The Questar 50th Anniversary 3.5" telescope production was limited 250 units. I'm now selling mine to fund other projects.
This telescope differs from the standard production model in the following ways:
- The moon map, star chart, and the RA setting circle are etched and silk screened as per the original Questars. This gives a 3-D feel.
- The primary mirror is made of Quartz (fused silica) for thermal stability, with enhanced protected Silver reflective coatings.
- The Corrector Lens is made of the usual borosilicate crown, but with a durable magnesium fluoride anti-reflection coating on both front and rear surfaces.
- The optics are hand figured to 1/10th wavefront P-V (Zygo diagram provided)
- The lens cover, fork arms and left side at rear of the barrel have special 50th anniversary model logos.
- The Questar Powerguide II Drive and Corrector is installed.
- A full aperture solar filter is provided (an option on other Questars).
- The telescope comes with the Questar deluxe leather carrying case.
- Questar 50th Anniversary Telescope bears a serial number with the prefix "50TH" and suffix "SQTZ" indicating it is special.
The telescope includes everything described above as well as two Brandon eyepieces (16mm and 24mm), and two copies of a comprehensive manual.
This scope was originally purchased in 2008, but has mostly been in storage since then. I would say it has been used for 10-20 hours observing.
The equivalent new product today sells for US$7,450, and you would pay freight and 10% GST on top of that. The 50th anniversary model is sold out.
