Orion 190mm Premium f/5.3 Maksutov-Newtonian Astrograph Optical Tube

The Orion Premium "Mak-Newt" Astrogaph enables large-aperture, flat-field imaging for a fraction of the cost of even much smaller premium astrographs. This telescope features a completely flat-field, coma-free optical system that's optimized for CCD and DSLR cameras. The 190mm (that's 7.5") Maksutov-Newtonian optics provide tremendous resolution in a fast f/5.3 design. The primary mirror is figured from low-expansion Pyrex glass and the front meniscus lens from quality BK7 Schott glass, fully multi-coated for maximum light throughput.

The images rendered are truly spectacular, with pinpoint stars from center to edge of the field of view, rivaling the very best premium apochromatic refractors, which cost thousands more. These images are cropped at 100% zoom, taken from the far lower top corner of a full DSLR image. The coma seen in the top image was taken with a standard 150mm f/5 Newtonian. The image on the bottom with pinpoint stars was taken with the Premium 190mm F/5.3 Mak-Newt OTA.

The coma-free optical system of the 190mm Mak-Newt enables imagers to utilize the entire imaging area provided by the camera, even large cameras like DSLRs or the StarShoot Pro. "Premium" also describes the quality of the telescope's mechanical construction and components. The 37.5" optical tube is made of thick 1.5mm metal to ensure durability and to hold collimation. The ivory-tone enamel has a classy, subtle sparkle to it, like the finish on a fine automobile. Inside, five knife-edge baffles eliminate internal reflections to provide exceptional contrast. The machined aluminum 2" Crayford focuser offers smooth motion and secure support for CCD and DSLR cameras and additional accessories.

The included 2" and 1.25" adapters feature non-marring brass compression rings. A dovetail base near the focuser accommodates an optional Orion finder scope. The telescope's rear cell has tapped holes for an optional Cooling Accelerator Fan (#7816) to aid in rapid equilibration of the optics to ambient temperature. With the included focuser extension adapter, visual astronomers can enjoy the sharp, high-contrast views that only a well-made instrument can deliver. But for intermediate to advanced astronomical imaging, no other telescope comes close to matching the Orion Premium F/5.3 Maksutov-Newtonian Astrograph's groundbreaking value.