Over the last few years, Askar has become one of the most respected names in modern astrophotography. Designed by SharpStar Optics, the Askar range combines premium optics, innovative engineering and exceptional value, making these telescopes a popular choice for beginners, experienced imagers and professional observatories alike.
Whether you're looking for a compact travel refractor capable of producing stunning wide-field images or a premium quintuplet astrograph designed for full-frame imaging, Askar offers a telescope to suit almost every astrophotography application. Their telescopes are engineered with imaging in mind, providing flat fields, excellent colour correction and robust mechanical construction that inspires confidence during long imaging sessions.
The current Askar range includes the highly regarded SQA, PHQ, FRA and APO series. Each has been designed for different styles of astrophotography, from lightweight portable imaging systems through to permanent observatory installations capable of producing publication-quality deep-sky images.
As an authorised UK Askar dealer, Dark Clear Skies regularly helps customers choose the right telescope for their camera, mount and imaging ambitions. Selecting the correct optical system is one of the most important decisions an astrophotographer can make, influencing everything from image scale and field of view to guiding performance and long-term upgrade potential.
In this comprehensive buying guide, we'll compare the latest Askar telescopes, explain the differences between the FRA, PHQ, SQA and APO series, recommend the best models for different budgets and imaging styles, and help you choose the perfect Askar telescope for your astrophotography journey.
Why Choose an Askar Telescope?
Askar telescopes have rapidly become some of the most sought-after refractors for astrophotography, offering exceptional optical performance, robust engineering and outstanding value for money. Designed by SharpStar Optics, the Askar range has been developed specifically with modern imaging in mind, providing astrophotographers with premium instruments capable of producing beautifully sharp, well-corrected images across a wide range of sensor sizes.
Unlike many traditional refractors that require additional field flatteners or reducers to achieve optimum performance, several Askar models feature advanced optical designs with built-in correction. This simplifies setup, reduces the number of optical components and helps deliver consistently sharp stars across the image, even when using large APS-C or full-frame astronomy cameras.
Designed for Astrophotographers
Every Askar telescope has been designed to meet the demands of modern astronomical imaging. Precision CNC-machined aluminium construction, oversized focusers, generous image circles and excellent mechanical rigidity allow these telescopes to support today's larger cooled astronomy cameras, electronic focusers and filter wheels without compromising performance.
Whether you're imaging from your back garden, travelling to dark sky locations or operating a permanent observatory, Askar telescopes provide the reliability and optical quality required for long imaging sessions.
Excellent Colour Correction
Askar uses premium extra-low dispersion (ED) glass and sophisticated optical designs to minimise chromatic aberration. The result is excellent colour correction, sharp stellar profiles and high contrast, making the telescopes suitable for broadband, narrowband and monochrome astrophotography.
Exceptional Build Quality
One of the first things owners notice is the superb engineering. Large rack-and-pinion focusers, precision rotators, CNC-machined tube assemblies and thoughtfully designed accessories all contribute to a telescope that feels every bit as impressive as the images it produces.
Attention to mechanical detail is particularly important in astrophotography, where even the slightest flexure can affect image quality during long exposures.
A Telescope for Every Astrophotographer
Whether you're looking for a compact travel refractor, an all-round imaging telescope or a premium full-frame astrograph, Askar offers a model to suit almost every application. From the portable FRA series to the advanced PHQ and SQA astrographs, each telescope has been developed to meet different imaging requirements while maintaining the same commitment to optical excellence.
Understanding the Askar Telescope Range
One of Askar's greatest strengths is the breadth of its telescope range. Rather than producing one design to suit every application, Askar has developed several distinct series, each engineered for a specific style of astrophotography. Understanding the differences between the FRA, PHQ, SQA and APO ranges will make choosing the right telescope much easier.
FRA Series – Compact Astrographs for Wide-Field Imaging
The FRA (Flatfield Refractor Astrograph) series has been designed for astrophotographers who want outstanding optical performance in a compact and highly portable package. Featuring integrated field correction, FRA telescopes produce a naturally flat imaging field without requiring an additional field flattener.
Popular models such as the FRA300 Pro, FRA400, FRA500 and FRA600 are ideal for capturing wide-field nebulae, large galaxies and expansive star fields. Their combination of portability, excellent colour correction and ease of use makes them a favourite amongst travelling astrophotographers.
PHQ Series – Premium Quintuplet Astrographs
The PHQ series represents some of Askar's most advanced imaging telescopes. These premium quintuplet refractors incorporate built-in field correction to deliver exceptionally sharp stars across large image sensors while minimising optical aberrations.
Models including the 107PHQ, 130PHQ and 151PHQ are designed specifically for demanding deep-sky astrophotography. Their generous image circles make them excellent partners for APS-C and full-frame astronomy cameras, while their robust mechanical construction allows them to carry larger imaging trains with confidence.
SQA Series – Professional Quintuplet Astrographs
The SQA series has rapidly become one of Askar's flagship ranges. Combining sophisticated quintuplet optics with precision mechanics, these telescopes deliver superb correction across the entire imaging field while maintaining excellent contrast and colour accuracy.
The SQA55, SQA70, SQA85, SQA106 and SQA130 provide solutions for everything from portable wide-field imaging through to professional-grade observatory systems. Their premium optical performance makes them particularly well suited to modern full-frame astronomy cameras.
APO Series – Traditional Apochromatic Refractors
The APO series combines classic refractor design with modern optical engineering. Available in apertures from 103mm through to 203mm, these telescopes offer exceptional visual and photographic performance while providing the flexibility to use dedicated reducers and flatteners for different imaging applications.
Whether you're interested in visual astronomy, planetary imaging or deep-sky astrophotography, the APO range delivers outstanding versatility alongside excellent optical quality.
Which Range is Right for You?
- FRA Series: Best for portable imaging, travel and wide-field astrophotography.
- PHQ Series: Best for premium deep-sky imaging with APS-C and full-frame cameras.
- SQA Series: Best for serious astrophotographers seeking uncompromising optical performance.
- APO Series: Best for users wanting a versatile telescope for both visual observing and astrophotography.
Whichever Askar telescope you choose, you'll benefit from outstanding optical quality, robust engineering and a design philosophy centred on producing exceptional astronomical images. The next section compares the most popular models to help you identify the telescope that best suits your imaging goals.
Best Overall Askar Telescope – SQA85
The Askar SQA85 is, in our opinion, one of the finest astrophotography refractors currently available. Combining premium quintuplet optics, exceptional mechanical engineering and a generous full-frame image circle, it delivers outstanding performance for both experienced astrophotographers and ambitious beginners looking to invest in a telescope that will continue to perform as their imaging skills develop.
Designed specifically for astrophotography, the SQA85 incorporates a sophisticated quintuplet optical system with an integrated field corrector. Unlike many traditional refractors, no additional field flattener is required to produce beautifully sharp stars across the imaging field. This not only simplifies the imaging train but also reduces the number of optical components, helping maintain excellent contrast and pinpoint stellar performance from the centre of the image right to the corners.
Why We Recommend the SQA85
The SQA85 strikes an exceptional balance between aperture, focal length and portability. Its optical design is capable of fully illuminating modern APS-C and full-frame astronomy cameras, making it suitable for everything from large emission nebulae and molecular clouds to detailed galaxy imaging.
The telescope's premium rack-and-pinion focuser provides excellent rigidity, allowing it to carry heavy imaging trains comprising cooled astronomy cameras, motorised focusers, filter wheels and off-axis guiders without introducing unwanted flexure. For astrophotographers building a high-performance imaging system, this mechanical stability is every bit as important as the optical quality.
Ideal For
- Deep-sky astrophotography.
- Full-frame astronomy cameras.
- APS-C imaging systems.
- Emission and reflection nebulae.
- Galaxy imaging.
- Permanent and portable observatories.
Recommended Camera Pairings
- ZWO ASI2600MC Air.
- ZWO ASI2600MM Pro.
- Player One Poseidon-M Pro.
- Player One Poseidon-C Pro.
- Player One ZEUS 455M Pro.
- Player One ZEUS 455C Pro.
Things to Consider
The SQA85 sits within Askar's premium range and represents a long-term investment for serious astrophotographers. While its optical performance fully justifies the price, buyers should also budget for a quality equatorial mount capable of carrying the complete imaging system, together with suitable cameras, guiding equipment and accessories.
For those seeking a lighter and more compact travelling setup, one of the FRA series telescopes may prove a better choice, while larger observatory installations may benefit from the additional aperture offered by the 130PHQ or 151PHQ.
Our Verdict
The Askar SQA85 is one of the most complete astrophotography telescopes available today. Combining outstanding optics, premium mechanical construction and true full-frame capability, it delivers exceptional image quality while remaining compact enough for portable imaging. If you are looking for a telescope capable of producing breathtaking deep-sky images for many years to come, the SQA85 deserves a place at the very top of your shortlist.
Dark Clear Skies Rating: ★★★★★ (5/5)
Best Portable Askar Telescope – FRA400
The Askar FRA400 has become one of the most popular astrophotography refractors in the Askar range, offering an outstanding combination of portability, premium optical performance and ease of use. Designed as a dedicated astrograph, the FRA400 incorporates a sophisticated optical design with an integrated field corrector, producing beautifully flat images without requiring an additional field flattener.
With a focal length of 400mm and an aperture of 72mm, the FRA400 is perfectly suited to capturing wide-field nebulae, large star clusters, molecular clouds and expansive regions of the Milky Way. Its compact size also makes it an excellent choice for travelling astrophotographers who need a lightweight imaging system without compromising image quality.
Why We Recommend the FRA400
The FRA400 offers exceptional optical performance while remaining remarkably compact. Its integrated flat-field optical design produces sharp stars across the imaging field, making it an excellent match for modern APS-C astronomy cameras and many full-frame imaging systems when used within its optical specifications.
Its relatively short focal length also makes guiding easier, allowing beginners to achieve excellent results while giving experienced imagers a highly capable portable imaging telescope.
Ideal For
- Wide-field astrophotography.
- Large nebulae.
- Dark nebula complexes.
- Portable imaging systems.
- Travel astrophotography.
- Beginners and experienced imagers alike.
Recommended Camera Pairings
- ZWO ASI2600MC Air.
- ZWO ASI533MC Pro.
- Player One Poseidon-C Pro.
- Player One Poseidon-M Pro.
- ZWO ASI2600MM Pro.
Perfect Targets
- North America Nebula (NGC 7000).
- Rosette Nebula.
- California Nebula.
- Heart and Soul Nebulae.
- Andromeda Galaxy (M31).
- Orion Molecular Cloud Complex.
Things to Consider
The FRA400 has been designed primarily for wide-field astrophotography rather than small galaxies or planetary nebulae. If your primary interest is imaging smaller deep-sky objects at higher resolution, one of the longer focal length PHQ telescopes may be a better choice.
However, for photographers wanting spectacular wide-field images and a highly portable imaging system, few telescopes in this class can match the FRA400's combination of optical quality, mechanical engineering and overall value.
Our Verdict
The Askar FRA400 is one of the finest portable astrographs available today. Combining outstanding optics, integrated field correction and superb build quality, it delivers exceptional wide-field images while remaining compact enough for airline travel and remote imaging locations. It is an outstanding choice for anyone looking to build a premium portable astrophotography system.
Dark Clear Skies Rating: ★★★★★ (5/5)
Best APS-C and Full-Frame Imaging Telescope – Askar 107PHQ
The Askar 107PHQ is one of the most impressive telescopes in the PHQ range, combining premium quintuplet optics with exceptional mechanical engineering to create a refractor capable of producing breathtaking deep-sky images. Designed specifically for astrophotography, the 107PHQ offers outstanding colour correction, an integrated field-corrected optical design and a generous image circle suitable for modern APS-C and full-frame astronomy cameras.
With a 107mm aperture and a focal length of 749mm, the 107PHQ provides an excellent balance between wide-field capability and image scale. It is equally at home capturing expansive emission nebulae, detailed galaxy groups and smaller deep-sky objects that require a little more focal length than shorter astrographs can provide.
Why We Recommend the 107PHQ
The 107PHQ occupies what many astrophotographers consider the "sweet spot" of the Askar range. It is large enough to provide excellent light gathering and image resolution while remaining manageable on popular equatorial mounts such as the ZWO AM5, Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro and iOptron CEM70.
Its integrated quintuplet optical design delivers a naturally flat imaging field without requiring an external field flattener, simplifying the imaging train while producing pinpoint stars across the frame. Combined with its heavy-duty rack-and-pinion focuser and precision rotator, the telescope comfortably supports modern cooled astronomy cameras, electronic focusers, filter wheels and off-axis guiders.
Ideal For
- Deep-sky astrophotography.
- Galaxy imaging.
- Planetary nebulae.
- Globular clusters.
- APS-C imaging systems.
- Full-frame astronomy cameras.
Recommended Camera Pairings
- ZWO ASI2600MC Air.
- ZWO ASI2600MM Pro.
- ZWO ASI6200MM Pro.
- Player One Poseidon-M Pro.
- Player One Poseidon-C Pro.
- Player One ZEUS 455M Pro.
- Player One ZEUS 455C Pro.
Perfect Targets
- The Whirlpool Galaxy (M51).
- The Pinwheel Galaxy (M101).
- The Rosette Nebula.
- The Eagle Nebula (M16).
- The Lagoon Nebula (M8).
- The Trifid Nebula (M20).
- The Veil Nebula.
Compared with the FRA400
While the FRA400 excels at capturing very large nebulae and wide-field star fields, the 107PHQ provides noticeably greater image scale, making it a stronger choice for galaxies, smaller nebulae and more detailed deep-sky imaging. If your primary interest is photographing a wide variety of astronomical targets rather than exclusively wide-field objects, the 107PHQ offers significantly greater versatility.
Things to Consider
The additional aperture and focal length mean the 107PHQ requires a more capable mount than the FRA400. Accurate guiding and careful polar alignment become increasingly important as focal length increases. However, when paired with a quality mount and guiding system, the telescope rewards the effort with exceptional image quality and remarkable optical performance.
Our Verdict
The Askar 107PHQ is one of the most versatile premium astrographs available today. Combining outstanding optics, excellent mechanical engineering and true full-frame capability, it is an exceptional choice for astrophotographers seeking a telescope capable of producing professional-quality images across a huge variety of deep-sky targets. For many users, it represents the ideal balance between portability, performance and long-term value.
Dark Clear Skies Rating: ★★★★★ (5/5)
Best Premium Full-Frame Astrograph – Askar 130PHQ
The Askar 130PHQ represents a significant step forward for astrophotographers seeking greater light-gathering power, increased image resolution and uncompromising optical performance. Featuring a premium 130mm quintuplet optical design with an integrated field corrector, the 130PHQ has been engineered specifically for demanding deep-sky imaging using today's high-resolution APS-C and full-frame astronomy cameras.
With its larger aperture and longer focal length, the 130PHQ captures finer detail in galaxies, planetary nebulae and smaller deep-sky objects while maintaining the beautifully flat imaging field that has made the PHQ series so highly regarded. It is a telescope designed for serious astrophotographers who want observatory-quality performance without stepping into the size and cost of much larger refractors.
Why We Recommend the 130PHQ
The 130PHQ is an outstanding choice for astrophotographers who have progressed beyond entry-level imaging systems and are looking for a telescope capable of delivering exceptional long-term performance. Its additional aperture gathers approximately 48% more light than a 107mm telescope, helping to reveal finer detail and improve signal-to-noise ratios during long imaging sessions.
The integrated quintuplet optical system eliminates the need for an external field flattener, simplifying the imaging train while delivering pinpoint stars across the entire imaging field. Combined with its heavy-duty focuser and precision mechanical construction, the telescope comfortably supports even the largest cooled astronomy cameras, electronic focusers and filter wheel combinations.
Ideal For
- Advanced deep-sky astrophotography.
- Full-frame astronomy cameras.
- High-resolution galaxy imaging.
- Planetary nebulae.
- Permanent observatories.
- Premium portable imaging systems.
Recommended Camera Pairings
- ZWO ASI6200MM Pro.
- ZWO ASI2600MM Pro.
- ZWO ASI2600MC Air.
- Player One ZEUS 455M Pro.
- Player One ZEUS 455C Pro.
- Player One Poseidon-M Pro.
Perfect Targets
- The Whirlpool Galaxy (M51).
- The Needle Galaxy (NGC 4565).
- The Cocoon Nebula (IC 5146).
- The Bubble Nebula (NGC 7635).
- The Crescent Nebula (NGC 6888).
- The Pelican Nebula (IC 5070).
107PHQ or 130PHQ?
This is one of the most common questions we receive. The 107PHQ is arguably the better all-round telescope for many astrophotographers, offering an excellent balance between portability, weight and performance. The 130PHQ, however, is the natural choice if your priority is extracting the maximum amount of detail from galaxies and smaller deep-sky objects.
If your mount is capable of supporting the additional weight and your observing location regularly provides good seeing conditions, the extra aperture and focal length of the 130PHQ can produce truly spectacular results.
Things to Consider
The 130PHQ requires a capable equatorial mount such as the ZWO AM5N, iOptron CEM70, Sky-Watcher EQ8-R or similar. As focal length increases, guiding accuracy, mount performance and atmospheric seeing become increasingly important factors in achieving consistently sharp images.
While the telescope is larger and heavier than the 107PHQ, the additional performance will be appreciated by astrophotographers seeking the very highest image quality.
Our Verdict
The Askar 130PHQ is a premium astrograph designed for astrophotographers who demand exceptional optical performance and mechanical precision. Offering superb full-frame compatibility, outstanding image quality and impressive light-gathering capability, it is one of the finest refractors in its class and an outstanding long-term investment for serious deep-sky imaging.
Dark Clear Skies Rating: ★★★★★ (5/5)
Best Observatory-Class Askar Telescope – Askar 151PHQ
The Askar 151PHQ is the flagship of the PHQ series and represents the pinnacle of Askar's premium refractor design. Combining a substantial 151mm aperture with an advanced quintuplet optical system and integrated field correction, it has been engineered for astrophotographers who demand uncompromising optical performance from a professional-grade imaging telescope.
Designed to illuminate today's largest APS-C and full-frame astronomy cameras, the 151PHQ produces exceptionally sharp stars, outstanding colour correction and remarkable contrast across the entire imaging field. Whether capturing intricate galaxy detail, delicate planetary nebulae or expansive emission nebulae, the telescope consistently delivers breathtaking results worthy of permanent observatory installations.
Why We Recommend the 151PHQ
The additional aperture of the 151PHQ provides a significant advantage when imaging faint deep-sky objects. Compared with smaller refractors, the larger objective gathers considerably more light, improving signal-to-noise ratios and allowing finer detail to be recorded during long imaging sessions.
The integrated quintuplet optical design ensures a naturally flat field without requiring an external flattener, while the heavy-duty focuser and precision CNC-machined construction comfortably support large imaging trains including cooled astronomy cameras, motorised focusers, filter wheels and off-axis guiders.
For astrophotographers operating premium equatorial mounts or permanent observatories, the 151PHQ is capable of delivering world-class astrophotography results for many years to come.
Ideal For
- Permanent observatories.
- Advanced deep-sky astrophotography.
- Full-frame imaging systems.
- Galaxy imaging.
- Small nebulae.
- Professional and scientific imaging.
Recommended Camera Pairings
- ZWO ASI6200MM Pro.
- ZWO ASI2600MM Pro.
- Player One ZEUS 455M Pro.
- Player One ZEUS 455C Pro.
- Player One Poseidon-M Pro.
Perfect Targets
- The Whirlpool Galaxy (M51).
- The Sombrero Galaxy (M104).
- The Needle Galaxy (NGC 4565).
- The Crescent Nebula (NGC 6888).
- The Bubble Nebula (NGC 7635).
- The Cat's Eye Nebula (NGC 6543).
- The Iris Nebula (NGC 7023).
130PHQ or 151PHQ?
For many astrophotographers, the 130PHQ offers the ideal balance between performance, portability and mount requirements. The 151PHQ, however, is designed for those seeking every possible advantage in image quality. Its larger aperture gathers more light, increases image resolution and delivers even greater performance on challenging deep-sky targets.
If your mount can comfortably support the additional weight and your observing conditions regularly provide good seeing, the 151PHQ represents one of the finest refractors Askar has ever produced.
Things to Consider
The 151PHQ is a substantial telescope that requires a premium equatorial mount capable of carrying a heavy imaging payload. Mounts such as the ZWO AM5N with an appropriate pier extension, iOptron CEM70/CEM120, Sky-Watcher EQ8-R Pro or similar are recommended for stable long-exposure astrophotography.
Its size and weight make it less suitable for frequent travel, but for dedicated imaging setups and observatories, these compromises are more than justified by the exceptional optical performance.
Our Verdict
The Askar 151PHQ is one of the finest production astrographs available today. Combining outstanding optical correction, exceptional build quality and true full-frame capability, it is designed for astrophotographers who refuse to compromise. If you're building a premium imaging system around a permanent observatory or high-end equatorial mount, the 151PHQ is a telescope that will continue to impress for many years.
Dark Clear Skies Rating: ★★★★★ (5/5)
Which Askar Telescope Should You Buy?
Choosing the right Askar telescope depends on far more than simply selecting the largest aperture. Your mount capacity, camera sensor size, preferred imaging targets and long-term astrophotography goals all play an important role in determining which telescope will provide the best experience.
Whether you're purchasing your very first dedicated astrograph or upgrading to a premium observatory-class refractor, Askar offers a telescope designed to match your ambitions.
If You're Buying Your First Astrophotography Telescope
Our Recommendation: Askar FRA400
The FRA400 is compact, lightweight and forgiving, making it an excellent first imaging telescope. Its integrated flat-field design produces superb results with modern APS-C cameras while remaining easy to guide and transport to dark sky locations.
If You Want the Best All-Round Telescope
Our Recommendation: Askar SQA85
The SQA85 combines premium optics, full-frame compatibility and outstanding build quality into one exceptionally capable astrograph. It is equally suited to portable imaging and permanent observatory installations, making it our overall favourite in the Askar range.
If You Mainly Photograph Galaxies
Our Recommendation: Askar 107PHQ
With its longer focal length and excellent optical correction, the 107PHQ provides greater image scale for galaxies, planetary nebulae and smaller deep-sky objects while remaining manageable on many popular equatorial mounts.
If You Want Observatory-Class Performance
Our Recommendation: Askar 151PHQ
The flagship 151PHQ has been designed for serious astrophotographers seeking the highest possible image quality. Its larger aperture and premium quintuplet optics make it an exceptional choice for permanent observatories and advanced imaging systems.
Recommended Imaging Systems
| Experience | Recommended System |
|---|---|
| Beginner | Askar FRA400 + ZWO ASI533MC Pro + ZWO AM3 |
| Intermediate | Askar SQA85 + ZWO ASI2600MC Air + ZWO AM5N |
| Advanced | Askar 107PHQ + Player One Poseidon-M Pro + ZWO AM5N |
| Professional | Askar 130PHQ + Player One ZEUS 455M Pro + Sky-Watcher EQ8-R Pro |
| Observatory | Askar 151PHQ + ZWO ASI6200MM Pro + iOptron CEM120 |
Our Overall Recommendations
| If you want... | Our Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Best Overall Telescope | Askar SQA85 |
| Best Portable Astrograph | Askar FRA400 |
| Best Galaxy Telescope | Askar 107PHQ |
| Best Premium Astrograph | Askar 130PHQ |
| Best Observatory Telescope | Askar 151PHQ |
Still Unsure?
Choosing the right telescope is about matching the optics to your camera, mount and imaging ambitions. As an authorised UK Askar dealer, the team at Dark Clear Skies is always happy to help you build a complete astrophotography system that will deliver outstanding results both now and in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Askar telescope is best for astrophotography?
For most astrophotographers, the Askar SQA85 offers the best balance of optical performance, portability and long-term value. It delivers outstanding image quality with both APS-C and full-frame astronomy cameras while remaining manageable on a wide range of equatorial mounts.
What is the difference between the FRA, PHQ and SQA series?
The FRA series focuses on portable wide-field astrographs with integrated field correction. The PHQ series offers larger quintuplet astrographs designed for demanding deep-sky imaging, while the SQA series combines premium optics and mechanical engineering to deliver some of the finest imaging telescopes in the Askar range.
Are Askar telescopes suitable for full-frame cameras?
Many Askar telescopes have been designed with modern full-frame astronomy cameras in mind. Models such as the SQA85, 107PHQ, 130PHQ and 151PHQ provide generous image circles capable of illuminating full-frame sensors with excellent edge-to-edge performance.
Do Askar telescopes require a field flattener?
Many of Askar's dedicated astrographs incorporate integrated field correction, eliminating the need for a separate field flattener. Always check the specifications for your chosen model, as requirements vary across the range.
Which Askar telescope is best for beginners?
The Askar FRA400 is one of our favourite telescopes for beginners. Its compact size, integrated optical correction and forgiving focal length make it an excellent first astrograph for deep-sky imaging.
Which Askar telescope is best for galaxies?
For galaxy imaging, the Askar 107PHQ, 130PHQ and 151PHQ are excellent choices thanks to their longer focal lengths and superb optical correction.
Can I use Askar telescopes for visual observing?
Yes. While many Askar telescopes have been designed primarily for astrophotography, several models also provide excellent visual performance when paired with quality diagonals and eyepieces.
What mount should I use with an Askar telescope?
The ideal mount depends on the telescope you choose. Compact models such as the FRA400 work well on mounts like the ZWO AM3, while larger telescopes including the 130PHQ and 151PHQ benefit from higher-capacity mounts such as the ZWO AM5N, Sky-Watcher EQ8-R Pro or iOptron CEM70/CEM120.
Which camera pairs best with an Askar telescope?
Popular combinations include the ZWO ASI2600MC Air, ASI2600MM Pro, Player One Poseidon-M Pro and ZEUS 455M Pro. The ideal camera depends on your preferred imaging style, sensor size and budget.
Where can I buy Askar telescopes in the UK?
Dark Clear Skies is an authorised UK Askar dealer, supplying the latest telescopes, accessories and expert advice to help you build the ideal astrophotography system.
Final Thoughts
Askar has established itself as one of the leading manufacturers of premium astrophotography refractors by combining innovative optical design, outstanding mechanical engineering and exceptional value. Whether you're purchasing your first dedicated astrograph or building a permanent observatory, there is an Askar telescope capable of meeting your imaging ambitions.
The most expensive telescope isn't always the right one. Choosing the correct combination of aperture, focal length, mount capacity and camera compatibility will almost always produce better long-term results than simply selecting the largest model available.
At Dark Clear Skies, we believe every astrophotographer deserves honest, knowledgeable advice based on real-world experience. As an authorised UK Askar dealer, we're always happy to help you compare models, recommend compatible cameras and mounts, and build an imaging system that will continue to perform for many years.
If you're still deciding which Askar telescope is right for your astrophotography journey, please get in touch. We'd be delighted to help you choose the perfect telescope for your equipment, budget and imaging goals.