{"product_id":"stellalyra-16-f-8-lightweight-m-lrc-ritchey-chretien-carbon-truss-telescope-ota","title":"StellaLyra 16\" f\/8 Lightweight M-LRC Ritchey-Chrétien Carbon Truss Telescope OTA","description":"\u003cstyle\u003e\n.dcs-rc16t{max-width:1120px;margin:0 auto;color:#243445;font:inherit;line-height:1.7;text-align:left;overflow-wrap:anywhere}\n.dcs-rc16t *{box-sizing:border-box}.dcs-rc16t h2,.dcs-rc16t h3{color:#091725;line-height:1.25;letter-spacing:normal;text-align:left}\n.dcs-rc16t h2{font-size:clamp(25px,3vw,34px);margin:0 0 18px}.dcs-rc16t h3{font-size:23px;margin:0 0 16px}\n.dcs-rc16t p{margin:0 0 16px}.dcs-rc16t figure{margin:0;background:#fff;border:1px solid #e0e5e9;border-radius:12px;overflow:hidden}\n.dcs-rc16t img{display:block;width:100%;height:auto;max-width:600px;margin:auto;object-fit:contain}\n.dcs-rc16t .rc16t-feature,.dcs-rc16t .rc16t-intro{display:grid;grid-template-columns:repeat(auto-fit,minmax(min(100%,280px),1fr));gap:clamp(20px,4vw,40px);align-items:center;margin:0 0 38px}\n.dcs-rc16t .rc16t-intro{padding:24px;background:#091725;border-top:4px solid #c89524;border-radius:12px}\n.dcs-rc16t .rc16t-intro h2,.dcs-rc16t .rc16t-intro p{color:#fff!important}\n.dcs-rc16t .rc16t-label{font-size:12px;letter-spacing:.12em;text-transform:uppercase;font-weight:700}\n.dcs-rc16t .rc16t-panel{background:#f3f5f7;border-radius:12px;padding:24px;margin:0 0 32px}\n.dcs-rc16t ul{padding-left:22px;margin:0 0 16px}.dcs-rc16t li{margin-bottom:8px}\n.dcs-rc16t table{border-collapse:collapse;width:100%;table-layout:fixed;margin:16px 0 28px;font-size:15px}\n.dcs-rc16t th,.dcs-rc16t td{padding:10px 12px;border-bottom:1px solid #dce2e8;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;white-space:normal}\n.dcs-rc16t th{background:#f3f5f7;color:#091725}.dcs-rc16t th[scope=row]{width:42%}\n.dcs-rc16t details{border-bottom:1px solid #dce2e8;padding:16px 0}.dcs-rc16t summary{cursor:pointer;font-weight:700;color:#091725}.dcs-rc16t details p{margin:12px 0 0}\n.dcs-rc16t .rc16t-note{border-left:3px solid #c89524;padding:14px 18px;background:#fff8e8;margin:28px 0}\n.dcs-rc16t .rc16t-links{display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:12px;margin:24px 0}.dcs-rc16t .rc16t-links a{padding:12px 18px;border-radius:6px;background:#c89524;color:#091725!important;font-weight:700;text-decoration:none!important;min-height:44px}\n.dcs-rc16t .rc16t-links a:last-child{background:#f0f3f6}.dcs-rc16t a:focus-visible,.dcs-rc16t summary:focus-visible{outline:3px solid #2874aa;outline-offset:4px}\n@media(max-width:600px){.dcs-rc16t .rc16t-intro,.dcs-rc16t .rc16t-panel{padding:18px}.dcs-rc16t th,.dcs-rc16t td{padding:9px 7px;font-size:14px}}\n.dcs-rc16t figcaption{padding:12px 16px;font-size:14px;line-height:1.5;color:#243445;background:#fff}\u003c\/style\u003e\n\u003csection class=\"dcs-rc16t\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"rc16t-intro\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"rc16t-label\"\u003eStellaLyra · 16-inch f\/8 Lightweight M-LRC RC\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eBuild a dedicated imaging system around 406mm of aperture.\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChoose it around specific targets and a practical installation. Long focal length rewards accurate tracking, careful focus and a well-supported imaging train.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cfigure\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0523\/1650\/4241\/files\/stellalyra-16-f8-lightweight-rc-hero.jpg?v=1789826302\" alt=\"StellaLyra 16-inch f\/8 lightweight carbon-truss Ritchey-Chretien optical tube\" width=\"600\" height=\"600\" loading=\"lazy\"\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"rc16t-note\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eStandard equipment and photographs\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"rc16t-panel\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eMatch the camera to the subjects you want to record.\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt the native focal length, a 23.5 × 15.7mm sensor covers approximately \u003cstrong\u003e24.9 × 16.6 arcminutes\u003c\/strong\u003e. That calculated field can suit smaller targets, while a large nebula may need several panels.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUse 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIncreasing 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"rc16t-feature\"\u003e\n\u003cfigure\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0523\/1650\/4241\/files\/stellalyra-16-f8-lightweight-rc-rear.jpg?v=1789826334\" alt=\"Rear of StellaLyra 16-inch lightweight RC with standard manual focuser; pictured shroud not listed in the standard package\" width=\"600\" height=\"600\" loading=\"lazy\"\u003e\u003cfigcaption\u003eStandard manual focuser shown. The pictured light shroud is not listed in the supplied package.\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eLightweight version, substantial working load.\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe published weight is \u003cstrong\u003e31kg with the supplied focuser\u003c\/strong\u003e. Add the camera, filters, guiding equipment, adapters and other mounted accessories before assessing the complete payload.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCheck 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eConfirm clearance with the rear train attached and cables routed through the intended pointing range.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003ePlan protection and light control around the open frame.\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe carbon-fibre truss leaves the optical assemblies exposed to the observing environment. Plan storage and transport protection, keeping dust covers fitted when appropriate.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAssess 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"rc16t-feature\"\u003e\n\u003cfigure\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0523\/1650\/4241\/files\/stellalyra-16-f8-lightweight-rc-shroud-front.jpg?v=1789826324\" alt=\"StellaLyra 16-inch lightweight RC with a light shroud illustrated; shroud not listed in the standard package\" width=\"600\" height=\"600\" loading=\"lazy\"\u003e\u003cfigcaption\u003eLight shroud illustrated for setup planning; it is not listed in the standard package.\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eAn RC corrects coma, but camera matching still matters.\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Ritchey–Chrétien design corrects coma. It does not establish a universally flat image plane or guarantee sharp corners across every sensor.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChoose 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"rc16t-feature\"\u003e\n\u003cfigure\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0523\/1650\/4241\/files\/stellalyra-16-f8-lightweight-rc-standard-focuser.jpg?v=1789826314\" alt=\"Standard manual focuser and three cooling fans on StellaLyra 16-inch lightweight RC\" width=\"600\" height=\"600\" loading=\"lazy\"\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eManual fine focus and assisted cooling.\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe rotatable 3.25-inch dual-speed linear-bearing Crayford focuser works with a fixed primary. Three fans assist thermal equalisation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAllow 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSupport the camera while making connections. If motorised focusing is planned, confirm the bracket, coupling or replacement-focuser requirements for the actual setup before ordering.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"rc16t-panel\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eSeparate extension length from corrector spacing.\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTwo 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRecord each connection and the finished arrangement. This makes maintenance and later camera changes easier to assess without rebuilding the system by trial and error.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCommission the system before a long imaging campaign.\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBegin 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUse 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eIncluded and purchased separately\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth scope=\"col\"\u003eSupplied with the OTA\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth scope=\"col\"\u003eChoose separately\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\u003c\/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eCarbon-truss RC and manual focuser\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSuitable mount and pier or tripod\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTop and bottom Losmandy-style rails; three fans\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eCamera, filters, guiding and power equipment\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTwo 25mm and one 50mm extension rings\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eCamera adapters and any RC-compatible correction optics\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e2-inch holder and 1.25-inch adapter\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMotorised focusing equipment, if wanted\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFinder base; primary and secondary dust covers\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFinder and any additional light-control accessories\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eSpecifications at a glance\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ctable\u003e\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth scope=\"row\"\u003eDesign \/ aperture\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eRitchey–Chrétien \/ 406mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth scope=\"row\"\u003eFocal length \/ ratio\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e3250mm \/ f\/8\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth scope=\"row\"\u003eMirror material \/ primary support\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eQuartz \/ 18-point support system\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth scope=\"row\"\u003ePublished length\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e1156mm, excluding the focuser\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth scope=\"row\"\u003ePublished weight\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e31kg, including the supplied focuser\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eBefore ordering\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdetails\u003e\u003csummary\u003eDoes the standard price include a motorised focuser?\u003c\/summary\u003e\u003cp\u003eNo. It includes the manual focuser described above. Establish the intended camera train and focusing requirements before selecting a motor kit or replacement focuser.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/details\u003e\n\u003cdetails\u003e\u003csummary\u003eIs a large sensor guaranteed to work without correction?\u003c\/summary\u003e\u003cp\u003eNo. Coma correction alone does not guarantee a flat field. Check the specific sensor, field-correction optics, connection apertures and spacing as one system.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/details\u003e\n\u003cdetails\u003e\u003csummary\u003eCan I treat the quoted tube weight as the mount load?\u003c\/summary\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/details\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"rc16t-note\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAwaiting stock\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis listing currently has no stock available. Contact Dark Clear Skies for a confirmed availability update and dispatch estimate before planning delivery.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"rc16t-links\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/pages\/stellalyra\"\u003eCompare the StellaLyra range\u003c\/a\u003e\u003ca href=\"mailto:contact@darkclearskies.co.uk?subject=StellaLyra%2016-inch%20lightweight%20RC\"\u003eDiscuss your imaging system\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/section\u003e\n","brand":"StellaLyra","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":55665192829304,"sku":null,"price":7875.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0523\/1650\/4241\/files\/stellalyra-16-f8-lightweight-rc-hero.jpg?v=1789826302","url":"https:\/\/www.darkclearskies.co.uk\/products\/stellalyra-16-f-8-lightweight-m-lrc-ritchey-chretien-carbon-truss-telescope-ota","provider":"Dark Clear Skies ","version":"1.0","type":"link"}