Telescopes - Sharpstar

Sharpstar telescopes are known for providing high-quality optics at a reasonable price, catering specifically to astrophotographers. Their lineup includes refractors, astrographs, and specialized reflectors, often featuring fast focal ratios and wide, flat fields, which are ideal for capturing deep-sky objects. The build quality and color correction of their ED and APO lenses provide crisp, accurate images.

Sharpstar telescopes are highly regarded for astrophotography. Many models, like the SCA260 and 94EDPH, come with features such as integrated flatteners or fast focal ratios, making them suitable for full-frame sensors and producing minimal distortion across wide fields. The SCA260, for example, has an 80mm image circle and f/5 focal ratio, ideal for long exposures.

The Sharpstar 61EDPH II is an accessible choice for beginners, as it is compact and straightforward to use. With a 61mm aperture and f/5.5 focal ratio, it provides sharp, low-distortion images for wide-field astrophotography. Its portability and compatibility with DSLRs make it a favorite entry-level choice.

Many Sharpstar models, like the 94EDPH, perform well with optional accessories such as a field flattener or reducer to enhance edge sharpness and widen the field of view. While some telescopes, like the SCA260, include integrated flatteners, models without them may need additional gear for optimal imaging.

Fast focal ratios, like those found in the SCA260 (f/5) or the 15028HNT (f/2.8), allow for shorter exposure times, making it easier to capture dim celestial objects without excessive image noise. This feature is beneficial for astrophotographers who need detailed images with less light gathering time.

Many Sharpstar models, especially smaller refractors like the 76EDPH and 61EDPH, are designed with portability in mind. These models have compact tube lengths and manageable weights, making them convenient for travel and outdoor astrophotography setups.

Sharpstar telescopes are compatible with various mounts, though users often recommend equatorial mounts for stable astrophotography. Some models, like the 94EDPH, pair well with lightweight GoTo mounts, while larger telescopes like the SCA260 benefit from a robust equatorial mount.

Sharpstar’s APO and ED glass refractors, such as the 94EDPH, are optimized to minimize chromatic aberration, making them suitable for color-accurate astrophotography. Their refractors, particularly the triplet designs, offer good color correction even on bright objects.

Accessories like flatteners, reducers, and high-quality focusers enhance imaging performance. A popular choice is the 0.8x reducer/flattener for certain models, which widens the field of view and improves edge sharpness. Additional accessories like dew shields and fine-focus knobs also improve usability.