Askar SQA106 Quintuplet Petzval Astrograph 106mm f/4.8

Askar SQA106 Quintuplet Petzval Astrograph — 106mm f/4.8

The Askar SQA106 is a 106mm aperture, 509mm focal length, f/4.8 quintuplet air-spaced Petzval astrograph with two pieces of SD glass. As the larger of the two medium-format-capable SQA models, the SQA106 delivers a 55mm image circle that covers medium-format astrocameras such as the QHY600 and ZWO ASI6200, as well as all full-frame sensors. Its 509mm focal length at f/4.8 is well-suited to framing individual galaxies, compact nebulae, and star-forming regions that benefit from moderate magnification with fast light collection.

Rear adapter options include M48, M54, and M68. The optional SQA Series Handle Bar and Heightening Section are both compatible. The OTA ships with an Oxford cloth case.

Who Is This Product Best For?

• Advanced astrophotographers with medium-to-large equatorial mounts seeking the highest-aperture fast Petzval refractor in the SQA Series below the SQA130.
• Medium-format imagers using cameras with sensors up to 55mm diagonal.
• Deep-sky imagers targeting compact or moderately sized objects where a 509mm focal length provides more framing detail than wider systems.
• Serious imagers who need M68 compatibility for maximum sensor coverage.

Why Choose the Askar SQA106?

• 106mm aperture at f/4.8 — the largest aperture fast Petzval astrograph in the SQA Series before the flagship SQA130.
• Medium-format 55mm image circle — covers APS-C, full-frame (44mm), and medium-format sensors up to 55mm diagonal.
• Two pieces of SD glass — premium chromatic correction for clean star colour across the entire field.
• 509mm focal length — versatile for galaxy clusters, compact nebulae, and detailed wide-field imaging.
• Broad back-focus range (48–78mm) — accommodates OAGs, filter drawers, and spacers.

Recommended Uses

• Advanced deep-sky astrophotography (galaxies, planetary nebulae, star clusters)
• Narrowband and broadband imaging on large equatorial mounts
• Medium-format astrocamera imaging
• Long-integration sessions requiring maximum aperture efficiency

Compatibility and Accessory Notes

Camera connections: M48, M54, and M68 adapters included. Recommended back focus 55mm; usable range 48–78mm.

Optional accessories: SQA Series Handle Bar, SQA Series Heightening Section.

Mount requirements: At 8.12kg gross, a mount rated for at least 12–15kg payload is recommended.

Important Limitations

• Heavier system — at 8.12kg gross, requires a substantial equatorial mount. Not suitable for lightweight tracking mounts.
• Not for visual observing — no eyepiece holder or visual adapter.
• Electronic focuser not included — requires a separately purchased motor adapter.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does the SQA106 differ from the SQA85?
The SQA106 has 106mm vs 85mm aperture, 509mm vs 408mm focal length, and a larger 55mm image circle vs 44mm. It covers medium-format sensors and provides more detail on compact objects but requires a heavier mount.

What sensors does it cover?
Up to 55mm diagonal — covers APS-C, full-frame (44mm), and medium-format cameras such as the QHY600M, ZWO ASI6200, and similar.

Our Recommendation

At Ontario Telescope and Accessories, we recommend the Askar SQA106 for advanced astrophotographers on capable mounts who want to step up to a larger aperture, longer focal length Petzval system with medium-format coverage. If your mount can handle the weight, the SQA106 delivers the best combination of speed, aperture, and sensor coverage in the SQA Series before the flagship SQA130.

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