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ScopeTrader April 2025In our exclusive April 2025 cover story, we sit down with the man behind Deep Sky Dad, the innovator who's quietly transformed how imagers automate their nights under the stars. Get a rare glimpse into his journey, gear, philosophy'and what's coming next.This issue is packed with fresh releases and expert insights. We take a deep dive into the brand-new Askar SQA70, a 70mm f/4.8 Petzval quintuplet astrograph designed for portability and pinpoint stars across a full-frame sensor. Pair that with our hands-on Apertura 75Q review, where this compact quintuplet impresses with its coma-free views and zero-fuss setup. We also explore the arrival of NOVAStar, a mysterious new telescope brand offering high-end APO refractors at surprising prices. And for imagers chasing perfection, our multi-night astrophotography guide walks through how to build up stunning deep-sky detail across multiple sessions. Pushing limits? Luca's epic four-scope imaging setup reveals what's possible with smart planning under dark skies. Meanwhile, we review ZWO's ASI585MM Pro, a budget-friendly, high-performance monochrome camera, and ToupTek's StellaVita, a full imaging control solution, reviewed by Cuiv the Lazy Geek. Also inside: the latest Vixen mount tech, iOptron's new autofocusers, Svbony's TransAir1 wireless HDMI, a DIY guide to building a hydrogen alpha solar scope, and a feature on large telescopes vs light pollution'a vital look at why dark skies still matter. Finally, don't miss our 2025 Star Party roundup, featuring dates, locations, and tips for top events across the U.S. Whether you image from your backyard or a remote mountaintop, this issue brings you the tools, tips, and stories to inspire your next astro adventure. Get more issues of ScopeTrader
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Astronomy Picture of the Day
2026-04-07
IC 4592: The Blue Horsehead Reflection Nebula
Image Credit: Rabeea Alkuwari
Do you see the horse's head? What you are seeing is not the famous Horsehead nebula toward Orion, but rather a fainter nebula that only takes on a familiar form with deeper imaging. The main part of the here-imaged molecular cloud complex is reflection nebula IC 4592. Reflection nebulas are made up of very fine dust that normally appears dark but can look quite blue when reflecting the visible light of energetic nearby stars. In this case, the source of much of the reflected light is a star at the eye of the horse. That star is part of Nu Scorpii, one of the brighter star systems toward the constellation of the Scorpion (Scorpius). A second reflection nebula dubbed IC 4601 is visible surrounding two stars just below the image center. The featured picture was taken from Sawda Natheel in Qatar. Jigsaw Nebula: Astronomy Puzzle of the Day
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