If you’re looking for the best 130mm triplet APO refractors for astrophotography, I recommend models that combine excellent optical quality, portability, and value. These telescopes use genuine ED glass, multi-layer coatings, and flat-field design to produce sharp, color-accurate images across various targets. Features like dual-speed focusers and lightweight construction make setup and fine tuning easier. Keep in mind things like mount compatibility and accessories. For detailed reviews of the top 11 options, just continue, and you’ll find all the insights you need.
Key Takeaways
- Optical quality with genuine ED glass ensures sharp, high-contrast images and minimal chromatic aberration for detailed astrophotography.
- Compact, lightweight design with portable features like retractable dew shields and sturdy mounting options enhances field usability.
- Focal lengths around 840-952mm and focal ratios from f/6 to f/8 optimize planetary, lunar, and deep-sky imaging performance.
- Dual-speed or fine-focus mechanisms enable precise adjustments, crucial for high-quality astrophotography results.
- These refractors offer excellent value, ideal for amateur astronomers seeking high-performance, portable triplet APOs within a 130mm aperture.
SVBONY SV105 Telescope Camera for Astrophotography
If you’re just starting with astrophotography and want an easy-to-use device, the SVBONY SV105 Telescope Camera is an excellent choice. It’s designed for beginners, offering a simple plug-and-play setup that works with Windows, Linux, and Android devices. The 1/2.8-inch IMX307 CMOS sensor captures sharp images and smooth 2K videos, perfect for lunar, planetary, and terrestrial shots. Its dark light compensation enhances clarity in low-light conditions. Connecting to your telescope is straightforward with the standard threaded interface, and you can easily transfer real-time images to your PC or laptop. It’s a versatile, lightweight tool that makes astrophotography accessible.
Best For: beginners in astrophotography seeking an easy-to-use, versatile camera compatible with multiple operating systems.
Pros:
- Simple plug-and-play setup requiring no driver installation
- High-quality 2K video and sharp images with the IMX307 CMOS sensor
- Compatible with Windows, Linux, and Android devices for flexible use
Cons:
- Not compatible with iOS mobile devices like phones or tablets
- Limited to 30 frames per second, which may not suit high-speed imaging needs
- Designed primarily for beginners, potentially lacking advanced features for experienced astrophotographers
Explore Scientific FCD100 ED102 Refractor Telescope (OTA Only)
Looking for a high-quality refractor that delivers exceptional image clarity for astrophotography? The Explore Scientific FCD100 ED102 OTA fits the bill perfectly. It features a 102mm aperture and a fast f/7 focal ratio, offering sharp, high-contrast images thanks to genuine HOYA FCD100 ED glass and multi-layer coatings. With a resolution of 1.14 arcseconds, it’s excellent for detailed observations. Weighing just under 11 pounds and compact in size, it’s portable and easy to handle. Designed as an air-spaced triplet, this refractor guarantees minimal chromatic aberration across the visible spectrum, making it a solid choice for serious astrophotographers.
Best For: astrophotographers and astronomers seeking a high-quality, portable refractor with exceptional image clarity and minimal chromatic aberration.
Pros:
- Utilizes genuine HOYA FCD100 ED glass for superior optical performance and chromatic correction
- Compact and lightweight design (under 11 lbs) for easy portability and handling
- High resolution of 1.14 arcseconds ideal for detailed astronomical observations and imaging
Cons:
- OTA only, requiring additional mounting accessories for complete setup
- Limited to online and offline availability; may not be available everywhere immediately
- Price may be higher compared to less advanced refractors, reflecting premium optical quality
SVBONY SV550 Triplet APO Telescope
The SVBONY SV550 Triplet APO Telescope stands out as an excellent option for amateur astronomers seeking a portable yet high-performing refractor. Its 122mm aperture and FPL-51 triplet apochromatic lens minimize chromatic aberration, delivering sharp, detailed images of deep-sky objects. Weighing just 6.44kg and including a carrying case, it’s easy to transport for travel or outdoor use. The 2.5-inch dual-speed focuser allows precise focusing, perfect for astrophotography. Its compact design, combined with high-quality optics, makes it versatile for observing faint galaxies, nebulae, and star clusters, all while remaining highly portable and user-friendly.
Best For: amateur astronomers and travel enthusiasts seeking a portable, high-quality refractor for astrophotography and deep-sky observation.
Pros:
- Compact, lightweight design with a carrying case for easy portability
- High-quality FPL-51 triplet apochromatic lens reduces chromatic aberration for sharp images
- Precise 2.5-inch dual-speed focuser allows for accurate focusing during imaging and observation
Cons:
- Limited aperture size may not capture extremely faint objects as effectively as larger telescopes
- Focal length of 854mm might require additional accessories for wide-field observations
- Requires careful balancing due to dovetail rail extension for optimal stability
Explore Scientific FCD100 127mm f/7.5 Carbon Fiber Triplet ED APO Refractor Telescope
The Explore Scientific FCD100 127mm f/7.5 Carbon Fiber Triplet ED APO Refractor Telescope is ideal for astronomers seeking a portable yet precise refractor for astrophotography. It features a 127mm aperture, a 952mm focal length, and a f/7.5 focal ratio, delivering sharp images with good color correction thanks to its ED APO triplet lens. Weighing just 14 pounds and measuring 33.25 inches, it’s easy to transport. While optical performance is decent, some users find it doesn’t outperform less expensive reflectors, and customer support has been criticized. Overall, it offers portability but may fall short on value and long-term satisfaction.
Best For: amateur astronomers and astrophotographers seeking a portable, high-quality refractor with excellent color correction for planetary and deep-sky observations.
Pros:
- Lightweight and portable at just 14 pounds with a compact 33.25-inch size
- High-quality ED APO triplet lens for sharp, well-corrected images and good color correction
- Versatile f/7.5 focal ratio suitable for planetary, lunar, and some deep-sky observing and astrophotography
Cons:
- Customer reviews indicate mixed satisfaction, with some feeling it does not outperform less expensive reflectors
- Reports of poor customer service and difficulty obtaining warranty support
- Perceived high price point relative to optical quality and performance
Askar 120APO Telescope for Astrophotography
If you’re serious about astrophotography and need a lightweight, high-performance refractor, the Askar 120APO stands out as an excellent choice. It features a 120mm aperture, 840mm focal length, and an f/7 focal ratio, making it versatile and sharp. Its triplet air-spaced APO design, including ED glass, minimizes chromatic aberration for crisp images. Weighing around 5.7kg, it’s portable and easy to handle in the field. The package includes essential accessories like tube rings, a handle, a dovetail plate, and a carrying case. Overall, the Askar 120APO offers outstanding optical quality in a compact, durable package ideal for astrophotographers.
Best For: astrophotographers and amateur astronomers seeking a lightweight, high-quality refractor for capturing crisp, high-contrast celestial images.
Pros:
- Triplet air-spaced APO design with ED glass minimizes chromatic aberration for sharp images
- Compact and lightweight at approximately 5.7kg, making it highly portable for field use
- Complete package includes essential accessories like tube rings, dovetail plate, handle, and carrying case
Cons:
- Slightly higher price point compared to basic refractors
- Limited to 120mm aperture, which may be less suitable for very deep-sky astrophotography requiring larger apertures
- Requires compatible mount and possibly additional accessories for optimal astrophotography setup
Explore Scientific FCD100 Series 80mm Apochromatic Refractor Telescope
Designed for amateur astronomers and astrophotographers seeking high-quality, portable optics, the Explore Scientific FCD100 Series 80mm Apochromatic Refractor Telescope delivers exceptional image clarity. Its air-spaced triplet design with genuine Hoya FCD100 ED glass virtually eliminates chromatic aberrations, providing sharp, detailed views ideal for astrophotography. With an 80mm aperture, f/6 focal ratio, and 480mm focal length, it captures considerably more light than smaller scopes, revealing the Moon, planets, nebulae, galaxies, and star clusters. Compact at just 7 pounds, it includes a high-precision focuser, dew shield, and Vixen-style dovetail, making it an excellent portable option for both visual and imaging pursuits.
Best For: amateur astronomers and astrophotographers seeking a portable, high-quality refractor with excellent optical performance for both visual observation and astrophotography.
Pros:
- Virtually eliminates chromatic aberrations thanks to air-spaced triplet design with genuine Hoya FCD100 ED glass
- Compact, lightweight, and portable at only 7 pounds, ideal for on-the-go stargazing and field use
- Includes a high-precision 2.5-inch two-speed focuser, dew shield, and Vixen-style dovetail for ease of use and compatibility
Cons:
- Slightly higher cost compared to entry-level refractors with similar aperture
- Limited aperture size may restrict deep-sky imaging compared to larger telescopes
- Requires additional accessories (e.g., mount, camera adapters) for astrophotography, which may add to overall setup cost
SVBONY SV550 Telescope with Field Flattener Bundle
For astrophotographers seeking an affordable yet high-performing telescope, the SVBONY SV550 with Field Flattener Bundle stands out as an excellent choice. Its 80mm F6 APO triplet design delivers sharp, flat images across both half-frame and full-frame cameras, thanks to the included 1.0X field flattener. The package’s lightweight magnesium alloy focusing seat, combined with its compact dimensions, makes it portable and easy to handle. Despite its price point being markedly lower than comparable models, users report excellent image clarity and minimal distortion. It’s a reliable, versatile option perfect for deep-sky imaging, especially for those starting out or on a budget.
Best For: Beginner to intermediate astrophotographers seeking an affordable, portable, and high-quality telescope for deep-sky imaging.
Pros:
- Sharp, flat images across both half-frame and full-frame cameras due to the 1.0X field flattener
- Lightweight magnesium alloy focusing seat reduces weight and enhances durability
- Excellent image clarity and minimal distortion at a significantly lower price point compared to similar models
Cons:
- Focal locks may function more like “focus please don’t move” knobs, risking accidental shifts
- Internal dust can be present but is easily cleaned
- Mount/rail is low profile, which may cause contact with the focuser when balancing
Celestron Omni XLT 120 Refractor Telescope
The Celestron Omni XLT 120 Refractor Telescope stands out as an excellent choice for amateur astronomers who want high-quality optics combined with precise tracking capabilities. Its hand-selected optical glass and fully multi-coated StarBright XLT coatings deliver bright, sharp images with excellent contrast. The optical tube, a hand-figured refractor, sits on a Celestron CG-4 German equatorial mount with worm gear slow-motion controls, ensuring smooth, accurate tracking. The included accessories—finderscope, sturdy tripod, star diagonal, and eyepiece—make it ready for immediate use. Plus, the Starry Night software adds educational value, perfect for exploring the night sky in detail.
Best For: amateur astronomers seeking high-quality optics and precise tracking for detailed celestial observation.
Pros:
- Hand-selected optical glass with fully multi-coated StarBright XLT coatings for bright, clear images
- Accurate tracking with worm gear slow-motion controls on the Celestron CG-4 German equatorial mount
- Complete package with finderscope, sturdy tripod, star diagonal, and educational software for immediate use
Cons:
- May be heavier and less portable due to the sturdy tripod and mount design
- Requires some setup and alignment, which could be challenging for absolute beginners
- Not ideal for astrophotography without additional accessories or mounts
Explore Scientific ED80 Air-Spaced Apochromatic Refractor Telescope
If you’re looking for a compact, high-quality telescope that excels at astrophotography, the Explore Scientific ED80 Air-Spaced Apochromatic Refractor is a top choice. Its 80mm aperture with genuine FCD1 HOYA ED glass and multi-layer coatings delivers sharp, high-contrast images of the Moon, planets, and deep-sky objects. The air-spaced triplet design virtually eliminates chromatic aberration, making it ideal for capturing detailed astrophotos. Its lightweight build (around 6 pounds) and retractable dew shield make it portable and easy to set up. Compatible with guide scopes and CCD cameras, many users praise its optical performance, making it a favorite among astrophotographers seeking quality and versatility.
Best For: amateur astronomers and astrophotographers seeking a portable, high-quality apochromatic refractor for detailed planetary, lunar, and deep-sky imaging.
Pros:
- Exceptional optical quality with genuine FCD1 HOYA ED glass and multi-layer coatings for high-contrast, sharp images
- Virtually eliminates chromatic aberration thanks to air-spaced triplet design, ideal for astrophotography
- Compact, lightweight, and portable with a retractable dew shield, making setup and transport easy
Cons:
- Included mount may have play and might require upgrade or modification for optimal stability
- Some find the finder scope mount proprietary and may need adapters or specific finders
- Minor manufacturing defects and sharp edges on the focuser require caution during handling
Celestron StarSense Explorer DX 130AZ Telescope with Smartphone Dock
Designed specifically for beginners, the Celestron StarSense Explorer DX 130AZ combines practical features with innovative technology to simplify stargazing. Its 130mm Newtonian reflector offers bright, detailed views of the Moon, planets, and deep-sky objects. The manual altazimuth mount with slow-motion controls makes tracking easy, while the adjustable tripod ensures comfortable viewing. The standout feature is its smartphone dock and StarSense app, which uses sky recognition technology to guide users directly to celestial targets. This intuitive system often surpasses traditional GoTo mounts in accuracy. Overall, it’s an excellent choice for newcomers seeking a user-friendly, smart telescope that makes exploring the night sky straightforward.
Best For: beginners and amateur astronomers looking for an easy-to-use, smart telescope with guided sky navigation.
Pros:
- User-friendly app with sky recognition technology for easy object locating
- Bright 130mm aperture provides clear, detailed views of planets and deep-sky objects
- Quick and straightforward assembly suitable for newcomers
Cons:
- Manual altazimuth mount may be less precise for tracking moving objects over extended periods
- Smartphone dock compatibility limited to iPhone 6+ and Android phones from 2016 onward
- Slightly heavier and bulkier compared to more compact beginner telescopes
Explore Scientific ED102 Triplet Refractor Telescope
For amateur astronomers seeking high-quality astrophotography capabilities, the Explore Scientific ED102 Triplet Refractor Telescope stands out with its exceptional optical design and portability. It features a 102mm aperture, f/7 focal ratio, and an air-spaced triplet that nearly eliminates chromatic aberration. Using genuine FCD1 HOYA ED glass and multi-layer coatings, it delivers sharp, high-contrast images with detailed stars, nebulas, and galaxies. While minor imperfections exist, like slight star shape issues, overall image quality is impressive. Its portable design, with a retractable dew shield and secure handle, makes setup and travel easy—perfect for both visual observation and astrophotography.
Best For: amateur astronomers and astrophotographers seeking high-quality, portable refractor with excellent optical performance and minimal chromatic aberration.
Pros:
- Exceptional optical quality with high-contrast, sharp images using genuine FCD1 HOYA ED glass
- Portable design with retractable dew shield and secure handle for easy travel and quick setup
- Suitable for both visual observation and astrophotography, producing detailed images even in light-polluted environments
Cons:
- Slight optical imperfections such as minor star shape issues and a small airy disc misshape
- Focuser may have some backlash and slop, potentially requiring upgrades for finer control
- Additional accessories like finders, eyepieces, and spacers are necessary for optimal performance
Factors to Consider When Choosing 130MM Triplet APO Refractors for Astrophotography
When selecting a 130mm triplet APO for astrophotography, I consider several key factors to guarantee I get the best performance. These include optical quality, focal length, and mounting options, as well as how easy it is to focus and the overall cost. Understanding these points helps me find a telescope that balances quality and value for my astrophotography needs.
Optical Quality and Glass
The optical quality of a 130mm triplet APO refractor hinges largely on the type of ED glass used, as high-grade FPL-51 or FCD1 glass can dramatically improve color correction and contrast. Genuine apochromatic triplets use three air-spaced lenses to minimize chromatic aberration, resulting in sharper images across the spectrum. Multi-layer coatings on all optical surfaces boost light transmission, making images brighter and clearer while reducing reflections. The use of ED glass effectively diminishes violet and blue fringing around bright objects, ensuring accurate color reproduction. Minor imperfections like slight star distortion or edge aberrations are common but typically minimized with quality glass and proper assembly, minimally impacting the overall viewing and imaging experience. High-quality glass is essential for achieving ideal optical performance.
Focal Length and Ratio
Focal length and ratio are key considerations because they directly impact the image scale and overall performance of a 130mm triplet APO refractor in astrophotography. A longer focal length provides higher magnification and better resolution, ideal for planetary and lunar detail. The focal ratio, calculated by dividing the focal length by the aperture, affects exposure times and image brightness. Common ratios like f/6 to f/8 balance field of view and image sharpness. Faster ratios (e.g., f/6) enable shorter exposures, great for less sensitive cameras or fleeting conditions. Slower ratios (f/7.5 to f/8) deliver a broader depth of field and sharper star points, which benefit deep-sky imaging. Choosing the right focal length and ratio depends on your targets, camera, and desired field of view.
Mounting and Portability
Choosing the right mounting system is essential because it directly influences the stability, ease of use, and portability of your 130mm triplet APO refractor. For field astrophotography, a lightweight, compact mount is necessary for easy transport and quick setup. Sturdy mounts like equatorial or altazimuth types with adequate load capacity help maintain stability during long exposures. A dovetail rail around 300mm long improves balance and makes attaching the telescope straightforward. Dual-speed or fine-adjustment controls are crucial for precise focus and alignment, which are indispensable for high-quality imaging. Handling and transporting your refractor safely involve using protective cases or padding to prevent damage. Overall, a portable, well-supported mount enhances your experience and guarantees optimal performance during astrophotography sessions.
Focusing Mechanism Ease
A smooth and precise focusing mechanism is essential for astrophotography, as it directly affects your ability to capture pinpoint stars and sharp images at high magnifications. Dual-speed or fine-focus controls make incremental adjustments easier, reducing overshoot and saving setup time. Focuser backlash, slop, or play can cause instability, making it difficult to lock in perfect focus and potentially degrading image quality. A focuser with a gear ratio of 1:10 or higher offers finer control, which is crucial for detailed astrophotography. Upgrading or replacing stock focusers with high-quality, rigid options can significantly improve focusing accuracy. Overall, a reliable and smooth focusing mechanism is vital for achieving sharp, high-quality images and making the most of your 130mm triplet refractor.
Price and Value Ratio
While price is an important factor, it doesn’t always reflect a 130mm triplet APO refractor’s true value for astrophotography. A higher price doesn’t guarantee better optical quality or performance. When evaluating value, I look beyond initial costs to consider optical design, build quality, included accessories, and support. Some models offer premium features like advanced coatings or smoother focuser mechanisms at similar or lower prices, which can greatly enhance overall value. Keep in mind that additional expenses for mounts, diagonals, and filters also influence the total investment and how well the scope performs in real-world astrophotography. Comparing optical performance and features against the price helps me determine if a more affordable option offers comparable or even superior value for my specific needs.
Compatibility With Accessories
Ensuring your 130mm triplet APO refractor is compatible with your accessories is essential for smooth astrophotography sessions. First, check that the telescope’s back focus and optical layout match your camera, filters, and accessories to avoid setup issues. Make sure the focuser can support the adapters, T-rings, and extension tubes you need for attaching your gear securely. It’s also important that the eyepiece and accessory ports support standard sizes like 1.25-inch or 2-inch, so your existing equipment fits without hassle. Additionally, verify that any included or optional field flatteners, reducers, or extenders are compatible with the optical design to preserve image quality. Finally, consider the mounting options and compatibility with third-party accessories like guide scopes and focusers to enhance your imaging flexibility.
Build Durability and Support
Choosing a durable 130mm triplet APO refractor means prioritizing high-quality materials like magnesium alloy or reinforced aluminum, which can better withstand frequent use and outdoor conditions. A sturdy build prevents damage during transport and handling, guaranteeing consistent optical performance. Support hardware such as robust mounting rings, dovetail plates, and a reliable focuser are essential for maintaining proper alignment and avoiding mechanical issues. Well-designed telescopes also incorporate internal light barriers and sealing to protect against dust, moisture, and shocks. Additionally, strong customer support and warranty services give peace of mind, addressing potential problems like optical misalignment or component wear. Overall, a reliable build ensures your telescope remains durable and functional across years of astrophotography adventures.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do 130MM Triplet APOS Compare to Larger Aperture Models?
A 130mm triplet APO refractor offers excellent image quality and portability, making it great for astrophotography. While larger aperture models gather more light and reveal more detail, they tend to be heavier, more expensive, and less portable. I find that a 130mm strikes a good balance between performance and convenience, especially for those wanting high-quality images without the hassle of larger, bulkier scopes.
What Accessories Are Essential for Optimal Astrophotography With These Refractors?
Think of your telescope as a musical instrument—accessories are the fine-tuned strings. For best astrophotography with a 130mm triplet APO, I recommend a high-quality mount for stability, a reliable autoguider for pinpoint accuracy, and a sturdy tripod. A good field flattener ensures sharp images across the frame, while filters can enhance contrast. Don’t forget a remote shutter to minimize vibrations—these tools help turn your stargazing into stellar captures.
Are 130MM Triplet APOS Suitable for Planetary Imaging?
Yes, I find 130mm triplet APO refractors excellent for planetary imaging. Their apochromatic design reduces chromatic aberration, providing sharp, high-contrast images of planets. The aperture size balances light-gathering power and portability, making it versatile. I recommend pairing them with a high-quality camera and a stable mount for the best results. They’re a fantastic choice for serious planetary astrophotography, offering detailed, vibrant images.
How Does Chromatic Aberration Affect Image Quality in These Telescopes?
Chromatic aberration can really impact image quality by causing color fringing around bright objects, which reduces clarity. In a quality 130mm triplet APO, this issue is minimized thanks to ED glass elements designed to correct color dispersion. I find that these telescopes produce sharp, vibrant images with minimal false color, making them excellent for astrophotography, especially when capturing planets and deep-sky objects where color accuracy matters.
What Maintenance Routines Ensure Long-Term Performance of 130MM Triplet APOS?
To keep my 130mm triplet APO performing well long-term, I regularly clean the lenses with proper optical cleaner and a microfiber cloth, avoiding harsh chemicals. I also check for dust and moisture, storing it in a dry, dust-free environment with a dew shield. Collimation is essential; I do it periodically to maintain sharp images. finally, I tighten any loose screws and keep the mount well-maintained for smooth tracking.
Conclusion
So, after diving into these fantastic 130mm triplet apo refractors, you’d think choosing one would be straightforward, right? Turns out, the hardest part is resisting the urge to buy every single one. Who knew that picking the perfect astrophotography scope could be so delightful and overwhelming at the same time? But hey, if you end up with more than one, at least you’ll have plenty of stunning night sky shots to keep you busy—and broke!
