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William Optics Elite Drawer OAG Kit
The William Optics Elite Drawer OAG Kit streamlines your imaging train by combining a precise off-axis guider and a magnetic M48 filter drawer into a single 336 g unit. This integrated design consumes only 37.5 mm of optical length, providing a rigid, compact solution for connecting telescopes and cameras using the included M48, M54, and M68 adapters.
A 37.5 mm Solution for Complex Imaging Trains
By merging two critical accessories, the Elite Drawer OAG eliminates common sources of flexure and saves precious back focus. Its total optical path of just 37.5 mm makes it possible to build complex imaging trains with correctors or reducers, even on systems with limited focus travel. The single, solid body weighs only 336 g, reducing mechanical strain on your focuser compared to stacking separate components.
Off-Axis Guiding with an Adjustable Prism and Helical Focuser
The OAG features a high-transmission prism that can be adjusted in height, allowing you to pick off guide stars from the edge of the field without vignetting your main camera sensor. The dedicated guide port accepts both M42-threaded and 1.25" push-in guide cameras. A non-rotating helical focuser provides smooth, precise focus adjustments for your guide camera, ensuring you achieve sharp stars without disturbing the main imaging path.
Secure Magnetic M48 Filter Swaps
Integrated into the OAG body is a magnetic drawer system designed for a single M48 (2-inch) mounted filter. This design allows for rapid filter changes without needing to disassemble any part of your imaging train. The magnetic holder ensures the filter is seated securely and parallel to the sensor plane, maintaining optical alignment from shot to shot.
M48, M54, and M68 Adapters for System Flexibility
This kit is built for broad compatibility across different telescope and camera systems. It includes adapters for M48, M54, and M68 connections on the telescope side, and M48 and M54 adapters for the camera side. This extensive set of included hardware ensures you can integrate the Elite Drawer OAG into most modern imaging setups right out of the box.
Elite Drawer OAG vs. Separate Components: An Integrated Advantage
Choosing an integrated system like the Elite Drawer OAG offers distinct advantages over purchasing a separate OAG and filter drawer.
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Back Focus Savings: A typical OAG and filter drawer might consume 20mm + 21mm (41mm) of back focus. At 37.5 mm, this integrated unit saves critical millimeters.
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Reduced Flexure: With one solid body instead of two separate accessories threaded together, you have fewer potential points of mechanical flex, leading to rounder stars across long exposures.
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Simplicity and Weight: A single, 336 g component is often lighter and always simpler to manage in the dark than two separate parts. The trade-off is the inability to use a filter wheel for automated changes, as this system is designed for single-filter use.
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What is the total optical length of the William Optics Elite Drawer OAG Kit?
The William Optics Elite Drawer OAG Kit adds exactly 37.5 mm of optical length to your imaging train. This compact measurement is crucial for systems with limited back focus.
What filter size does the Elite Drawer OAG Kit use?
The magnetic filter holder is designed to accept one standard M48 x 0.75 (2-inch) mounted filter. It is not compatible with unmounted filters or other filter sizes.
How do I focus the guide camera on the Elite Drawer OAG Kit?
The guide port features a built-in helical focuser. By turning the knurled ring on the guide port, you can make fine focus adjustments to your guide camera without affecting the main camera focus. The port accepts both 1.25" push-in and M42-threaded guide cameras.
Will the 37.5 mm optical path of the Elite Drawer OAG Kit work with my Newtonian that has limited back focus?
At 37.5 mm, the Elite Drawer OAG is one of the more back-focus-friendly integrated solutions available. However, you must first confirm the total available back focus of your specific Newtonian telescope and imaging train. Measure the distance from your coma corrector's shoulder to the required sensor position and ensure it is greater than 37.5 mm plus any other required spacing.
How do I connect the Elite Drawer OAG between my William Optics refractor with an M68 focuser and my camera with M48 threads?
The kit includes the necessary adapters for this exact scenario. You would use the included M68 adapter to thread the OAG onto your telescope's focuser drawtube. On the other side, you would use the included M48 adapter to connect to your camera's M48 threads.
Is the prism position adjustable on the William Optics Elite Drawer OAG?
Yes, the prism stalk can be raised or lowered. This allows you to position the prism at the optimal depth to intercept guide stars from the edge of your telescope's corrected image circle without casting a shadow on your main imaging sensor.
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| Optical Length |
37.5 mm |
| Telescope Side Connections |
M54, M48, M68 |
| Camera Side Connection (Main) |
M54, M48 |
| Camera Side Connection (Guide) |
M42, 1.25" push-in |
| Weight |
336 g / 11.85 oz |
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William Optics 2-Year Warranty
