Skywatcher Maksutov Telescope MC 102/1300 Skymax-102S AZ-Pronto

The MC 102/1300 telescope: This telescope is an ideal companion for trips and is suitable both for astronomy and for use as a reflector spotting scope for nature watching. This telescope is also super for letting children take their first steps in observing the night sky. The extremely compact design fits into virtually any hand luggage and is also known for the very high-contrast image it produces. Its 102mm aperture collects much more light than its 90mm little brother – the light collecting capacity is 212X more than the naked eye alone (for a 7mm exit pupil). Although the overall length is only 28cm, it has a long focal length of 1300mm resulting in an aperture ratio of f12.7.

Astronomically, this telescope has had a lot to offer: with a resolution of 1.13 arc seconds, planets become beautiful objects to observe. Exploring deep sky objects such as the Orion Nebula or the summer Milky Way is also highly enjoyable. This telescope also provides an appropriately low priced alternative as a spotting scope for nature watching. Many classic spotting scopes only start to include adapters for use with a camera at the higher end of the market, at several hundred Euros. This telescope is different: it comes with a large range of adaptations for nature photography included. The 1300mm focal length means that low cost bird photography is possible. The built-in T-2 thread allows the simple connection of an SLR camera. And, for astrophotography, you can also take shots of the Moon for example. The focusing sharpness is set by adjusting a knob on the side which moves the primary mirror forwards or backwards. This type of focusing mechanism provides a large back focus, enabling a wide range of add-on options to be used.

The advantages in a nutshell:

• compact telescope with long focal length and 102mm aperture
• high contrast image
• 1.25″ connection with T-2 thread
• nature watching and photography possible

Ideal No Fuss, Grab-and-Go Telescope Mounting for Easy Visual Astronomy as well as Daytime Terrestrial Observations!!

The Sky-Watcher AZ PRONTO is a lightweight, highly portable Alt-Azimuth mount constructed from cast aluminium, designed to attach small telescopes up to 3kg in weight, fitted with a 45mm dovetail bar.

The aluminium telescopic tripod legs can be extended and clamped in any position using the integral leg locks.

Supplied with two flexible slow-motion cables, one for vertical and one for horizontal smooth fine motion control. The slow motion cables can be positioned in a choice of two different positions on each axis, making it convenient to control both refractor and reflector telescopes.

The mount can also be moved around each axis manually, for rapid panning and elevation adjustments. Accurately tracks distant moving objects with ease. This delightfully convenient and well engineered grab-and-go mounting is suitable for both terrestrial observations and astronomical viewing.

It is not only important which telescope you buy, but also where you buy it.

We provide extra help:

• We are a leading telescope dealer and know these instruments like the back of our hands.
• We are always very happy to offer our assistance after your purchase, should you encounter any problems with your telescope’s setup or operation.
• Our ‘Telescope Basics’ booklet – an 80-page beginner’s guide for our telescopes – is provided free of charge with every telescope we sell.