Explore Scientific FirstLight 152mm f/12.5 Alt-Az Maksutov-Cassegrain Telescope with Twilight 1 Mount

$1,199.99
Article number: FL-MC1521900MAZ01
Availability: More on the Way to us
Delivery time: More on the Way to Us
Key Features
  • 152mm Catadioptric OTA
  • 1900mm Focal Length, f/12.5 Focal Ratio
  • Fully Multi-Coated Optics
  • Internal Focusing Mechanism

The Explore Scientific FirstLight 152mm f/12.5 Alt-Az Maksutov-Cassegrain Telescope is ideal for users who want a portable yet powerful observation platform that is able to achieve high magnifications and has the ability to make detailed observations of both near- and deep-sky subjects. The Maksutov-Cassegrain optical configuration is engineered with a convex meniscus lens that not only eliminates the need for periodic collimation, but by the nature of the lens requires a smaller secondary mirror that limits obstruction and increases contrast. The Maksutov optical path results in a slower focal ratio and narrower field of view versus a similar-sized Schmidt design, but the optical benefits make this a useful scope for planetary and double-star observation.

The scope features the manual Twilight I alt-azimuth mount with dual-axis control cables that allows users to track objects as they move across the night sky. Its stainless steel tripod provides a stable observation platform, and its adjustable height from 38.5 to 55.5" allows for comfortable viewing by most users. Explore Scientific includes several observational accessories including a 25mm eyepiece that yields 76x, a 90° star diagonal to put the user's head in a comfortable viewing angle, a universal smartphone eyepiece adapter for easy astrophotography, and a wide-field unmagnified red-dot finderscope.

 

Optical Tube

  • 152mm aperture
  • f/12.5 focal ratio
  • 1900mm focal length
  • Compact Maksutov-Cassegrain optical configuration
  • Front convex meniscus lens corrects spherical and chromatic aberrations and comas (off-axis aberrations) across the entire field of view
  • Smaller secondary mirror versus Schmidt-Cassegrains reduces obstructions and increases contrast and sharpness
  • Internal focusing mechanism with 1.25" visual back

Mount

  • Manual alt-azimuth single-arm fork mount
  • Dual-axis slow-motion tracking cables
  • Cables terminate in easy-to-manipulate knurled knobs
  • Quick release Vixen-style dovetail saddle

Tripod

  • 2" stainless steel legs
  • Three leg sections with thumbscrew locks
  • Adjustment range with head: 38.5-55.5"
  • Fully collapsed with head: 42"
  • Fully collapsed without head: 29.5"
  • Accessory tray doubles as leg stabilizer for additional rigidity and vibration reduction

Included Accessories

  • 1.25" 25mm Plössl eyepiece yields 76x magnification
  • 1.25" 90° star diagonal places head in comfortable position, especially when OTA is aimed at or near the zenith
  • Smartphone adapter attaches over eyepiece and allows any smartphone to be used for astrophotography
  • Red-dot finder: Unmagnified for fast subject acquisition with variable red illumination to protect night-adjusted vision
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