#Japan #Tokyo #Askar #SIGHTRON #FRA400C

Askar FRA400C Telescope: A Multi-Purpose Astronomical Marvel

Sightron Japan has announced the release of the Askar FRA400C telescope, a revolutionary multi-purpose astronomical telescope designed for both astrophotography and everyday photography. Set to launch on March 27, 2026, this telescope is expected to cater to a wide range of users, from beginners to seasoned astronomers.

Product Features

The Askar FRA400C boasts a 72mm aperture and features a unique five-element, five-group dual ED air-space apochromat optical design. This design ensures that chromatic aberration and other optical distortions are effectively minimized, leading to crisp and detailed stellar images. Notably, the FRA400C maintains elements from its predecessor, the popular FRA400, while integrating a helical focusing mechanism and aperture adjustment that mimics camera lenses, making it user-friendly even for those new to astronomy.

Adaptation for All Requirements

With a focal length of 400mm (focal ratio of f/5.6), the FRA400C is not only lightweight but also highly adaptable. It is equipped to handle a full-frame image circle (44mm), allowing for high-quality astrophotography, even with advanced mirrorless cameras and cooled CMOS sensors. This means astrophotographers can capture high-resolution images with minimal peripheral light loss, a crucial factor when dealing with celestial subjects.

Additionally, the telescope's flat-field design promises uniform star images across the frame, making it easier for photographers to achieve excellent results with less post-processing.

Aesthetic Bokeh for Everyday Photography

The FRA400C is outfitted with 17 aperture blades, lending a professional touch to its capability. Users can adjust the aperture from f/5.6 to f/22, enabling artistic and delicate bokeh for not only astrophotography but also landscape and nature photography. With a minimum shooting distance of just 5 meters, this telescope is versatile enough for capturing wildlife, insects, and flowers up close.

User-Friendly Features

Designed with user convenience in mind, the FRA400C features a helical focusing mechanism that allows for smooth and precise adjustments. The telescope supports a back focus range of 50-60mm, perfect for various camera setups. A filter thread of M82 (82mm diameter) accommodates filters directly, while the rear-end adapter options (M72, M54, M48—each with an M48x0.75 filter thread) offer flexibility for connecting different camera systems.

For advanced users, the telescope can also integrate third-party motorized focusers, although the synchronous belts are sold separately.

Portability Meets Performance

With a compact design measuring 370mm when the hood is retracted and a weight of approximately 3.18 kg (including the handle and dovetail plate), the FRA400C is highly portable. This feature significantly eases the burden during fieldwork, making it an excellent choice for astrophotography expeditions.

Key Specifications

• - Aperture: 72mm
• - Focal Length: 400mm
• - Focal Ratio: f/5.6
• - Optical Design: 5 Elements, 5 Groups Dual ED Air-Space Apochromat
• - Compatible Format: Full-frame (φ44mm)
• - Aperture Blades: 17
• - Aperture Range: f/5.6 to f/22 (stepless)
• - Minimum Shooting Distance: 5m
• - Filter Thread: 82mm (objective)
• - Length: 370mm (hood retracted) / 420mm (extended)
• - Weight: Approx. 3.18 kg (with handle and dovetail plate)
• - Back Focus: 50-60mm (recommended connection length: 55mm)
• - Focusing Method: Helical Manual Focus
• - Included Accessories: 31.7mm/50.8mm adapters, instruction manual, and warranty

FRA400C Reducer

• - Magnification: 0.7x (280mm f/3.9)
• - Back Focus: 55mm
• - Filter Attachment: Yes
• - Weight: 460g
• - Full-frame Compatible

(Note: Not compatible with FRA400)

Release Information

• - Brand: Askar
• - Product Name: FRA400C Telescope
• - Suggested Retail Price: Open Price
• - Expected Market Price: Approximately ¥134,000 (tax included)
• - Release Date: March 27, 2026

• - Brand: Askar
• - Product Name: FRA400C Reducer
• - Suggested Retail Price: Open Price
• - Expected Market Price: Approximately ¥37,000 (tax included)
• - Release Date: March 27, 2026

Please note that the expected market prices are estimates and may differ upon actual sale. This product will be available through specialized astronomy shops and Sightron Japan's direct stores only.

For inquiries about the product:
Sightron Japan Co., Ltd.
Customer Service: 03-6908-3116

Established in 1961, Sightron Japan specializes in optical products like binoculars and telescopes and acts as an official distributor for top astronomical telescope brands globally. With a commitment to support astronomical observations and related events by organizations and municipalities, Sightron Japan contributes to the public's engagement with the wonders of the night sky.