Orion SpaceProbe 130ST EQ Reflector Telescope Kit, with Eyepieces, Tripod & Mount and Software.

The Orion SpaceProbe 130ST EQ Reflector Telescope's optical tube measures 24" long compared to 33" on the standard 130. The focal length of the ST's 130mm (5.1") primary mirror is 650mm (f/5), yielding a wider field of view and brighter images for a given eyepiece focal length. The primary is a diffraction-limited parabolic mirror, the same type used on much larger reflectors costing many times as much. On a short-focal-length design like this one, a parabolic mirror is a must for focusing incoming light to a point and delivering sharp, detailed images.

Moreover, the secondary mirror is held in an advanced holder with thin 0.5mm metal vanes, to reduce diffraction spikes and light loss. These features combined with the included 25mm (26x) and 10mm (65x) Sirius Plossl eyepieces and quick-release 6x30 achromatic finder scope make this one good optical system for astronomy. It also includes a collimation cap and center-marked primary mirror for easy optical alignment. The scope comes on an EQ-2 equatorial mount with dual setting circles and slow-motion hand controls. An optional EQ-2M or AstroTrack electronic drive can be added for automatic tracking. The adjustable aluminum tripod is strong yet lightweight and includes an accessory tray.