The iOptron Photron line of Ritchey-Crétien astrograph telescopes has been expanded with the addition of four new truss-tube models (10-,12-, 14- and 16-inch – $2995, $4295, $5795 and $6995US, respectively). Designed for today’s astro imager, Photron truss-tube R-C telescopes deliver a sharp, clear image from edge to edge.
Each of the new iOptron Photron truss-tube R-Cs features a low-expansion quartz primary and secondary mirrors with highly-reflective dielectric coatings to maximize light throughput. The R-C optical design is inherently free of coma, spherical and chromatic aberration – perfect for both color and monochrome imaging. Better yet, the design’s fixed-position primary mirror eliminates image shift that occurs when focusing other telescope designs. With a 1/12th wave, or better, primary mirror, each of iOptron’s Photron R-Cs is guaranteed to deliver optimal images and views.
The 10-inch version weighs 34 pounds (15.4 kilograms) and is 25.6 inches (650 mm) long. The 12-inch version weighs 44 pounds (20 kilograms) and measures 33.5 inches (850 mm). The 14-inch Photron truss-tube R-C weighs 66 pounds (30 kilograms) and measures 37.8 inches (960 mm). The 16-inch weighs 93 pounds (42 kilograms) and is 43.9 inches (1114 mm) long.
Every Photron truss-tube R-C comes equipped with a dual-speed linear-bearing Crayford-style focuser designed to accommodate iOptron’s optional ASCOM-compliant electronic focus control. Three extension rings are provided for a “flex-free” solid extension when required to take up any of the design’s generous back focus that’s not needed in a specific application.
The iOptron Photron truss design’s backbone, made up of strong, light carbon-fiber truss supports, holds the optics firmly in place, while keeping weight to a minimum. The open design is also facilitates rapid cooling of the critical optics to ambient temperatures, and fans are integrated into the back plates to further maximize cooling of the primary mirror.
Each Photron Truss R-Cs ships with a two-speed 3.0-inch Crayford-style focuser, a 2 inch-to-1.25 inch accessory adapter, a 2.0-inch and a 1.0-inch focus-extension ring, primary and secondary mirror covers, and a battery holder for the integrated cooling fans.
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