Omegon Pro APO Photography Scope 72/432 ED
The Omegon Pro APO Photography Scope 72/432 ED is an unusually versatile compact optical instrument. It can be used as an astronomical telescope, a spotting scope for nature observation or as a 432mm photographic optical system.
At its heart is a 72mm ED apochromatic doublet with a 432mm focal length and fast f/6 focal ratio. Compact dimensions and a weight of just 2.06kg make the Photoscope particularly suitable for travelling astronomers, photographers and nature observers.
72mm ED Apochromatic Optics
The Photoscope uses a 72mm doublet ED objective with FPL-51 glass. Extra-low dispersion glass is used to reduce chromatic aberration and provide improved colour correction, contrast and image sharpness.
Whether you are observing the night sky, wildlife or distant landscapes, the ED optical system is designed to provide clear, detailed views. The lens surfaces are coated to support high-contrast performance.
With a focal length of 432mm and focal ratio of f/6, the Photoscope provides a relatively wide field while remaining highly portable.
Three Optical Instruments in One
Compact Astronomical Telescope
Use the Photoscope as a compact travel telescope for observing the Moon, planets, star clusters, nebulae and galaxies. Its combination of 72mm aperture and compact construction makes it particularly convenient when travelling or when a larger telescope would be impractical.
The optical tube can be attached to a suitable photographic tripod or astronomical mount depending on how you intend to use it.
Spotting Scope for Nature Observation
During the day, the Photoscope can be configured for terrestrial observation. Add a suitable 45-degree Amici prism and eyepiece to create a compact spotting scope for birdwatching, wildlife and landscape observation.
Unlike many conventional spotting scopes, the Photoscope uses an astronomical accessory connection, giving you greater freedom when selecting compatible accessories.
432mm Photography Scope
The Photoscope can also be connected to suitable camera equipment, allowing the 432mm optical system to be used for photographing distant terrestrial subjects or for astrophotography.
Appropriate camera adaptors and optical spacing components are required depending on the camera and intended application.
Quick Focus with Fine Adjustment
A large central Quick Focus ring allows the focus to be changed rapidly when moving between objects at different distances. Its non-slip surface provides a secure grip during outdoor use.
Once approximate focus has been reached, a separate 1:10 fine-focus adjustment provides much more precise control. This is particularly useful at higher magnifications and when taking photographs.
The Photoscope uses an internal helical focusing system, helping maintain its compact form while protecting the focusing mechanism.
2-Inch Accessory Connection
The Photoscope features a 2-inch astronomical accessory connection with SC thread. This allows the instrument to be configured with compatible astronomical accessories according to the intended application.
For example, a suitable Amici prism can be used for terrestrial observing, while an astronomical star diagonal and suitable eyepieces can be selected for night-sky observation.
Compact Travel Design
Weighing just 2.06kg, the Photoscope is compact enough to serve as a practical travel telescope, portable spotting scope or photographic optical system.
A standard 1/4-inch photo thread allows attachment to compatible photographic tripods.
Protective Transport Case Included
A sturdy foam-lined transport case is included. This provides useful protection for the Photoscope during storage and when travelling to observing or photography locations.
Astrophotography Information
When using the Photoscope for astrophotography, the required camera adaptors and spacing will depend on the imaging configuration.
The supplied manufacturer information states that a field flattener is required for DSLR astrophotography. Additional extension and camera-adaptor components may also be required.
The specified optical backfocus varies with the focusing position:
- Approximately 80mm +/- 1mm at the shortest focus position
- Approximately 126mm +/- 1mm at the longest/infinity focus position
These figures should therefore be considered when planning the required imaging train.
Key Features
- Telescope, spotting scope and photographic optical system in one
- 72mm ED apochromatic doublet
- FPL-51 ED glass
- 432mm focal length
- Fast f/6 focal ratio
- Quick Focus mechanism
- 1:10 fine-focus adjustment
- Internal helical focusing
- 2-inch accessory connection with SC thread
- 1/4-inch photographic tripod connection
- Compact 2.06kg optical tube
- Foam-lined transport case included
Technical Specifications
Optics
| Optical type | Refractor |
| Optical design | Apochromat |
| Lens design | Doublet |
| ED glass | FPL-51 |
| Aperture | 72mm |
| Focal length | 432mm |
| Focal ratio | f/6 |
| Resolving capacity | 1.6 arcseconds |
| Limiting magnitude | 11.9 mag |
| Light-gathering capacity | 110 |
| Maximum useful magnification | 144x |
| Tube construction | Full tube |
Focuser
| Type | Helical |
| Connection | 2" with SC thread |
| Fine focusing | 1:10 |
Mount & General
| Configuration | OTA |
| Series | Pro APO |
| Weight | 2.06kg |
Area of Application
| Moon & planets | Yes |
| Nebulae & galaxies | Yes |
| Nature observation | Yes |
| Astrophotography | Yes |
| Solar observation | Not recommended; only with an appropriate solar filter |
Recommended For
| Beginners | No |
| Advanced users | Yes |
| Observatories | No |