Sky-Watcher Evostar 150 with EQ5 150/1200 Achromatic Refractor

The Sky-Watcher Evostar 150 with manual EQ5 combines a large-aperture refractor, long focal length and a sturdy equatorial mount. It is designed for detailed views of the Moon, planets, double stars and other bright solar-system targets. Its 1200 mm focal length and f/8 ratio provide higher native magnification than short-focal-length wide-field refractors. The EQ5 tracks manually and can later be upgraded with tracking motors or a SynScan GoTo controller.

The optics

The two-element, air-spaced achromatic objective is fully multi-coated. Its 150 mm aperture gathers ample light for high-contrast views of lunar detail, Jupiter, Saturn and double stars. Like other achromats, it may show some colour fringing around very bright objects. The f/8 focal ratio is suited to high-magnification visual observing. The 2-inch focuser with 1.25-inch adapter accepts commonly used accessories in both sizes; a DSLR can be attached with a suitable connection.

Manual EQ5 mount

After careful polar alignment, the equatorial EQ5 allows tracking along one axis. Setting circles and slow-motion controls help centre targets. The adjustable tripod with stainless-steel legs includes an accessory tray, level and altitude and azimuth adjustments. This version is manual: tracking motors and GoTo are not included, but can be added later.

Included

150 mm Evostar refractor, EQ5 mount, tripod with stainless-steel legs and accessory tray, 9x50 finder, 2-inch diagonal, 2-inch to 1.25-inch adapter, 10 mm and 25 mm eyepieces, DSLR camera connection and counterweights. Power supply and batteries are not included.

Specifications

The 7.7 kg optical tube is within the EQ5’s stated 10 kg visual payload. Include accessories when balancing the setup. For steady views, place the tripod and mount securely and balance the telescope carefully. Solar observing requires a securely fitted full-aperture solar filter; never look at the Sun without a suitable filter.