StellaLyra · 16-inch f/8 Lightweight M-LRC RC
Build a dedicated imaging system around 406mm of aperture.
The StellaLyra 16-inch lightweight carbon-truss Ritchey–Chrétien combines a 406mm aperture with a 3250mm focal length at f/8. It is a substantial optical assembly for an experienced imager planning the mount, camera and observing environment as one system.
Choose it around specific targets and a practical installation. Long focal length rewards accurate tracking, careful focus and a well-supported imaging train.
This listing includes the manual 3.25-inch focuser. A motorised focuser is a separate choice. Some photographs show a light shroud, which is not listed in the standard package; confirm any shroud requirements separately.
Match the camera to the subjects you want to record.
At the native focal length, a 23.5 × 15.7mm sensor covers approximately 24.9 × 16.6 arcminutes. That calculated field can suit smaller targets, while a large nebula may need several panels.
Use your actual sensor dimensions in a field-of-view planner. Consider pixel size and the seeing at your site as well as framing. This geometric example does not guarantee corrected or fully illuminated coverage across a particular sensor.
Increasing image scale is useful when the complete system can preserve the detail. Review guiding, focus control and exposure strategy before choosing accessories solely around aperture.
Lightweight version, substantial working load.
The published weight is 31kg with the supplied focuser. Add the camera, filters, guiding equipment, adapters and other mounted accessories before assessing the complete payload.
Check mount saddle compatibility, counterweights and balance range. Plan how the assembly will be supported while it is fitted, adjusted or removed. A permanent installation can reduce repeated handling, but still needs access for maintenance and equipment changes.
Confirm clearance with the rear train attached and cables routed through the intended pointing range.
Plan protection and light control around the open frame.
The carbon-fibre truss leaves the optical assemblies exposed to the observing environment. Plan storage and transport protection, keeping dust covers fitted when appropriate.
Assess local lighting and dew conditions before selecting extra equipment. If a shroud is fitted, secure it so it cannot sag into the light path or obstruct moving parts. Keep cables away from the optical path and arrange them without loading the focuser.
An RC corrects coma, but camera matching still matters.
The Ritchey–Chrétien design corrects coma. It does not establish a universally flat image plane or guarantee sharp corners across every sensor.
Choose any reducer or flattener for the RC design, the camera and the required mechanical connections. Establish a baseline with test images across a star field before deciding that an additional optical element or alignment change is needed.
Manual fine focus and assisted cooling.
The rotatable 3.25-inch dual-speed linear-bearing Crayford focuser works with a fixed primary. Three fans assist thermal equalisation.
Allow the telescope to settle outdoors before assessing star shapes. Use that period to complete balance, cable and guiding checks, then refine focus with short exposures.
Support the camera while making connections. If motorised focusing is planned, confirm the bracket, coupling or replacement-focuser requirements for the actual setup before ordering.
Separate extension length from corrector spacing.
Two 25mm and one 50mm extension rings are supplied. Select the combination that places the assembled imaging train within the telescope’s focusing range, with adjustment remaining.
A reducer or flattener has its own required distance to the sensor. Count the camera sensor recess, filter equipment and adapters in that distance. Establish the optical spacing first, then confirm the complete system reaches focus.
Record each connection and the finished arrangement. This makes maintenance and later camera changes easier to assess without rebuilding the system by trial and error.
Commission the system before a long imaging campaign.
Begin with short exposures of a star field and inspect both the centre and corners. If results are uneven, investigate focus, tracking, camera tilt, optical spacing and collimation separately.
Use a method appropriate to an RC when checking alignment. Change one factor at a time and keep notes. Avoid disturbing an already sound alignment because of a tracking issue or a telescope that has not yet reached outdoor temperature.
Included and purchased separately
| Supplied with the OTA | Choose separately |
|---|---|
| Carbon-truss RC and manual focuser | Suitable mount and pier or tripod |
| Top and bottom Losmandy-style rails; three fans | Camera, filters, guiding and power equipment |
| Two 25mm and one 50mm extension rings | Camera adapters and any RC-compatible correction optics |
| 2-inch holder and 1.25-inch adapter | Motorised focusing equipment, if wanted |
| Finder base; primary and secondary dust covers | Finder and any additional light-control accessories |
Specifications at a glance
| Design / aperture | Ritchey–Chrétien / 406mm |
|---|---|
| Focal length / ratio | 3250mm / f/8 |
| Mirror material / primary support | Quartz / 18-point support system |
| Published length | 1156mm, excluding the focuser |
| Published weight | 31kg, including the supplied focuser |
Before ordering
Does the standard price include a motorised focuser?
No. It includes the manual focuser described above. Establish the intended camera train and focusing requirements before selecting a motor kit or replacement focuser.
Is a large sensor guaranteed to work without correction?
No. Coma correction alone does not guarantee a flat field. Check the specific sensor, field-correction optics, connection apertures and spacing as one system.
Can I treat the quoted tube weight as the mount load?
The published figure includes the supplied focuser, but your complete payload also includes the imaging equipment and other attached accessories. Mount suitability and handling need to be assessed with that working assembly in mind.
This listing currently has no stock available. Contact Dark Clear Skies for a confirmed availability update and dispatch estimate before planning delivery.