ZWO Telescope FF65 AP 65/416 Quintuplet with AM3 and Carbon Tripods & Mounts (84333)

The FF65 is a flatfield astrograph designed for astrophotography, featuring an aperture ratio of f/6.4 and a focal length of 416 mm. Unlike other ZWO FF apochromats that use a quadruplet design, the FF65 is built as a quintuplet with two ED (Extra-low Dispersion) lenses. This advanced optical design delivers excellent control over chromatic and other aberrations, making it a great choice for capturing sharp, color-accurate images.

With its self-levelling design, the FF65 is optimized for astrophotography. It is capable of fully illuminating full-frame camera sensors and produces a highly refined spot diagram, resulting in only minimal distortion of peripheral stars.

Optical Design and Convenience

There is no need to purchase additional flatteners, calculate back focus, or set specific distances. The FF65 is ready for astrophotography with a range of photographic accessories. Simply attach your camera, focus, and the system is set for imaging.

The FF65 includes an extendable dew shield, a Vixen/GP finder shoe, a prism rail, tube clamps with handles, and several camera adapters (M48, M54, M68).

Back focus distances for the adapters are as follows:

• 176 mm from the M48x0.75 external thread

• 105 mm from the M54x0.75 external thread

• 130 mm from the M68x1 external thread

ZWO AM3 Equatorial Mount with Harmonic Drive Gears

The ZWO AM3 is a lightweight, portable mount designed for astrophotography. Weighing less than 4 kg, it can support telescopes up to 8 kg without a counterweight. With a counterweight and rod (not included), the capacity increases to 13 kg. The AM3 features years of development and multiple patents.

Multiple Modes and Easy Operation

The AM3 can operate in either equatorial or altazimuth mode. For astrophotography, use the equatorial mode and align the mount with the celestial pole. For visual observation or lunar and planetary imaging, the altazimuth mode is sufficient and can be set up within minutes. The mount’s status indicator shows the current mode: red for equatorial and green for altazimuth.

Counterweight-Free Design

Traditional German equatorial mounts require counterweights for balance. The AM3’s harmonic drive eliminates the need for counterweights with telescopes up to 8 kg, making the mount lighter and more compact. For heavier equipment, counterweights can be added for extra stability.

Smooth and Accurate Tracking

Every AM3 mount is tested before shipping and is guaranteed to have a periodic error of less than +/-20 arc seconds. The periodic error develops slowly, giving autoguiders enough time to make corrections. The mount includes an ST-4 autoguiding port, and periodic error can be further minimized through software such as ASIAir.

Worldwide Use and Travel-Friendly Design

The AM3 can be used anywhere on the planet, from the equator to the poles. Its compact size allows it to fit easily in flight baggage, making it perfect for travel.

Wireless Operation with WiFi

All mount functions can be controlled via smartphone. The AM3 integrates especially well with the ZWO ASIAir system, allowing control of the camera, autoguider, and mount through a single app. The mount can also be operated wirelessly with the included handbox, so there are no cables to manage.

Carbon Tripod – Stability and Portability

A stable tripod is crucial for any telescope system. The included carbon tripod is lightweight and compact, making it an excellent travel companion. Despite its low weight, it can support up to 50 kg, accommodating even large mounts and telescopes.

For added stability, the tripod comes with weight containers that can be filled with sand or stones and attached to the tripod legs. This enhances stability for demanding observing or imaging sessions.