Sky-Watcher 80 ED Evostar 80/600 OTAW with SynScan HEQ5 PRO

The Sky-Watcher 80/600 APO ED Evostar is a meticulously crafted apochromatic optical tube renowned for its exceptional design. One of its key features is the utilization of high-quality low-dispersion ED (FPL-53) glass, including materials from the esteemed German glass company Schott AG, a leader in optical glass production (Schott AG is wholly owned by Carl Zeiss AG, renowned for its top-tier optics design and materials). This combination results in world-class optics that rival the performance of Japanese brands with similar specifications, but at a fraction of the price.

To ensure optimal performance, each glass-air surface is coated with layers of Metallic High-Transmission Coating (MHC), boasting an impressive efficiency rating of 99.5% for a single surface.

The telescope's mechanical components are also of exceptional quality, featuring a Crayford's focuser with a 1:10 microfocus ratio. The package includes a high-quality two-inch dielectric 90° angle mirror with a 98% efficiency rating, a 2" focal-length 28mm eyepiece, a 9x50 finder scope with a crosshair and bracket, and a dovetail saddle.

This telescope serves as an excellent tool for planetary observation, astrophotography (including piggy-backing), as well as general observation thanks to its outstanding optical quality.

Please note that the new version of the kit includes a straight 9x50 finder scope instead of the angled one depicted in the pictures. Additionally, a field flattener (flattener) is not included in the kit.

Technical Specifications of the Optical Tube:

• Optical System: APO ED
• Lens Diameter: 80mm
• Optical Advances: Japanese FPL-53 (ED), Schott AG glass
• Focal Length: 600mm
• Weight: 2.47kg
• 2" Eyepiece with 1:10 microfocuser
• Dimensions of the Optical Tube: 100x620mm

Mounting: Synta SynScan HEQ5 PRO

The optical tube is mounted on a sturdy steel equatorial HEQ-5 mount, designed with high rigidity and precision. It features the SynScan computerized tracking and GoTo system, which offers a database of nearly 14,000 celestial objects and ephemerides of the Moon and planets within the Solar System.

The Sky-Watcher HEQ-5 Pro SynScan equatorial mount caters to astrophotographers and advanced visual observers who require both stability and portability. Equipped with dual-axis drives, the GOTO SynScan computer system, a polar field scope, and secure locking clamps for right ascension and declination, this mount provides smooth and accurate tracking. The counterbalance rod is conveniently built into the mount's head and can be extended as needed. The tripod features 1.75" legs, ensuring maximum stability for the entire setup. The mount has a maximum payload capacity of approximately 16 kg while weighing 19 kg itself. The optical tube can be mounted using the included standard dovetail mounting rail.

The full-featured GoTo SynScan hand controller enables users to track and locate celestial objects with ease. It offers three tracking speeds: stellar, lunar, and solar in dual-axis (RA) modes. Alignment procedures include One-star Alignment, Two-star Alignment, and Three-star Alignment.

The database consists of 25 user-definable objects and a comprehensive collection of Messier, NGC, and IC objects, totaling 13,436 entries. The controller simplifies the process of finding planets and the Moon. Notable advanced features include vibration minimization during long-exposure imaging, periodic error correction (PEC) software, RS-232 port for computer control, and an Auto-Guide port for precise alignment during astrophotography using a guiding camera.

Technical Specifications for the SynScan HEQ5 Mount:

• Power Supply: 12VDC 2Amp
• Drive Type: 1.8° stepper motor
• Resolution: 0.144 arc seconds
• Slewing Speeds: 2X, 8X, 16X, 32X, 64X, 400X, 500X, 600X, 800X (Gear Ratio: 705)
• Tracking Speeds: Stellar, Lunar, Solar
• Dual Axis Tracking Mode (RA)
• Alignment Procedures: One-star Alignment, Two-star Alignment, Three-star Alignment
• Database: 25 user-definable objects, full database of Messier, NGC, and IC objects (13,436 objects in total)
• Vibration reduction for long-exposure imaging
• Programmable Periodic Error (PE) correction
• PC port for telescope control via computer (RS-232 port)
• Auto-Guide port for precise alignment during astrophotography using a guide camera
• Mount Type: German equatorial
• Optical Tube Attachment: Clamps (rings)
• Micro-adjustments: RA & Dec (driven)
• Tripod: 1.75" steel
• Tripod Height: 85-147cm
• Tripod Weight: 7.5kg
• Counterbalance Rod Diameter: 1.8cm
• Counterbalance Rod Material: Stainless Steel
• Mount Weight (without counterweights): 9kg
• Mount Weight (with counterweights): 19kg
• Mounting Height: 41cm
• Counterweights: 2 x 5.1kg
• Maximum Load Capacity: Approx. 16kg

The offered telescope package provides all the necessary accessories for starting observations on the first clear night. It includes a comprehensive warranty covering a period of 2 years.