What is a maksutov cassegrain telescope | 2024 Guide

what is a maksutov cassegrain telescope

If you’re looking for a compact, high quality telescope that can easily fit into tight spaces or be taken on vacation then the Maksutov-Cassegrain is an excellent choice. There are so many models to choose from though it’s hard knowing which one will work best with your needs.

If precision imaging and spotting tiny objects isn’t enough of interest in nature exploration but rather capturing scenic landscapes shots while taking full advantage offer Compact size highly portable optics. When deciding between an MAK or ALTAZ mount look into how easy it will be with your location in mind as well as what features interest you most before making any purchases.

What is a maksutov cassegrain telescope?

A small Maksutov Cassegrain telescope provides advantages over larger models such having Lowrance angles (less weight), better light gathering power at nigh times; these scopes also make up less box space when shipped due tthe shorter length – but not everyone wants this type of versatility.

Maksutov Cassegrain telescope are another type of compound telescope, similar to the Schmidt-Cassegrain. They have a spherical mirror that collects light and an curved lens up front for correcting aberrations The corrector lens on a Mak has simple spherical curvature which is easy to manufacture while SCTs typically require highly specialized machines with very tight tolerances because they’re precision instruments used by professionals who know what they’re doing. The secondary mirror consists only out thin layers deposited onto its backside so there isn’t much alignment needed other than making sure everything’s clean before mounting.

Mounting an astronomy telescope can be tricky. There are many factors that need to be considered while doing so, including what type of mount you’ll use and which accessories should come with it (a guide scope for instance). The downside? Mak’s optics have longer focal ratios meaning they’re not good at magnifying wide fields but excel in objects near microscopic like planets or double stars among others.

maksutov cassegrain telescope

With Maks, you get to enjoy the beauty of both urban and deep-sky objects. They are compact so they’re great for observing in city streets or parks with less than ideal conditions like low light levels. The higher magnification also darkens washed out skies while bringing more contrast on stars which makes these scopes perfect for darker locations where it can be hard to see anything at all

Maksutov-Cassegrains are robust and rugged because they can withstand harsh environments. Some field photographs in National Geographic Magazine were taken with a Maks, but it is heavy at higher magnifications so you won’t find commercially made models that go up past 7 inches (175mm).

The Maksutov telescope is a standard for those who want to go beyond what’s visible with their eyes. These scopes have superb mechanics and razor-sharp optics almost without aberration, making them perfect instruments for terrestrial observing as well as nature photography! Not only that but NASA has also used this type of scope on its early space missions – most famously when Neil Armstrong took his “giant leap” into cyberspace during the first satellite transmission from Earth orbit around 1970s

If you want a scope that can go anywhere, then the Mak-Cass is not for you. With their heavier construction and larger size, these scopes are best suited to more serious astronomers who need an instrument fitted with powerful optics capable of revealing fine details in deep space objects like galaxies faraway from Earth’s light pollution or even next door at home.

As seen above on our 6 inch version priced around $1k without mount but still more costly than some Schmidt Cassegrips which cost under 800 dollars

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Maksutov Cassegrain telescope Pros :

The Canon EF 400mm f/4 lens is small, lightweight and versatile. It’s an excellent choice for travelling with a camera as it can take up very little room in your bag or on the side of a vehicle if you’re driving it around yourself. Despite its compact size there are many features that make this optic stand out from other more traditional DSLR lenses including Amazing clarity even at night when light isn’t ideal circumstances such as shooting stars across constellations will still exhibit sharp edges thanks to this large aperture which also produces less chromatic aberration than most wide angles do; Fast Auto focus motor ensures quick images without those sluggish response times where everything moves apart before your eyes seconds aftershooting.

Maksutov Cassegrain telescope Cons:

The Maksutov is a more expensive choice than Newtonians and Schmidt-Cassegrains for the same aperture because it has narrow field of view. The disadvantage to this design means that large telescopes cannot use them; however, you can get an aesthetically pleasing image with these types if your scope’s objectives are not too big (around 150 mm).

Maksutov-Cassegrain telescopes are best for these things:

 If you’re an observer who wants aperture but also want to take your observing portable, then the Focal price 24mm has what it takes. It’s large enough for high power views of double stars and galaxies without any Astigmatism when used with a refractor or Newtonian telescope – this would be perfect in crowded skies where seeing conditions can change quickly.

How Does a Maksutov Cassegrain Telescope Work | Best Guide

How does a maksutov cassegrain telescope work

To know that how does a maksutov cassegrain telescope work  The Maksutov-Cassegrain Telescope is an alternative design to the similar Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope (SCT). While both have a couple differences, one of which being that it’s not quite as popular or well known in many circles due mostly because they don’t tend use its abbreviation “Mak,” this doesn’t deter from how great these telescopes can really get. In fact some may even call them just “mak”. This could cause confusion for those who know what SCT stands meaningfully since there are also other types called Makarskii Newtonian lenses too! To put things simpler: The shorter name will always refer back only when talking about.

Maksutov Cassegrain Telescope Work

How does a maksutov cassegrain telescope work

Mak-Casses are a type of telescope in which light passes through a lens to eliminate aberrations. The Maksutov corrector is shaped like an upside down cone with slits cut out on each side, and it can be used as front or rear element for this design based off your choice when purchasing the optical tube assembly with components from various manufacturers such as Takahasi Gold Tube Company Ltd., Meade Instruments Incorporated , Vixen Creations Limited  etc..

The important thing about these telescopes is that they have been designed so you don’t need any special eyepieces because everything will look good no matter where it comes from!

Mak-Casses are a type of telescope in which light passes through a lens to eliminate aberrations. The Maksutov corrector is shaped like an upside down cone with slits cut out on each side, and it can be used as front or rear element for this design based off your choice when purchasing the optical tube assembly with components from various manufacturers such as Takahasi Gold Tube Company Ltd., Meade Instruments Incorporated , Vixen Creations Limited  etc..

To know that how does a maksutov cassegrain telescope work There are many different types of telescopes, but they all have something in common. All you need to do is find what your needs for viewing astronomical objects and planets; if it’s an Maksutov-Cassegrain then make sure there isn’t too much thick black smoke coming out from the optical tube because those scopes don’t work well with obstructions blocking their light tubes!

The diagram below shows how does a maksutov cassegrain telescope work (such as Mak-Cass or similar design) works to increase the focal length. The primary mirror has an effective focal lenght only three times its diameter, while the secondary focuses it back at less of an incline than if there were no mirrors in between; this is called “relief” and makes for greater light gathering power when observing faint objects that require long exposure times – like planets!

It’s easy to miss the point of how big a deal this is. If I’m in my observatory with an antique telescope, and you’re browsing online catalogs from telescopes that cost only fractional percentages more than yours but have much longer focal lengths – what would it take for me not want one? This primary mirror size has been improved upon by some companies who make smaller aperture scopes: they typically offer 5x magnification versus 3-4 times ours while still producing images 15″ across or so on their 1024 x 768 screens (difficulty getting any bigger)  With all these improvements we might say goodbye forever giving up light coming directly outta da sky without

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How Is a Maksutov-Cassegrain Different from an SCT?

The main difference between Schmidt-Cassegrains and Maksutov-Cassegaints is that the former uses a flat corrected mirror, whereas in latter it has been replaced with an aspheric one. This accounts for their more expensive construction cost when compared to scopes using orthoscopic surfaces which require less bulky corrective lenses due to being able eliminate some spherical aberration from them too! SCTs on the other hand have this advantage over Reflectors by not needing any additional correction at all since its design grants greater light gathering efficiency while also containing lower levels of chromatic Aberrations unlike OTA telescopes whose use alone makes them more costly options if desired accuracy isn’t enough.

The Mak-Casses use a meniscus corrector, which is similar to the Maksutov design in that it also has highly curved spherical lenses. Unlike with Schmidt adjustments however; these correction rings are thicker (usually about 10% of an aperture), and take longer for them thermally equalize when exposed outside during cold weather or other environmental changes such as those caused by high heat levels inside your home’s atmosphere control system .

Maksutov-Cassegrains are not well suited for deep sky photography, as they have longer focal ratios that require slower exposures. Fainter objects requires more light and therefore shorter exposure times with these types of scopes than what you would get on an SCT or even Refractor objective lensDefault however there is some variety in this respect between different models depending upon their design choices

One other drawback to consider with Mak-Cass is that many commercial models create the secondary mirror by aluminizing a small spot on the inside of their corrector lens. This can be convenient and less expensive, but not as ideal since it doesn’t have optimized curvature for mini instruments which makes them perform poorly sometimes in comparison even though high end mak cass use an apochryphal spherical surface instead – these are excellent performers!

What is prices of Maksutov-Cassegrain

Maksutov-Cassegrains cover a fairly large price range, with smaller models starting at $300 for an automatic tracking small equatorial mount and going up to around $10k+ on the high end. These scopes are amazing optical performers but don’t come cheap!

Is it Best for Me?

A large Maksutov-Cassegrains are not uncommon, but they’re a bit more specialized than their smaller counterparts. For visual observing and planetary imaging purposes most people opt for telescopes with shorter focal lengths that can offer less distortion when viewing planets or stars in detail as opposed to SCTs which tend be better suited towards deep sky photography due its larger aperture size (and thus brighter images). A good quality Mak Cass will outperform any similarly sized Schmidt Cassegrain Telescope you could buy off the shelf at your local astronomy store; however this comes at higher price point where it’s often difficult justify paying double just because one type of instrument does certain jobs better than others do!

With the same price range, performance is comparable between SCTs and Mak-Casses. The more versatile choice for someone who wants a large aperture refractor with excellent visual quality but doesn’t want to carry around as much weight on their mount can be an XTR or Losmandy series scope from Garrett made specifically for portable applications.

A high end (>$1500) mak cass will not have less optical qualities than its equivalent size refractive telescope which also boasts higher power capability due in part by using smaller diameter lenses so it’s often seen being used alongside rarer types such

Mak-Casses are small, affordable refracting telescopes that can be used both for astronomy and terrestrial observations. They have an f Ratio of 1:4 so they’re well suited to viewing celestial scopes as well as landscapes without any complications in the field of view due to misconceptions about how lenses work! What makes them stand out from other options on this list? Well firstly their price point starts rather low at around $200 but also it includes all hardware you need such thankyouverymuch including rings if needed – no more ordering extra parts separately online or overpaying when buying new equipment here at Hershey’s Telescope Shop.

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6 Best Portable Telescopes 2024 | Top Rated Picks

Best Portable Telescopes

Telescopes are a great tool for amateur astronomers that allow you to observe galaxies, stars, and planets far away from our own. But if you aren’t willing to commit to setting up a large stationary telescope in your backyard, don’t worry there are highly portable options out there perfect for stargazing on the go. In this blog post, we’ll be exploring the best portable telescopes on the market today that offer amazing features and convenience factors at an affordable price point.

List of Top 6 Best Portable Telescopes

Our comprehensive guide to the best portable telescopes includes reviews and recommendations for top models, along with helpful tips and advice to help you choose the right telescope for your needs. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced astronomer, we’ve got you covered with the best options for all levels of stargazers.

ImageProductFeaturesPrice
6 Best Portable Telescopes

6 Best Portable Telescopes

  • Brand: Levenhuk
  • Lens diameter: 50 Millimeters
  • Weight: 4.81 Pounds
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Maksutov-Cassegrain Telescope

Maksutov-Cassegrain Telescope

  • Brand: SARBLUE
  • Optical Tube Length: 200 Millimeters
  • Lens Diameter: 60 Millimeters
  • Zoom Ratio: 37.5 multiplier x
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70mm Aperture Refracting Portable Telescope

70mm Aperture Refracting Portable Telescope

  • Brand: HEXEUM
  • Eye Piece Lens: Barlow
  • Telescope Mount: Altazimuth Mount
  • Weight: 4.59 Pounds
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Sky-Watcher Compact and Portable Telescope

Sky-Watcher Compact and Portable Telescope

  • Brand: Sky-Watcher
  • Model Name: S11120
  • Lens Diameter: 100 Millimeters
  • Weight: 8.4 Pounds
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Orion Travel Refractor Telescope

Orion Travel Refractor Telescope

Brand: Orion
Lens Diameter: 102 Millimeters
Telescope Mount: Altazimuth Mount
Zoom Ratio: 60 multiplier x

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Celestron – 114LCM Computerized Telescope

Celestron – 114LCM Computerized Telescope

  • Brand: Celestron
  • Model Name: 31150
  • Lens Diameter: 114 Millimeters
  • Weight: 20 Pounds
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Levenhuk Skyline Portable Travel 50 Refractor Telescope

The Levenhuk Skyline Portable Travel 50 Refractor Telescope with Backpack is the perfect choice for amateur astronomers and budding stargazers. With its 50 mm aperture, 360mm focal length, and AZ mount, it’s great for both terrestrial and astronomical observations allowing you to explore our incredible universe with ease. Levenhuk Skyline Portable Travel 50 Refractor Telescope with Backpack

In addition, the telescope is lightweight, compact, and perfect for travel. You can easily assemble it in a few minutes without any special tools or skills. Plus, the included backpack makes it easy to carry your telescope wherever you want to go.

Better yet, this purchase comes with a lifetime warranty to make sure your telescope lasts through all of your adventures.

Specifications

Brand Levenhuk
Eye Piece Lens  Barlow
Objective Lens Diameter 50 Millimeters
Telescope Mount  Altazimuth Mount
Focus Type Manual Focus
Power Source Solar Powered
Finderscope Reflex
Item Weight 4.81 Pounds
Pros
  • Get clear, detailed views of the stars.
  • Easy to use and assemble.
Cons
  • Limited stability.

Maksutov-Cassegrain TelescopeMaksutov-Cassegrain Telescope

Introducing the Maksutov-Cassegrain Telescope. This telescope is a powerful and highly precise beginner’s telescope, designed with a Maksutov-Cassegrain optical system and a fully multi-coated glass lens.

Not only can you use it to observe vivid, high-contrast images in the day, like birds and wildlife, but you can also explore the night sky with its planets such as Saturn and Jupiter, plus moon craters are all within your view.

We have also designed this telescope with a detachable lid so you can get an insight into how it works inside. What’s more, its long focal length of 750mm is packed into a tiny 20mm tube making it highly portable and easy to carry around for your adventures anytime. Get yours today to see what wonders await.

Specifications

Brand SARBLUE
Optical Tube Length 200 Millimeters
Objective Lens Diameter 60 Millimeters
Product Dimensions 15″D x 7″W x 4″H
Focus Type Manual Focus
Power Source Adapter
Finderscope Reflex
Lens Coating  Fully Multi-Coated
Zoom Ratio 37.5 multiplier x
Pros
  • Enjoy high-contrast images.
  • The detachable lid reveals the internal construction of the telescope.
Cons
  • Requires some technical expertise to setup.

70mm Aperture Refracting Portable Telescope70mm Aperture Refracting Portable Telescope

Discover the wonders of the sky with a 70mm Aperture 500mm AZ Mount Fully Multi-Coated Optics Astronomical Refracting Telescope. This telescope offers excellent quality optics with a 500 mm (f/7.1) focal length and 70 mm aperture, providing stunning views and protecting your eyes while you explore.

Our telescope includes two excellent quality eyepieces (25 mm and 10mm), as well as a 3x Barlow lens that trebles the magnifying power of each eyepiece, plus a 5×24 finderscope for easy object locating.

With its adjustable aluminum tripod and wireless remote control, this telescope is both portable and convenient to use. Plus, it comes with a phone adapter and carrying bag so you can take incredible photos from anywhere.

Specifications

Brand HEXEUM
Model Name Portable Telescopes
Eye Piece Lens  Barlow
Telescope Mount  Altazimuth Mount
Focus Type Manual Focus
Power Source Adapter
Finderscope Reflex
Item Weight 4.59 Pounds
Pros
  • 500mm focal length.
  • 70mm aperture.
  • Excellent quality eyepieces.
Cons
  • Not suitable for experienced.

Sky-Watcher Compact and Portable Telescope

The Sky-Watcher EvoStar 100 APO Doublet Refractor is a perfect telescope for astrologers of all levels. This expertly matched doublet objective comes with an included synthetic fluorite element providing excellent color correction for both visual and photographic use. As your knowledge and skill set evolves, there’s no need to replace this telescope so you can enjoy a lifetime of star gazing.Sky-Watcher Compact and Portable Telescope

Find focus with ease using the 10:1 dual-speed Crayford-style focuser, which is suitable for any eyepiece or camera. In addition to the sleek black telescope, you’ll receive a foam-lined aluminum hard case ideal for travel and storing your equipment, along with the 8×50 Right Angle Correct Image (RACI) Finderscope, 2” Dielectric Diagonal, 5mm and 25mm LET Eyepieces, 1.25” Adapter, Mounting Rings, and a V-Style Dovetail. So get ready to explore the stars with the Sky-Watcher EvoStar 100 APO Doublet Refractor.

Specifications

Brand Sky Watcher
Model Name S11120
Eye Piece Lens  Barlow
Objective Lens Diameter 100 Millimeters
Product Dimensions 41″D x 12″W x 15″H
Focus Type Auto Focus
Finderscope Reflex
Item Weight 8.4 Pounds
Pros
  • Superior color correction for visual and photographic uses.
  • 10:1 dual-speed focuser for easy focusing.
Cons
  • Expensive.

Orion Travel Refractor Telescope

The Orion Travel Refractor Telescope is the perfect choice for anyone wanting to explore the wonders of astronomy, both day and night! The complete 102mm refractor telescope gives you clarity and brightness that allows it to be used in a variety of ways. It comes with two high-quality Plossl eyepieces that offer 24x and 60x magnification respectively.Orion Travel Refractor Telescope

And thanks to the rugged carry case, all telescopes, tripods, and accessories can be conveniently packed up for travel anywhere. The stainless steel tripod with a pan head is also included to make sure your viewing experience is second to none.

But that’s not all. You’ll also get Orion’s MoonMap 260, which helps identify some 260 lunar surface features including craters, mountain ranges, “seas” and more. Don’t wait another minute the Orion Travel Refractor Telescope is here for you to take your exploration further than ever before.

Specifications

Brand Orion
Eye Piece Lens  Plossl
Objective Lens Diameter 102 Millimeters
Telescope Mount  Altazimuth Mount
Focus Type Manual Focus
Finderscope Reflex
Lens Coating Description Fully Multi-Coated
Zoom Ratio 60 multiplier x
Pros
  • Up to 60x magnification with premium Plossl eyepieces.
  • Portable.
Cons
  • Limited use for deep-sky objects.

Celestron – 114LCM Computerized Telescope

The Celestron 114LCM Computerized Newtonian Telescope is perfect for amateur astronomers of all skill levels. With its advanced all-glass optics and computerized GoTo mount, it can automatically locate up to 4,000 celestial objects in the night sky. Even if you’re not sure where to look, thanks to its Sky Tour button, all you need to do is press the button and your telescope will generate a list of the best objects currently available for you to view.Celestron - 114LCM Computerized Newtonian Telescope

Coming with a full-height tripod, two high-quality eyepieces (25mm & 9mm), and a free download of one of the top-rated astronomy software programs, Stary Night Software, this Celestron telescope has everything you need for an amazing stargazing experience. Whether you’re just starting out or already an experienced astronomer, this telescope will help you take your exploration of the night sky to the next level.

Specifications

Brand Celestron
Model Name 31150
Objective Lens Diameter 114 Millimeters
Telescope Mount  Motorized altazimuth
Product Dimensions 35″D x 16″W x 11″H
Focus Type Manual Focus
Power Source Battery Powered
Finderscope Reflex
Item Weight 20 Pounds
Pros
  • Automated search for 4,000 celestial bodies.
  • High-quality optics for enhanced image quality.
Cons
  • Setup of this telescope can be time-consuming.

Buying Guide

To help you make an informed decision, we have put together a buying guide for the best portable telescopes. Here are some important factors to consider before making your purchase:

Aperture Size: The size of the telescope’s aperture is the most important factor to consider, as it determines the telescope’s light-gathering ability. The larger the aperture size, the more light the telescope can gather, resulting in brighter and clearer images. For the best viewing experience, we recommend a telescope with an aperture size of at least 70 mm.

Magnification: Magnification is another important factor to consider when choosing a portable telescope. A higher magnification doesn’t necessarily mean a better viewing experience. The rule of thumb is to choose a telescope with a magnification range of 20x to 50x per inch of aperture.

Design: Portable telescopes come in different designs, including refractors, reflectors, and catadioptric telescopes. Refractor telescopes use lenses to focus light, while reflector telescopes use mirrors. Catadioptric telescopes combine the two designs, using both mirrors and lenses. When choosing a design, consider your viewing needs and mobility requirements.

Portability: Portability is a key factor to consider when selecting a portable telescope. Look for a telescope that is lightweight, compact, and easy to set up and take down. This will make it easier for you to take it with you on trips and use it on the go.

Accessories: A good portable telescope should come with essential accessories, such as eyepieces, a tripod, and a finder scope. Look for telescopes that include all necessary accessories or have the option to purchase them separately.

Budget: Portable telescopes vary in price, and your budget will ultimately determine the type and quality of telescope you can get. Determine your budget upfront and research telescopes that fit within your price range.

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Conclusion

In conclusion, finding the best portable telescope is all about understanding your viewing needs, mobility requirements, and budget. Consider the factors we’ve outlined in this buying guide before making your purchase, and you’ll be on your way to a thrilling and unforgettable stargazing experience.

FAQs

What kind of magnification can I expect from the best portable telescopes?

The best portable telescopes come equipped with multiple eyepieces, allowing for a range of different magnifications depending on your needs. High-quality portable telescopes can achieve magnifications of up to 300x, making it easy to observe even the most distant celestial objects.

How big are the best portable telescopes?

Portable telescopes vary in size, but the best models are small enough to be easily transported and set up in a matter of minutes. The most compact models can be as small as a few inches in length, while larger models may be a few feet long and weigh several pounds.

What kind of celestial objects can I observe with a portable telescope?

Portable telescopes are suitable for viewing a wide range of celestial objects, from the moon and nearby planets to distant galaxies and nebulae. The best portable telescopes come equipped with high-quality optics that allow for clear, detailed views of celestial objects, even from urban areas with high light pollution.

What kind of accessories are included with the best portable telescopes?

The best portable telescopes come with a range of accessories to enhance your observing experience, including eyepieces, finderscopes, and carrying cases. Many models also come with smartphone adapters or other technology that allows you to capture images and share your observations with others.

What is the price range for the best portable telescopes?

The price of portable telescopes can vary widely depending on the quality of the optics, the size and weight of the telescope, and the range of included accessories. However, the best portable telescopes typically range from around $100 to $500, with higher-end models costing up to $1000 or more.