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Refractor Telescopes In a Portable Package

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Are there portable refractor telescopes which have received positive reviews?

Refractor Telescopes In a Portable Package

When you have three models of refractor telescopes to choose from, you can make a decision tailor-made to suit your needs. Sky & Telescope magazine reviewed three ultraportable telescopes in their May 2006 issue, all made by ZenithStar. If having mobility in a well-designed refractor telescope with a high level of craftsmanship sounds appealing to you, check out these models:

ZenithStar 66 Petzval – This model retails for $350 and is the most affordable of the line. It represents good value for your dollars and includes a 63 mm aperture, 388 mm focal length, and a 1.25” and 2” eyepiece. This portable telescope weighs only 3.5 pounds. The downside to this particular model is the requirement of the additional purchase of an extension tube or star diagonal to reach focus.

ZenithStar 66 APO – This portable telescope has a 66 mm aperture, 397 mm focal length, and a 1.25” and 2” eyepiece as well. At $400 retail, it is still a good purchase for the money and has top-notch optical quality. Like the Petval, this model also needs additional accessories to reach focus.

ZenithStar 66 SD - This high-end model among the three refractor telescopes rates well with its excellent mechanical craftsmanship and near perfect apochromatic optical performance. It comes with a 66 mm aperture, 461 mm focal length, and a 1.25” and 2” eyepiece. The downside to this model, like the other two, is the requirement of an accessory purchase to reach focus. The ZenithStar 66 SD retails for $500.

   

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