Orion 150mm f/12 Maksutov-Cassegrain Telescope
A high-quality 150mm Maksutov-Cassegrain optical tube assembly designed for both terrestrial and astronomical observation, featuring a 1800mm focal length and a compact, portable design.
Table of contents
Product Overview
The Orion 150mm f/12 Maksutov-Cassegrain is a high-performance optical instrument designed for both daytime terrestrial viewing and nighttime stargazing. Its compact, portable design houses a long 1800mm focal length, providing high magnification capabilities. The system uses a closed optical design with a primary mirror and a full-aperture meniscus corrector lens, which effectively minimizes optical aberrations.
Setup and Mounting
The telescope arrives fully assembled and factory-collimated. It features a Vixen-style dovetail mounting plate for easy attachment to compatible mounts. While the plate includes 1/4-20 and M6 threaded holes for tripod mounting, the manufacturer advises against using standard consumer photo tripods due to the telescope's 11.5 lbs weight.
Operation and Focusing
The telescope includes a 2-inch visual back with a 1.25-inch step-down adapter, allowing for versatile accessory configuration. Focusing is achieved by turning the rear focus knob, which moves the primary mirror. For terrestrial viewing, a correct-image diagonal is recommended to ensure proper orientation.
Maintenance and Safety
Warning: Never look directly at the Sun through the telescope without a professional solar filter, as this will cause permanent eye damage. The telescope requires minimal maintenance. Keep dust covers on when not in use and store in a clean, dry, dust-free environment. The exterior aluminum tube can be cleaned with a soft cloth and household cleaning fluid. The front meniscus lens should only be cleaned using specialized optical lens tissue and fluid, never with glass cleaners.
Collimation
While the optics are aligned at the factory, they may require adjustment if the unit is handled roughly. Collimation should only be performed after confirming misalignment via a star test. The process involves adjusting three pairs of collimation screws on the rear cell using 4mm and 2.5mm Allen wrenches to tilt the primary mirror until the optics are perfectly aligned.
Technical Specifications
- Optical Design: Maksutov-Cassegrain
- Aperture: 150mm (5.9 inches)
- Focal Length: 1800mm
- Focal Ratio: f/12.0
- Weight: 11.5 lbs
- Mounting: Vixen-style dovetail
