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The Askar 120APO is an apochromatic triplet refractor that offers high performance for a low price compared to other similarly-sized triplets on the market. The objective lens features an element of extra-low dispersion glass (ED) that minimizes chromatic aberration.
The Askar 120APO is available either on its own, or with either the 1x flattener or 0.8x reducer.
In its standard configuration the Askar 120APO is a fine visual instrument with excellent optical quality and native compatibility with binoviewers when the rear section of the tube is removed. This modular design makes the 120APO a supremely versatile telescope.
The optional 1 x field flattener corrects the field curvature of the system, allowing for photographic use with sensors up to full frame. The optional 0.8 x reducer brings the focal length down to 672mm and focal ratio to f/5.6.
The 3.3" dual-speed rack & pinion focuser is precise and rigid. It is natively compatible with most motorized focusers on the market including the ZWO EAF. The focuser includes an accurate distance scale with 10cm of travel. On the rear there is a 360 degree rotator with fine rotation angle markings for precise framing.
Unlike most refractors, the 120APO includes two finderscope bases on either side of the focuser, allowing you to attach both a standard guide scope and control unit such as the ASIAIR without the need for additional accessories. The handlebar also includes a finder-style slot, allowing for even more possibilities.
The inner surfaces of the retractable dew shield are covered with matte felt and the interior of the telescope tube has matte paint and internal baffles, to reduce internal reflections and light scattering.
Note: the mount shown in the product images is not included with the telescope.
Optical design |
Apochromatic ED triplet |
Objective diameter |
120 mm |
Focal length |
840 mm |
Focal ratio |
f/7 |
Resolving power |
0.97 arc second |
Stellar limiting magnitude |
13.1 |
Max. magnification |
300 x |
Light gathering power |
293.9 times the human eye |
Mount attachment |
290 mm Vixen-style dovetail |
Focuser |
3.3" rack & pinion dual speed 1:10 |
Tube weight |
5.7 kg (6.5 kg with dovetail and rings) |
Tube length |
722 mm (804 mm with dew shield extended) |
Tube diameter |
110 mm |
Dew shield diameter |
139 mm |
Connections |
2", 1.25", M84 x 1 female |
Flattener/reducer back focus |
55 mm from M48 thread |
Threads on tube rings |
TBD |
Distance between tube rings |
TBD |
- 120APO OTA
- Pair of tube rings
- 290mm Vixen bar
- 2" visual back
- 1.25" eyepiece adapter
- Manual
- Soft carrying case
Statue of Liberty nebula by Simon Kidd | Askar 120APO, ZWO ASI533MC Pro, 33 hours of exposure time.
M33 | Askar 120APO + 1.0x flattener, ZWO ASI6200MM Pro.
Soul Nebula | Askar 120APO + 1x flattener, ZWO ASI6200MM Pro, Antlia 3nm SHO filters.
Magnified view showing the typical correction of the 120APO with optional 1 x flattener.
Very happy with the performance of the Askar 120 APO and 1.0 x Flattener! The focuser is solid and I had no issues installing the compatible ZWO EAF. The scope pairs well with the ASI 2600MM and 533MM Pro cameras in relation to image scale and pinpoint stars all the way to the edge. The weight of the scope, EAF, Camera, EFW and OAG combination comes in around 10kg and is no problem for the EQ6-R pro. My only criticism is the dew shield is a bit short, however dew can be managed with a dew heater. The image below is my fist project with the Askar 120. NGC 5128 in LHaRGB with 49 hours of integration to resolve the Ha jets.