Construction
A high-quality optical tube keeps the optics precisely aligned allowing for heavy optical equipment to be attached at the focuser end. The optical tube has been internally anti-reflection coated and greatly benefits from knife-edge baffles that prevent stray light from reaching the focal plane thus significantly increasing image contrast and sharpness. In addition, the optical tube assembly has a dew shield that also protects the lenses from condensation forming on the objective when the telescope is used in unfavourable conditions.
The telescope's 2-inch rack & pinion focuser draw tube has a printed millimetre scale to aid with focusing and repositioning, in addition the focuser has brass compression rings to better secure and not scratch accessories. It comes with a 1.25-inch eyepiece adapter so it will accommodate both 2-inch and 1.25-inch eyepieces and other accessories. The 1.25-inch adapter has a T-thread on its end that will enable the use of T-threaded accessories including DSLR cameras, filter-wheels etc.
A single–piece cradle with a carry-handle is used to lift and support the telescope on its mount. The telescope has a Vixen/Sky-Watcher type dovetail with a steel plate and will mount on most astronomical mounts. The carry-handle has been designed so as to enable the user to attach a DSLR, guide-scope or other accessories without the need of side-by-side platforms or similar, thus reducing costs, telescope total weight and the need for a heavier mount.
Opticstar ARC telescopes on equatorial mounts (mount not included with ARC optical tube assemblies).
Collimation
The ARC-152 comes collimated from the factory. If there was a need the objective could be collimated by an experienced user, three sets of easily accessible screws allow for precise collimation. Collimation can take place on a star under good atmospheric conditions or with the use of an artificial star.
Accessories
The ARC-152 comes with a 8x50mm finder scope and bracket. A 1.25-inch diagonal, and 25mm Plossl eyepieces are also included. An optional 13% transparency Moon filter is recommended as is a 4mm-4.5mm eyepiece for high power viewing.
Carries full one year UK warranty.
