Sky-Watcher Virtuoso Photographic Head + MAK 90 Telescope: A Revolutionary Astronomical and Photographic Tool

The Sky-Watcher Virtuoso Photographic Head + MAK 90 Telescope is an exceptional and innovative device that merges the features of a beginner-friendly telescope with a feature-rich photographic tripod. This groundbreaking tool is designed to offer comfortable astronomical observations and advanced photography capabilities, including time-lapse, sequential object photography, and panoramic shots. Featuring a computerized photographic head with a precision electric drive, the Virtuoso is ideal for both amateur astronomers and photography enthusiasts.

Astronomy Applications of the Virtuoso Telescope

Also known as the "MiniDob," this telescope is a complete astronomical device built in the Maksutov system, perfect for simple yet detailed astronomical observations. Despite its compact size, the Virtuoso provides excellent image sharpness and eliminates chromatic aberration, comparable to larger telescopes with its 90 mm aperture.

• Includes two eyepieces (25 mm and 10 mm) offering magnifications of 50x and 125x.
• Ideal for observing celestial objects like the Moon, equatorial stripes on Jupiter, Saturn's rings, and Mars' polar caps.
• Expandable capabilities with additional eyepieces and filters.

One of the standout features is its ability to track astronomical objects using precision stepper motors and dual-axis encoders. This system allows the telescope to accurately follow celestial objects, and when paired with a SynScan AZ controller, users can access a vast database of astronomical objects.

The Virtuoso telescope is user-friendly, requiring no extensive knowledge for operation. After aligning the telescope and entering geographic coordinates, it automatically tracks astronomical objects, making it perfect for beginners. Its compact size ensures easy placement and portability.

Photography Applications of the Virtuoso Telescope

The Virtuoso doubles as a portable and automated tripod with a sturdy camera mount, effectively becoming a computerized photographic head. Its automated features allow for:

• Time-lapse photography with smooth and slow rotations.
• Guided movie recording and cyclic shooting of programmed objects.
• Captivating panoramic shots, including 360-degree photography.

Users can capture panoramic shots by defining the lens's field of view and setting horizontal and vertical rotation limits. The Virtuoso supports cyclic shooting of up to six programmed positions, enhancing photographic capabilities.

The MiniDob assembly includes a 2.5mm minijack cable compatible with all Canon cameras in the three- and four-digit series, as well as other camera systems using a compatible release cable. It can be mounted on a photographic tripod with a 3/8" mount.

Basic Technical Specifications

• Optical system: Maksutov-Cassegrain
• Lens diameter: 90 mm
• Lens focal length: 1250 mm
• F-ratio: f/14
• Resolution: 1.3 arc seconds
• Theoretical limit magnitude: 12.5
• Maximum useful magnification: 180x
• Base dimensions (triangular side): 29.5 cm
• Leg spacing (maximum): 27 cm
• Base height (maximum): 40 cm
• Optical tube dimensions: 10 x 10 x 27.5 cm
• Power supply: 12V DC or 8 AA batteries (1.5V each)
• Optical tube weight: 1.2 kg
• Assembly weight: 3.7 kg

Included Equipment

• 1.25" eyepieces: Super 25 mm and Super 10 mm
• Finder: Star Pointer
• Angled cap: 1.25" 90°
• "L" adapter with 1/4" screw for camera mounting
• Compass
• 2.5 mm minijack cable

Warranty

The Virtuoso telescope is backed by a 2-year warranty, ensuring peace of mind with your purchase.