StellaLyra · 8-inch f/5 M-LRN Newtonian
Make room for an eight-inch view.
The StellaLyra 8-inch f/5 puts a 200mm parabolic mirror and 1000mm focal length into a metal optical tube with a 2-inch dual-speed Crayford focuser. Build around it for eyepiece observing, or pair it with a carefully matched camera system.
This is a substantial telescope for someone ready to choose the mount and accessories around their own observing priorities.
Choose the view before choosing the accessories.
At the eyepiece, magnification depends on the eyepiece you fit: divide the telescope’s focal length by the eyepiece focal length. A 25mm eyepiece gives 40× here, while a 10mm gives 100×. These are planning examples; eyepieces are separate purchases.
Begin with a lower-power view to locate and frame a target, then increase magnification when the atmosphere allows. For imaging, use your camera’s sensor size in a field-of-view planner to check whether your intended subjects fit the frame.
A metre of focal length needs a considered mounting plan.
The tube measures 900mm long by 230mm in diameter. Published weight is 9kg including rings and finder, with a Vixen-style mounting rail supplied.
Choose your mount for the complete working system, adding camera, corrector, guiding equipment and filters to the tube load. The length of the tube and exposure to wind also matter for imaging. Check saddle compatibility, balance range and clearance before assuming an existing mount is suitable.
Make regular use practical.
Measure the storage space and the route to your observing position, including doorways and steps. Consider how you will support the tube while securing it in the mount saddle, and practise the assembly in daylight.
A larger telescope is most rewarding when it is comfortable to set up. If frequent travel or a quick carry into the garden is the priority, compare the smaller 6-inch model alongside this one before deciding.
An optical finder for getting on target.
The included 8×50 straight-through finder provides a separate pointing view. Align it with the main telescope before your first session so an object centred in the finder also appears in a low-power eyepiece.
For camera work, the finder remains a pointing aid. Tracking and autoguiding require additional equipment; they are not functions supplied by the optical finder itself. Plan those parts around the mount and camera you intend to use.
Refine focus with a light touch.
The linear-bearing Crayford focuser offers coarse and fine manual control, with a 1.25-inch adapter for smaller accessories. Use the coarse control to approach focus and the fine control to make the final adjustment.
When fitting a camera, support its weight while securing the connections. Arrange cables so they cannot tug on the focuser as the telescope changes position. If you want motorised focusing, confirm the motor, bracket and coupling requirements for your setup before ordering.
Build the imaging train as a complete system.
A compatible coma corrector is needed for optimum photographic results and is purchased separately. Select it with your sensor size, camera connections and filter hardware in mind.
Set the corrector-to-sensor spacing to its manufacturer’s instructions, then confirm that the complete assembly reaches focus. These are separate checks. Avoid treating the focuser diameter as a promise of corrected coverage across any particular sensor.
Establish a repeatable first-light routine.
Let the telescope settle towards outdoor conditions and check collimation with an appropriate tool, particularly after transport. For imaging, begin with short star-field exposures and inspect the centre and corners before starting a long sequence.
Recheck focus as conditions change. If star shapes are uneven, investigate focus, alignment, spacing, tilt and tracking methodically, adjusting one factor at a time. Keep a record of the adapter arrangement so you can rebuild the same setup after removing the camera.
Included equipment
| Supplied with the tube | Choose separately |
|---|---|
| Optical tube and fitted focuser | Mount and stable tripod or pier |
| Tube rings and Vixen-style rail | Eyepieces for visual observing |
| 8×50 optical finder and dust cap | Camera, corrector and imaging adapters |
| 1.25-inch focuser adapter | Collimation tool; guiding and power as required |
Specifications for planning your setup
| Optical design / aperture | Parabolic Newtonian / 200mm |
|---|---|
| Focal length / ratio | 1000mm / f/5 |
| Focuser | 2-inch dual-speed linear-bearing Crayford |
| Finder | 8×50 straight-through |
| Tube length / diameter | 900mm / 230mm |
| Published weight | 9kg including rings and finder |
Which StellaLyra suits your plans?
How does this compare with the 8-inch f/4?
This f/5 model gives a tighter camera field and higher magnification with the same eyepiece because of its longer focal length. Compare the framing, tube dimensions and total mounting load against your intended use. Both require careful alignment and a compatible corrector for optimum imaging.
Should I choose this or the 6-inch f/5?
The 8-inch offers a larger aperture and a longer focal length, alongside greater handling and mounting demands. Choose the system you can comfortably store, carry and support with an appropriate mount, rather than judging the optical tube in isolation.
Is it supplied ready to observe?
You still need a suitable mount and eyepieces, or a camera system for imaging. Send us a list of the equipment you already own so the remaining parts can be checked before ordering.
Availability reflects supplier stock and can change. Contact Dark Clear Skies to confirm dispatch timing if you need the telescope for a particular date.