Sky-Watcher Virtuoso Photographic Head + MAK 90 Telescope

The Virtuoso telescope is an exceptional and groundbreaking device that offers a wide range of possibilities. One of its key innovations lies in its assembly, which combines the features of a user-friendly, portable telescope for beginners with the capabilities of a feature-rich photographic tripod. The Virtuoso telescope, built in the Maksutov system, is designed to provide comfortable astronomical observations and advanced photography functionalities such as time-lapse, sequential object photography, and panoramic shots. Additionally, it incorporates a computerized photographic head with precision electric drive.

Astronomy Applications of the Virtuoso Telescope

The Virtuoso telescope, also known as MiniDob, is a complete astronomical telescope in the Maksutov system, equipped with the movement of the blue sphere. Despite its compact size, this telescope is highly suitable for simple astronomical observations.

Similar to other Maksutov telescopes, the Virtuoso excels in delivering excellent image sharpness and eliminating chromatic aberration. It offers 100% detailed views comparable to larger telescopes with a 90 mm aperture. The set includes two eyepieces with 25 mm and 10 mm focal lengths, providing magnifications of 50x and 125x, respectively. These eyepieces are sufficient for observing celestial objects like the Moon and basic planetary features. With the Virtuoso telescope, users can explore intricate details such as the equatorial stripes on Jupiter, Saturn's rings, or the polar caps of Mars. The telescope's capabilities can be expanded by adding additional eyepieces and filters.

One of the most significant advantages of the Virtuoso telescope is its ability to track astronomical objects. It incorporates an advanced system of precision stepper motors and dual-axis encoders, patented by Sky-Watcher. This system enables the telescope to accurately track celestial objects by rotating in both axes. Additionally, the Virtuoso telescope can be combined with SynScan AZ controllers, commonly used in larger Dobsonian telescopes. By integrating a SynScan AZ controller, users gain access to a vast database of tens of thousands of astronomical objects, which they can locate and observe independently. The Virtuoso telescope stands out in its price class by providing this unique opportunity.

Despite its advanced guidance system and rich functionalities, the Virtuoso telescope is easy to operate and does not require extensive knowledge or skills. After aligning the telescope and entering geographic coordinates into the system, it automatically starts tracking astronomical objects. Whether you have always dreamt of observing through a telescope or are a beginner with apprehensions, the Virtuoso telescope guarantees a user-friendly experience. Additionally, its compact size allows for easy placement on a table, measuring only a few dozen centimeters in height and weighing just a few kilograms.

Photography Applications of the Virtuoso Telescope

In addition to its astronomical applications, the Virtuoso telescope is equipped with a sturdy camera mount included in the set. This camera mount transforms the telescope into a portable and automated tripod suitable for various photographic and multimedia applications. In essence, it becomes a computerized photographic head. With its automated features, the Virtuoso enables time-lapse photography, smooth-guided movie recording, cyclic shooting of programmed objects, and captivating panoramic shots, including 360-degree photography.

The Virtuoso telescope facilitates time-lapse photography by allowing smooth and slow rotations between six pre-programmed points. Users can adjust the rotation speed to their preferences, with a maximum rotation speed of 2.5 degrees per second. At the slowest speed, the telescope completes a full rotation over the course of one day.

Moreover, the Virtuoso telescope is well-suited for capturing panoramas, both in traditional horizontal panoramas and parallel lane panoramas. To prepare the assembly for panoramic shots, users need to define the lens's field of view and determine the horizontal and vertical rotation limits. By accurately setting these limits, users can capture full-spherical panoramas, capturing the entire surrounding environment.

Another notable feature is the cyclic shooting of programmed objects. The assembly can precisely store the positions of up to six objects. Users simply need to point the camera towards the desired object, press the designated button combination, and the object's position will be saved. When initiating the cyclic shooting process, the camera will move between the saved positions, briefly pausing at each position while the attached cable releases the camera's shutter. This sequence repeats until the user interrupts the process with the appropriate key combination. This solution allows users to cyclically photograph several selected objects, enhancing their photographic capabilities.

The MiniDob assembly includes a 2.5mm minijack cable for camera release, which is compatible with all Canon cameras in the three- and four-digit series (e.g., 300D, 400D, 1000D, 550D, etc.). Alternatively, users can use a release cable compatible with other camera systems.

The MiniDob assembly can be connected to a photographic tripod with a lifting capacity of approximately 10 kg using the standard 3/8" mount commonly found on tripod heads.

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 comes with a 2-year warranty.