrument to a professional-grade imaging platform ready for high-resolution captures.

  • Will this Starlight Instruments adapter fit my new Takahashi FSQ-106EDX4?

    No. This adapter is designed exclusively for the original, pre-2009 Takahashi FSQ106N model. It will not fit the newer ED, EDX, EDX III, or EDX4 versions, which have different mechanical interfaces. Please verify your telescope model before purchasing.

    Why should I replace the stock focuser on my FSQ106N with a 3.5" Feather Touch?

    Upgrading to a 3.5" Feather Touch focuser provides significant advantages for astrophotography. Key benefits include:

    • Higher Load Capacity: Securely handles heavy imaging trains consisting of a large camera, filter wheel, and guider without flexure.
    • Zero Image Shift: The robust rack-and-pinion mechanism eliminates the focus shift that can plague lesser designs, which is crucial for sharp stars across the frame.
    • Superior Fine Focus: The dual-speed control allows for incredibly precise focus adjustments, essential for maximizing the resolution of the FSQ106N's fast optical system.

    Does this adapter allow the 3.5" Feather Touch focuser to rotate?

    Yes. The Starlight Instruments 3.5" Feather Touch focuser itself has a built-in rotation collar. This adapter provides the secure mechanical connection to the telescope tube, and you will still be able to use the focuser's own rotation mechanism to frame your targets perfectly without loosening the camera.

    Is this adapter difficult to install on an FSQ106N?

    Installation typically involves unthreading the stock focuser assembly from the rear of the telescope and threading this adapter in its place. While it can be done with basic hand tools, care must be taken to not damage the threads or optical components. If you are not comfortable performing the installation, we recommend seeking assistance from an experienced technician.

    Can I use this adapter for a 2.5" or 3" Starlight Instruments focuser?

    No, this adapter is machined specifically for the Starlight Instruments 3.5" line of focusers (models beginning with FTF35xx). It will not work with the 2", 2.5", or 3" models, which have different mounting patterns and flange sizes.

    What focuser model does Starlight Instruments recommend for this FSQ106N adapter?

    The recommended focuser is the Starlight Instruments 3.5" Feather Touch, specifically the FTF3545B-A model. This focuser has a 4.5" draw tube travel, which is ideal for achieving focus with a wide range of imaging accessories on the FSQ106N.

  • Compatible Focuser Starlight Instruments 3.5" Feather Touch Focuser (e.g., FTF35xx series)
    Compatible Telescope Takahashi FSQ106N (pre-2009 models only)
    Connection Type Thread-on

    • 3.5" Adapter for Takahashi FSQ106N Telescopes

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  • Starlight Instruments 2-Year Warranty