Sky Watcher Esprit 120mm ED Triplet Apo Refractor OTA # S11420

Pros:
Quality Lenses,Easy to Use,Strong Construction

Comment:
As an astrophotographer I was looking for an OTA that I could use for both nebula and galaxies. The Esprit 120 with a focal length of 840mm (f/7) fit my requirements.

I have had this telescope for about 2 months and could not be more satisfied. The dedicated flattener (supplied) provides pinpoint stars across the field and into the corners of my images. In addition this OTA pulls out detail and provides contrast that is above what I had even hoped for. It is simply a pleasure to image with the Esprit.

Although I seldom do any observing I recently decided to give it a try. My first target was the double cluster in Perseus - the stars were pinpoints of light and the view was 3 dimensional. I found myself just staring into the eyepiece soaking it all in. I continued for the next couple hours viewing globular clusters, planetary nebula, open clusters and assorted DSOs - all with the same result. For the finale I swung over the waning crescent moon using an 8.8mm eyepiece (95x). The lunar mountains and craters seemed to jump out at me. To push a little further I put in a 2X barlow (now at 190x). The views did not suffer - crystal clear.

I did my research before ordering the Esprit 120. I bought it because of 1) the solid reviews and 2) the value this package provides. Included were a 2 inch diagonal, finder scope, dedicated flattener and adapters for a DSLR camera connection. The aluminum case the scope arrived in (inside a box of course) was impressive in its own right. Well-padded and built like a tank it provides complete protection for this scope in the event you want to travel with it.

Sky-Watcher has done a fantastic job with the Esprit line and Agena Astro, as always, has provided great customer service. I look forward to many years of imaging and observing with the Esprit 120.

Best Uses:
Astrophotography,Astronomy

Location:
Southern Wisconsin