Astro-Physics 155mm f7 StarFire EDF astro-barn find new owner

Well, I’ve finally joined the Astro-Physics StarFire club - through a bit of "astronomy lottery / donation"

Through an incredibly generous donation to ScopeTrader, I’m now the grateful owner of a 155 EDF StarFire refractor in remarkable condition. It was quite literally a barn find. I even double checked with the donor to make sure they understood the value of what she was giving. Their response of "...I was aware that some of the equipment had monetary value, but I prefer to donate it to you and others who share a passion for astronomy. Knowing that it will be put to good use brings me joy.."

The telescope had spent years stored in its case. Being entrusted with something a donors husband once treasured (he has now passed), makes this much more than another telescope acquisition.

The objective looks pristine. To my eye, the coatings appear as clean and well preserved as those on a new telescope. That’s remarkable for an instrument Astro-Physics confirmed was shipped in 1997.

I’m fortunate to own several exceptional refractors, including a TEC 180 FL, a Takahashi FSQ-106EDX4, and a Takahashi TOA 130. But I had never owned a StarFire. After spending some time with this one, I understand why their owners speak so highly of them. It feels precise, beautifully engineered, and built for serious work.

Each telescope brings something different. The TEC’s larger aperture gives it an advantage in light gathering and potential resolution. The FSQ is designed for wide field imaging, while the TOA offers excellent color correction for both observing and photography. The 155 EDF fits comfortably into that company, with an optical design suited to both visual observing and imaging.

In terms of craftsmanship and how it feels in person, I’d put this StarFire a nose ahead, at least to my own eye. That’s a personal first impression, and a proper optical comparison will take time under the stars. These are all exceptional instruments, but there is something about this one that feels especially special. It almost feels like a holy relic!

I’m sure the story behind it plays a part. I’m humbled by the generosity of the gift, and I want to honor its original owner’s memory by using it, caring for it, and continuing to share the sky with others.

Astro-Physics confirmed that it had one owner before me and has now recorded me as its second owner. It shipped in 1997, and the optics serial number is 155EDF192.

Any other StarFire owners here? I’d love to hear about yours.

Wow, Great scope, known for some of the best color correction and lack of any false color refractor around, also really small for a scope of that size and quality! Congrats on the new addition to the family.

Chriss