Sharpstar Optics launches the 185 APO f7 Triplet Refractor

Introducing the Askar 185 APO f/7 Triplet Refractor – a portable and highly adaptable telescope that combines a large aperture and extended focal ratio to deliver exceptional light-gathering power, resolution, brightness, and contrast. This innovative telescope joins the recently unveiled Askar 140, expanding Askar's line of modular telescopes featuring triplet refractor apos designed for both visual observation and imaging.

Equipped with ED glass, the Askar 185 APO f/7 Triplet Refractor offers versatility in imaging and visual applications, presenting the option of a 1.0x flattener and 0.8x focal reducer. The telescope ensures high-contrast images with pinpoint stars when utilized with a full-frame imaging sensor, boasting a substantial aperture of 185mm, a focal length of 1295mm, and a focal ratio of f/7.

Askar 185 APO f7 Triplet Refractor

Weighing in at 32.8 lb. (14.9 kg) and a gross weight of 37.9 lb. (17.2 kg) inclusive of the telescope, tube rings, dovetail plate, and carrying handle, the Askar 185APO boasts a robust construction achieved through precision CNC machining, anodizing, and surface spray paint treatment.

User-friendly features include a retractable dew shield with enlarged locking screws, addressing concerns about limited space for additional accessories. The telescope incorporates two finder bases, eliminating the need for disassembly when adjusting the finder scope and providing added mounting options for accessories.

The specially designed 400mm-long handle of the Askar 185APO serves as a base for installing a finder scope, enhancing the convenience of securing the astrograph with tube rings. Lightweight tube rings equipped with thumb screws ensure easy opening and locking, while an elevated base provides additional space.

The 400mm standard Losmandy dovetail plate, compatible with most equatorial mounts and bases, improves balance. Adjustable spacing between tube rings is facilitated by the handle's slot.

Two optional accessories, a 1x flattener and a 0.8x reducer, feature built-in filter threads for direct filter mounting. The 1x flattener maintains the telescope's focal ratio at f/7, correcting field curvature and coma for flatter field edges and precise star points. The 0.8x reducer reduces the focal ratio to f/5.6, offering field flattening capabilities for a wider field of view and shorter exposure times.

For visual observation, the Askar 185APO excels in quality and functionality, achieving focus with 1.25" or 2" diagonals and various eyepieces. Its segmented lens tube design allows compatibility with a binoviewer for immersive visual observation.

The dual-speed rack and pinion system of the 3.5-inch rigid focuser is compatible with most motorized focusers on the market, integrating a high-precision scale into its 10cm focusing range. The CNC-machined focuser barrel features an anti-reflective internal design and matte finish for optimal stray light reduction.

At the rear, a 360-degree high-precision rotator with scales enables easy angle adjustment and recording, complemented by an enlarged locking screw for secure positioning under high loads. The telescope interface includes a versatile 1.25"/2" adapter for added flexibility.

Key specifications of the Askar 185 APO f/7 Triplet Refractor:

• Focal Ratio: f/7
• Optical Design: Refractor
• Telescope Aperture: 185mm (5.51")
• Number of Refractor Elements: 3 (Triplet)
• Focal Length (mm): 1295
• Limiting Stellar Magnitude: 13.1
• Focuser Style: Rack & Pinion
• Focuser Size: 3.5"
• Focuser Speed: Dual Speed
• Telescope OTA Weight (lb.): 32.8 lb. (14.9 kg)
• OTA Length Extended (in.): 48.11" (1222 mm)
• OTA Length Retracted: 42.56" (1081 mm)