New Askar SQA70 launched

Askar recently introduced it's newest telescope, the Askar SQA70, a 70mm f/4.8 Quintuplet Petzval Astrograph with outstanding optical performance and advanced features. At the heart of the Askar SQA70 is its sophisticated quintuplet air-spaced Petzval design, which includes two Extra-low Dispersion (ED) glass elements to dramatically minimize chromatic aberration and provide exceptional image clarity. This optical system ensures sharp, high-contrast images with impressive color fidelity, making it an excellent tool for capturing deep-sky objects with unparalleled accuracy.

Askar SQA70 review

Astrophotographers will appreciate the built-in field flattener, which eliminates the need for external correctors. This ensures a perfectly flat field across the entire 44mm image circle, delivering pinpoint stars from edge to edge. Whether imaging galaxies, nebulae, or star clusters, users can trust the SQA70 to provide superior image quality with minimal distortion.

The included 2.5-inch dual-speed Rack & Pinion focuser provides smooth, precise focusing for both manual and motorized setups. With 32mm of focus travel and an engraved measurement scale, users can achieve precise and repeatable focusing, crucial for astrophotography. The 360-degree rotator allows users to adjust the camera’s orientation effortlessly. The rotator is equipped with a precision scale and locking screw, ensuring astrophotographers can fine-tune their framing and maintain stability during long exposure sessions. Additionally, the drawtube of the focuser is internally CNC-machined and coated with anti-reflective paint, reducing internal reflections and maximizing contrast for deep-sky imaging.

Askar SQA70 specifications

• Aperture: 70mm
• Focal Length: 336mm
• Focal Ratio: f/4.8
• Optical Design: Quintuplet Petzval APO (including two ED glass elements)
• Image Circle: 44mm (full-frame compatibility)
• Back Focus Distance: Adjustable, supporting a range of 37-68mm (recommended 55mm connection length)
• Focuser: 2.5" dual-speed Rack & Pinion with a 360-degree rotator
• Threaded Rear-End Adapters: M42, M48 (with M48x0.75 filter thread), and M54
• Optical Tube Length: 332mm (dew shield retracted), 372mm (dew shield extended)
• Weight (OTA only): 5.91 lbs / 2.68kg
• Total Weight (including tube ring and dovetail plate): 7.72 lbs / 3.5kg
• Included Accessories: High-quality Oxford cloth carrying case
   

Quintuplet air-spaced ED glass Petzval Astrograph

The SQA70’s rear-end adapter system ensures compatibility with a wide range of cameras and accessories. The scope features three standard connection threads (M42, M48, and M54), making it easy to attach DSLRs, mirrorless cameras, and dedicated astronomy cameras without the need for complex adapters. The M48 adapter includes an M48x0.75 filter thread, allowing users to seamlessly integrate filters for enhanced imaging, including light pollution reduction, narrowband, and multi-band filters.

Askar engineered the SQA70 tube rings with a hollowed-out design to reduce weight while maintaining durability. The hand screws are enlarged, making it easy to attach and detach the telescope. Both tube rings feature multiple M4 and M6 threaded holes, enabling the attachment of dovetail plates, guide scopes, and other accessories. The included top handle is slotted, allowing users to mount finderscopes or guide scopes conveniently.

The SQA70 has dual finder bases, strategically positioned on both sides of the focuser. This allows for flexible accessory mounting, including guiding systems and electronic focusers, without requiring disassembly when adjusting positions. The Askar SQA70 weighs just 5.91 lbs and measures only 332mm in length when the dew shield is retracted. Its compact size and lightweight design make it an ideal travel telescope for astrophotographers who frequently set up in remote locations.

The retractable dew shield not only helps protect the objective lens from moisture and stray light but also makes transportation more convenient. Additionally, the included Oxford cloth carrying case ensures that the telescope is well-protected during transport and storage. The 2.5-inch dual-speed focuser is fully compatible with motorized focusing systems, allowing users to achieve precise focus adjustments remotely. This is particularly useful for deep-sky imaging where temperature variations can cause subtle focus shifts throughout the night.

The 336mm focal length and fast f/4.8 focal ratio make the SQA70 an exceptional choice for capturing a wide range of celestial objects. Its flat field performance ensures that both small and large deep-sky objects are captured with pinpoint stars and high resolution. Astrophotographers can take advantage of the full 44mm image circle, making the telescope compatible with full-frame cameras. Whether users are imaging distant galaxies, nebulae, or dense star clusters, the SQA70 delivers breathtaking results with minimal optical distortion.

Retractable dew shield

The Askar SQA70 is an astrophotography refractor designed with a quintuplet lens system that includes two ED elements to minimize chromatic aberration. It features an integrated field flattener that provides a flat imaging field without requiring additional accessories. The 2.5-inch dual-speed Rack & Pinion focuser includes a 360-degree rotator and an engraved scale for precise adjustments.

The telescope supports M42, M48, and M54 adapters, allowing compatibility with various camera systems. Its compact and lightweight structure makes it suitable for field use, travel, and remote imaging. The CNC-machined tube rings include multiple mounting points for additional accessories. The system also supports motorized focusing, enabling the use of electronic focusers for automated adjustments in astrophotography.

Askar SQA70 Promotion Video: Boundless Stars, SQA70 Reveals Celestial Details!

Buy the Askar SQA70