The Askar 80PHQ 80mm f/7.5 ED APO Quadruplet Astrograph is a precision refractor telescope designed for high-resolution astrophotography. As the second long-focal-ratio model in the PHQ series, it combines advanced optical correction with a compact and mechanically robust design, making it an excellent choice for both experienced imagers and astrophotographers building a portable deep-sky imaging system.

Precision Optical Design

The 80PHQ uses a quadruplet 3+1 optical configuration incorporating two ED glass elements to deliver excellent colour correction and high contrast across the entire imaging field. Unlike traditional refractors that rely on an external field flattener, the PHQ optical system integrates the corrector directly into the telescope design.

This approach improves image quality by maintaining precise optical spacing between elements while reducing vignetting and maintaining sharp stars across large camera sensors. The result is a naturally flat imaging field capable of supporting modern full-frame astrophotography cameras with a 44mm image circle.

With a 600mm focal length and f/7.5 focal ratio, the 80PHQ is well suited for imaging galaxies, planetary nebulae and smaller deep-sky objects that benefit from increased focal length and resolution.

Compact and Portable Astrograph

Compared with larger telescopes in the PHQ series, the 80PHQ offers a more compact and portable imaging solution. The optical tube measures only approximately 448mm in length and weighs around 3.9kg, making it significantly easier to transport and mount than larger refractors.

This makes the telescope particularly attractive for astrophotographers using mid-range equatorial mounts or travelling to dark sky locations.

Despite its compact size, the telescope retains the same high mechanical standards found throughout the PHQ range.

Mechanical Construction

The optical tube assembly features a durable ivory-white finish with green accents, a distinctive design used across the PHQ series. Precision CNC-machined tube rings securely hold the OTA while allowing quick adjustment without requiring additional tools.

A robust 3-inch rack-and-pinion focuser provides smooth dual-speed focusing and excellent load capacity for modern imaging setups including filter wheels, cameras and guiding equipment.

The integrated rotator includes graduated markings that allow astrophotographers to precisely repeat camera orientation when returning to the same imaging target.

Simplified Astrophotography Setup

One of the key advantages of the PHQ design is the integrated flat-field optical system. Unlike many refractor telescopes, the 80PHQ does not require an additional field flattener for imaging.

This simplifies system configuration by eliminating the need to calculate precise spacing between optical components. Astrophotographers can connect their imaging equipment directly using the supplied adapter system.

Example Astrophotography Result

Image credit: Andrea Maggi – NGC 2264
Captured using Askar 80PHQ with ZWO ASI6200 camera and Optolong 3nm filter.

Key Specifications