{"product_id":"stellalyra-8-f-12-m-lrs-classical-cassegrain-telescope-ota","title":"StellaLyra 8\" f\/12 M-LRS Classical Cassegrain Telescope OTA","description":"\u003cstyle\u003e\n.dcs-cc8{max-width:1120px;margin:0 auto;color:#243445;font:inherit;line-height:1.7;text-align:left;overflow-wrap:anywhere}\n.dcs-cc8 *{box-sizing:border-box}.dcs-cc8 h2,.dcs-cc8 h3{color:#091725;line-height:1.25;letter-spacing:normal;text-align:left}\n.dcs-cc8 h2{font-size:clamp(25px,3vw,34px);margin:0 0 18px}.dcs-cc8 h3{font-size:23px;margin:0 0 16px}\n.dcs-cc8 p{margin:0 0 16px}.dcs-cc8 figure{margin:0;background:#fff;border:1px solid #e0e5e9;border-radius:12px;overflow:hidden}\n.dcs-cc8 img{display:block;width:100%;height:auto;max-width:600px;margin:auto;object-fit:contain}\n.dcs-cc8 .cc8-feature,.dcs-cc8 .cc8-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-cc8 .cc8-intro{padding:24px;background:#091725;border-top:4px solid #c89524;border-radius:12px}\n.dcs-cc8 .cc8-intro h2,.dcs-cc8 .cc8-intro p{color:#fff!important}\n.dcs-cc8 .cc8-label{font-size:12px;letter-spacing:.12em;text-transform:uppercase;font-weight:700}\n.dcs-cc8 .cc8-panel{background:#f3f5f7;border-radius:12px;padding:24px;margin:0 0 32px}\n.dcs-cc8 ul{padding-left:22px;margin:0 0 16px}.dcs-cc8 li{margin-bottom:8px}\n.dcs-cc8 table{border-collapse:collapse;width:100%;table-layout:fixed;margin:16px 0 28px;font-size:15px}\n.dcs-cc8 th,.dcs-cc8 td{padding:10px 12px;border-bottom:1px solid #dce2e8;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;white-space:normal}\n.dcs-cc8 th{background:#f3f5f7;color:#091725}.dcs-cc8 th[scope=row]{width:42%}\n.dcs-cc8 details{border-bottom:1px solid #dce2e8;padding:16px 0}.dcs-cc8 summary{cursor:pointer;font-weight:700;color:#091725}.dcs-cc8 details p{margin:12px 0 0}\n.dcs-cc8 .cc8-note{border-left:3px solid #c89524;padding:14px 18px;background:#fff8e8;margin:28px 0}\n.dcs-cc8 .cc8-links{display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:12px;margin:24px 0}.dcs-cc8 .cc8-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-cc8 .cc8-links a:last-child{background:#f0f3f6}.dcs-cc8 a:focus-visible,.dcs-cc8 summary:focus-visible{outline:3px solid #2874aa;outline-offset:4px}\n@media(max-width:600px){.dcs-cc8 .cc8-intro,.dcs-cc8 .cc8-panel{padding:18px}.dcs-cc8 th,.dcs-cc8 td{padding:9px 7px;font-size:14px}}\n.dcs-cc8 figcaption{padding:12px 16px;color:#243445;background:#fff;font-size:14px;line-height:1.5}\u003c\/style\u003e\n\u003csection class=\"dcs-cc8\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"cc8-intro\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"cc8-label\"\u003eStellaLyra · 8-inch f\/12 M-LRS Classical Cassegrain\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eSettle in for a closer study of the night sky.\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe StellaLyra 8-inch Classical Cassegrain combines a published 200mm aperture with a 2436mm focal length and nominal f\/12 focal ratio. It suits observers who enjoy concentrating on lunar features, planets and double stars, with the option to build a camera setup for smaller targets.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is an optical tube assembly. Choose the mount, diagonal, eyepieces or camera around the observing you want to do, and assess the complete working kit before deciding where it will live.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cfigure\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0523\/1650\/4241\/files\/stellalyra-8-f12-classical-cassegrain-hero.jpg?v=1789824411\" alt=\"StellaLyra 8-inch f\/12 M-LRS Classical Cassegrain optical tube\" width=\"800\" height=\"800\" loading=\"lazy\"\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"cc8-panel\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eLong focal length, purposeful framing.\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith a given eyepiece, a longer focal length produces higher magnification and a narrower view. That can be useful for exploring a small region of the Moon or studying a planet, but locating a target and keeping it centred become more demanding.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThink about an observing session rather than a maximum magnification figure. Start with an overview, centre the subject, then increase power while the view remains sharp. On an unsteady night, backing off the magnification can make the observation more rewarding.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf sweeping wide star fields is your main interest, compare the field of view of other telescope designs before choosing. The complete eyepiece and telescope combination determines the framing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"cc8-feature\"\u003e\n\u003cfigure\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0523\/1650\/4241\/files\/stellalyra-8-f12-classical-cassegrain-mounting.jpg?v=1789824423\" alt=\"Underside of StellaLyra 8-inch Classical Cassegrain showing Losmandy-style mounting plate\" width=\"800\" height=\"800\" loading=\"lazy\"\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCheck the mounting interface first.\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe lower mounting plate is \u003cstrong\u003eLosmandy-style\u003c\/strong\u003e; the upper accessory rail is \u003cstrong\u003eVixen-style\u003c\/strong\u003e. Confirm your mount’s saddle accepts the lower plate before planning the rest of the setup.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe published tube weight is 8.2kg. Add the diagonal, eyepiece or camera, finder and any other attached equipment when assessing the load. A mount that remains steady during focusing is especially valuable at the magnifications this telescope can provide.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eBalance the equipment you will actually use.\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA diagonal and heavy eyepiece change the balance differently from a camera and its adapters. Fit the intended accessory train before balancing, supporting the telescope while adjusting its position.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCheck that the assembly can balance within the available rail travel. Allow space behind the tube for the focuser, extensions and accessories, and check clearance around the mount throughout the intended pointing range. Include safe fitting and removal in your plan if the telescope will be transported regularly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"cc8-feature\"\u003e\n\u003cfigure\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0523\/1650\/4241\/files\/stellalyra-8-f12-classical-cassegrain-focuser.jpg?v=1789824445\" alt=\"Dual-speed Crayford focuser and finder base on StellaLyra 8-inch Classical Cassegrain\" width=\"800\" height=\"800\" loading=\"lazy\"\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eFine focusing with a stationary primary.\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA rotatable 2-inch dual-speed Crayford focuser provides coarse and fine control while the primary mirror remains fixed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eApproach focus slowly, let vibration settle and make the final adjustment on the target you are observing. Secure the diagonal or camera without relying on cable tension to hold anything in place. For motorised focusing, check the motor bracket and coupling against the supplied focuser before ordering additional equipment.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"cc8-panel\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat your eyepieces will deliver.\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMagnification is the telescope focal length divided by the eyepiece focal length. These examples help you plan a useful range:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth scope=\"col\"\u003eEyepiece focal length\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth scope=\"col\"\u003eApproximate magnification\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\u003c\/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e25mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e97×\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e15mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e162×\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e10mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e244×\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEyepieces are separate purchases. These figures are calculations, not a promise that a particular night will support the higher power. Atmospheric steadiness, target altitude, cooling and alignment all influence the useful magnification.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"cc8-feature\"\u003e\n\u003cfigure\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0523\/1650\/4241\/files\/stellalyra-8-f12-classical-cassegrain-rear.jpg?v=1789824434\" alt=\"Rear view of StellaLyra 8-inch Classical Cassegrain with upper accessory rail and focuser\" width=\"800\" height=\"800\" loading=\"lazy\"\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eConfigure the rear optical path for your accessories.\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTwo 25mm extension rings and one 50mm ring are supplied. They allow the focuser position to be configured for different observing or camera arrangements.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWork out the diagonal or camera connection first, then use the extension combination that brings focus within the focuser’s travel with some adjustment remaining. Fitting every ring is not a universal setup. Keep a record of the arrangement that works for each accessory combination.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003ePrepare for detail before increasing power.\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAllow the telescope to approach outdoor conditions before assessing its best image. Centre a suitable star when checking focus and alignment, and use a collimation procedure appropriate to a Classical Cassegrain if adjustment is needed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInvestigate one cause at a time when the view is soft. Unsteady air, incomplete cooling, imperfect focus and misalignment call for different responses. Avoid changing collimation simply because a low-altitude target is shimmering.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eAdding a lunar or planetary camera.\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA small sensor can make target acquisition surprisingly demanding. Align a separately purchased finder and practise centring the subject at the native focal length before adding amplification. Tracking makes it easier to keep the target in view while refining focus and exposure.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChoose any Barlow around the camera’s pixel size and the seeing. Capture short test sequences before committing to a longer run. For deep-sky imaging, consider the f\/12 focal ratio, narrow framing, exposure time and guiding requirements together; those needs differ from short lunar or planetary video captures.\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\u003eClassical Cassegrain optical tube and focuser\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eCompatible mount and tripod or pier\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eLower mounting plate, upper rail and finder base\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFinder or pointing aid\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e2-inch to 1.25-inch adapter\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eDiagonal and eyepieces for visual use\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 and its required adapters\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\"\u003eOptical design \/ published aperture\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eClassical Cassegrain \/ 200mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth scope=\"row\"\u003eFocal length \/ nominal ratio\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e2436mm \/ f\/12\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth scope=\"row\"\u003eMirror material\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eQuartz primary and secondary\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth scope=\"row\"\u003eSecondary obstruction, housing included\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e73.5mm, current supplier specification\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth scope=\"row\"\u003ePublished tube length \/ outside diameter\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e536mm \/ 231mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth scope=\"row\"\u003ePublished tube weight\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e8.2kg\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\u003eWill it fit a Vixen-only mount saddle?\u003c\/summary\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe supplied lower plate is Losmandy-style, so do not assume it fits a Vixen-only saddle. Confirm a suitable mounting arrangement before buying. The Vixen-style rail on top is the accessory rail.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/details\u003e\n\u003cdetails\u003e\u003csummary\u003eIs a finder, diagonal or eyepiece included?\u003c\/summary\u003e\u003cp\u003eNo. The finder base and eyepiece adapter are provided, but the finder, diagonal and eyepieces are separate choices. Include them in the complete setup budget.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/details\u003e\n\u003cdetails\u003e\u003csummary\u003eShould I compare it with the 6-inch model?\u003c\/summary\u003e\u003cp\u003eYes. Compare the full mounting load, storage space and intended targets. The \u003ca href=\"\/products\/stellalyra-6-f-12-m-crf-classical-cassegrain-telescope-ota\"\u003e6-inch Classical Cassegrain\u003c\/a\u003e offers a smaller option with different mounting requirements. Choose the complete system that fits your observing routine.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/details\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"cc8-note\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSupplier-stock availability\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cp\u003eAvailability reflects supplier stock and may change. Contact Dark Clear Skies to confirm dispatch timing if you need the telescope for a particular date.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"cc8-links\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/pages\/stellalyra\"\u003eCompare the StellaLyra range\u003c\/a\u003e\u003ca href=\"mailto:contact@darkclearskies.co.uk?subject=StellaLyra%208-inch%20Classical%20Cassegrain\"\u003ePlan your observing setup\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/section\u003e\n","brand":"StellaLyra","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":55665193681272,"sku":null,"price":879.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0523\/1650\/4241\/files\/stellalyra-8-f12-classical-cassegrain-hero.jpg?v=1789824411","url":"https:\/\/www.darkclearskies.co.uk\/products\/stellalyra-8-f-12-m-lrs-classical-cassegrain-telescope-ota","provider":"Dark Clear Skies ","version":"1.0","type":"link"}