StellaLyra · 10-inch f/4 M-LRN Newtonian
A larger canvas for your next deep-sky project.
The StellaLyra 10-inch f/4 brings a 254mm parabolic mirror and 1016mm focal length to a metal-tube imaging Newtonian with a 3-inch dual-speed linear Crayford focuser.
Choose it for a carefully planned camera rig when you want a closer view of your targets and have the mount, space and setup routine to support a substantial optical tube.
Any mount shown in the photographs is for illustration. Published weight is 14.8kg with rings, dovetail and finder, before adding imaging equipment.
Frame smaller subjects more closely.
At the same camera sensor size, 1016mm gives a tighter field than an 800mm telescope. That can be useful when a target occupies too little of your existing frame. Larger nebulae may instead call for a mosaic or a shorter focal length.
Check several intended subjects in a field-of-view planner with your own camera. Consider the surrounding sky you want to include as well as the object itself. The right framing is more useful than buying extra aperture without a clear imaging goal.
Make mounting and handling part of the buying decision.
The tube is 980mm long and measures 307mm across its end caps. Check the space available for storage, transport and lifting it into the saddle, including the route from your storage area to the observing position.
Your mount must carry the entire working assembly. Add the camera, corrector, filters, guiding equipment and cables to the published tube-package weight. Consider the tube’s length and exposure to wind alongside the mount’s payload figure, and allow for the counterweights and balance range your system needs.
Practise assembly in daylight. Support the tube securely while fastening the saddle and rings, then check camera and cable clearance before letting the mount move unattended.
Useful hardware for building your system.
Tube rings, a Vixen-style rail and an 8×50 straight-through finder are supplied. Confirm that the rail suits your mount saddle, and align the finder with the main telescope before your first night.
Plan where guiding and control equipment will sit before adding it. Keep cables supported with enough movement for the telescope’s travel, and avoid routing them where they can snag or pull on the camera. An optical finder alone does not provide autoguiding.
A 3-inch focuser with fine manual control.
The Crayford focuser offers coarse and fine adjustment for approaching focus and refining it with test exposures. Fit and support the camera carefully, then check that the complete assembly stays secure as the tube changes orientation.
The focuser’s diameter does not by itself establish camera coverage or a safe imaging-payload limit. Check your corrector, adapters and camera together. If adding autofocus, confirm the specific motor, bracket and coupling requirements before ordering.
Choose the coma corrector alongside the camera.
A compatible coma corrector is required for optimum photographic results and is not included. Its specified sensor spacing, supported sensor size and connections all matter when planning the imaging train.
Write down each component between the corrector and sensor, including any filter wheel or drawer. Set the spacing to the corrector manufacturer’s instructions, then check that the whole assembly reaches focus. Do not use focuser travel as a substitute for setting the correct spacing.
Cooling and alignment before a long sequence.
A mirror-cooling fan and battery holder are included. Allow time for the telescope to settle towards outdoor conditions, and check collimation after transport using a suitable tool.
Take short star-field exposures before committing to a target. Inspect the centre and corners, check tracking, and recheck focus as the night progresses. If something changes, investigate one factor at a time so you can identify whether the cause is focus, alignment, spacing, tilt or mount behaviour.
What is included?
| In the optical tube package | Plan for separately |
|---|---|
| Optical tube with fitted focuser | Suitable tracking mount and tripod or pier |
| Tube rings and Vixen-style rail | Camera, coma corrector and camera adapters |
| 8×50 finder | Guiding equipment and control system as required |
| Cooling fan and battery holder | Power, collimation tool and transport protection |
| 35mm 2-inch extension and 1.25-inch adapter | Eyepieces for visual observing |
Specifications for planning your rig
| Optical design | Parabolic Newtonian reflector |
|---|---|
| Aperture / focal length | 254mm / 1016mm |
| Focal ratio | f/4 |
| Focuser | 3-inch dual-speed linear Crayford |
| Tube length | 980mm |
| Outside diameter | 303mm body; 307mm end caps |
| Weight with rings, rail and finder | 14.8kg |
Before ordering
Is this a good choice for a portable setup?
That depends on your transport, lifting arrangements and mount. Measure your available space and consider the complete setup routine. If frequent travel is the priority, compare the smaller models before committing to this tube.
Does the larger focuser guarantee full-frame imaging?
No. Corrected field coverage depends on the complete optical system, including the corrector and adapters. Tell us your camera model and proposed imaging train so compatibility can be checked.
Can I use it visually?
Yes, with suitable eyepieces and the appropriate focus configuration. Eyepieces and the mount are separate purchases. For mainly visual observing, also compare a Dobsonian’s mounting arrangement and everyday handling.
Availability reflects supplier stock and can change. Contact Dark Clear Skies to confirm dispatch timing if you need the telescope for a particular date.