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Starlight Instruments 3.5" Adapter for Older Astro-Physics 130mm Telescopes
This Starlight Instruments adapter provides the specific mechanical interface required to upgrade select older Astro-Physics 130mm telescopes with a premium 3.5" Feather Touch focuser. It is engineered for a precise, non-threaded fit, allowing you to bypass the original focuser mechanism and achieve the stability and fine control needed for modern imaging.
Secure Mounting for a 3.5" Feather Touch Focuser
Designed for classic refractors that may not have modern threaded connections, this adapter slides over the rear of the optical tube. It is held securely in place by set screws, creating a rigid connection between the telescope and the new focuser. This method ensures a stable platform for heavy imaging trains without modifying the original telescope tube.
This adapter is confirmed to fit older Astro-Physics 130mm models with a 6.25-inch outside tube diameter. It is also compatible with the Astro-Physics 6" f/8 Triplet, providing a reliable path for upgrading the focusing system on these highly regarded instruments.
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What is the purpose of this Starlight Instruments 3.5" Adapter?
This adapter allows you to replace the stock focuser on specific older Astro-Physics 130mm and 6" f/8 Triplet telescopes with a modern, high-precision Starlight Instruments 3.5" Feather Touch focuser. It bridges the mechanical gap between the telescope tube and the new focuser.
How does this adapter attach to an Astro-Physics 130mm telescope?
The adapter is unthreaded. It is designed to slip over the end of the telescope's optical tube and is secured firmly in place using set screws. This provides a strong, non-permanent mounting solution that doesn't require threading the telescope tube.
Which specific Astro-Physics telescopes will this adapter fit?
This adapter is designed for older Astro-Physics 130mm refractors that have an outside tube diameter of 6.25 inches. It is also specified as fitting the Astro-Physics 6" f/8 Triplet telescope.
Can I use this adapter with a 2.5" or 3.0" Feather Touch focuser?
No, this adapter is specifically machined to match the bolt pattern and flange of the Starlight Instruments 3.5" Feather Touch focuser series. It will not work with smaller focuser models.
Why would I upgrade the focuser on my classic Astro-Physics 130mm telescope?
Upgrading to a Feather Touch focuser provides superior load-bearing capacity for heavy cameras and accessories, eliminating sag and image shift. The dual-speed fine focus control allows for extremely precise focusing, which is critical for high-resolution planetary or deep-sky imaging.
Will this adapter work on a modern Astro-Physics telescope?
This adapter is specified for "older" models with a specific tube diameter and a non-threaded connection. Modern Astro-Physics telescopes typically use a different threaded attachment system. You should measure your telescope's tube diameter and confirm its focuser interface before purchasing.
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| Compatibility |
Older Astro-Physics 130mm Telescopes (6.25" OD) |
| Compatibility |
Astro-Physics 6" f/8 Triplet Telescopes |
| Focuser Interface |
Starlight Instruments 3.5" Feather Touch Focusers |
| Attachment Method |
Unthreaded, secured via set screws |
- Starlight Instruments 2-Year Warranty
