APO, Calgary, Alberta

TMB130 SIGNATURE SERIES TRIPLET APO This scope was a Sky & Telescope Hot product for 2007, and still puts exceptionally high optical and mechanical quality in a portable and easy-to-manage 28.75" long package. Made by TMB Optical, it is ideal for the serious observer who will accept nothing less than unsurpassed visual observing performance. The TMB130SS is one of the finest optical instruments, both optically and mechanically, that TMB Optical has ever designed for the serious amateur astronomer. The late Thomas M. Back, the designer of the TMB130SS, felt that his TMB130SS apochromatic refractor had the best price to performance of any apo refractor on the market.

This scope contains apochromatic triplet ED refractor optics: 5.1" (130mm) aperture, 910mm focal length, f/7. Comprised of an air-spaced triplet lens using an FPL-53 ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass element for a flat field and images that are free from chromatic aberration. Fully multicoated on all surfaces with the latest antireflection materials for exceptionally high light transmission and excellent contrast. The lens cell is temperature-compensated and also fully collimatable in the field so you can optimize your telescope for peak performance.

The TMB130SS is exceptional for observing and imaging within the solar system. Its images of subtle low-contrast lunar and planetary details are razor-sharp, with realistic and highly saturated color. Binary stars and globular star clusters are particularly well-resolved and vivid, with the contrasting colors of binary systems showing nicely. Nebulas and galaxies stand out briskly against a very dark sky background. The knife-edge internal baffles assure the maximum image contrast possible. Image excellence is limited only by the seeing conditions, not by any aberration or short-coming in the telescope.

The TMB130SS has a retractable dew shield which slows the formation of dew on the lens to extend your undisturbed observing time. It also improves visual and photographic contrast by shielding the lens from off-axis ambient light (the neighbor’s yard light, moonlight, etc.) The dew shield has a knife-edge baffle built into its trim ring to improve contrast by blocking off-axis ambient light.

The Feather Touch precision-made #3545 focuser can be said to be the best 3.5" refractor focuser available today, period. The fine-pitch brass rack and hardened stainless steel pinion gear are factory-matched and burnished to provide a very smooth engagement between the rack and the pinion. The drawtube glides on three stainless steel straps that mate with Teflon bearing surfaces to provide very tight yet extremely smooth motion. The drawtube has machined internal baffles, finished in glare-resistant black, to reduce reflections and improve contrast. There are two coarse focusing knobs for focusing with either hand. The right knob also has a smaller concentric knob with a 10:1 ratio reduction gear for microfine focusing. Combined with the ultra-low backlash focuser design, this provides exceptionally precise focus control during visual observing or critical imaging. The focus knobs have ribbed gripping surfaces so they are easy to operate, even while wearing gloves or mittens in cold weather. The extra-long 110mm travel 3.5" diameter focuser drawtube has two laser-engraved scales (one on either side of the drawtube) marked in 1mm increments so you can note individual focuser positions for easy return to the correct focus when switching between visual use and photography. Because the focuser is so smooth in operation and moves so freely, it contains an adjustable tension internal brake system to allow astrophotography and visual use with heavy eyepieces without the possibility of focus shift. The focuser includes a built-in camera angle adjuster as standard equipment which lets you rotate the entire focuser a full 360°. Three handles and finger grooves on the locking ring provide a good grip in cold or damp weather. The focuser drawtube terminates in a 2" compression ring eyepiece/accessory adapter. A separate 1.25" compression ring eyepiece/star diagonal holder is also supplied that fits into the 2" adapter to let you use 1.25" accessories. The non-marring soft brass compression rings of both the 2" and 1.25" eyepiece holders won’t scratch the barrels of your expensive accessories or star diagonals.

While the supplied 2" accessory adapter allows the use of most 2" barrel large format CCD cameras and 35mm photo adapters, some astrophotography enthusiasts prefer to use 92mm diameter Astro-Physics photo accessories. These can be accommodated by removing the 2" accessory adapter attached to the 3.5" focuser drawtube (it is held in place by three recessed hex-head screws) and adding an optional A-P accessory adapter. These are available directly from Starlight Instruments, the manufacturer of the Feather Touch focuser.

No finderscope is supplied, but two mounting holes are provided on the upper left side of the focuser body for mounting an optional finderscope.

No mounting rings are supplied with the 142mm diameter optical tube. Optional TMB split felt-lined mounting rings (#TMB142R) are available for mounting the scope on a suitable equatorial mount, such as a Sky-Watcher EQ6, Celestron CGE, or a Losmandy G11. It can also be used with the William Optics EZ Touch.

The TMB130SS comes standard with a foam-lined aluminum-frame hard case for transportation and general protection purposes. The case weighs 14 pounds and measures 10" x 10.5" x 33". It has four locking latches and a spring-loaded carrying handle that automatically folds down into a recess in the case when not being used.

As an expression of the confidence TMB Optical has in the quality of their products, the TMB130SS is protected by a two-year limited warranty against flaws in materials and workmanship (shipping case excluded).

ASTRO-TECH 111 ED TRIPLET APO Armed with a focal length of 770mm, an f7 focal ratio, and an aperture of 111mm (4.37"), Astronomy Technologies has produced this AT111ED Triplet apochromatic refractor that gathers over 18% more light than the more common size 102mm (4") refractors. Combine this extra light gathering with the Astro-Tech AT111EDT’s state-of-the-art optical multicoatings, and you have a scope that clearly stands out in its class.

Astronomy Technologies uses Ohara glass in this apochromatic triplet. This results in images that are essentially totally free of the annoying halo of unfocused violet light (chromatic aberration) that mars the bright-object images of lesser scopes, despite the fast focal ratio, and even at very high magnifications. The push/pull lens cell is fully collimatable in the field for peak performance. These exceptional optics are even more impressive when you consider the package they come in.

This finely-machined scope has a dual speed 2.7" rack-and-pinion focuser with a microfine 11:1 fine-focusing ratio. The focuser can rotate a full 360° to put your camera or eyepiece in the most comfortable observing position. A knob on the camera angle adjuster lets you lock the focuser at whatever angle is most convenient for you. The focus knobs have ribbed gripping surfaces so they are easy to operate, even while wearing gloves or mittens in cold weather. The extra-long 138mm (5.4") travel 2.7" diameter focuser drawtube (marked in 1mm increments) helps keep the overall scope length as short as practicable for convenient travel and storage. The supplied 2" and 1.25" eyepiece holders use non-marring brass compression rings that won’t scratch your eyepiece barrels.

The AT111EDT has a retractable lens shade. Contrast-enhancing knife-edge light baffles in the lens shade and the optical tube provide truly dark sky backgrounds and high terrestrial contrast. The edges of the lenses are blackened to reduce internal reflections and further improve image contrast. Doing double duty, the lens shade will keep the dew away from the lens, considerably longer than it would without one.

The optical tube and lens shade are finished in a durable high gloss automotive-style white paint. The focuser and trim are anodized gun metal grey. There is an anodized dark green identifying band around the camera angle adjuster portion of the focuser body. No tube rings are supplied for the 124mm optical tube, as some observers may already have rings for this size tube. If rings are needed, optional 124mm Astro-Tech #AT124R hinged tube rings are available. The scope is accompanied by a locking aluminum-frame hard carrying case.

As an expression of the confidence Astronomy Technologies has in the quality of their products, the AT111ED Triplet apo is protected by a two-year limited warranty against flaws in materials and workmanship (shipping case excluded).

FLT110 TRIPLET APO A familiar name with a new face, this William Optics 110mm F7 scope will become a classic in its own right. It is finished in a gorgeous powder white with satin silver focuser and gold trim: a true work of art. It has a focal length of 770mm and like its big brother, comes with a 3 element, air spaced, Thomas Bach designed objective. A 4", 2 speed Crayford focuser is there to hold your diagonal or camera, whether it be DSLR or CCD. Smooth? With ball bearings on both sides of the focuser, you can count on it. And the draw tube is graduated to help you keep track of those critical settings as well as being lockable. Aluminum knife-edged baffles, blackened inner tube and a sliding dew shield help keep out stray light.

Despite its 110mm size, it is still reasonably compact while weighing in at 6.6 kg. CNC machined hinged mounting rings are included in the price, as well as an aluminum case. There is a field flattener available for this scope, to compliment its Ohara FPL51 glass. Once you have seen this scope in person, and looked through your favorite eyepiece with it, you will understand the the high standard that William Optics has set for a scope of this caliber. And they stand behind it with a 2 year warranty.

MEGREZ 110 ED DOUBLET APO Another offering in the 110mm size, from William Optics. The Megrez 110 ED. This time, with a top-quality air spaced APO doublet objective! Optically unbeatable. With an f 5.95 focal ratio, 655 focal length and a 2.5" Crayford focuser, this scope is ultimately designed for astronomers who want the best results for photographic/CCD work. There will be an optional, new field flattener, that will bring the scope to f 4.8 for even better color correction and flat field results. Despite its 110mm objective, the scope is still very compact and solid. This scope is extremely sharp and has a great color correction. The extra heavy duty focuser, which comes with a silky smooth 2 speed that has large aluminum knobs, is a patented design. A virtual treat to use. No image shifting with this piece. Its black draw tube, which has a graduated scale on it, contrasts smartly the beautiful white body, tube and dew shield. The body of the focuser is also 360 degree rotatable, with a graduated gold ring on the tube end - new for this class. The gold dew shield cap matches up with the other gold highlights on the scope. There is a custom foam filled aluminum case, included, so that when you have to put it away, it will be safe and secure. Newly added, the mounting rings are now included in the price. The standard William Optics quality, fit and finish is assured and a 2 year warranty gives you piece of mind.

ASTRO-TECH 106ED TRIPLET APO New from Astronomy Technologies is this AT106EDT. A 106mm (4.17") triplet apochromatic refractor. A focal length of 690mm gives a focal ratio of f/6.5. The performance of this Astro-Tech 106mm FPL-53 ED (Extra-low Dispersion glass) triplet apochromatic refractor is superb, in keeping with Astro-Tech’s well-deserved reputation for producing optically and mechanically excellent small optics. All of the lenses in the air-spaced triplet optics of the AT106 are fabricated from Ohara glass (Ohara is Japan’s premier manufacturer of specialized optical glass), including the first-quality FPL-53 center element. The result of using the this glass is very good control of spurious color. The AT106 images are free of all vestiges of the annoying faint color halos around bright objects visible in lesser scopes – despite the Astro-Tech’s fast focal ratio, and even at very high magnifications. The edges of the lenses are blackened to reduce internal reflections. The lens cell is fully collimatable for peak performance and the triplet objective lens has the latest state-of-the-art antireflection multicoatings on all air-to-glass surfaces.

Those exceptional optics come in a finely-machined tube finished in a durable high gloss automotive-style white paint. There are contrast-enhancing knife-edge light baffles in the optical tube and the lens/dew shield. A lock knob under the dew shield locks it firmly in place when fully extended (27.5" long) and measures only 24" long when the shield is retracted.

Attached to the tube of the AT106 is a newly-designed dual speed 2.7" Crayford focuser with a microfine 10:1 fine-focusing ratio. The focuser can rotate a full 360° and a knob on the camera angle adjuster lets you lock the focuser at whatever angle, while a separate lock knob on top of the focuser lets you lock in your photographic focus. 80mm (3.15") travel is available with the focuser drawtube which is marked in 1mm increments. The focuser and trim are anodized gun metal grey. The supplied 2" and 1.25" eyepiece holders use non-marring brass compression rings that won’t scratch your eyepiece barrels.

No tube rings are supplied for the 114mm diameter optical tube of the Astro-Tech AT106, but if rings are needed, optional 114mm AT114R hinged tube rings are available. A slip-on metal dust cap is standard and the scope comes in a foam-fitted, locking, aluminum-frame carrying case. The AT106 is protected by a 2 year limited warranty against flaws in materials and workmanship (shipping case excluded).

ASTRO-TECH 102ED DOUBLET OTA Look at all the equipment features you get with this Astronomy Technologies refractor. A 2" 2 speed 360° rotatable Crayford focuser with a 1.25" brass compression ringed adapter, a metal body red dot finder, a pair of clamp style mounting rings, an 8" long Vixen-style dovetail plate and an aluminum-framed lockable hard case to put it all into. As with all Astronomy Technology scopes, the AT102ED also gives you fully-multicoated ED optics, sliding dew shield and a dew cap, and a 2 year warranty. The body contains three contrast-enhancing knife-edge internal light baffles and a specially darkened tube interior. The edges of the lenses are blackened. The focus knobs have ribbed gripping surfaces so they are easy to operate. What a deal!

The AT102ED specs out with 102mm (4") aperture, 709mm focal length, f/6.95 focal ratio and a doublet optical system using an ED (Extra-low Dispersion glass) element. Its 105mm diameter optical tube measures 22.75" long with the lens shade retracted, and 27.75" long with it extended, and are both finished in a durable high gloss automotive-grade white paint. The focuser and trim are black anodized. The precision-made no-backlash focuser has a 2 speed with an 11:1 fine-focusing ratio. The drawtube has a scale marked in 1mm increments and has 85mm (3.35") of travel. Or......you can upgrade to a 10:1 2 speed Feather Touch focuser!

FLT98 CARBON FIBRE APO A new addition to the William Optics FLT triplet line-up! It puts exceptionally high optical and mechanical quality into a high-tech carbon fiber package. This telescope is ultimately designed for individuals who do not want to limit themselves to visual observations, but want to give themselves the chance of taking breath-taking astro-images.

Stunning Optics! It features a top-quality triplet f/6.3 air-spaced objective, one of the best William Optics has ever made! It was designed by a leading Russian designer and uses FPL-53 glass topped off with STM coatings. This scope is extremely sharp and has a great color correction. It is ideal for astrophotography, and there is a dedicated field flattener available as an option.

This scope incorporates the new 2.5" LinearPower focuser. It has 80mm of travel, which can be recorded using the graduated scale on the tube, and is capable of 360 degrees rotation. Large aluminum knobs grace the 2 speed focuser which has a 1:10 ratio. It uses brass compression rings to hold your diagonals, extensions, whatever, as does the included 2" to 1.25" adapter..

Pure William Optics quality fit and finish. A lightweight pure carbon fiber optical tube and dew shield, anodized 360 degree rotatable LinearPower focuser, dew shield cap, that can stow away in an optional High Quality aluminum case, which is displaying a new colour - WO red. Add a pair of the optional mounting rings and you end up with a Total Quality Package!

Though you might never need it, you get a 2 year warranty from William Optics, and the certainty that we will be there to assist you even beyond that, if needed!

FLT98 APO Another new addition to the William Optics FLT triplet line-up! The baby brother to the FLT110! Almost exactly the same as the carbon fibre version of the same size (98mm above), the main differences are the weight (4.7kg vs 3.5kg) the focus tube travel (100mm vs 80mm), the collapsed length (502mm vs 502) and the focuser size (3.5" vs 2.5"). This telescope is also ultimately designed for individuals who do not want to limit themselves to visual observations, but want to give themselves the chance of taking breath-taking astro-images.

This scope was reviewed on Sky at Night (December 2008) astronomy magazine with great success! The FLT98 is a portable, high quality, versatile APO telescope designed for individuals who want a very high quality instrument in a relatively compact package. With stunning optics, this scope features a top-quality triplet f/6.3 air-spaced objective, one of the best WO ever made! It comes with STM coatings, and was designed by a leading Russian designer using FPL-53 glass. It is extremely sharp and has a great color correction. It is ideal for astrophotography.

It is supplied with an extra-smooth, extra-heavy duty 3.5" Crayford focuser which is a treat to use during astrophotography. No more image shifting! It has two locking screws at the end of the focus tube and included are 2" and 1.25" adapters, all with brass anti-marring compression rings. Large aluminum knobs make using the 1:10 2 speed a breeze. Of course the focuser is 360 degree rotatable, making it easy to line up your camera in ant position required. This patented focuser has stainless steel reinforcement inserts on both sides and on the back to allow heavy loading without problems and ball bearings on both sides of the focuser to make your focusing experience the best you ever experienced with a scope! To top it off, there is a graduated scale for precise camera alignment.

Pure William Optics quality fit and finish: powder-painted white CNC-machined aluminum tube with golden accents, an anodized focuser, retractable dewshield and a dewshield cap. Solid CNC-machined mounting rings and a case are included in the price giving you a total quality package. A dedicated field flattener is available.

Though you might never need it, you have a 2-year warranty from William Optics, and the certainty that APO and William Optics will be there to assist you even beyond that, if needed!

                                                                          Available Options:

                           Eyepiece                    UWAN 28mm (2")        ADD $338
                           Eyepiece                    UWAN 16mm (1.25") ADD $185
                           Eyepiece                    UWAN 7mm (1.25")    ADD $176
                           Eyepiece                    UWAN 4mm (1.25")    ADD $185
                           2" CF DB Diagonal     WD-CF-DIG-DB           ADD $145
                           2" CF Diagonal           WD-CF-DIG2-DI          ADD $83

REVIEWS 1

TMB92 Signature Series APO OTA Another winner from TMB Optical. March 2009 edition of Sky & Telescope magazine “The new TMB92SS fared very well indeed against this remarkable Astro-Physics apo. The TMB92SS presented images of bright stars and planets that were as free of chromatic aberration (false color) as the Stowaway. It’s fair to say that the TMB had no visible chromatic aberration, stunning for such a fast instrument . . . If I were to rate the Stowaway with 5 stars for optical perfection, then the TMB92SS earns 4½. Considering that the Stowaways have been known to command $5,000 to $6,000 on the used market, $2,000 for a new TMB92SS is an excellent bargain.

• 92mm f/5.5 apochromatic triplet optics using FPL-53 ED glass
• Collimatable lens cell for peak imaging and optical performance
• 3" dual-speed Feather Touch rack and pinion focuser
• Ultra-short 13.25" length for travelling
• Removable extension tube for binoviewer use without a Barlow
• Rotating eyepiece holder for quick camera/eyepiece orientation
• 2" and 1.25" compression ring eyepiece holders
• Retractable dew shield, dust covers, and hard case
• Sales limited to 100 scopes per year to maintain the value of your investment

MEGREZ 90 DOUBLET APO The HOTTEST William Optics refractor of the year! Here is a unique opportunity of acquiring the new Megrez 90 FD Doublet Air-Spaced! A new breakthrough in mechanical and optical perfection. Reviewed on Sky & Telescope (May 2007) astronomy magazine with great success!

The L mounting bracket has been discontinued and it is now necessary to mount the scope with the included 90mm CNC Tube Rings.

Optically Unbeatable, it is comprised of a highly precise CNC machined lens cell which holds a doublet air spaced lens, in an adjustable lens cell. The lens is STM coated, the highest-quality coatings. An extra-smooth, extra-heavy duty 2.5" Power Linear dual speed Crayford focuser with 360 degree rotation capability and large aluminum knobs as standard. A treat to use during photography. No more image shifting! It is a Patented Design - a one-piece dual speed microfocuser with stainless steel reinforcement inserts on both sides and on the back to allow heavy loading without problems. Ball bearings on both sides of the focuser will make your focusing experience the best you ever experienced with a scope! The focus tube has a graduated scale for precise camera alignment. The tube will travel 80mm (3.15").

This is a do-it-all telescope. Pure William Optics quality fit and finish with powder-painted white CNC-machined aluminum tube with gold colour accents gives this telescope a simply beautiful finish. The Megrez 90 sports a retractable dew shield and dew shield cap along with aluminum knife-edged baffles and blackened inner tube to help keep out stray light while in use. Each scope is tested several times both for mechanical performance and optical performance (high-power star testing). Total Quality. A 2" to 1.25" adapter that has anti-marring brass compression rings is included in the price. You get to stow away your telescope in the practical and safe aluminum case, which, of course, is also included. Though you might never need it, you have a 2-year warranty and the certainty that Alberta Premium Optics and William Optics will be there to assist you. Even beyond that, if needed!

The skies await!

MEGREZ 88 DOUBLET APO A new William Optics Megrez series has been born, a beautiful 88mm FD telescope coming with a 2" Crayford dual speed microfocuser and elegant William Optics signature white CNC tube and gold dew cover. The Megrez 88FD.

The Megrez 88FD refractor is an air-spaced Doublet Apochromatic refractor, using the similar quality lens as the Megrez 90FD. This scope features an F/5.6 focal ratio and a 498mm focal length. It has a retractable lens shade. The 2" Crayford focuser boasts a 360 degree rotatable feature, 80mm of focus tube travel and a 1:10 reduction 2 speed. Quality components throughout. There is also a dedicated field flattener for this scope, the FLAT88.

It can be quickly mounted to a camera tripod by way of the integrated L-bracket. That same L-bracket can be mounted to a dovetail plate, to install in your favorite mount, perhaps a William Optics EZ Touch. Clamp rings and guide rings (not included) can be used as well.

Of course, you the get the William Optics 2 year warranty, and the assurance that we will be here to help you apply it, should the need arise within the 2 years - or beyond.

TMB80 SIGNATURE SERIES CARBON FIBRE TRIPLET APO The TMB80SSCF puts exceptionally high optical and mechanical quality in a tiny portable package. It is ideal for the serious observer who will accept nothing less than unsurpassed imaging and visual observing performance. It is an exceptional grab and go scope (15.25" compressed) for observing and imaging – both within the solar system and out to the furthest reaches of infinity. Its images of subtle low-contrast lunar and planetary details are razor-sharp, with realistic and highly saturated color. Image excellence is limited only by the seeing conditions, not by any aberration or short-coming in the telescope. And, production is limited to 100 scopes per year to maintain the value of your investment. The TMB80SSCF is a great telescope that one would be proud to call his own.

The TMB80SSCF sports 3.1" (80mm) of aperture, a 504mm focal length, an f/6.3 triplet lens using an FPL-53 ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass element for a sharp and flat field and images that are high in contrast and free from spurious color (chromatic aberration). Fully multicoated on all surfaces for exceptionally high light transmission and excellent contrast. Knife-edge light baffles in the optical tube in addition to blackened edges of the objective lens eliminate contrast-reducing stray internal reflections. The self-storing retractable dew shield/lens shade slows the formation of dew on the lens and also improves visual and photographic contrast by shielding the lens from off-axis ambient light (the neighbor’s yard light, moonlight, etc.) The dew shield is oversized, with a 124mm outside diameter, compared to the 80mm lens diameter and 90mm tube diameter.

The body and dew shield are made of a high strength and very lightweight woven carbon fiber cloth encapsulated in a transparent high gloss epoxy. It is virtually indestructible, and has excellent thermal characteristics. The use of a carbon fiber composite reduces the weight of the TMB80SSCF to a mere 5.1 pounds, a full 1.4 lbs. less than its optically-identical aluminum tube brother, the TMB80SS. And it does it with no loss of strength or rigidity. The herringbone weave of the carbon fiber cloth is easily seen through its clear epoxy coating. The carbon fiber cloth is laid down by hand during the manufacturing process, so a subtle seam along the length of the tube is sometimes visible where the edges of the herringbone weave cloth meet. The and metal trim is black anodized.

For your focusing enjoyment, a dual-speed precision-made 2" Feather Touch Crayford focuser with internal brake is supplied. The Starlight Instruments # 2025 Feather Touch focuser provides exceptionally precise image control during very high magnification visual observing, and during critical 35mm or CCD imaging. The right knob has a smaller concentric knob with a 10:1 reduction gear microfine focusing ratio. All knobs are easy to operate, even while wearing gloves or mittens in cold weather. The focuser uses hardened stainless steel guides and bearing surfaces for consistently smooth operation and long life. Multiple internal baffles in the focuser drawtube assure high contrast. Because the focuser is so smooth in operation and moves so freely, it can only hold a limited amount of weight (generally a little more than 1 lb.) without drifting out of focus when the focuser drawtube is not horizontal and has a vertical component. The focuser therefore contains an adjustable tension internal brake system to allow astrophotography, or visual use with heavy eyepieces, without the possibility of focus shift. The brake consists of a lever arrangement internal to the pinion block. Adjusting the thumbscrew under the pinion block causes the lever to press a friction pad onto the pinion. This increases the torque needed to turn the focus knobs. If the thumbscrew is turned all the way in (about 1 to 1¼ turns), the pinion shaft and the drawtube are locked in position for long exposure astrophotography. Visually, partial tightening of the internal brake offers a virtually infinite range of braking force to accommodate various eyepiece weights. The focuser drawtube ends in a 2" accessory holder that uses a non-marring soft brass compression ring, as does the 1.25" adapter that comes with it. The draw tube is graduated and has 2.5" of travel.

The TMB80SSCF comes with a pair of split hinged tube rings with five 1/4"-20 thread holes drilled into the top and bottom of each. These allow you to install the scope on a Vixen-style or Losmandy-style dovetail plate or directly on your equatorial mount, as well as letting you install a dovetail accessory plate on the top of the scope body. The TMB-80CF comes standard in a locking hard case with carry handle for transportation and general protection purposes, and the scope is protected by a two-year limited warranty against flaws in materials and workmanship.

TMB80 SIGNATURE SERIES TRIPLET APO This scope, from TMB Optical, is a twin to the the TMB80SS Carbon Fibre, just not an identical twin. It has the same FPL-53 optics, 504mm focal length, a field ratio of f6.3, but weighs in at 6.5 pounds. a little heavier 2.31 kg. So, it is still the great performer, just a little less in price.

Instead of the Feather Touch focuser it has a precision-made dual-speed microfine 2" Crayford focuser. The right knob also has a smaller concentric knob with an 11:1 reduction gear microfine focusing ratio. The anodized red ribbed locking ring on the body of the scope allows the focuser to be rotated a full 360°. Turn the ring to the left to loosen the focuser, and back to the right to tighten it in place again. The 80mm (3.1") travel focuser drawtube has a scale marked in 1mm increments. A lock knob under the focuser lets you lock in your focus. The focuser drawtube ends in a 2" eyepiece holder that uses a non-marring soft brass compression ring to hold accessories in place. Also supplied is a 1.25" eyepiece holder, which is also a compression ring style, that slips into the 2" compression ring holder to let you use 1.25" accessories.

The TMB80SS has a removable L-shaped dovetail mounting shoe/tripod adapter. It will fit, without modification, William Optics Eazy Touch, Celestron Advanced Series, Meade LXD-75, and Vixen Great Polaris, Porta, and Sphinx mounts, among others. The mounting shoe has 1/4"-20 thread mounting holes that allow it to be installed on any camera tripod that has a standard 1/4"-20 thread mounting bolt.

The optical tube of TMB80SS is finished in a durable baked-on automotive white paint with a liquid-anodized black focuser and trim and a red-anodized focuser rotation locking collar. It comes in a 22.5" x 12.75" x 8" locking hard case with a carry handle for transportation and general protection purposes. As an expression of the confidence TMB Optical has in the quality of their products, the TMB80SS is protected by a two-year limited warranty against flaws in materials and workmanship.

There you have it. A few differences from the carbon fibre version, important to some, not to others.

ZENITHSTAR 80 II ED DOUBLET APO Just another 80mm scope you say? Not so. This William Optics 80mm F6.8 scope, has a price point like no other. The ZS80 II ED. Need a back-up scope, or looking for your first APO? How about an ideal guide scope? This 2.8 kg wonder fits the bill. A 2 element, air spaced APO, with Ohara FPL51 Japanese glass, fully multi-coated plus a 2", 2 speed, 360 degree rotatable focuser with graduated draw tube, a 1.25 brass compression ringed adapter, along with an aluminum case....... all for a price not easily copied! 10 baffles block stray light from entering the fully CNC machined tube. An L bracket for mounting to a camera tripod or the Eazy Touch Alt-Az mount is supplied. There is even a screw that you take out of the focuser, where a finder scope mounting bracket (optional) will attach. This scope has it all! Top it off with optional William Optics mounting rings, finder scope, carbon fibre diagonal, maybe a zoom eyepiece, or a host of other fine accessories made to work perfectly with your scope, and you will be on your way to some great times under the skies. And for that peace of mind, a 2 year warranty is included at no extra cost.

MEGREZ 72 ED DOUBLET APO The New Megrez 72 FD Doublet APO is here to fit all your needs! This 72mm ED Doublet operates at F6 and is a true multi-purpose tube assembly. Excellent mechanics and fit and finish, Crayford 2-speed fine focuser, super-high transmission multi-coating, optional white ABS backpacker type carry case. Fast focal ratio makes it your ideal fast set-up for travel astrophotography, piggybacking or spotting scope.

Lens Design
• ED glass doublet air-spaced, in CNC machined ultra-high precision lens cell.
• Each lens is Fully Multi-Coated with a special super-high transmission coating (STM Coating) on all surfaces.

Low C.A.
• Fully baffled to block all extraneous off-axis light rays and prevent glancing reflections, increasing overall contrast.
• 72 mm clear aperture.

Nothing Left to Chance
• Perfect for EAZY-T Alt-Az Mount. You can slide it directly into the mount without a plate if you like.
• Pure William Optics quality fit and finish: powder-painted white CNC-machined aluminum tube

• Drawtube travel length 81 mm with graduated scale.
• Retractable dewshield, smallest size ever fornhanced portability!

Astrophotography Super-APO
• Fast focal ratio for bright, high-quality astro-imaging.
• Dedicated field reducer/flattener available.
• Perfect for piggybacking as guide scope. Consider the WO guide rings.

Wonderful WO Microfocuser
• William Optics rotatable Crayford focuser, smooth and precise, ideal during astrophotography.
• Adjustable focuser tension.
• Super-smooth and reliable 1:10 micro focuser for fine focusing during imaging and visual observations alike.

Attention to Packaging
• The basic package now includes the white ABS backpacker type carry case with internal softcase.
• Carry-on size: you do not have to leave your treasure home!
• Two-year, no fuss warranty and constant customer service!

PRICE $617 Part # M-72-OTA

The Ferrari ZenithStar Anniversary Edition is an exclusive limited edition of 500 units only.

Ferrari ZenithStar Anniversary Edition An absolute jewel. The luxurious tube is finished with black carbon fiber and the focuser is entirely anodized for a stunning presentation. Performance is not inferior to looks: its 70mm objective boasts amazing color correction and sharpness. The Ferrari ZenithStar Anniversary Edition is particularly well suited for terrestrial and astronomical observations, thanks to its high-quality zoom eyepiece and erecting prism. Simply place the zoom eyepiece into the erecting prism, and rotate the buttery smooth focuser to see corrected views of planets, galaxies, landscapes, birds, racing cars, or to frame your image precisely during photography sessions. With an optional adapter this scope will turn into a deluxe 430mm apochromatic telephoto lens. The integrated L-bracket allows you to mount this fine scope on any standard camera tripod for photography or observing.

The apochromatic objective of this 70mm refractor is designed to compete with the very best. Extremely sharp and colour free, you will enjoy the best views of your life! The special wide-field zoom eyepiece will extend your views from 20x to 65x magnifications, more than enough to see stunning lunar details, birds, wild animals, landscapes and seascapes. Connect the scope with the optional 0.8x reducer/field flattener, and transform your telescope into a trendy telephoto lens. The carbon fibre of the tube adds a touch of GT luxury to your outstanding optics. Enjoy the fine focusing mechanism which is integrated into the focuser, for the smoothest focusing experience. The rotating function allows you to place the eyepiece or the camera in the most comfortable position. You could also consider a WO dielectric or quartz dielectric mirror-based diagonal and use it with any of the UWAN, SWAN and new SPL eyepieces, to really bring out the high potential this scope has to offer, for viewing under the night sky. With a suitable optional WO eyepiece it is possible to achieve over 130x magnification.

The Ferrari ZenithStar Anniversary Edition comes with a special carry-on size case, in Rosso Corsa red. This fashionable backpack style case has been designed with the Ferrari F430 in mind. The inside, felt lined compartments, hold the telescope, eyepieces and any other accessories you might need.

Other included parts are dust covers, dew shield cap with relief chromed Prancing Horse and an SCT-type 2" rear cell adapter for usage with optional accessories.

Ferrari and William Optics have offered up one incredible package. Attention to quality and detail abound. Carbon fibre and chrome along with superb optics. A definite collectors item. There will only be 150 available for Canada and the US out of the 500 being offered. Scope number 000 auctioned off for over $6000, funds that were donated to 2 hospitals.

Order a Ferrari ZenithStar Anniversary Edition for yourself today!
Own a piece of history!

ZENITHSTAR 70 ED DOUBLET OTA A NEW ZENITHSTAR family has been born. A beautiful 70mm ED telescope, from William Optics that comes with a 2" Crayford dual speed microfocuser (360 degree rotatable of course) and elegant William Optics signature white CNC tube with gold dew cover and fine focus knob. It has a focal ratio of F6.1 with a focal length of 430mm. Weighing only 5 pounds - what more could ask for, at this price point. The new ZS70 ED.

Designed for multiple purposes, this white scope will delight you from the first minute of use. William Optics' 0.8X Field Flattener/Focal Reducer Type II, elegant white backpack and Carbon Fibre Dielectric Diagonal are also available as optional accessories. This scope will be perfect for astrophotography use. Or maybe as a guide scope for someone's FLT110? And it can quite easily double as a grab-n-go scope, with a light weight tripod (WTR-188) or an Eazy Touch.

An amazing scope in a small package at the right price!

ALL ACCESSORIES ARE OPTIONAL

Clear Aperture	70 mm	Lens Shade	Retractable
Focal Ratio	F6.1	Focuser	2" 360° Rotating Crayford focuser, 1:10 Dual Speed
Focal Length	430 mm	Focuser travel	81 mm (3.2")
Objective Type	ED Doublet, Air Spaced, STM coated	Tube Diameter	87 mm (3.43")
Resolving Power	1.58"	Tube Length	30.8 cm (11.8") retracted - 37cm (14.2") extended
Limiting Magnitude	11	Tube Weight	2.3 kg (5.07 lbs)

PRICE ~~$471~~ $399 Part # 1048 ZS-70ED-OTA IN STOCK

AVAILABLE OPTIONS

                                                    TR-188 TRIPOD                                  ADD $111 IN STOCK
                                                    Guide Rings                           ADD $83    IN STOCK
                                                     FLAT III                                              ADD $185 IN STOCK
                                                    1.25" Carbon Fibre Diagonal           ADD $61    IN STOCK
                                                    2" Carbon Fibre Diagonal               ADD $83
                                                    EZ Touch Mount & Tripod                  ADD $468 IN STOCK

REVIEWS 1

A beautiful telescope to look through, a beautiful telescope to look at.

Designed for multiple purposes, this little red scope will delight you from the first minute of use.

Ferrari ZenithStar Racing Edition This telescope is a king among 66mm refractors. Entirely made of automotive-grade aluminum, painted with powder paint "Rosso Scuderia Ferrari" red, it is the ultimate optical product to add to your collection. Easy to set-up, all you need is a camera tripod and you are ready to go. Designed to to be able to connect to Digital SLR (DSLR) cameras (optional adapter needed), it can double as a great telephoto lens. The Crayford focuser comes standard with a 2 speed (1:10 reduction), to provide silky smooth focusing. The zoom eyepiece will provide magnification from 25x to 50x, enough for most applications. The provided erecting prism and zoom eyepiece are interchangeable with a full series of optional accessories for all needs. For example, for astronomical applications, you can consider a WO dielectric or quartz dielectric mirror-based diagonal and use it with any of the UWAN, SWAN and new SPL eyepieces. A 1.25" adapter is provided in the package. The erecting prism produces a correctly-oriented image so that it will be easy to orientate yourself even in the night sky and at high power. The zoom eyepiece consents a continuous adjustable focal length. In other words, to focus at different enlargements - simply rotate the eyepiece.

The apochromatic (reduced chromatic aberration and halos) objective of this 66mm refractor is specially designed to be colour free and "fast" (short focal ratio). This allows you to take brighter and better pictures. Connect the scope with the optional 0.8x reducer/field flattener, and transform your scope into a perfect 390mm telephoto lens. This scope can be easily mounted on a photographic tripod via the anodized L-bracket (1/4"-20 thread provided). The retractable dew shield retracts to make the telescope ultra compact and easy to carry. Adjust the zoom factor by turning the eyepiece. The fine focusing mechanism with 1:10 reduction focuses smoothly and precisely on the object you are observing. The rotating function allows you to place the eyepiece or the camera in the most comfortable position.

The Ferrari ZenithStar Racing Edition is delivered in a stylish rigid backpack (in Scuderia red or black), in airplane carry-on size, to protect and transport your scope anywhere you would like to take it. Inside, the die-cut foam lining has compartments for the telescope, eyepieces and any other accessories you might need.

Other included parts are dust covers, polished aluminum anodized dew shield cap with Prancing Horse Scuderia shield and an SCT-type 2" rear cell adapter for usage with optional accessories.

Ferrari and William Optics have combined their commitment to excellence, to offer you, one remarkable telescope.

PRICE $699 Part # 8002 RACING Ed. IN STOCK

Shown above with the optional WTR-188-R tripod $750

Clear Aperture	66mm	Lens Shade	Retractable
Focal Ratio	F/5.9	1.25" Adapter	Brass Compression Rings
Focal Length	388 mm	Mounting	L Bracket
Objective Type	Fully Multi-Coated, STM coatings, Apochromatic objective	Focuser	Crayford with 1:10 fine focus 60 mm Focuser Travel Length Rotatable Design with camera angle adjuster
Resolving Power	1.78"	Tube Length	360 mm extended / 300 mm retracted
Limiting Magnitude	10.8	Tube Weight	1.7 kg
Eyepiece	25-50x, Fully Multi-Coated	Tube Diameter	75 mm

NEW DESIGN

ZENITHSTAR 66 SD DOUBLET OTA This is not a CLONE of other 66mm scopes on the market, it's the original high quality 66mm from William Optics. But, this is a NEW & Improved ZenithStar SD Doublet APO, 66mm OTA, f. 5/9, with the WHITE DUPONT PAINT colour. This NEW version now comes with new "WO" engraving on the focuser and a more robust 2 speed micro-focuser (Exactly like what was made for the Ferrari Racing version).

A small-aperture, extremely-portable APO scope at a great price? The New ZS66SD Doublet APO is here!
Sharp to the edge and color free, no other scope will beat it's price/quality ratio! Excellent mechanics and fit and finish, Crayford 2-speed fine focuser, super-high transmission multi-coating. Fast focal ratio makes it your ideal fast set-up for travel astrophotography or piggybacking.

A small-aperture but extremely-portable APO scope at a GREAT price?
The latest ZS66SD Doublet APO is here to fit all your needs! At a BARGAIN PRICE!!!
Sharp to the edge and color free, no other scope will beat it's price/quality ratio! Excellent mechanics and fit and finish, Crayford 2-speed fine focuser, super-high transmission multi-coating, soft carry bag. Fast focal ratio makes it your ideal fast set-up for travel astrophotography or piggybacking.

Lens Design
• SD glass (Japanese Ohara glass) doublet air-spaced, in a CNC machined ultra-high precision lens cell.
• Each lens is Fully Multi-Coated with a special super-high transmission coating (STM Coating) on all surfaces.

Low Chromatic Aberration
• Fully baffled to block all extraneous off-axis light rays and prevent glancing reflections, increasing overall contrast.
• 66 mm clear aperture.

Nothing Left to Chance
• Perfect for the EZ-Touch or Voyageur Alt-Az Mounts. You can slide it directly into the mount without a plate if you like.
• Pure William Optics quality fit and finish: powder-painted white CNC-machined aluminum tube, no plastic parts used.
• Drawtube travel length 63mm with graduated scale.

Super Portable
• Retractable dewshield, smallest size ever for enhanced portability!
• SCT thread adapter to 1.25" eyepieces with anti-marring brass compression ring.
• Can mount a WO 2" SCT star diagonal for 2" accessories usage.

Astrophotography APO
• Fast focal ratio for bright, high-quality astro-imaging.
• Dedicated field reducer/flattener available.
• 2" adapter available for astrophotography.
• Perfect for piggybacking as guide scope. Consider using the WO new guiding rings!
Yoshi Suzuki Sparrow Sony DSC F707
Wonderful WO Microfocuser
• William Optics rotatable Crayford focuser, smooth and precise, ideal during astrophotography.
• Adjustable focuser tension.
• Super-smooth and reliable 1:10 micro focuser for fine focusing during imaging and visual observations alike.

Attention to Packaging

• Soft carry bag included in the price.
• Water resistant.
• Carry-on size: you do not have to leave your treasure home!
• Two-year, no fuss warranty and constant customer service!

If you already have a 66mm scope, move away quickly, or you'll want this one instead!

PLEASE NOTE
In order for the scope to reach focus you will need either a WD-CF-DIG125-DI or WD-CF-DIG2-SCT

Ivan Gastaldo Orion Starshoot Atik .5 Reducer Peter Vassey M8 Artemis 285 Camera Steven Lee NCS3603 OIII Filter 0.8 Reducer

                                           3 Point Guide Rings         WA-3GUIDE-R                  ADD $79
                                           1.25" CF Diagonal            WD-CF-DIG1.25-DI     ADD $59
                                           0.8 FF/FF Version III      WE-FLAT-III                    ADD $176
                                           Tripod                                 WTR-188                           ADD $106

ASTRO-TECH 66 ED DOUBLET OTA The sleek styling and liquid finish of these Astronomy Technologies Astro-Tech AT66ED refractors will be the first thing you notice. The images of its outstanding ED (Extra-low Dispersion glass) optics will be what you remember. Add superb mechanics, some unique features, a startlingly low price, and this very economical telescope stands apart in the crowd, almost in a class of its own.

The images from its 400mm f/6 ED air-spaced doublet optics are virtually free from spurious color (chromatic aberration), even at high magnifications. At its low price, the optical performance is little short of astonishing. While the manufacturer says the scope has apochromatic optics, we won’t claim it is a true apo in the class of a multiple thousand dollar Takahashi, Astro-Physics, or TMB refractor. However, this compact scope is so good you’ll probably swear it really is an apo. The exceptional AT66ED optics are even more impressive when you consider the package they come in. The finely-machined scope has a dual speed Crayford-style focuser with a microfine 11:1 fine-focusing ratio. A simple twist of a knurled ring on the scope body lets you rotate the focuser a full 360° to put your eyepiece in the most comfortable observing position. The supplied 1.25" eyepiece adapter uses a non-marring brass compression ring that won’t scratch your eyepiece barrels. The Astro-Tech AT66ED has a retractable lens shade and comes in a locking aluminum-frame hard carrying case.

This 11.5" long refractor optical tube (14.25" long with the lens shade extended) has the right balance of aperture and focal length to use as a low-power rich field telescope, as a medium-power planetary telescope, or as any kind of telescope in between. Its compact size, light weight, and convenient removable L-shaped mounting shoe that fits any photographic tripod also make it an excellent terrestrial spotting scope for vacations, birding, or nature studies. In addition, optional camera adapters turn the AT66ED into a superb 400mm (8x) f/6 telephoto lens. The mounting shoe is also a dovetail adapter that will fit directly into the dovetail slot on the top of many German equatorial mounts, such as those from Celestron, Meade, Vixen, and the William Optics EZ Touch and Astro-Tech Voyageur.

If this Astronomy Technologies AT66ED was just another 66mm refractor, the quality of its optics alone would still make it a superb value. Add the unique features – like the dual speed microfine focuser, a choice of colors and a hard case – and you have a scope that has almost no equal at its very affordable price. As an expression of the confidence Astronomy Technologies has in the quality of their products, the Astro-Tech AT66ED is protected by a two-year limited warranty against flaws in materials and workmanship (shipping case excluded).

Apochromatic Refractor Optics
• 66mm (2.6") aperture, 400mm focal length, f/6 focal ratio
• Air-spaced doublet lens using premium Ohara glass
• An ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass element
• A slip-on metal dust cap is standard

Multicoated Optics
• State-of-the-art broadband antireflection multi-coatings on glass surfaces

Internal Light Baffles
• Ten contrast-enhancing light baffles in the optical tube
• Edges of the objective lens are blackened

Full Power Range Capability
• Highest useful magnification is 133x (3mm eyepiece)
• Higher powers are possible for lunar and planetary observing given reasonable seeing conditions
• The lowest useful power is 10x (40mm eyepiece)

Dew Shield

• A self-storing retractable dew shield

Focuser
• Dual speed microfine Crayford-style focuser with 1.25" adapter
• 11:1 ratio reduction gear microfine focusing
• 60mm (2.36") travel focuser drawtube marked in 1mm increments
• Standard 2" SCT-type rear cell thread

Mounting
• Combined equatorial dovetail/tripod adapter 1.75" wide x 2.85" long
• 1/4"-20 thread mounting holes
• Cork pads on the underside of the mounting shoe                                              Sean Walker, Assistant Editor, Sky & Telescope
                                                                                                                                                SBIG STL-11000 CCD North American Nebula

Tube Finish
• The optical tube is finished in a durable anodize with anodized trim

Shipping/Storage Case
• 15.25" x 9.75" x 7.25" aluminum-frame locking hard case with carry handle
• Foam-fitted case has cutouts for scope, 1.25" or 2" star diagonal, and up to three eyepieces (two 1.25" and one 2")

                                            A triple threat - grab-n-go, guider or spotter!

                              PRICE   ~~$359~~    $329      Part # AT66BK (black) BLACK & BLUE SALE SPECIAL PRICING
                              PRICE   ~~$359~~    $329      Part # AT66BL (blue) BLACK & BLUE SALE SPECIAL PRICING
                                          PRICE       $359      Part # AT66R (red)
                                          PRICE       $359       Part # AT66W (white)
                                          PRICE       $359       Part # AT66G (green)

With BLACK & BLUE SALE SPECIAL PRICING,
get 10% off any Astronomy Technologies items purchased at the same time

Joe Bruessow, AT66ED piggybacked on 10" Newtonian, SBIG ST2000XM, Losmandy mount

         IC434 & NGC2024 Colour             IC434 & NGC2024 H-alpha Luminance    IC5067/70 Pelican Nebula          M42 Orion Nebula

A review in the Telescope Buyer’s Guide in the September 2007 Astronomy magazine said about the Astro-Tech AT66ED, “While I’d normally have reservations about recommending a scope with less than 3 inches of aperture, every once in a while there comes a product everyone should own. This apochromatic doublet is just such a beast . . . The short focal length makes it a wonderful tool for scanning the Milky Way, and its small aperture and FPL-51 glass let you crank up the magnification on the Moon without false color becoming too intrusive. The AT66ED can serve as a great grab-and-go scope, a fine little astrograph, a super-finder scope, and a daytime spotting scope . . . The only real question is which of the available colors do you want?”

ASTRO-TECH AT8RC 8" RITCHEY-CHRETIEN Introducing the Astro-Tech AT8RC, brought to you by Astronomy Technologies. The AT8RC is the only 8" true Ritchey-Chrétien available from a U.S. company. This scope makes the coma-free imaging of a true Ritchey-Chrétien optical system available to the DSLR and CCD astrophotographer at a price less than that of most 35mm-format CCD cameras. Featuring first-quality dielectric mirror coatings (something even the $10,000+ R-Cs typically don’t have), premium low thermal expansion quartz mirrors rather than ordinary optical glass, and a high strength/low thermal expansion carbon fiber optical tube, this economical 8" Astro-Tech R-C makes you wonder just what those $10,000+ R-Cs have that makes them cost so much.

Designed primarily for exceptional imaging, the Astro-Tech AT8RC provides the wide coma-free photographic field that 35mm film and 35mm-format CCD astrophotographers crave. As a pure two-mirror system, the AT8RC is totally free from the spurious color that affects the imaging of all but the most costly apochromatic refractors, and it does it with an 8" aperture that dwarfs the light gathering of most apo refractors. The optical design is a true Ritchey-Chrétien Cassegrain-type two-mirror optics, with hyperbolic primary and secondary mirrors. Both mirrors are made of low thermal expansion quartz, polished to 1/12th wave or better and are 99% reflectivity dielectric coated. They are both fixed to eliminate image shift and focus changes, and focusing is done externally. The AT8RC has a 1625mm focal length with an f8 focal ratio. (see SERVICES page for more optical info)

The 9" x 20.25" optical tube is made of light weight/high strength woven carbon fiber-reinforced composite material. As if the carbon fibre wasn't enough, the tube also features computer optimized primary and secondary baffling. Eight contrast-enhancing glare-stop baffles in the optical tube, multiple glare-stop microbaffles in the secondary mirror light shield, and four baffles in the primary mirror baffle tube provide truly dark sky backgrounds during imaging. The supplied snap-in dust cap protects your glass when not in use. A Vixen-style finderscope bracket dovetail base is installed on the upper left side of the optical tube, that will accommodate any dovetail style finder or accessory. It can easily be removed if not needed. A removable Losmandy-style “D-plate" dovetail runs the length of the underside of the optical tube. (Update: a Vixen style top rail system will be included)

A 2", 2 speed Crayford focuser is threaded onto the 90mm x 1mm pitch rear cell of the AT8RC. The precision-made non-vignetting focuser has a 10:1 reduction gear microfine focusing ratio, and there are more baffles, inside the focuser. Of course the end of the draw tube is a 2" compression ring style, and a 1.25" adapter is included. Two extension tubes are provided to let you change the position of the focuser relative to the rear cell.

An optional focal reducer/field flattener lens is available for the AT8RC. This multi-element, fully-multicoated accessory reduces the scope’s f/8 focal ratio to the neighborhood of f/6 for even wider-field imaging. In addition, it simultaneously flattens the minor residual curvature of the scope’s wide coma-free field to provide tight star images from one edge of the field to the other.

Visual observing is also very possible with the AT8RC. Contrast may be slightly lower than with a conventional reflector, but most will say the coma-free images more than outweigh any possible slight loss of contrast.

As an expression of the confidence Astronomy Technologies has in the quality of their products, the Astro-Tech AT8RC is protected by a two-year limited warranty against flaws in materials and workmanship (shipping case excluded).

The Ritchey-Chrétien optical design is used in virtually every recent large mega-million dollar professional observatory telescope – including the Hubble Space Telescope. And more “affordable" true coma-free Ritchey-Chrétien optical systems made for schools and individuals by commercial R-C manufacturers typically come only in large apertures and start at well over $10,000. Their size and cost put them out of the reach of most amateur astronomers. At least, true Ritchey-Chrétiens used to start at $10,000 and up......new production economies let Astronomy Technologies pass on a substantially lower price to you on this 8" Ritchey-Chrétien astrograph!

Originally expected to be priced at $2995, the Astro-Tech AT8RC is now available for an astonishingly low $1395!

        ORDER YOURS TODAY TO BE ASSURED OF GETTING ONE WHEN NEW STOCK ARRIVES

                                                               PRICE $1395     PART # AT8RC

IC1396 Elephant’s Trunk Nebula • AT8RC • SBIG ST-10XME exposures of 400 sec x 4 through LRGB filters • by John O"Neil

ASTRO-TECH 8" IMAGING NEWTONIAN This new reflector, from Astronomy Technologies, sports an 8" optical tube and has a very fast focal ratio (f/4) that has been optimized for high-contrast wide field deep space and planetary imaging. The 800mm focal length of this AT8IN makes it quite possible to achieve the high powers needed for detailed lunar and planetary observing. Simply add optional eyepieces, and perhaps an optional Barlow lens, and this Astro-Tech Imaging Newtonian will provide you with crisp and sharply detailed close-up views of the Moon and planets. It can be used with 1.25" and 2" eyepieces, 35mm cameras, DSLRs, web-cams, DSI-type cameras, and large format CCD cameras alike. An an optional coma-corrector will be available.

Newtonian Reflector Optics
• 8" aperture
• 800mm focal length
• f/4 focal ratio
• Parabolic Primary Mirror - 70mm m.a. elliptical diagonal mirror. The mirrors are ground and polished under computer control for guaranteed diffraction limited performance, coated with 91% reflectivity aluminum, and overcoated with a protective layer of silicon dioxide (quartz) for long life. The mirrors are made of B270 “water white" optical crown glass that is free of internal stress and striae. B270 glass is the equivalent to BK7 in performance and optical quality. The thermal stability of B270 glass is generally better than the soda lime float glass used for the mirrors of most reflectors in this reasonable price range. For maximum contrast, the secondary mirror spider vanes have been optimized to be as thin as possible without losing stability.
• No-Tool Push-Pull Mirror Cell -The die-cast aluminum primary mirror cell has six large hand adjust push-pull collimation knobs. These make it easy to collimate the primary mirror without tools, even while wearing gloves or mittens in cold weather. To further ease collimation, the primary mirror is precisely center-spotted.

Built-in Cooling Fan
• A low-vibration/high CFM fan is mounted on the primary mirror cell. The fan is powered by a supplied battery pack. Alternatively, the fan can be powered by a 12 VDC rechargeable battery if one is being used to power your mount’s drive system.

Extended Optical Tube
• To increase the contrast, the optical tube of the Astro-Tech AT8IN is significantly extended forward of the focuser to act as a lens shade to keep ambient light from hitting the diagonal mirror.
• There are 17 internal knife-edge baffles installed down the interior length of the optical tube to eliminate any stray light that might get past the extended optical tube and lower the contrast.
• The baffles and tube interior are finished in matte black to further absorb stray light. The result is exceptional contrast, far better than a conventional reflector for both imaging and visual observing.
• The white-painted Astro-Tech optical tube is fabricated of aluminum, to allow the mirrors to cool to ambient temperature more quickly.

2" Dual-Speed Crayford Focuser
• The precision-made Crayford focuser has dual-speed focusing. The right knob also has a smaller concentric knob with 10:1 ratio reduction gear microfine focusing. This provides exceptionally precise image control during critical 35mm or CCD imaging.
• The focus knobs have ribbed gripping surfaces so they are easy to operate, even while wearing gloves or mittens in cold weather.
• The 60mm (2.36") travel focuser drawtube has a scale marked in 1mm increments so you can note individual focuser positions for easy return to the correct focus when switching between visual use and photography.
• A drawtube tension knob on the side of the focuser lets you adjust the drag on the focuser drawtube to hold various equipment load weights while focusing. A second knob lets you lock in a precise photographic focus.
• Of course, this focuser has compression ring fittings to hold your 2" or 1.25 accessories.

Split Tube Rings
• A pair of die-cast aluminum hinged split tube mounting rings are provided. Each ring has a flat boss on its underside with a 1/4"-20 thread mounting hole for installing the ring on a Vixen-style or Losmandy-style “D-plate" dovetail mounting plate. This lets you mount the scope on virtually any equatorial mount. In addition, there is a flat boss with a similar hole on the top of each ring. This allows you to install a separate dovetail on top of the optical tube for mounting photoguide rings and a guidescope or similar accessories piggyback on top of the AT8IN. The lightweight optical tube rotates in its felt-lined die cast cradle rings to bring the focuser and finder to the most comfortable viewing position.

Finderscope
• An 8x 50mm straight-through dark crosshair achromatic design, in a quick-release mounting bracket. To focus the finder, loosen the trim ring behind the objective lens cell, screw the lens cell in or out to focus, and tighten the trim ring to lock in the correct focus.

Two-Year Warranty
•All Astro-Tech telescopes have a two-year warranty.

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