MiniCat 51 Petzval refractor from William Optics

William Optics recently introduced an addition to their popular RedCat line, the MiniCat 51 Refractor, priced at $898. This compact refractor telescope is designed to deliver expansive, ultra-wide field views, ideal for astrophotography. With its 178mm focal length and f/3.5 focal ratio, the MiniCat 51 provides photographers with the ability to capture large celestial targets in stunning detail without the need for complex image mosaics.

Unveiling the William Optics MiniCat 51 WIFD f/3.5 Petzval Refractor Telescope

At the heart of the MiniCat 51 is a 6-element Petzval optical design that includes two super ED lenses, ensuring superior clarity and minimized chromatic aberration. This configuration provides a crisp and well-corrected image circle of 43.2mm, making the MiniCat 51 compatible with full-frame camera sensors. The telescope also features a 51mm aperture, offering ample light-gathering capability for its compact size, similar to the RedCat 51 but with a wider field of view due to its faster focal ratio. These features make the MiniCat 51 ideal for capturing wide-field images of the night sky.

William Optics has equipped the MiniCat 51 with a patented WIFD focuser. This internal focuser system eliminates external tube movement, providing a tilt-free and stable connection for imaging equipment. The WIFD design also maximizes light transmission by avoiding vignetting, a common issue with traditional refractor focusers. In addition to its manual dual-speed focus knob, the MiniCat 51 is compatible with electronic focusers, making it adaptable for both manual and automated focusing systems.

MiniCat 51 accessories

The build quality of the MiniCat 51 mirrors that of its larger RedCat siblings. The optical tube is constructed from durable, lightweight aluminum with a sleek red anodized finish. At just 8.3 inches long and weighing 5.05 pounds, the MiniCat 51 is highly portable, perfect for astrophotographers on the go. Despite its small size, the MiniCat 51 maintains Williams Optics' reputation for precision and performance. The package includes a Vixen-style dovetail and scope ring, making the telescope compatible with a variety of mounts. A stylized handle also doubles as a Synta-style accessory rail, which can be used for attaching additional equipment like guide scopes or camera control systems.

In terms of accessories, the MiniCat 51 comes equipped with a Bahtinov mask housed within the front dust cap for easy manual focusing, and a camera rotator with indexed markers, allowing for precise adjustments and repeatable framing of astrophotography shots.

MiniCat 51 differences from other models in the RedCat line

While it is based on the popular RedCat 51 design, the MiniCat 51 does introduce some differences. For instance, unlike other models in the RedCat line, it does not include a built-in filter drawer, which may be a consideration for users who typically work with filters. However, the overall performance and versatility of this compact refractor make it a powerful tool for capturing detailed wide-field images of the night sky.

The Williams Optics MiniCat 51 Refractor is priced at $898

The Williams Optics MiniCat 51 Refractor, priced at $898, features a compact design with a 51mm aperture, f/3.5 focal ratio, and 178mm focal length. Its 6-element Petzval optical system, which includes two super ED lenses, ensures sharp, well-corrected images across a 43.2mm image circle. The patented WIFD focuser provides a stable, tilt-free connection for imaging gear, allowing for precise adjustments without external tube movement. Constructed from durable, lightweight aluminum and measuring 8.3 inches in length, the MiniCat 51 weighs 5.05 pounds and comes equipped with essential accessories, including a Vixen-style dovetail, Bahtinov mask, and camera rotator for accurate framing and focusing.