{"title":"Takahashi Reflectors","description":"\u003cp\u003eTakahashi reflecting telescopes — the Mewlon Dall-Kirkham Cassegrains for long focal length planetary and small deep-sky work, and the Epsilon hyperbolic Newtonian astrographs for fast, flat wide-field imaging at f\/2.8 to f\/3.3. Both families take dedicated Takahashi correctors with published back focus figures.\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"takahashi-epsilon-e-160ed-160mm-f-3-3-hyperbolic-astrograph-ota","title":"Takahashi Epsilon E-160ED 160mm f\/3.3 Hyperbolic Astrograph OTA","description":"\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct Overview\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe Epsilon-160ED is a 160 mm hyperbolic Newtonian astrograph from Takahashi, built for deep-sky imaging at a native f\/3.3. A hyperbolic primary mirror, flat secondary, and an integrated field-flattening corrector work together inside the tube, so there is no separate flattener to buy, align, or space out. The 530 mm focal length puts a flat 44 mm image circle 56.2 mm behind the focuser, and the published tube weight of 6.9 kg keeps it well inside the payload of a mid-size equatorial mount carrying a full imaging train.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWho It's For\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis is a good match if you image deep-sky targets — nebulae, galaxies, and star clusters — and want the light-gathering speed of f\/3.3 without the curved focal plane and flat-field-adapter fuss of a Schmidt camera design. It suits an imager already comfortable with reflector collimation, since a Newtonian-derived optical path benefits from periodic checking. It is not built for eyepiece observing — the fast mirror and integrated flattener are optimized for a sensor at a fixed backfocus, not a diagonal and eyepiece.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eKey Features \u0026amp; Design\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHyperbolic primary + flat secondary + integrated flattener:\u003c\/strong\u003e corrects coma and field curvature inside the tube, with no separate corrector lens to purchase or space.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ef\/3.3 native speed:\u003c\/strong\u003e a 530 mm focal length gathers light quickly, shortening exposure times for faint targets compared with a conventional f\/6–f\/8 reflector.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e44 mm image circle:\u003c\/strong\u003e covers full-frame and APS-C sensors, with the design holding spot size under roughly 3 micrometers at the field edge.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eOversized rack-and-pinion focuser with integrated Camera Angle Adjuster:\u003c\/strong\u003e lets you rotate the imaging train to frame a target without loosening the tube rings.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRemovable central mirror cover:\u003c\/strong\u003e exposes the primary to ambient air for faster thermal acclimation before a session.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eOpen spider-vane secondary support:\u003c\/strong\u003e reduces scattered light and diffraction spikes around bright stars.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOptical \/ Mechanical Design\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe Epsilon-160ED's optical path combines a 160 mm hyperbolic primary mirror with a flat secondary and a built-in multi-element field flattener, a configuration Takahashi calls a modified hyperbolic Newtonian. Unlike a Schmidt camera, the focal plane is flat and the corrective elements live inside the tube rather than as a separate accessory train, which keeps the back focus fixed at 56.2 mm from the focuser's rear end. At f\/3.3 the design cuts exposure times sharply against slower reflectors while holding the 44 mm image circle flat and coma-free. An optional Ɛ-EX 160ED extender changes the configuration to 800 mm at f\/5.0, with the same 44 mm image circle and 56.2 mm back focus, for imagers who want tighter framing on the same optical tube.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRecommended Uses\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003eWide- to moderate-field deep-sky astrophotography of nebulae, galaxies and star clusters; narrowband and broadband imaging with a cooled CMOS or CCD camera; observatory or portable imaging rigs built around a fast reflector rather than a refractor.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCompatibility and Accessory Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe 56.2 mm back focus is measured from the rear end of the focuser to the focal plane and is fixed by the integrated flattener — there is no field-flattener spacing to calculate for prime focus imaging. Camera trains, filter drawers and off-axis guiders all need to fit inside that figure, so it is worth checking your full imaging stack against it before ordering. The \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/takahashi-back-focus-guide\"\u003eTakahashi Back Focus Guide\u003c\/a\u003e covers this and the Ɛ-EX 160ED extender configuration in detail. Because this is a Newtonian-derived design, periodic collimation is part of ownership — Takahashi's collimating tools work with this tube.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGood to Know Before You Order\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNot built for eyepiece observing:\u003c\/strong\u003e the fast mirror and fixed-backfocus flattener are matched to a camera sensor, not a diagonal and eyepiece.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCollimation is periodic maintenance, not a one-time setup:\u003c\/strong\u003e like any fast Newtonian-derived optic, the mirrors benefit from a collimation check after transport, and Takahashi's own collimating eyepiece and telescope handle it directly.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMount and tripod are not included:\u003c\/strong\u003e this listing is the optical tube assembly only.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs it difficult to set up?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe optical side is straightforward — the flattener is built in, so there is no separate corrector to space out. The part that takes practice is collimation, which any fast Newtonian-derived design needs checked periodically; Takahashi's collimating tools are built for this tube.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is it best used for?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eDeep-sky astrophotography at a fast focal ratio — nebulae, galaxies and clusters that benefit from short sub-exposures at f\/3.3.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCan I use it for visual observing?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIt has no real application in a visual eyepiece train; the flattener and back focus are set for a camera sensor.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat cameras does it fit?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAny cooled CMOS or CCD astronomy camera that can reach the 56.2 mm back focus with its own nosepiece, filter wheel or off-axis guider included in that figure — send us your camera and filter setup and we will work it out with you.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow is this different from the Epsilon-180ED?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe 180ED steps up to a 180 mm aperture and a faster f\/2.8, with a larger, heavier tube; the 160ED is the lighter, more mount-friendly option at f\/3.3.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBottom Line\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn short: a 160 mm f\/3.3 hyperbolic astrograph with the flattener built in, delivering a flat 44 mm image circle at a fixed 56.2 mm back focus for fast deep-sky imaging.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Takahashi","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54047049285743,"sku":"TAK-TEK16010","price":5648.5,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0686\/0049\/6239\/files\/TEK16010_1.jpg?v=1786911556"},{"product_id":"takahashi-epsilon-180ed-180mm-f-2-8-hyperbolic-flat-field-astrograph-ota","title":"Takahashi Epsilon 180ED 180mm f\/2.8 Hyperbolic Flat-Field Astrograph OTA","description":"\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct Overview\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe Epsilon-180ED is Takahashi's largest and fastest Epsilon astrograph, a 180 mm hyperbolic Newtonian design running at a native f\/2.8. A hyperbolic primary mirror, flat secondary, and an integrated field-flattening corrector combine inside the tube to put a flat 44 mm image circle 56.2 mm behind the focuser, with no separate corrector to buy or align. The published tube weight is 10.7 kg, putting it toward the upper end of what a mid-to-large equatorial mount should carry with a full imaging train attached.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWho It's For\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis is a good match if your priority is imaging speed — f\/2.8 gathers light quickly enough to shorten exposure times noticeably against slower optics, which matters most for faint, extended nebulosity. It suits an imager already running a fast reflector or astrograph, since the larger 180 mm mirror and 10.7 kg tube ask for a mount with real payload margin and benefit from a user comfortable checking collimation.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eKey Features \u0026amp; Design\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHyperbolic primary + flat secondary + integrated flattener:\u003c\/strong\u003e corrects coma and field curvature inside the tube, with no separate corrector to purchase or space.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ef\/2.8 native speed:\u003c\/strong\u003e among the fastest astrograph designs Takahashi builds, cutting exposure times sharply against conventional reflectors.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e44 mm image circle:\u003c\/strong\u003e covers full-frame and APS-C sensors with a flat field.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRack-and-pinion focuser with rotary framing and integrated Camera Angle Adjuster:\u003c\/strong\u003e rotates the imaging train to frame a target without loosening the tube rings.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAccessible collimation with reference marks on both mirrors:\u003c\/strong\u003e makes checking and adjusting the optical alignment more direct than on a typical Newtonian.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOptical \/ Mechanical Design\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe Epsilon-180ED combines a 180 mm hyperbolic primary with a flat secondary and a built-in multi-element field flattener — the same modified-hyperbolic-Newtonian family as the smaller Epsilon-160ED, scaled up to a larger primary and a faster f\/2.8. Takahashi's own comparison places this design's chromatic performance below that of a conventional Schmidt camera at the same speed, while keeping the focal plane flat without a curved plate or field corrector as a separate purchase. Back focus is fixed at 56.2 mm from the focuser's rear end. An optional Ɛ-EX 180ED extender changes the configuration to 780 mm at f\/4.3, holding the same 44 mm image circle and 56.2 mm back focus, for imagers who want a longer effective focal length on the same tube.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRecommended Uses\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003eFast deep-sky astrophotography of faint nebulae, galaxies and extended objects where exposure time matters; narrowband and broadband imaging with a cooled CMOS or CCD camera; observatory imaging setups built around a large, fast reflector.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCompatibility and Accessory Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe 56.2 mm back focus is fixed by the integrated flattener and measured from the rear of the focuser to the focal plane — camera body, filter wheel and any off-axis guider all need to fit within that figure together. The \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/takahashi-back-focus-guide\"\u003eTakahashi Back Focus Guide\u003c\/a\u003e covers this figure and the Ɛ-EX 180ED extender configuration, and we're glad to check a specific camera and filter setup against it before you order. As a Newtonian-derived design, the mirrors benefit from a collimation check after transport, and the built-in reference marks make that a more direct process than on many reflectors.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGood to Know Before You Order\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNot built for eyepiece observing:\u003c\/strong\u003e the fast mirror and fixed-backfocus flattener are matched to a camera sensor.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eA larger mount than the Epsilon-160ED needs:\u003c\/strong\u003e at 10.7 kg published weight, this is a heavier tube than Takahashi's smaller Epsilon models and is worth checking against your mount's imaging payload rating, not just its rated visual capacity.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMount and tripod are not included:\u003c\/strong\u003e this listing is the optical tube assembly only.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs it difficult to set up?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe flattener is built in, so there is no separate corrector to space out. Collimation is the part that takes practice on any fast Newtonian-derived design, and the reference marks on both mirrors here are built to make that check more direct.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is it best used for?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eFast deep-sky astrophotography where exposure time and light-gathering speed matter more than reach — faint nebulae, galaxies and wide extended targets.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCan I use it for visual observing?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIt has no real application in a visual eyepiece train; the flattener and back focus are set for a camera sensor.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat cameras does it fit?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAny cooled CMOS or CCD astronomy camera reaching the 56.2 mm back focus with its own nosepiece, filter wheel or off-axis guider included in that figure — send us your camera and filter setup and we will work it out with you.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow is this different from the Epsilon-160ED?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe 180ED is larger and faster — 180 mm aperture at f\/2.8 against 160 mm at f\/3.3 — and correspondingly heavier at 10.7 kg against 6.9 kg.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBottom Line\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn short: a 180 mm f\/2.8 hyperbolic astrograph with the flattener built in, delivering a flat 44 mm image circle at a fixed 56.2 mm back focus for imagers who want the fastest deep-sky speed Takahashi's Epsilon line offers.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Takahashi","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54047050498159,"sku":"TAK-TEK18010","price":6678.1,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0686\/0049\/6239\/files\/TEK18010_Epsilon-180ED_OTA_1.jpg?v=1786911699"},{"product_id":"takahashi-mewlon-180c-180mm-f-12-dall-kirkham-ota-with-dovetail-plate","title":"Takahashi Mewlon-180C 180mm f\/12 Dall-Kirkham OTA with Dovetail Plate","description":"\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct Overview\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe Mewlon-180C is Takahashi's 180 mm Dall-Kirkham Cassegrain, sold here as an optical tube assembly with a D-series dovetail plate included. At 2160 mm focal length and f\/12 in a 625 mm tube, it packs long-focus resolving power into a 210 mm-diameter body that weighs 6.2 kg. The concave ellipsoidal primary and spherical secondary form the image with no corrector in the light path, and focusing is done by moving the primary mirror itself rather than by a rack-and-pinion drawtube.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWho It's For\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis is a good match if you want a compact, long-focal-length instrument for high-resolution planetary, lunar and double-star observing — the Dall-Kirkham design holds coma to a minimum across the visual field, so images stay sharp to the edge at high power. It also suits imagers working on small- and medium-sized targets — planetary nebulae, galaxy cores, the Moon and planets — where 2160 mm or, with the M-FLRD reducer, 1760 mm at f\/9.8 gives the reach a wide-field refractor cannot.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIf your interest is nebulae and wide Milky Way fields, a fast refractor covers that ground better than this tube's native focal length. Tell us what you are imaging and we can confirm whether the 180C or a shorter instrument fits your target list.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eKey Features \u0026amp; Design\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDall-Kirkham Cassegrain optics:\u003c\/strong\u003e a concave ellipsoidal primary paired with a spherical secondary — simpler to figure accurately than a hyperbolic Ritchey-Chrétien secondary, with negligible coma on-axis.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e2160 mm at f\/12:\u003c\/strong\u003e in a 625 mm tube, 210 mm across — a long native focal length in a body short enough to carry to a dark site.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePrimary-mirror focusing:\u003c\/strong\u003e the focal point moves by translating the primary, extending the back focal length by about 130 mm rather than relying on drawtube travel.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e6.2 kg:\u003c\/strong\u003e light for a 180 mm Cassegrain, within reach of mid-weight equatorial mounts once a diagonal or camera is added.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eD-series dovetail plate included:\u003c\/strong\u003e mounts directly to a compatible saddle without a separate plate purchase.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e67.2 mm of back focus\u003c\/strong\u003e at prime focus, measured from the rear of the 50.8 mm adapter.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOptical \/ Mechanical Design\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003eDall-Kirkham optics use a concave ellipsoidal primary and a spherical secondary rather than the hyperbolic primary and secondary of a Ritchey-Chrétien. The spherical secondary is easier to figure to a high standard, and on-axis coma stays low enough that visual observers rarely notice it. Off-axis field curvature is the tradeoff — the design suits the narrow, high-magnification field a planetary or lunar observer actually uses, rather than a wide, flat astrograph field.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eTakahashi focuses the Mewlon by moving the primary mirror rather than by extending a drawtube, which keeps the optical path sealed against dust and airflow disturbance during focusing. The M-FLRD focal reducer\/flattener brings the system to 1760 mm at f\/9.8 with a 30 mm corrected image circle and 56.2 mm of back focus — useful for imaging where the native f\/12 field is narrower than the sensor calls for.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRecommended Uses\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLunar and planetary observing:\u003c\/strong\u003e at 2160 mm and f\/12, high magnification with minimal coma.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDouble star splitting:\u003c\/strong\u003e the long focal length and central obstruction ratio favour close, faint pairs.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eOccultation timing:\u003c\/strong\u003e a stable, long-focus platform for precise event capture.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSmall- and medium-target imaging:\u003c\/strong\u003e galaxy cores and planetary nebulae at native focal length, or at 1760 mm and f\/9.8 with the M-FLRD reducer for a 30 mm corrected circle.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCompatibility and Accessory Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003eBack focus at prime is 67.2 mm from the rear of the 50.8 mm adapter — narrower than most apochromatic refractors, so a camera train with a long nosepiece or filter drawer may not reach focus without adjustment. Fitting the M-FLRD reducer changes that figure to 56.2 mm. Our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/takahashi-back-focus-guide\"\u003eTakahashi Back Focus Guide\u003c\/a\u003e collects these figures for the whole Takahashi range in one table, and the Downloads tab below carries the Mewlon-180C's own system chart with the exact parts and distances for each configuration.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFinder:\u003c\/strong\u003e Takahashi specifies a 6x30 finder for this tube; a compatible bracket and finder are separate purchases unless noted otherwise at checkout.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDovetail:\u003c\/strong\u003e the included D-series plate fits a Vixen-style or compatible saddle directly.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eReducer\/flattener:\u003c\/strong\u003e the M-FLRD is sold separately and is the only listed conversion accessory for this tube.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMount:\u003c\/strong\u003e sold as an OTA with dovetail plate — no mount, diagonal or eyepiece included. At 6.2 kg plus accessories, a mid-weight equatorial mount rated for 8–10 kg of total payload is a reasonable starting point.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003eIf you are not sure your camera's back focus reaches 67.2 mm, send us your imaging train and we will work out the spacing with you.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGood to Know Before You Order\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eThis is an optical tube assembly.\u003c\/strong\u003e The dovetail plate is included; mount, diagonal, eyepiece and finder are sold separately.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBack focus is tighter than a typical refractor.\u003c\/strong\u003e At 67.2 mm from the 50.8 mm adapter, some camera and diagonal combinations need a shorter adapter stack — the system chart in the Downloads tab lists the parts for each configuration.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eNative field is narrow.\u003c\/strong\u003e At f\/12, the corrected field suits planetary and lunar targets rather than wide nebulae; the M-FLRD reducer widens the field to a 30 mm circle at f\/9.8.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCollimation is occasional maintenance, not a setup step.\u003c\/strong\u003e Like any Cassegrain it can drift with transport, and a collimation eyepiece brings it back into alignment.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs it difficult to set up?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eNo. It arrives collimated from the factory, and because focusing moves the primary mirror rather than a drawtube, there is no separate focuser mechanism to adjust before first light. Occasional collimation touch-ups are normal maintenance for any Cassegrain and are quick with a collimation eyepiece.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is it best used for?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eHigh-resolution lunar and planetary observing, double star splitting, and long-focal-length imaging of small targets — galaxy cores, planetary nebulae, occultation events.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDoes it come with a mount?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eNo. It ships as an optical tube assembly with the D-series dovetail plate. The plate fits a compatible saddle directly, but the mount itself is a separate purchase.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat cameras and accessories does it need for imaging?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAny camera reaching the 67.2 mm back focus at prime, or 56.2 mm with the M-FLRD reducer fitted. Send us your camera and filter setup and we will confirm the spacing before you order.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow is this different from the Mewlon-210?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAperture and resolving power. The 210 has a larger primary and a longer focal length; the 180C is lighter and more portable at a slightly smaller aperture.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhen should this not be the choice?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eFor wide-field nebula or Milky Way imaging, where a fast, short-focal-length refractor covers the frame this tube's narrower field cannot.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBottom Line\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn short: a 180 mm Dall-Kirkham Cassegrain OTA at 2160 mm and f\/12 — 1760 mm at f\/9.8 with the M-FLRD reducer — weighing 6.2 kg and shipping with a D-series dovetail plate. It is built for long-focal-length resolution on the Moon, planets and double stars, with 67.2 mm of back focus to work into an imaging train.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOptical Diagram Reports\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003eTakahashi publishes a spot diagram for the Mewlon-180C at prime focus, showing star images across the field at the design wavelengths.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0686\/0049\/6239\/files\/Mewlon-180C_spots.png?v=1786911644\" alt=\"Takahashi Mewlon-180C 180mm Dall-Kirkham spot diagram at prime focus\" style=\"max-width:100%;height:auto;\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Takahashi","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54047051415663,"sku":"TAK-TLK18100","price":3017.3,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0686\/0049\/6239\/files\/TLK18100_Mewlon-180C_1.jpg?v=1786911777"},{"product_id":"takahashi-mewlon-210-210mm-f-11-5-dall-kirkham-ota","title":"Takahashi Mewlon-210 210mm f\/11.5 Dall-Kirkham OTA","description":"\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct Overview\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe Mewlon-210 is Takahashi's 210 mm Dall-Kirkham Cassegrain, sold as an optical tube assembly. At 2415 mm focal length and f\/11.5 in a 700 mm tube, 244 mm across, it steps up from the Mewlon-180C in aperture and reach while keeping the same concave ellipsoidal primary and spherical secondary design. Weight is 8.1 kg, and focusing moves the primary mirror rather than a rack-and-pinion drawtube.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWho It's For\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis is a good match if you want more aperture and a longer native focal length than the 180C for high-resolution lunar, planetary and double-star observing, or for imaging small targets — galaxy cores, planetary nebulae — where 2415 mm, or 1961 mm at f\/9.3 with the M-FLRD reducer, resolves detail a shorter refractor cannot. Visual observers get a bigger aperture's light grasp and resolving power in a tube that still travels to a dark site.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIf wide-field nebula or Milky Way framing is the goal, this tube's narrow native field is the wrong tool — a fast refractor covers that ground instead. Tell us what you are observing or imaging and we will confirm the fit.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eKey Features \u0026amp; Design\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDall-Kirkham Cassegrain optics:\u003c\/strong\u003e a concave ellipsoidal primary and spherical secondary, with negligible on-axis coma.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e2415 mm at f\/11.5:\u003c\/strong\u003e in a 700 mm tube, 244 mm across — 210 mm of aperture's worth of reach beyond the 180C.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePrimary-mirror focusing:\u003c\/strong\u003e the focal point moves by translating the primary, extending the back focal length by about 160 mm.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e8.1 kg:\u003c\/strong\u003e heavier than the 180C, and worth checking against your mount's payload once a diagonal or camera is attached.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e67.2 mm of back focus\u003c\/strong\u003e at prime focus, measured from the rear of the 50.8 mm adapter.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eM-FLRD reducer compatible:\u003c\/strong\u003e brings the system to 1961 mm at f\/9.3, a 30 mm image circle, at 56.2 mm back focus.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOptical \/ Mechanical Design\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe Mewlon-210 shares its optical formula with the 180C at larger scale: a concave ellipsoidal primary paired with a spherical secondary, which is easier to figure precisely than the hyperbolic secondary a Ritchey-Chrétien needs and keeps on-axis coma negligible. The tradeoff is the same — off-axis field curvature that suits the narrow, high-power field of planetary and lunar work rather than a wide astrograph field.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eFocusing moves the primary mirror internally instead of extending a drawtube, sealing the optical path against dust and reducing focus-induced image shift. The M-FLRD focal reducer\/flattener converts the system to 1961 mm at f\/9.3 with a 30 mm corrected circle and 56.2 mm of back focus, shortening the reach for imaging where 2415 mm at f\/11.5 is longer than the target calls for.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRecommended Uses\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLunar and planetary observing:\u003c\/strong\u003e at 2415 mm and f\/11.5, with the resolving power a 210 mm aperture provides.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDouble star splitting:\u003c\/strong\u003e long focal length and a well-corrected on-axis image favour close, faint pairs.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHigh-resolution imaging of small targets:\u003c\/strong\u003e galaxy cores and planetary nebulae at native focal length, or 1961 mm at f\/9.3 with the M-FLRD reducer.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eVisual deep-sky observing:\u003c\/strong\u003e the aperture gathers more light than the 180C for fainter targets at moderate power.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCompatibility and Accessory Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003eBack focus at prime is 67.2 mm from the rear of the 50.8 mm adapter, narrowing to 56.2 mm with the M-FLRD reducer fitted — tighter than most apochromatic refractors, so a long camera or filter-drawer stack may not reach focus without adjustment. Our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/takahashi-back-focus-guide\"\u003eTakahashi Back Focus Guide\u003c\/a\u003e collects these figures for the whole Takahashi range, and the Mewlon-210's own system chart in the Downloads tab lists the exact parts and distances per configuration.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eReducer\/flattener:\u003c\/strong\u003e the M-FLRD is sold separately and is the listed conversion accessory for this tube.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMount:\u003c\/strong\u003e sold as an OTA — no mount, dovetail, diagonal or eyepiece included. At 8.1 kg before accessories, a mount rated for 12–15 kg of total payload is a reasonable starting point once a diagonal, camera and finder are added.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFinder and dovetail:\u003c\/strong\u003e a compatible finder bracket and dovetail plate are separate purchases for this tube.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003eIf you are not sure your camera reaches the 67.2 mm or 56.2 mm back focus figures, send us your imaging train and we will work out the spacing with you.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGood to Know Before You Order\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eThis is an optical tube assembly.\u003c\/strong\u003e Mount, dovetail, diagonal, eyepiece and finder are all sold separately.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAt 8.1 kg, mount payload is worth checking early.\u003c\/strong\u003e Add the weight of a diagonal, camera and finder before matching it to a mount.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBack focus is tighter than a typical refractor.\u003c\/strong\u003e 67.2 mm at prime, 56.2 mm with the M-FLRD reducer — the system chart in the Downloads tab lists the parts for each configuration.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eNative field is narrow.\u003c\/strong\u003e At f\/11.5 the corrected field suits planetary and lunar targets; the M-FLRD reducer widens it to a 30 mm circle at f\/9.3.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs it difficult to set up?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eNo. It arrives collimated from the factory, and primary-mirror focusing means there is no separate rack-and-pinion focuser to adjust before first light. Occasional collimation touch-ups are normal Cassegrain maintenance and quick with a collimation eyepiece.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is it best used for?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eHigh-resolution lunar and planetary observing, double star splitting, and imaging small targets — galaxy cores and planetary nebulae — at long focal length.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDoes it come with a mount?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eNo. It ships as an optical tube assembly. Mount, dovetail plate, diagonal and eyepiece are separate purchases.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat mount does it need?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAt 8.1 kg before accessories, a mount rated for roughly 12–15 kg of total payload once a diagonal, camera and finder are attached is a reasonable starting point. Tell us your mount model and we will confirm.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow is this different from the Mewlon-180C?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAperture and focal length. The 210 has a larger primary, more light grasp and a longer native focal length; the 180C is lighter and slightly more portable.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhen should this not be the choice?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eFor wide-field nebula or Milky Way imaging, where a fast, short-focal-length refractor frames the target better than this tube's narrow native field.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBottom Line\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn short: a 210 mm Dall-Kirkham Cassegrain OTA at 2415 mm and f\/11.5 — 1961 mm at f\/9.3 with the M-FLRD reducer — weighing 8.1 kg, with 67.2 mm of back focus at prime to work into an imaging or visual train. It is built for high-resolution work on the Moon, planets and double stars, and for detail on small deep-sky targets.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOptical Diagram Reports\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003eTakahashi publishes a spot diagram for the Mewlon-210 at prime focus, showing star images across the field at the design wavelengths.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0686\/0049\/6239\/files\/Mewlon-210_spots.png?v=1786911643\" alt=\"Takahashi Mewlon-210 210mm Dall-Kirkham spot diagram at prime focus\" style=\"max-width:100%;height:auto;\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Takahashi","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54047053283439,"sku":"TAK-TLK21000","price":4533.1,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0686\/0049\/6239\/files\/TLK21000_Mewlon-210_1.jpg?v=1786911831"},{"product_id":"takahashi-epsilon-130d-f-3-3-hyperbolic-astrograph-ota","title":"Takahashi Epsilon-130D f\/3.3 Hyperbolic Astrograph OTA","description":"\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct Overview\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe Epsilon-130D is Takahashi's 130 mm hyperbolic astrograph — a fast, wide-field imaging system rather than a visual telescope. At 430 mm focal length and f\/3.3 in a 460 mm tube, it covers a 44 mm image circle at native focus and weighs 4.9 kg. The digital-generation redesign of Takahashi's original 1980s Epsilon series, it uses a hyperbolic primary and a digital corrector built specifically for modern CMOS and CCD sensors.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWho It's For\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis is a good match if you want speed and field over reach — f\/3.3 gathers light fast enough to shorten exposure times on faint, extended targets, and the 44 mm corrected circle covers full-frame sensors at native focus, no separate flattener needed. It suits imagers working large emission nebulae, wide star fields and the kind of targets that need field, not focal length, and its 4.9 kg weight and airline-transportable design make it a workable travel astrograph.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIt is not built for eyepiece observing — there is no meaningful visual use case at f\/3.3 with a Newtonian-style light path. If wide-field imaging is the goal, tell us your camera and mount and we will confirm the fit.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eKey Features \u0026amp; Design\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHyperbolic primary with digital corrector:\u003c\/strong\u003e a redesigned optical train delivering sub-10 µm spots across the field, tuned for modern digital sensors.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e430 mm at f\/3.3:\u003c\/strong\u003e fast enough to shorten integration time on faint, extended targets.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e44 mm corrected image circle\u003c\/strong\u003e at native focus — full-frame coverage without a separate flattener.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e4.9 kg:\u003c\/strong\u003e light for a fast 130 mm astrograph, and compact enough to check as airline baggage.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e23 mm of drawtube extension\u003c\/strong\u003e and a 56.2 mm back focus at prime.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e1.5x extender compatible:\u003c\/strong\u003e the Ɛ-EX 130D converts the system to 650 mm at f\/5.0, still a 44 mm circle.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOptical \/ Mechanical Design\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe Epsilon-130D uses a hyperbolic primary mirror paired with a multi-element digital corrector positioned ahead of the focal plane — the corrector is what flattens the field and controls coma across a fast f\/3.3 system, delivering sub-10 µm spot sizes at the design wavelengths. This is a purpose-built imaging design: there is no accessible focal plane for a diagonal and eyepiece, and the light path exists to put a flat, corrected image on a sensor.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe Ɛ-EX 130D 1.5x extender converts the system to 650 mm at f\/5.0, still with a 44 mm corrected circle and 56.2 mm back focus — useful for tighter framing on smaller targets without leaving the Epsilon-130D's optical train.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRecommended Uses\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWide-field deep-sky imaging:\u003c\/strong\u003e at 430 mm and f\/3.3, large emission nebulae and star fields across a 44 mm circle.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFast narrowband imaging:\u003c\/strong\u003e the f\/3.3 speed shortens exposure times where signal is otherwise faint.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTighter framing:\u003c\/strong\u003e with the Ɛ-EX 130D 1.5x extender at 650 mm and f\/5.0, for smaller targets.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTravel astrophotography:\u003c\/strong\u003e compact and light enough for portable rigs and checked baggage.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCompatibility and Accessory Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003eBack focus at prime is 56.2 mm, unchanged with the Ɛ-EX 130D extender fitted — a tight figure that camera and filter-wheel stacks need to hit precisely to reach focus and keep the field flat. The Epsilon-130D's own system chart, in the Downloads tab, lists the exact parts and distances for both configurations. Our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/takahashi-back-focus-guide\"\u003eTakahashi Back Focus Guide\u003c\/a\u003e collects these figures for the whole Takahashi range in one table.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eExtender:\u003c\/strong\u003e Ɛ-EX 130D 1.5x, 650 mm at f\/5.0, 44 mm circle, sold separately.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMount:\u003c\/strong\u003e sold as an OTA — no mount, rings, dovetail or camera included. At 4.9 kg plus a full imaging train, a mount rated for 8–10 kg of total payload is a reasonable starting point.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCollimation:\u003c\/strong\u003e as a fast hyperbolic system, collimation accuracy matters more than on a slower Newtonian — Takahashi's modified collimation system on this model is built to make that adjustment manageable.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003eIf you are not sure your camera and filter setup will hit 56.2 mm exactly, send us the details and we will work it out with you.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGood to Know Before You Order\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eNot for eyepiece observing.\u003c\/strong\u003e This is an imaging-only optical train with no accessible visual focal plane.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eThis is an optical tube assembly.\u003c\/strong\u003e Mount, rings, dovetail and camera are all sold separately.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBack focus is tight and fixed.\u003c\/strong\u003e 56.2 mm at both native focus and with the 1.5x extender — the system chart in the Downloads tab lists the parts that hit it.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCollimation matters more at f\/3.3.\u003c\/strong\u003e A fast hyperbolic system shows collimation error more readily than a slower one; the modified collimation system on this model is built for that adjustment.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs it difficult to set up?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eCollimation needs more attention than on a slower telescope because f\/3.3 shows error more readily, but the modified collimation system is built for that adjustment, and the published system chart names the exact spacing your imaging train needs. Send us your camera and filter setup and we will confirm the train with you.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is it best used for?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eWide-field deep-sky imaging — large emission nebulae, star fields, and fast narrowband work where the f\/3.3 speed shortens exposure time.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCan I use it for visual observing?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eNo. It has no accessible visual focal plane — this is a dedicated imaging astrograph.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDo I need a flattener?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eNo — the 44 mm image circle is corrected at native focus, covering full-frame sensors without a separate flattener.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat mount does it need?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAt 4.9 kg before accessories, most imaging mounts in the mid-payload class handle it. Tell us your mount model and full imaging train weight and we will confirm.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow does the 1.5x extender change things?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIt converts the system to 650 mm at f\/5.0, still with a 44 mm circle — useful for tighter framing on smaller targets without changing telescopes.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBottom Line\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn short: a 130 mm f\/3.3 hyperbolic astrograph at 430 mm focal length with a 44 mm corrected image circle at native focus, weighing 4.9 kg. It is a dedicated imaging telescope built for wide, fast deep-sky work, with a 1.5x extender available for tighter framing.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOptical Diagram Reports\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003eTakahashi publishes a spot diagram for the Epsilon-130D at native focus, showing star images across the field at the design wavelengths.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0686\/0049\/6239\/files\/Epsilon-130D_spots.png?v=1786911643\" alt=\"Takahashi Epsilon-130D 130mm hyperbolic astrograph spot diagram\" style=\"max-width:100%;height:auto;\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Takahashi","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54047056887919,"sku":"TAK-TEK13010","price":3675.1,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0686\/0049\/6239\/files\/TEK13010_Epsilon-130D_OTA_1.jpg?v=1786911987"}],"url":"https:\/\/ontariotelescope.com\/collections\/takahashi-reflectors.oembed","provider":"Ontario Telescope and Accessories","version":"1.0","type":"link"}