SkyWatcher Explorer 300P NEQ6 PRO SynScan 300mm Newtonian Reflector Telescope

SkyWatcher Explorer 300P NEQ6 PRO SynScan 300mm Newtonian Reflector Telescope The SkyWatcher Explorer 300P with NEQ6 PRO SynScan 300mm Newtonian Reflector Telescope is a large step up in imaging power. The 300P boasts a 300mm refractor, which provides seemingly exponential improvement over smaller mirrors. The sheer amount of light collected means a wider range of celestial objects is visible in all conditions. It means higher resolution and sharper contrast of the notable nearby planets and the moon. This is all possible because of the ‘fast’ focal length of 1500m, or f/5. The length supports the larger mirror and produces striking images and makes the best use of the light collection.

To prevent the large mirror from creating spherical distortion, the lenses focus images with parabolic construction. Also, the secondary mirror supports are ultra thin, meaning any loss of contrast typical of larger refractors is reduced. To add versatility to the power, the scope comes with two eyepieces that creates four levels of magnification using the Crayford two stage focuser. The eyepieces and focuser fit 1.25” and 2” peripherals, and a connection allows an SLR camera to be connected directly.

The NEQ6 Pro mount is a computerised drive system with a quick slew speed and precise controls that effective utilizes all of the Explorer’s power. With the touch of a button, the mount can align to one of over 13,000 programmed objects in its database. The primary control is a hand held SynScan keypad, and it makes use of the small step angle (1.8 degrees) and drive speed which can align itself to any object in seconds. The guide speed is also adjustable, and has a high degree of accuracy in its movement for any level of astronomer. Not only is it manually controllable, but a serial port in the controller can also connect the mount to a computer. Though the NEQ6 Pro is not paired with any particular software, it accommodates many kinds of astronomical programs. The dovetail mount accepts many scopes, and can easily handle heavy scopes. It gives the Explorer a high degree of stability, and is enhanced by the steel tripod which also has a useful accessory tray. The NEQ 6 Pro is powered by a DC adapter and counterweighted for reliable operation.

The power of the Explorer 300P is immediately noticeable, and will provide a big step up for the astronomer accustomed to smaller refractors. The scope is tuned to handle the amount of light collected, and when combined with a high-quality mount, the Skywatcher Explorer 300P with NEQ6 Pro mount is a professional-grade telescope.