The Askar 103APO 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 103APO is available either on its own, or with either the 1x flattener, 0.8x reducer, or 0.6x reducer.

In its standard configuration the Askar 103APO 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 103APO 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 560mm and focal ratio to f/5.44. The optional 0.6 x reducer transforms the 103APO into a fast f/4 astrograph with a wide 420mm focal length.

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 103APO 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.

Specifications

Optical design	Apochromatic ED triplet
Objective diameter	103 mm
Focal length	700.4 mm
Focal ratio	f/6.8
Resolving power	1.13 arc second
Stellar limiting magnitude	12.76
Max. magnification	257.5 x
Light gathering power	216.51 times the human eye
Mount attachment	290 mm Vixen-style dovetail
Focuser	3.3" rack & pinion dual speed 1:10
Tube weight	4.75 kg (5.5 kg with dovetail and rings)
Tube length	600 mm (711 mm with dew shield extended)
Tube diameter	110 mm
Dew shield diameter	122 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

Items included

103APO OTA
Pair of tube rings
290mm Vixen bar
2" visual back
1.25" eyepiece adapter
Manual
Soft carrying case

Instructions

Downloads

Instruction manual

Gallery

NGC7000 by Chong Yang | Askar 103APO + 0.6x reducer, ZWO ASI2600MC Pro.

M27 by Chong Yang | Askar 103APO + 1x flattener, ZWO ASI2600MC Pro.

NGC7000 by Drew Evans | Askar 103APO + 0.6x reducer, ZWO ASI2600MC Pro.