SkyWatcher Explorer-130PS (130/650) Newtonian reflector on CQ40 mount

The SkyWatcher Explorer 130PS's 130mm mirror can be used not only for lunar and planetary observations but can show many deep sky objects as well under excellent conditions. While the main mirror in most of the smaller telescopes is spheroid this 130/650 model has a paraboloid main mirror making it usable even for higher magnifications. The f/5 focal ratio results in a short tube, so the telescope is easy to carry and handle. While the 650mm focal length might seem short, the good quality optics make it possible to use higher magnifications using a Barlow lens. A 10mm and 25mm Barium eyepieces included (26x and 65x magnification) but the magnification range can be extended up to 260x. The 34.5mm secondary mirror causes 26% central obstructions only.

During the development of the new CQ40 equatorial mount, the goal was to obtain a high load capacity while reducing size and weight. By changing the geometry, the result was an extremely light and compact, yet stable mechanical head. The weight of the head is only 1 kg, and its load capacity is 4 kg. Thanks to the standard prism rail connection, mounting and dismounting the telescope is quick and easy. Fixing and releasing the axles is very convenient thanks to the large, handy fixing discs (brakes). Both axes have slow motion controls, so it is very easy to center and track the celestial bodies. The mechanical head is placed on a light aluminum tripod, which is easily fixed with a screw. The tripod can be extended, so the height of the telescope can be adjusted to the desired height. There is an eyepiece tray between the tripods, which is practical for smaller accessories. It can be installed and removed easily.

The SkyWatcher Explorer 130PS's 130mm mirror can be used not only for lunar and planetary observations but can show many deep sky objects as well under excellent conditions. While the main mirror in most of the smaller telescopes is spheroid this 130/650 model has a paraboloid main mirror making it usable even for higher magnifications. The f/5 focal ratio results in a short tube, so the telescope is easy to carry and handle. While the 650mm focal length might seem short, the good quality optics make it possible to use higher magnifications using a Barlow lens. A 10mm and 25mm Barium eyepieces included (26x and 65x magnification) but the magnification range can be extended up to 260x. The 34.5mm secondary mirror causes 26% central obstructions only.

During the development of the new CQ40 equatorial mount, the goal was to obtain a high load capacity while reducing size and weight. By changing the geometry, the result was an extremely light and compact, yet stable mechanical head. The weight of the head is only 1 kg, and its load capacity is 4 kg. Thanks to the standard prism rail connection, mounting and dismounting the telescope is quick and easy. Fixing and releasing the axles is very convenient thanks to the large, handy fixing discs (brakes). Both axes have slow motion controls, so it is very easy to center and track the celestial bodies. The mechanical head is placed on a light aluminum tripod, which is easily fixed with a screw. The tripod can be extended, so the height of the telescope can be adjusted to the desired height. There is an eyepiece tray between the tripods, which is practical for smaller accessories. It can be installed and removed easily.