{"title":"Pleiades","description":"","products":[{"product_id":"william-optics-pleiades-68-astrograph","title":"William Optics Pleiades 68 Astrograph","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003eWilliam Optics Pleiades 68 Astrograph\u003c\/strong\u003e is a fast 68mm f\/3.8 7-element imaging APO designed for advanced wide-field deep-sky astrophotography. With a 260mm focal length, 48mm image circle, Super ED glass, and William Optics Internal Focuser Design, it is built for astrophotographers who want speed, precision, and a compact optical system for full-frame and APS-C imaging.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWho Is This Product Best For?\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe Pleiades 68 is best for intermediate to advanced astrophotographers who want an ultra-fast wide-field astrograph and are comfortable with precise backfocus, focusing, and camera alignment. It is especially well suited for imagers who want to capture nebulae, large star fields, and faint deep-sky structures with shorter exposures.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy Choose This Product?\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFast f\/3.8 focal ratio:\u003c\/strong\u003e Helps reduce exposure time for deep-sky imaging.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e7-element optical design:\u003c\/strong\u003e Built for sharp, well-corrected astro-imaging performance.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e68mm aperture:\u003c\/strong\u003e Compact but capable light-gathering performance for wide-field imaging.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e48mm image circle:\u003c\/strong\u003e Supports full-frame, APS-C, and Micro Four Thirds imaging systems.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWIFD focuser:\u003c\/strong\u003e Helps maintain stability in demanding astrophotography setups.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eRecommended Uses\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFast wide-field deep-sky astrophotography\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLarge nebula imaging\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMilky Way region imaging\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStar-field imaging\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePortable and advanced backyard imaging systems\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFull-frame and APS-C camera setups\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCompatibility and Accessory Notes\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe Pleiades 68 includes a tilt adjuster rotator plus M63 to M48 and M63 to M54 adapters. It supports common camera mount ecosystems including Canon EF, Canon RF, Nikon F, Nikon Z, Sony E, Pentax K, Micro Four Thirds, and Fuji X. William Optics notes that this model does not include an internal M48 filter thread, so a filter wheel connected to the M48 or M54 thread is recommended for filter use.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eImportant Limitations\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe Pleiades 68 is designed specifically for astrophotography and does not support visual observing. Its fast f\/3.8 optical system also makes accurate 55mm backfocus especially important for optimal performance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003ch3\u003eIs the Pleiades 68 good for beginners?\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003eIt is better suited to intermediate and advanced astrophotographers because the fast f\/3.8 design rewards precise spacing, focus, and camera setup.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eWhat type of astrophotography is it best for?\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003eIt is best for fast wide-field deep-sky imaging, large nebulae, star fields, and full-frame or APS-C astrophotography.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eDoes it need a flattener?\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003eNo. The optical design is built for astro-imaging without a separate field flattener.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eCan it be used visually?\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003eNo. This telescope is designed for astrophotography only and does not support visual observing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eOur Recommendation\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe William Optics Pleiades 68 is a strong choice for astrophotographers who want a very fast compact astrograph for wide-field deep-sky imaging. Choose it when imaging speed, full-frame support, and high optical correction matter. Consider a more forgiving Cat-series model if you want simpler setup and less sensitivity to backfocus spacing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eOptical Diagram Reports\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe following optical report graphic is included for customers who want to review optical performance.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0686\/0049\/6239\/files\/william-optics-pleiades-68-diagram-01.jpg?v=1779647395\" alt=\"William Optics Pleiades 68 optical diagram report\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"William Optics","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53154133409903,"sku":"T-P-68BU","price":2797.2,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0686\/0049\/6239\/files\/william-optics-pleiades-68-perspective-1.jpg?v=1779647322"},{"product_id":"william-optics-pleiades-111-astrograph","title":"William Optics Pleiades 111 Astrograph","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003eWilliam Optics Pleiades 111 Astrograph\u003c\/strong\u003e is a premium 111mm f\/4.8 7-element imaging APO designed for serious deep-sky astrophotography with large, high-resolution cameras. With a 528mm focal length, Super ED glass, WIFD internal focusing, camera angle rotation, and tilt adjustment, it is built for astrophotographers who want sharp, high-contrast imaging performance in a dedicated astrograph.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWho Is This Product Best For?\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe Pleiades 111 is best for experienced astrophotographers using full-frame, APS-C, or Micro Four Thirds cameras who want a fast, premium imaging telescope for nebulae, galaxies, star fields, and detailed deep-sky targets. It is a strong choice for advanced backyard imagers, permanent setups, and customers who value a purpose-built optical system for imaging rather than visual observing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy Choose This Product?\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e111mm aperture:\u003c\/strong\u003e Provides serious light-gathering ability for deep-sky imaging.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFast f\/4.8 focal ratio:\u003c\/strong\u003e Helps capture faint objects efficiently.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e7-element astrograph optical system:\u003c\/strong\u003e Designed for sharp, well-corrected astrophotography performance.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e528mm focal length:\u003c\/strong\u003e A versatile focal length for nebulae, galaxies, and star fields.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWIFD internal focuser:\u003c\/strong\u003e Maintains stability with heavier camera systems.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eIntegrated rotator and tilt adapter:\u003c\/strong\u003e Helps with framing and corner-to-corner image optimization.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eRecommended Uses\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDeep-sky astrophotography\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNebula and galaxy imaging\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFull-frame and APS-C imaging systems\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAdvanced backyard astrophotography\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePermanent or semi-permanent observatory setups\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCompatibility and Accessory Notes\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe Pleiades 111 includes a tilt adjuster rotator with M48 and M54 camera adapters. It supports common camera mount ecosystems including Canon EF, Canon RF, Nikon F, Nikon Z, Sony E, Pentax K, Micro Four Thirds, and Fuji X. William Optics recommends a precise 55mm backfocus setting, and customers should carefully confirm camera spacing, filter wheel thickness, and adapter requirements before imaging.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eImportant Limitations\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe Pleiades 111 is an astrophotography-only telescope and does not support visual observation. It is best for customers building a dedicated imaging system, not customers looking for an eyepiece-based visual telescope.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003ch3\u003eIs the Pleiades 111 good for beginners?\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003eIt is best for experienced imagers or serious beginners who are comfortable with equatorial mounts, guiding, backfocus spacing, focusing, and image processing.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eWhat type of astrophotography is it best for?\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003eIt is best for deep-sky astrophotography, including nebulae, galaxies, star fields, and full-frame camera imaging.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eDoes it need a flattener?\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003eNo. The Pleiades 111 is designed as a 7-element astrograph and does not require a separate flattener.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eCan it be used visually?\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003eNo. William Optics specifies that this telescope is designed for astrophotography and does not support visual observation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eOur Recommendation\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe William Optics Pleiades 111 is a strong choice for astrophotographers who want a premium, fast, mid-focal-length astrograph for detailed deep-sky imaging. Choose it if you need more aperture and reach than compact astrographs while keeping the image train purpose-built for cameras. Do not choose it if your goal is visual observing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eOptical Diagram Reports\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe following optical report graphic is included for customers who want to review optical performance.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0686\/0049\/6239\/files\/william-optics-pleiades-111-diagram-01.jpg?v=1779647652\" alt=\"William Optics Pleiades 111 optical diagram report\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"William Optics","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53154142027887,"sku":"T-P-111BU","price":5317.2,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0686\/0049\/6239\/files\/william-optics-pleiades-111-perspective-1.jpg?v=1779647602"},{"product_id":"william-optics-pleiades-181-astrograph","title":"William Optics Pleiades 181 Astrograph","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003eWilliam Optics Pleiades 181 Astrograph\u003c\/strong\u003e is a large-aperture 181mm f\/5.5 7-element astrograph designed for advanced astrophotographers using medium-format and full-frame camera systems. With a 998mm focal length, greater-than-55mm corrected image circle, Super ED glass, and a precision rack-and-pinion focuser, it is built for serious deep-sky imaging where resolution, optical correction, and large camera support are priorities.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWho Is This Product Best For?\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe Pleiades 181 is best for advanced astrophotographers, permanent observatory users, and serious backyard imagers who want a high-end imaging telescope for medium-format astrophotography. It is ideal for customers who already understand equatorial mounts, guiding, camera spacing, focusing, large imaging trains, and image processing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy Choose This Product?\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e181mm aperture:\u003c\/strong\u003e Large light-gathering performance for serious deep-sky imaging.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e998mm focal length:\u003c\/strong\u003e Excellent for galaxies, detailed nebulae, and high-resolution deep-sky targets.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e7-element temperature-compensated optical system:\u003c\/strong\u003e Designed for sharp, stable imaging performance.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMedium-format support:\u003c\/strong\u003e Corrected for a greater-than-55mm image circle.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e4.1-inch rack-and-pinion focuser:\u003c\/strong\u003e Supports demanding imaging trains and precise focusing.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCosmos steering wheel:\u003c\/strong\u003e Helps with handling, rotation, and positioning of the large optical tube.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eRecommended Uses\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAdvanced deep-sky astrophotography\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMedium-format imaging\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFull-frame astrophotography\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGalaxy and nebula imaging\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePermanent and semi-permanent observatory setups\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHigh-resolution long-exposure imaging\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCompatibility and Accessory Notes\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe Pleiades 181 includes a tilt adjuster rotator plus M68, M54, and M48 camera adapters. It supports common camera mount ecosystems including Canon EF, Canon RF, Nikon F, Nikon Z, Sony E, Pentax K, Micro Four Thirds, and Fuji X. Customers should confirm mount capacity, camera spacing, filter wheel clearance, focuser control, guiding setup, and permanent mounting requirements before purchase. The EQ mount shown in vendor images is not included.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eImportant Limitations\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe Pleiades 181 is an astrophotography-only telescope and does not support visual observation. Due to its size and weight, it should be paired with a suitable high-capacity equatorial mount and is best suited to serious imaging systems rather than casual portable use.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003ch3\u003eIs the Pleiades 181 good for beginners?\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003eNo. The Pleiades 181 is best for advanced astrophotographers and observatory users with experience in mounts, guiding, camera spacing, focusing, and long-exposure imaging.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eWhat type of astrophotography is it best for?\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003eIt is best for high-resolution deep-sky imaging, including galaxies, detailed nebulae, and medium-format astrophotography.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eDoes it need a flattener?\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003eNo. The Pleiades 181 is designed as a 7-element astrograph and does not require a separate flattener.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eCan it be used visually?\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003eNo. William Optics specifies that the optical design is for astrophotography and does not support visual observing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eOur Recommendation\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe William Optics Pleiades 181 is a specialized premium astrograph for experienced imagers who want large-aperture, medium-format deep-sky performance. Choose it for observatory-class astrophotography, large camera sensors, and high-resolution imaging. Do not choose it for visual astronomy, beginner use, or lightweight portable setups.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eOptical Diagram Reports\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe following optical report graphics are included for customers who want to review optical performance.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0686\/0049\/6239\/files\/william-optics-pleiades-181-diagram-1.jpg?v=1779647923\" alt=\"William Optics Pleiades 181 optical diagram report\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0686\/0049\/6239\/files\/william-optics-pleiades-181-diagram-2.jpg?v=1779647935\" alt=\"William Optics Pleiades 181 optical diagram report\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"William Optics","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53154152218735,"sku":"T-P-181RD","price":26597.2,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0686\/0049\/6239\/files\/william-optics-pleiades-181-perspective-1.jpg?v=1779647868"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0686\/0049\/6239\/collections\/william-optics-pleiades-68-perspective-1.jpg?v=1779820287","url":"https:\/\/ontariotelescope.com\/collections\/pleiades.oembed","provider":"Ontario Telescope and Accessories","version":"1.0","type":"link"}