#Japan #astrophotography #Shinjuku #Askar #ED Apochromat

Exciting Launch: Askar 111F and 131F Refractors

The world of astrophotography is about to get a significant upgrade with the upcoming release of the Askar 111F and 131F refractors. Manufactured by Sightron Japan, these advanced telescopes promise a seamless blend of observation and imaging capabilities, ensuring enthusiasts don't have to compromise on quality or functionality.

Key Features

Optical Design

Both the 111F and 131F refractors comprise an innovative four-element optical system, incorporating a single ED (extra-low dispersion) glass element. This sophisticated design effectively mitigates chromatic aberration and field curvature, producing sharp and high-contrast star images across a full-frame sensor.

• - 111F Specifications:

- Aperture: 111mm
- Focal Length: 766mm
- F/Ratio: F6.9
- Weight: 5.74 kg

• - 131F Specifications:

- Aperture: 131mm
- Focal Length: 983mm
- F/Ratio: F7.5
- Weight: 7.9 kg

Both telescopes feature a built-in flattener, ensuring that users can embark on extensive astrophotography sessions without needing additional correctors. They're designed to accommodate full-frame photography while also allowing for a smooth transition to visual observations using the provided eyepiece adapter.

Connectivity and Versatility

Included with these telescopes are M48 and M54 camera attachment adapters. The focus distance can be adjusted from 42mm to 73mm (from the M48x0.75 screw base), making it easy to integrate off-axis guiders or filter drawers. Additionally, the 300mm dovetail bars included with each model allow straightforward attachment to various mounts, enhancing usability.

Ease of Use and Mobility

Askar ensured user-friendliness with features like a retractable lens hood and a spacious handle, which accommodates finder mounting slots on both sides. The telescopes boast a robust rack-and-pinion focuser, equipped with a reduction gear that allows for precise focus adjustments—a vital feature for capturing celestial objects effectively. An impressive 31mm focus stroke ensures versatility, while the 360° rotation feature provides precise framing adjustments.

Reducers for Enhanced Imaging

The release also includes dedicated reducers for each model, the 111F 0.74x and 131F 0.74x. By shortening the focal length, photographers can expand the field of view and decrease exposure times—ideal for capturing faint nebulae or star clusters with ease. These optics maintain good image quality across a 44mm full-frame image circle and can be threaded with filters without extra adapters, making them efficient tools for photographers.

Quality Assurance

Sightron Japan emphasizes quality and reliability. All Askar products undergo strict domestic inspections at their Niigata factory and Tokyo headquarters, ensuring that only the best products reach customers.

Availability and Pricing

The Askar 111F and 131F, alongside their respective reducers, are expected to be available for pre-order beginning July 3, 2026, with an official launch slated for late July. Pricing expectations are approximately:

• - 111F: 5,000
• - 131F: 8,000
• - Reducers: ,500 each

For those passionate about astronomy, the Askar 111F and 131F refractors promise to deliver exceptional performance for both astrophotography and visual observation. With their groundbreaking features, they will undoubtedly be a worthy addition to any astrophotographer's toolkit.

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For more information, please contact:
Sightron Japan Customer Service: 03-6908-3116

Website: Sightron Japan