Starfield Gear60Q 60mm f/5 Petzval Astrograph

Product Overview

The Starfield Gear60Q 60mm f/5 Petzval Astrograph is a compact, wide-field imaging refractor designed for astrophotographers who want a fast, corrected optical system without the usual backspacing headaches. With a 60mm aperture, 300mm focal length, f/5 focal ratio, built-in corrective optics, and a 44mm image circle, the Gear60Q is built for sharp, wide-field deep-sky imaging with modern astronomy cameras.

The Gear60Q was selected by Astronomy Magazine for its 15th Annual 2025 Star Products list, and current vendor information notes that orders include a free 32mm guide scope.

Who Is This Product Best For?

This telescope is best for astrophotographers who want a portable, full-frame-capable wide-field astrograph for nebulae, large star fields, Milky Way regions, and travel imaging. It is also a strong option for imagers who want the simplicity of a Petzval-style system where spacing is far less demanding than a separate refractor-and-flattener setup.

Why Choose This Product?

• Built for wide-field imaging: The 60mm f/5 optical system provides a 300mm focal length that is ideal for large deep-sky targets.
• Petzval-style corrected design: The built-in corrective element helps deliver sharp stars across the field without needing a separate field flattener.
• FPL53 APO element: The objective design uses FPL53 as the APO element for strong colour correction and clean stars.
• Full-frame image circle: The 44mm image circle is designed to illuminate a standard 36x24mm full-frame sensor.
• Forgiving camera spacing: The working distance is listed as 41–61mm from the M48 thread, making setup easier than many conventional refractor systems.
• Imaging-focused focuser: The 2.5-inch rack-and-pinion focuser includes 1:10 reduction, 360-degree camera rotation, tilt adjustment, motor-focus capability, and an integrated 2-inch filter holder.

Recommended Uses

• Wide-field deep-sky astrophotography
• Nebula imaging
• Large star fields and Milky Way regions
• Travel imaging setups
• Full-frame or APS-C camera imaging
• Compact refractor imaging rigs

Compatibility and Accessory Notes

The Gear60Q uses an M48 camera-side thread and provides a 41–61mm working distance from that thread. Because the optical correction is built into the telescope, a separate field flattener is not required. The telescope includes a 2.5-inch rack-and-pinion focuser, camera angle adjuster/manual rotator, tilt adjustment plate, integrated handle, long dovetail plate, and soft case with die-cut foam.

The case is designed with space for an optional focusing motor, such as a compatible Starfield, Pegasus Astro, or ZWO focusing motor, and room for an imaging camera. The focuser also includes an integrated holder for 2-inch filters placed in front of the camera.

Important Limitations

• Imaging-first design: This telescope is optimized as an astrograph for astrophotography rather than as a general-purpose visual telescope.
• Mount not included: A suitable tracking mount, camera, guide camera, controller, and power system are sold separately unless bundled.
• Accessory planning still matters: Camera, focuser, filter, guiding, and cable choices should be matched to the imaging system.
• Manual setup still required: Although spacing is simplified, focus, tilt, balance, and guiding still affect final image quality.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Gear60Q need a field flattener?

No. The Gear60Q has a built-in corrective element, so a separate field flattener is not required.

What is the focal length?

The Gear60Q is a 300mm focal length astrograph.

What is the focal ratio?

The focal ratio is f/5.

Can it cover a full-frame camera?

Yes. The vendor lists a 44mm image circle, which is intended to illuminate a standard 36x24mm full-frame sensor.

What camera spacing does it use?

The working distance is listed as 41–61mm from the M48 thread.

Does it include a case?

Yes. The Gear60Q includes a soft case with die-cut foam and space for accessories.

Our Recommendation

Ontario Telescope recommends the Starfield Gear60Q for imagers who want a compact, fast, full-frame-capable wide-field astrograph that is easier to set up than a separate refractor and flattener combination. It is especially well suited for large nebulae, wide star fields, and portable imaging rigs where optical simplicity, mechanical quality, and clean full-field stars matter.