NAKOH 92GX SD Quintuplet APO Astrograph
The NAKOH 92GX SD Quintuplet APO Astrograph is a high-performance 92mm imaging refractor created for astrophotographers who want outstanding optical correction, dependable mechanics and straightforward integration with modern astronomy cameras. Its advanced five-element SD Quintuplet optical system incorporates permanent field correction, so no separate field flattener is required.
A generous 55mm corrected image circle allows the 92GX to support APS-C, Full Frame and many Medium Format sensors while maintaining tight star profiles and consistent detail across the frame. This makes it equally at home on large emission nebulae, rich star fields, open clusters and carefully framed galaxy targets.
The optical system is matched by a precision CNC-machined tube assembly, a robust 3.5-inch dual-speed rack-and-pinion focuser, threaded imaging adapters and secure mounting hardware. Together, these features provide a stable platform for cooled cameras, filter wheels, off-axis guiders, electronic focusers and other accessories used in long-exposure imaging.
Why We Chose to Offer the NAKOH 92GX
At Dark Clear Skies, we do not add every newly released telescope to our catalogue. We look for products that offer a genuine improvement in optical performance, mechanical design or ease of use, and that provide lasting value for serious astrophotographers.
The NAKOH 92GX immediately stood out because it combines an integrated flat-field optical design with a large 55mm corrected image circle. This removes the need for a separate flattener and avoids the spacing complications that can make high-end imaging systems difficult to configure.
Its mechanical construction is equally convincing. The oversized focuser, rigid tube assembly, threaded camera connections and versatile mounting system are all designed to support modern imaging trains without unnecessary flexure or instability. Despite this, the telescope remains compact enough for portable harmonic drive mounts as well as permanent observatory installations.
We believe the NAKOH 92GX offers an excellent balance of optical quality, practical design and long-term camera compatibility, making it one of the most interesting premium astrographs currently available.
NAKOH 92GX at a Glance
| Feature | What It Means for You |
|---|---|
| 92mm SD Quintuplet APO Astrograph | Excellent colour correction and high-contrast wide-field imaging. |
| Integrated flat-field optical design | No separate field flattener or external spacing adjustment required. |
| 55mm corrected image circle | Suitable for APS-C, Full Frame and many Medium Format sensors. |
| 3.5-inch dual-speed rack-and-pinion focuser | Smooth focusing and strong support for heavier imaging equipment. |
| Rotatable focuser | Straightforward framing without disturbing the rest of the imaging train. |
| Threaded imaging adapter system | Improved rigidity with reduced risk of tilt and flexure. |
| CNC tube rings and carry handle | Secure mounting for guide scopes, mini PCs and control accessories. |
| 300mm Losmandy-style dovetail | Stable mounting and easier balancing on larger payload systems. |
| Electronic focuser compatible | Ready for automated focusing and remote imaging. |
NAKOH 92GX Technical Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Aperture | 92mm |
| Optical design | Five-element SD Quintuplet APO astrograph |
| Field correction | Permanently integrated flat-field optical design |
| Corrected image circle | 55mm |
| Supported sensor formats | APS-C, Full Frame and many Medium Format sensors |
| Focuser | 3.5-inch dual-speed rack-and-pinion focuser |
| Focuser rotation | Rotatable for camera framing |
| Electronic focusing | Compatible with electronic focuser systems |
| Camera connection | Four-piece threaded imaging adapter system |
| Filter compatibility | Integrated 2-inch filter thread within the M48 adapter |
| Mounting plate | 300mm CNC-machined Losmandy-style dovetail |
| Tube support | CNC-machined tube rings with integrated carry handle and accessory mounting points |
Who Is the NAKOH 92GX Ideal For?
The NAKOH 92GX is aimed at astrophotographers who want premium wide-field performance without the extra complexity of separate flatteners and spacing-sensitive accessories. It is particularly well suited to:
- Deep-sky astrophotography
- Wide-field nebula imaging
- Galaxy and star cluster photography
- APS-C, Full Frame and many Medium Format cameras
- Portable harmonic drive mount systems
- Permanent observatory installations
- Broadband and narrowband imaging
- Users building a premium, integrated imaging system
Why Choose the NAKOH 92GX Over a Traditional Triplet APO?
Many premium apochromatic refractors use a triplet objective combined with a separate field flattener or reducer to achieve good edge performance for astrophotography. While this approach can produce excellent results, it also introduces additional optical components, precise back-focus requirements and extra points of adjustment within the imaging train.
The NAKOH 92GX SD Quintuplet APO Astrograph takes a different approach. Its advanced five-element optical system incorporates the field correction directly into the telescope, creating a permanently optimised imaging platform that is ready for modern astronomy cameras straight from the box. There is no need to purchase a dedicated field flattener, and no concern about achieving the exact optical spacing often required by external correctors.
This integrated design offers more than convenience. By reducing the number of optical interfaces and eliminating spacing errors, the 92GX provides consistently sharp stars, excellent colour correction and outstanding edge performance across a large 55mm corrected image circle. Whether using APS-C, Full Frame or many Medium Format sensors, astrophotographers can concentrate on capturing data rather than configuring optics.
The result is a telescope that combines premium optical quality with a streamlined imaging workflow, making it equally attractive to experienced astrophotographers and those investing in their first dedicated astrograph.
| Feature | Traditional Triplet APO | NAKOH 92GX SD Quintuplet |
|---|---|---|
| Field correction | Requires external flattener | Integrated into the optical system |
| Back-focus setup | Critical spacing required | Simplified threaded imaging train |
| Image circle | Varies with corrector | 55mm corrected image circle |
| Large-sensor compatibility | Depends on flattener | APS-C, Full Frame and many Medium Format cameras |
| Camera installation | Additional optical accessories required | Ready for imaging with supplied adapters |
| Optical optimisation | Objective and flattener designed separately | Complete optical system designed as one unit |
For astrophotographers seeking exceptional image quality with fewer variables to manage, the NAKOH 92GX represents a modern integrated astrograph designed to make the transition from setup to imaging as straightforward as possible while delivering outstanding optical performance.
Is the NAKOH 92GX Right for You?
The NAKOH 92GX is an excellent choice for astrophotographers who want the portability of a compact refractor together with the large corrected field and mechanical strength normally associated with more substantial imaging systems.
Compared with a smaller 70mm or 80mm astrograph, its 92mm aperture offers greater light-gathering ability and resolution while remaining practical for portable use. Compared with many larger 100mm-class refractors, the shorter and more compact tube places less leverage on the mount, helping to simplify balancing and guiding.
It is particularly well suited to users who:
- Want to use APS-C, Full Frame or larger astronomy cameras
- Prefer an integrated optical design without a separate field flattener
- Need a rigid focuser for cooled cameras, filter wheels and off-axis guiders
- Plan to automate focusing and image acquisition
- Want one telescope for nebulae, star fields, galaxies and clusters
- Require a system suitable for portable or permanent installations
A conventional triplet refractor may still suit users who prioritise visual observing or want to choose between several reducers and flatteners. The NAKOH 92GX is aimed more directly at astrophotographers who value a fully integrated, large-sensor imaging platform.
Recommended Accessories for the NAKOH 92GX
The NAKOH 92GX can form the centre of a complete automated astrophotography system. The best accessories will depend on your camera, mount and preferred imaging method, but the following categories are particularly relevant.
Large-Sensor Astronomy Cameras
The telescope's 55mm corrected image circle makes it suitable for APS-C, Full Frame and many Medium Format cameras. Both one-shot colour and monochrome cameras can be used for broadband or narrowband imaging.
Electronic Focuser
An electronic focuser allows the telescope to refocus automatically as temperature changes and can support unattended imaging routines throughout the night.
Filter Wheel or Filter Drawer
Monochrome cameras can be paired with a motorised filter wheel, while one-shot colour systems may use a threaded filter drawer or the integrated 2-inch filter thread within the supplied M48 adapter.
Off-Axis Guider
An off-axis guider can provide precise guiding without adding a separate guide scope. This is particularly useful when using heavier cameras or longer exposures.
Harmonic Drive or Equatorial Mount
The compact optical tube is well suited to many modern harmonic drive and equatorial mounts. Always calculate the total imaging payload, including the camera, filters, guider, electronic focuser and control equipment, before selecting a mount.
Need help choosing compatible accessories? Dark Clear Skies can help you plan the complete imaging train, including camera connections, filters, guiding, focusing and mounting.
Precision SD Quintuplet Optical Design
At the heart of the NAKOH 92GX is an advanced five-element SD Quintuplet optical system. The design combines premium SD and ED glass elements with permanent field correction, delivering excellent colour control and a flat focal plane within a single, integrated optical assembly.
This approach avoids the compromises often associated with adding an external field flattener to a conventional doublet or triplet. Because the correction is built into the telescope, there is no separate flattener spacing to calculate and fewer opportunities for alignment errors within the imaging train.
The result is a clean, high-contrast image with tightly focused stars and minimal colour fringing, even when paired with high-resolution CMOS cameras using small pixels.
A Flat, Corrected Field for Large Imaging Sensors
Modern astronomy cameras place increasingly high demands on telescope optics. Larger sensors and smaller pixels make field curvature, corner distortion and poor illumination far easier to see. The NAKOH 92GX has been developed to meet those demands with a fully corrected 55mm image circle.
This gives the telescope the flexibility to work with compact APS-C cameras, conventional Full Frame sensors and many Medium Format systems. Across these formats, the optical design is intended to maintain consistent star shape and usable detail from the centre towards the edge of the field.
For astrophotographers investing in larger sensors, this broader corrected area provides valuable room for future camera upgrades without immediately outgrowing the telescope.
Pinpoint Stars Across the Entire Sensor
Central sharpness alone is not enough for serious astrophotography. The more demanding test is whether stars remain round and well controlled in the outer regions of the image, where field curvature and off-axis aberrations normally become most obvious.
The NAKOH 92GX is designed to preserve compact, symmetrical star profiles across the usable imaging field. This allows larger sensors to be used more effectively and reduces the need to crop away distorted corners during processing.
The centre-and-corner comparison below illustrates the consistency of the optical correction, showing how the telescope maintains clean stellar definition across the frame.
Compact Performance Under Dark Skies
The NAKOH 92GX combines a substantial imaging specification with a relatively compact optical tube. Its 92mm aperture offers a useful balance of light gathering, resolution and portability, making it easier to transport than many larger observatory-class refractors.
The shorter tube also reduces the moment arm placed on the mount. This can improve balance, guiding and overall stability, especially when the telescope is paired with a modern harmonic drive or compact equatorial mount.
Whether used from a permanent observatory, a back garden or a remote dark-sky site, the 92GX is designed to deliver repeatable performance without requiring an oversized mounting system.
Spot Diagram Performance
A spot diagram shows how closely a telescope focuses rays of light at different positions across the image field. It is one of the most useful ways to assess whether an optical system can maintain small, controlled star images beyond the centre of the sensor.
The NAKOH 92GX spot diagram indicates tightly managed spot sizes from the optical axis towards the outer field. This is particularly important for cameras with small pixels, where even modest aberrations can become visible as bloated or elongated stars.
Consistent spot control helps preserve fine stellar detail, improves the quality of the raw data and reduces the amount of corrective processing required later.
Strong Illumination Across Large Sensors
A large corrected field must also be well illuminated. The relative illumination chart shows how effectively the NAKOH 92GX carries light towards the outer edge of its image circle, helping to limit excessive corner darkening on Full Frame and larger sensors.
Flat-field calibration will still remain an important part of any serious imaging workflow, but a well-illuminated optical system produces cleaner data and allows calibration frames to work more effectively.
The 55mm image circle also provides useful headroom for larger cameras, filter wheels and off-axis guiding systems, making the telescope a strong option for users planning future upgrades.
Real-World Deep-Sky Imaging
Charts and diagrams are useful, but the true measure of an astrograph is the quality of the images it produces under the night sky. The NAKOH 92GX is designed to reveal faint deep-sky structure while retaining natural star colour, fine contrast and consistent detail across the frame.
Its combination of SD glass, integrated field correction and broad sensor compatibility makes it suitable for both broadband and narrowband imaging. It can be paired with one-shot colour or monochrome cameras to cover a wide range of targets throughout the year.
M81 and M82 – Wide-Field Galaxy Imaging
M81 and M82 provide a demanding test of both contrast and resolution. The field contains bright galactic cores, faint outer structure and a dense background of stars, making optical inconsistencies easy to identify.
The NAKOH 92GX frames both galaxies comfortably while preserving the finer dust-lane structure and surrounding star field. The image demonstrates how the integrated field correction keeps stars compact and well controlled away from the centre.
NGC 4565 – Fine Detail and Contrast
NGC 4565, the Needle Galaxy, is an excellent target for evaluating contrast and fine detail. Its narrow edge-on structure and prominent central dust lane reward precise optics and careful focusing.
The example below shows the telescope resolving the galaxy's slender profile while retaining clean star shapes throughout the surrounding field. Good colour correction also helps minimise distracting halos around brighter stars.
This performance makes the 92GX suitable not only for wide nebulae, but also for galaxies, clusters and smaller deep-sky objects that benefit from strong contrast and dependable optical correction.
Mechanical Engineering for Modern Imaging Systems
High-quality optics need equally dependable mechanics. The NAKOH 92GX uses a precision CNC-machined aluminium tube and an oversized 3.5-inch rack-and-pinion focuser to provide the rigidity required for modern astrophotography equipment.
The structure is intended to minimise movement between the optical tube, focuser and camera during long exposures. This is particularly important when the imaging train includes a cooled camera, motorised filter wheel, off-axis guider, electronic focuser or rotator.
The result is a solid, integrated platform that supports accurate focus, stable alignment and repeatable performance throughout extended imaging sessions.
Precision Dual-Speed Focusing
The 92GX is fitted with a substantial 3.5-inch rack-and-pinion focuser offering both coarse and fine adjustment. This provides the travel needed for initial setup together with the sensitivity required for accurate manual focusing.
The supplied focus knob cap improves grip and comfort during manual operation, while the focuser remains suitable for integration with popular Electronic Automatic Focusers. This allows the telescope to move easily from a manual setup to fully automated focusing routines.
Its robust construction also helps maintain camera alignment under load, reducing the risk of tilt when heavier accessories are fitted.
300mm Losmandy-Style Dovetail Included
A secure connection between telescope and mount is essential for reliable tracking and guiding. The NAKOH 92GX is supplied with a 300mm CNC-machined Losmandy-style dovetail plate, providing a broad and rigid mounting surface.
The longer plate also gives greater freedom when balancing a loaded imaging system. This is especially useful when heavier cameras, filter wheels or rear-mounted accessories alter the telescope's centre of gravity.
CNC Tube Rings and Integrated Accessory Mounting
The precision-machined tube rings provide a rigid support for the optical tube while also creating multiple mounting points for additional equipment. Guide scopes, mini PCs, control hubs and other accessories can be positioned securely without relying on improvised brackets.
The integrated carry handle doubles as an accessory bridge, helping users build a cleaner and better-balanced imaging system. Oversized adjustment knobs also make the rings easier to handle in cold conditions or while wearing gloves.
This arrangement helps reduce cable strain, keeps accessories aligned with the telescope and makes the complete setup easier to transport and manage.
Four-Piece Threaded Imaging Adapter System
The NAKOH 92GX includes a four-piece threaded adapter set for building a secure and repeatable imaging train. Threaded connections are preferable to compression fittings when supporting larger cameras because they reduce flexure and help maintain accurate sensor alignment.
The supplied components support a range of camera configurations and include an M48 adapter with an integrated 2-inch filter thread. This provides additional flexibility for broadband, narrowband and light-pollution filters.
Combined with the large focuser, the adapter system allows the telescope to support everything from DSLR and mirrorless cameras to cooled astronomy cameras and motorised filter wheel assemblies.
Dimensions and System Planning
The technical drawing below shows the overall tube dimensions, focuser assembly, mounting hardware and supplied accessories. This is useful when planning observatory clearances, transport cases, pier spacing or the position of cameras and control equipment.
The combination of compact dimensions, large-format optics and substantial mechanical components makes the NAKOH 92GX suitable for both experienced imagers and users moving into a more advanced, fully integrated astrophotography system.
Why Choose the NAKOH 92GX?
The NAKOH 92GX brings together premium SD optics, permanent field correction, a large 55mm image circle and a carefully engineered mechanical platform. It is designed for astrophotographers who want a capable wide-field refractor that can support modern large-sensor cameras without requiring a separate flattener.
Its compact format makes it practical for portable use, while the large focuser, Losmandy dovetail, threaded adapters and versatile tube-ring system give it the strength and flexibility required for permanent installations.
Whether imaging expansive nebulae, rich star fields, galaxies or clusters, the 92GX provides the colour correction, field consistency and mechanical stability needed to produce high-quality deep-sky data night after night.
Why Astrophotographers Choose Dark Clear Skies
- UK astronomy specialist
- Expert advice before and after purchase
- Help selecting compatible cameras and accessories
- Support configuring complete imaging systems
- Carefully selected premium astronomy equipment
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the NAKOH 92GX require a separate field flattener?
No. Field correction is permanently integrated into the five-element optical design, so a separate field flattener is not required.
What camera sensor sizes can the NAKOH 92GX support?
The telescope has a 55mm corrected image circle and is suitable for APS-C, Full Frame and many Medium Format astronomy cameras.
Is the NAKOH 92GX suitable for Full Frame cameras?
Yes. Its corrected field comfortably covers a conventional Full Frame sensor while maintaining controlled star profiles across the imaging area.
Can it be used with Medium Format cameras?
The 55mm image circle supports many Medium Format sensors, although compatibility should always be confirmed against the exact sensor dimensions and imaging-train configuration.
Does the telescope require precise flattener spacing?
No external flattener spacing is required because the field correction is built into the optical system. The camera and accessories must still be connected securely and positioned within the available focuser travel.
Can it be used with an electronic focuser?
Yes. The 3.5-inch dual-speed rack-and-pinion focuser is suitable for integration with electronic focusing systems, making the telescope well suited to automated imaging.
Is the focuser rotatable?
Yes. The rotatable focuser allows the camera orientation to be adjusted for framing without disturbing the rest of the imaging system.
Can the NAKOH 92GX be used with a filter wheel?
Yes. Its substantial focuser and threaded adapter system are intended to support cooled cameras, motorised filter wheels, off-axis guiders and other imaging accessories.
Can 2-inch filters be used?
Yes. The supplied M48 adapter incorporates a 2-inch filter thread for compatible mounted filters.
Is the NAKOH 92GX suitable for narrowband imaging?
Yes. Its excellent colour correction, flat field and threaded imaging system make it suitable for both broadband and narrowband astrophotography.
Is it suitable for harmonic drive mounts?
Yes. Its compact optical tube makes it a strong match for many modern harmonic drive mounts, provided the complete imaging payload remains within the mount manufacturer's recommended limits.
Can it be used with DSLR or mirrorless cameras?
Yes. The supplied threaded adapter system can support DSLR and mirrorless imaging configurations, although the correct camera-specific adapter will still be required.
Does it include tube rings and a mounting plate?
Yes. The telescope includes CNC-machined tube rings, an integrated carry handle and a 300mm Losmandy-style dovetail plate.
What types of objects can be photographed?
The NAKOH 92GX is suitable for emission and reflection nebulae, rich Milky Way star fields, open clusters, galaxy groups and carefully framed individual galaxies.
Can Dark Clear Skies help check accessory compatibility?
Yes. We can advise on cameras, filter wheels, off-axis guiders, electronic focusers, mounts and threaded adapters before you order.
Why Buy the NAKOH 92GX from Dark Clear Skies?
Dark Clear Skies is a UK astronomy specialist focused on helping customers build imaging systems that work together as a complete package. Choosing the telescope is only one part of the process; camera format, filter-wheel depth, guiding method, focuser compatibility, adapter threads and mount capacity must also be considered.
We can help you select suitable cameras, filter wheels, off-axis guiders, electronic focusers, filters, mounts and control accessories for the NAKOH 92GX. We can also review your existing equipment and help identify any adapters required to create a secure threaded imaging train.
Buying through Dark Clear Skies gives you access to UK-based advice before your purchase and practical support after delivery. Whether you are upgrading from a smaller refractor or planning a complete large-sensor imaging system, we will help you configure the telescope around the equipment you intend to use.
Contact Dark Clear Skies before ordering if you would like us to check camera, focuser, filter-wheel, guider or mount compatibility for your proposed NAKOH 92GX setup.
