Portable refractor doublet for imaging

[04Stefan07]

I would like to do some widefield Astro shots with my DSLR as my SCT is much better for DSO and planets.

The new Skywatcher Evostar 72 looks good but are there any other alternatives for around the same price point and just as portable?

[AstroApprentice]

Hi Stefan,
I noticed an ex-demo GT 71 at WO. Around twice the price of an Evostar 72, but it's a triplet containing FPL-53:
https://williamoptics.com/special/demo/demo-gran-turismo-71-apo-refractor-99-like-new-used-for-star-party

[LewisM]

With the Evo72 at around $465 inc. case, it is hard to beat. I temporarily considered one before getting a larger scope (200mm :lol:) instead.

Preliminary reports on the 72 look pretty good, but there are some weak points, like the drawtube end attachments, plastics use etc.

[Wavytone]

Stefan, TeleskopService have several small scopes around 70mm aperture - triplets and more, some with built in field flatteners and some designed specifically for imaging in preference to visual use - the difference is in the backfocus available and focusser.

Different focuser choices available as well including their R&P type which can handle massive loads comfortably.

I have their quad 70mm f/6.67 with the built in flattener, and I’ll admit to dabbling with putting my m4/3 body on the back, very nice results on the moon, but I’m not into imaging. Very portable and a lovely visual scope... at high power for example Uranus shows and a nice green disk. Not a hint of chromatic aberrations visibly.

[glend]

Have a look at this one:

https://www.teleskop-express.de/shop/product_info.php/info/p8866_TS-Optics-Photoline-72mm-f-6-FPL53-und-Lanthanum-Apo---2-5--R-P-focuser.html

It's a FPL-53 Doublet with a good R&P focuser, at a bargain price of 360 Euro ($572 Aud). Visual or imaging, and takes the usual TS Photoline reducer corrector (to f4,74), or standard flattener at f6. Handles APS-C sized sensors. Weighs only 2kg.

Sure a little more expensive than the Evo72 but you get a better scope imho.

[04Stefan07]

That's a great price for it I think as well!

[04Stefan07]

I also found this to throw in the mix.

Very interesting indeed at its' price point.

https://williamoptics.com/zenithstar-61-apo

Has good reviews.

[MortonH]

http://www.iceinspace.com.au/forum/showthread.php?p=1368393#post136839 3

[Nikolas]

Check the sales a WO has just come up right in line with your needs

[04Stefan07]

Missed out!

[Nikolas]

bugger