The Askar SQA85 is a versatile, high-performance solution for astrophotographers seeking exceptional optical quality and convenience in a compact form factor. It offers a premium quintuplet Petzval apochromatic refractor which combines advanced optics and user-friendly features to deliver sharp, wide-field celestial images.
The SQA85 features a five-element lens system, including two Super Low Dispersion (SD) glass elements, which minimize chromatic aberration for crisp and clear images. With an 85mm aperture and a 408mm focal length, the telescope achieves a fast f/4.8 focal ratio, making it ideal for capturing fine details in the night sky. Its precision optics ensure pinpoint star sharpness across the entire frame, even on full-frame sensors. The central star points have an RMS radius of less than 1.6 microns, while corner stars maintain sharpness with an RMS radius below 2.5 microns.
The built-in field flattener supports a 44mm image circle, providing edge-to-edge sharpness without additional accessories. This integrated design simplifies imaging workflows and ensures uniform performance for full-frame cameras.
The Askar SQA85 is equipped with a durable 2.8-inch dual-speed rack-and-pinion focuser offering 32mm of precise travel. The focuser is compatible with motorized systems for automated adjustments during imaging sessions. Additionally, the SQA85 includes a 360° rotator with an engraved precision scale to facilitate framing adjustments. A retractable dew shield protects the optics from stray light and moisture.
The SQA85 includes an integrated tube ring with multiple threaded holes (M4 and M6) for attaching accessories. A lightweight, multifunctional handle is integrated into the design, along with a standard Vixen-style dovetail plate for secure mounting on equatorial mounts.
The Askar SQA85 package includes an Oxford cloth carrying case; M68, M54, and M48 camera adapters; two finder bases for additional accessories.
The Askar SQA85 specifications include:
– Aperture: 85 mm
– Focal Length: 408 mm
– Focal Ratio: f/4.8
– Objective Lens: Quintuplet Petzval APO, including two pieces of SD (Super Low Dispersion) glass
– Image Circle: 44 mm, supporting full-frame sensors
– Central star point RMS radius: <1.6 µm
– Corner star point RMS radius: <2.5 µm
– Tube Length: 403 mm (dew shield retracted); 439 mm (dew shield extended)
– Optical Tube Assembly weight (OTA): 3.64 kg
– Weight Including tube ring and dovetail plate: 4.62 kg
– Focuser: 2.8-inch dual-speed rack-and-pinion with 32 mm travel
– Camera Adapters: M48, M54, and M68 threads
– Back Focus Range: Supports 40–70 mm; recommended connection length is 55 mm
You can learn more about the Askar SQA85 here.
And to make it easier for you to get the most extensive news, articles and reviews that are only available in the magazine pages of Astronomy Technology Today, we are offering a 1-year magazine subscription for only $6! Or, for an even better deal, we are offering 2 years for only $9. Click here to get these deals which only will be available for a very limited time. You can also check out a free sample issue here.