Askar 80PHQ

Worth knowing before you buy

How does the Askar 80PHQ perform for deep-sky imaging compared to other 80mm refractors?

Multiple users report excellent results with the 80PHQ for EAA and astrophotography, particularly when used with reducers or in afocal configurations. The scope produces sharp, well-corrected images across the field, with several observers noting it performs comparably to more expensive 80mm apochromats for galaxies and nebulae when properly configured.

What reducers and configurations work best with the 80PHQ?

Users successfully employ the scope at various focal ratios: a Starizona 0.65x reducer for f/5.

Is the 80PHQ suitable for wide-field viewing or does it need a flattener?

The 80PHQ is used successfully without flatteners for many deep-sky targets, though users report managing off-axis aberrations when operating at very fast ratios. For wide-field work, a flattener is recommended to maintain corner sharpness across the full field of view.

How does the 80PHQ compare to larger Askar models like the 107PHQ or 130PHQ?

The 80PHQ is more portable and easier to manage than larger Askar models, though the 107PHQ and 130PHQ provide more light-gathering ability. One observer specifically praised the 107PHQ for less stress during challenging imaging sessions, suggesting larger apertures offer advantages for faint object detection at the cost of increased equipment demands.