Solomon Optics SDT80DX

Users in team Dwarfstar: Manijeon, Hyunwoo Kim, KyuTae Kim

• Specification

1. Optial design: FPL53 Triplet Apochromatic

2. Lens diameter: 80mm

3. Focal length: 480mm (384mm w/ 0.8 reducer)

4. Focal ratio: 6 (4.8 w/ 0.8 reducer)

5. Weight: 1.3 kg (OTA)

• Pros

1. Cost efficiency

2. Robust focuser (especially compared to older versions)

3. Good performance (Strehl number above 0.95)

4. Field rotator-integrated focuser

5. Relatively fast scope (when using the 0.8 reducer -> F/4.8)

• Cons

1. Requires flattener or reducer for flat field (up to full frame sensors, can put 2'' filters inside them)

2. Effects of minor lens stress or pinching are visible

3. R&P focuser may obstruct field rotation in certain cases

4. Guide scope may cause weight imbalance due to the position of the small dovetail holder

5. The case is a bit small to fit the scope with the reducer attached

• Verdict

One-line summary: Doran's Scope (450 🪙)

If you want to start astrophotography, then this refractor is just for you! With a decent price just below 1.5M Won including the 2.5'' x0.8 reducer and a focal ratio of F/4.8, you can enjoy hunting down nebulae and some large galaxies within a few hours. Because of its light weight, you can use it with the small equatorial mounts, like the Skywatcher Az-GTi or the iOptron SmartEq Pro.

However, as you use the scope on and on, you will eventually see it's limits. The most conspicuous drawback is the effects of the lens stress and pinching. But all journeys start with a small step, and this scope will still get you the largest among these small steps!