Hi Cuiv. I live in NY about 80 mins from High Point Scientific. Wednesday I decided to drive over to visit not knowing they no longer have a showroom. Luckily the folks at the warehouse were super friendly. In my conversation with the staff I mentioned I might be interested in a CarbonStar 150 in the future and that I learned about it from a guy on UA-cam. They immediately knew it was you and seemed very excited and had nice things to say about you. Just thought you’d like to know.
I bought a CarbonStar several months ago. Highpoint Scientific called me this week to advise that Apertura was sending replacement parts to address some of the issues encountered by purchasers of early models of the telescope. They are sending something to address the pinched optics, a better light shield for the primary mirror, a better screw for the focuser lock and maybe some other things. Highpoint said the items were in production but weren't sure when they would be shipped, although they estimated around September. I think it would be helpful if you could do a video showing how to properly install these things, especially the part where the primary mirror will be adjusted. Thanks for all the great videos.
I just built my system out and I am having focuser issues, the weight of the camera is too heavy to move the focuser, and I am hoping the corrected parts will correct this issue.
Thanks for the comprehensive review. I received my CarbonStar last week and it brought rain and cloudy skies with it. I am hopeful for a clear night in the next few days. I checked the collimation on mine with laser and Cheshire collimators and collimation was perfect out of the box. Your review helps me feel confident I made a wise choice with the CarbonStar.
Very nice review, Cuiv. I’ve been using the CarbonStar 150 Newtonian for the last to months and agree with your comments. It’s a high quality, beginner friendly Newtonian that has both aperture and speed. Beginners shouldn’t shy away from this excellent scope.
Cuiv is definitely always upbeat, smiling, and happy. I agree with you, I always feel good when watching him anyway because I am naturally a happy guy, but somehow afterward I feel even better!
There's a video un UA-cam of a new SkyWatcher Newt (p200, p250 and p300). Maybe it's the same as this apertura one but with skywatcher branding. In that case it would be easier to get in Europe. I'm toying with the idea of sending a 200mm F4 new with a starizona nexus (making it a 600mm focal length F3) with my Samyang F2 piggibacked on top to a remote observatory since I hate only using my equipment once every 3 month due to work and it would be nice having a cheaper option than the TS-Opticsw or Orion Uk Newts.
Thanks for the comprehensive review ! My thoughts, 1) a 6 inch reflector is light to begin with, and while I like the carbon fiber, in my opinion, that is not a major advantage on that size scope. On a 10 inch its a game changer. 2) The pinched optics bothers me, that points to a build -quality control issue, you shouldn't have to remove a primary and adjust it on a NEW scope. (I own three Orion reflectors never had a quality build issue of that magnitude. 3) question the quality of the included flat field coma corrector based on your results. I own a Badder MPCC mark III and it has nearly eliminated all coma in the all four corners on my F3.9. Conclusion: There are similar scopes in the same price range : Thanks again Cuiv ! appreciate the effort and time you put into making this video, cheers !
2. Cuiv've already mentioned that the pinched optics might because the manufacture doesn't want the damage to the primary during oversea transportation.
1) the Skywatcher Quattro 150P disagrees! It is noticeably heavier, although I'm sure the carbon tube is only part of it 2) I understand on the pinched optics. I've seen newts that had the inverse problem and had a primary that was too loose. That is a very insidious problem that is difficult to diagnose, so I'd take pinched optics over that any day! 3) The results were to reflect what a beginner just following the basic steps in the manual might get (and I skipped the final star collimation). Currently I get good star shapes across the field of view :) Of course all valid criticisms, which is why I was very open about any shortcomings I saw!
I was reviewing the included documentation for this scope and have to disagree with your comments in point #2. At least from the perspective about it being a build-quality issue. The manufacturer is very transparent about this in their documentation. They state: "When the telescopes are transported, the optics need to be well secured so that they are not damaged. This requires that the primary mirror clips be tight and secure from the factory. Some users might find that they want to adjust the primary mirror clips to be sure that they are not placing undue pressure on the optics, which can distort their fine optical figure." While I think you can argue you may not like their approach, it is clearly not a build or quality issue. As a matter of fact I've never before seen a manufacturer address this so directly, and the steps needed to correct the issue are extremely well documented. Also regarding your concluding remarks, where can you find a similar scope? The closest I could find is from Teleskop Express (TS Photon model) and while a good scope, it does not appear to be as well made as this one and the price is about the same.
I have to admit that I have a bond with my Quattro 10". I've gone through basically everything you've gone through with your Quattro 150P, but I did end up with the slightly better version of the focuser so I'm still using the stock focuser. It's probably Stockholm Syndrome, but even if Apertura made a 10" version of the CarbonStar I wouldn't consider it. And, honestly, depending on the personality of who I was talking to I would even recommend the Quattro over it because, like I said, there is a bond that forms when you have to modify so much of a telescope and learn exactly how everything works.
I have a Quattro 250p 10" and took it from box to mount in October, have not moved it since as it is too heavy for me alone. I haven't had to collimate or do anything to it, it was good to go out of the box but I live in the woods with no lights on around me. I added an EAF, fan on the rear, but that was all the altering done. I guess I got lucky!
I have 3 Newtonians and I "modded" and upgraded all 3 of them. I fixed all their issues so I actually don't have a real honest reason to get another Newtonian. That doesn't mean I won't, but at the same time I have put work into my current ones so I feel attached to them. Same thing with my car too.
Yeah I know the feeling - it's one of the reasons I built my dual barrel Frankenscope - in a very real sense, my Quattro 150P is worth more to me than the Carbon star because of all the effort I put into it! @astroattorney, awesome to hear things worked out for you from the get go!
Thanks for sharing this. I’ve always wanted to try a Newt but was nervous about the extra complexity. Your video gave me faith I could figure it out. I ordered one from HighPoint this morning!!
Thanks Cuiv for another excellent video. 50 minutes packed with little gems of information. When you explain it it all seems so straight forward. Keep up the good work. I currently have a SW 72ED, and this galaxy season I have been considering where my astrophotography journey will develop. I think the Carbonstar is a serious option for 2025.
I also absolutely love that it looks like the front ring and the spider are a single machined part so no more worrying about centering the spider and also I suspect itll hold collimation heaps better
Great info. Thanks for taking the time to review this properly. I’m in the market for reflector and I’ve been on the fence on what to do. I hate that sky watcher has made theirs so difficult to work with.
Going back in time to 2004. I got an 80mm cheap achromat and a 130mm Newtonian telescope. I set up both during a summer night, I used to live in a Bortle 3/4 area. I managed to find the Andromeda galaxy on my own, which was a huge success- again I'm on a manual German eq mount, I just learned it how to use them. The galaxy looked AMAZING in the 130mm Newtonian! In the slow 80mm achromat, it was nothing but a fuzzy dot. That's when I became a Newtonian fan and being one ever since! Even for beginner observers: Get a Newtonian!
I share your excitement Cuiv! What a beautiful, near perfect "out the box" newt! Thank You for such a comprehensive, very informative review! I look forward to seeing your future images using this beautiful 'scope!
Nice example for the $$$! Thanks for the review! I have a homemade Dob built around a 10" (250mm for you heathens) Meade research grade mirror 24 years ago. After blackening the mirror bevel I mounted the mirror with no mirror clips by using silicone aquarium sealant. Put blobs of sealant on the mirror mount and support the mirror on 3 spacers while the sealant sets up (nails /pencils /washers /whatever). No need for clips but I did put perimeter blocks with more sealant to hold it from falling out. No intrusion into the light path! 20+years later after much bouncing around in my vehicle and being banged around in the house and garage and it's still holding with no problems, no movement on its slightly flexible, unmodified, stress-free mount. So... All of that is too say that those clips are not needed unless you maybe want to keep them attached out of the way for those times you transport it. Lots of cool tricks in that ancient ATM book!
Hi King! I built a 10" Dob in 1983. That was 41 years ago! Time flies. That was fun. I still have it but I didn't protect the mirrors so it is now pretty much unusable.
@@dannylgriffin Danny, maybe send the mirror and diagonal of for recoating! I'm sure the glass is fine unless it got pitted, in which case a regrind, polish, refigure and coat might also be needed. I don't know but it also might be cheaper buying a new 10" these days. Seems like telescope mfg's are practically giving away really nice scopes these days compared with back then! But on the other hand you might get away with cleaning and recoating. I don't know if they are still in business but Galaxy optics used to do any of the above in a reasonable time frame. /Dave
Love watching you putting new Astro gear to a torture test! One thing that I find strange about the sensor size illumination situation is that this should be a lot better. Many beginners will use a camera they already have which most likely would be either a full frame or APS-C DSLR. APS-C should be the bare minimum sensor illumination!
Overall I think it's perfectly fine for an APS C size sensor, especially after collimating it better after shooting the video. I think they're too conservative here
Fantastic video, Cuiv! I especially enjoyed your final thoughts. The mischievous glee on your face was phenomenal. 😁 Hopefully, what you found in the Carbon Star is somewhat applicable to Apertura's other reflectors. My 10" F4 reflector arrived this week... 🤓
If you’re looking for something of similar quality at 8 or more inches, take a look at the ONTC telescope. They are highly customizable from the factory.
Hey we love the long videos brotha. I have been waiting for a review of this telescope for a while. I grew up with reflectors and have wanted to get one for astrophotography! Also as someone who has a built evo 9 and love of all things jdm i love love carbon fiber anything
What do I think? Well, I think you are the geeky-est AP nerd out there. Please don't ever change that. Also, I like the more in depth and longer videos. I'm going to buy this scope in the next few weeks (thanks for convincing me), but I too would like a mirror mask to cover up the mirror clips, hopefully Apertura will make one available soon. Keep up the good work, and until the next video... Clear Skies. 👍
Outstanding video Cuiv, thank you ! This will be a serious contender to replace my 80ED refractor, gain 90mm FL and it's more than a full stop faster !
I am considering getting a longer focal length telescop later this year. What I settled on before this video is the AT102EDL F7 with the Hotech SCA Field Flattener. It does come with a travel bag and taking it on trips (low weight) or moving it around between sessions wil be a must. Not sure what the community here thinks about my option or the video option.
Great review Cuiv! I've been using mine for the last 5 weeks. The only issue I've noticed is bright stars just out of frame tend to have reflected star spikes that ended up in my images. I'm thinking the anodized red spider reflects a bit too much, my 6" GSO F/4 newt doesn't have this issue. Going to do a few tests and try to cover the struts to dampen the reflection and hopefully its a fix! This was also with a Nexus 0.75 reducer and going to try it out with the 0.95 later as well.
Its actualy a GSO designed telescope based on thier latest upgade of thier 6 inch f/4 imaging newtonian..Its sold as a GSO brand outside the US and european market..
Hello Cuiv. For information, Teleskop Service in Germany makes a very similar telescope: the UNI/Photon line. I have used one for more than one year now, and I am very pleased with the quality of the images. My only complaint would be the focuser, since I am not a big fan of Crayford style ones.
Just pulled the trigger on this scope package and hope to have it in a few weeks (backordered). Thanks for the in-depth review. I'm currently using a DSLR with an 420mm Apochromatic Triplet, so am curious to see what the difference will be. Maybe one day I will upgrade to a dedicated AP camera...
Hope you can get it soon!! I'll have a video detailing a small flare issue with the scope (or actually potentially another cause, I'm told ZWO cameras have bright unpainted screws inside that can cause reflection) up soon, but please don't panic about it! It's already mentioned in this review, and the scope is still excellent in my opinion!
This video is sincerely making me consider this scope (I actually have it in my cart right now). My main concern is all the accessories I would potentially run with it. As I haven't owned a newt before, I'm unsure if the focuser and tube could handle all that weight. I'm looking at a 533, 8 position filter wheel, OAG, and the EAF. Newt's scare me.
Wow the hype is real! I mean I knew this review was coming but what a beautiful thing. And so light. What is it just over 4kg? That I could even see working well with my little potable rig based on my ioptron CEM26.
Been waiting for this review. I love my quattro 150p. Did take quite a bit of work but i enjoyed the tinkering. Im really hoping they release a 10in version. Im currently wanting a 10 in mewt to replace my 8in sct
Second comment to say that, do you have a source to that GSO scope? I guess the differentiation then comes with the pre collimation and the provided butt plug for the scope :)
So happy with your review. I just received mine but haven't had any hope for clear skies. Would love to see you do something with a mirror mask and how that works. Can't wait to get mine out for first light.
From your videos Cuiv you seemed to really enjoy those forty hours on the Quatro, but I see your point with this scope and if didn't already have a medium sized refractor of a similar focal length I would most likely buy one. As a beginners scope considering you will have to buy a mount and if you want to do photography the camera, guide scope or OAG, EAF and a mini pc this is going to be a very expensive first step. A small refractor on something like a Star Adventurer GTi is going to be a lot cheaper and easier to set up, In fact I leave mine set up by the patio doors ready to take outside if I get an unexpected break in the clouds. I take your point with Sky Watcher but to be fair most of their Newtonians are really aimed at visual astronomy but can of course be upgraded for astro photography. The Quatro is different and is aimed at the astro photography market which makes it a very disappointing offering given the modifications that have to be made to make it perform properly. I still think many begginers are going to go for something a lot cheaper that the Apertura, the See Star 50 for example cannot be beaten on price and ease of use, but as a next step scope I believe this could do very well and certainly give Sky Watcher something to think about.
@@CuivTheLazyGeek thank you :) one question, with a bunch of streelights nearby, I'm going to need a dew shield. Is that one from your skywatcher good for the apertura? Do you have a link for the STL maybe so I can print one?
nice video ,but I would hardly consider this a "beginner setup ".The mount alone costs a cool $2000 ( not to mention the cameras ,guidescope etc.) . There's a reason folks keep advising beginners to start with a short refractor : total cost of setup . With a short refractor you can get away with a mount like the skywatcher star adventurer GTI
I would like to see a strain wave mount that also had motorised polar alignment, its 2024 it shouldn't be that hard. Ok, that might be a bit of a rant.
So after a month with the 150 I'm only found one serious issue, and that's a significant light leak around the focuser. I had mine pointed UP rather than down, which probably contributed to the issue, but it's not hard at all to get light into this focuser. I had mentioned before that my focuser installation was lose when I got this scope, not sure if that's related or not.
Very interesting, thanks for letting me know! I haven't seen that on mine but as you say the location is different.. if you have issues, you can use the tricks I showed in my Quattro videos!
When you showed the non reflective interior at the 12 minute mark you can see a reflection from the bottom of the focus tube, I wonder if that contributed to only the top spike on the star being extended
Probably not for you, but I nearly bought a carbonstar to fit it onto my eqm-35 due to its light weight. I ended up buying a 130pds (130mm f5) with a x1.0 CC because it was about half the price and almost exactly the same weight.
If it ain't broke, don't fix it! I think the newt is more compact and lighter (and yes one stop brighter, but then it has a central obstruction) but besides this I don't think you'd benefit
Bonjour. Merci pour cette nouvelle vidéo. Puisque vous possédez les deux instruments, savez-vous si le réducteur de focale 0,85x vendu avec le Skywatcher 150/600 PDS Quattro est compatible avec le Apertura CarbonStar ? Cela permettrait d'avoir un rapport f/D=3,4 sur ce dernier et qui le rendrait encore plus rapide. Merci pour votre réponse.
A couple of quick questions. Thinking about getting this scope as my first reflector. Are you still happy with the focuser a few months after you got the scope. And does the primary mirror have a center dot?
Hello Marvin! I'm still happy with the focuser (you do need to tighten that thumbscrew quite a lot, I even used pliers to be safe, but once done it never slips AND is super smooth - they're apparently going to be shipping the scope with a larger thumbscrew to help with that!). The primary does have a center dot!
I certainly love the sound of a faster scope for the light pollution in my area (according to LP maps I apparently have just as bad LP as probably your area). However I have kinda narrowed my search of scope to something in the 180mm-300mm focal length because I'd want to get some of the larger nebulas/andromeda in one shot (something my seestar struggles with without attempting a manual mosaic or something). This scope does sound interesting if I ever do want more 'zoomed in' images, so might jot it down for far future if I ever get around to having two setups lol. Legit question though, why does it seem like all newts/reflectors all start at like 500mm focal lengths and go up from there? Is it just not possible to make a wider field reflector say sub-300mm Focal length? Or just not really anyone asking for that? I know hyperstar/RASA exists but for the expense and effort, doesnt seem like the most beginner friendly.
Most Newts will have F4 as a base, and so that makes them start at such focal lengths. The specialized newts like Takahashi Epsilon or Sharpstar HNT will have F2.8 or F3, so you go towards the range of FL that works for you, but they're a lot of work to collimate apparently
Can you please weigh the OTA assembly, with rings & Vixen bar. The CarbonStar is quoted at 4.6KG compared to the TS Optics 150/F4 carbon which is 4.0KG. I suspect the extra 600gms maybe the coma corrector. I also suspect this is a re-badged GSO (exclusive to certain dealers) scope.
Hello Cuiv! I think the fuziness you see on brighter stars is due to the tip of the focuser tube protruding on the light path, appart from also the mirror clips, check if this is not the case? If so you need to move the primary upwards on the tube to get the focal point "out". Cheers
@@CuivTheLazyGeek huumm..thats odd, there's clearly something obstructing the light path, I see you are using an OAG, maybe the pick up prism is too far in? Cheers
Great video... looks like a great package too. Why did they use a Crayford focuser instead of a good rack and pinion focuser? I've had issues where baffles do more harm than good by forcing warm air into the light path while it is escaping. Will the baffles on this scope force warm air into the light path in the same way, or are they vented somehow? This might be more of an issue with planetary photography, but it still can cause some weird issues with stars.
HI Cuiv, thank you for this excellent video! I took delivery of one today and noticed the secondary adjustment screws are VERY tight. Did yours have this as well? Im hesitant to apply the amount of torque needed to "break them free" so I can collimate the scope.
Mine were tight but not egregiously so - I liked it that way since it held collimation quite well! Maybe shoot an email to Apertura so you have advance permission in case something goes wrong?
Affordability is of course a subjective thing., but is way. beyond the average working man's pay with a family., but it is something to aim for by starting off with the tube and add as you go.Nice video.
Thanks Cuiv, I've been looking forward to this review. Looks like a great scope. I've only ever had Newtonians and, while they are big and heavy and need careful setup and balancing to track properly, my 8" gathers light a huge lot faster than the tiny William Optics (though I really want one of those too!) Apertura don't seem to have gotten to the UK so far but will keep an eye out. Out of interest, do you know where it was manufactured?
Yep, Newts are such a sweet spot between performance and price, I love those things! I would assume the bulk of the scope is made in China, probably mostly GSO parts ..
@@CuivTheLazyGeek I notice that their website says “This focuser features a linear bearing design, which, while closely resembling the Crayford-style focuser, utilizes a flat rail running on dozens of ball bearings. These hard ball bearings provide more points of contact for a strong and fluid focusing mechanism capable of smoothly moving all types of imaging equipment. “. So not exactly a Crawford. I upgraded my Newt (Orion Optics UK - not the same as US) to a Baader Diamond Steeltrack which has no movement under any load. It’s fabulous
Idk why but I never knew you lived in Tokyo. I was in Houston for a time and I was pulling my hair out at the light pollution. Cant imagine how you do it in Tokyo lol Clear skies!
This made me rethink getting a newt. I have had a small refractor but considering this. Should I get the laser or Cheshire Collimator? Will my HEQ5 be able to carry this - seems like it will based on the weights.
If you get this one, I would recommend getting both laser and Cheshire - or an OCAL collimator. And it's quite light, so the HEQ5 shouldn't have issues
@@CuivTheLazyGeek thanks for the response. what is the logic behind getting both collimators? how often do these scopes need collimation? if its once a year, I can get a more sophisticated friend help me :)
Cuiv- what are your thoughts on the focuser? You and I both struggled with the Quattro focuser and replaced it with the Cyck focuser. Will the focuser on this scope hold when hanging an OAG, filter wheel and APS-C sized camera?
You may need to replace the thumbscrew with a hex bolt to get enough tension for heavy equipment, but for now it seems to work very well, no slippage or anything!
Cuiv, You need to look at the focuser drawtube entering the light path. It seems clear from your video that it impedes on the light path. Forget about mirror clips or pinched optics. Yes they matter. But understand the diffraction caused by a huge drawtube in the light path.
So, someone may have already posted this, but I'm curious about your experience with the DUO. The specs show an image circle of 28mm and the DUO requires full frame (~44mm). Is the image circle in the specs incorrect?
The image circle in the specs is without noticeable light fall off, but it doesn't just stop - enough light reaches the Duo sensor. My Duo video tests were all done on the CS as I recall!
Thanks for an excellent video and your attention to detail. Question, what was the diagonal Spike on the bright star even after you did the correction for the pinched optics? This might be a fun little scope to venture into Newtonian OTA.
Cuiv, and anyone else who would like to comment, do you have any insights on why you have chosen 6” aperture newts in recent years over the 8” or 10”. Is it because of one or more of the following? the sweet spot for sampling with most astrocamera sensors, a more pragmatic size weight consideration when setting up, the reduction in the effect of wind buffetting, The ability to use lighter mounts, Are there other reasons as well?. I have used an 8” f4 astrograph newt for many years, originally for visual as well as astrophotography, and it has been a remarkably flexible OTA. However these days with my aging eyes. Eq mount and live stacking I’m really not doing any visual observing anymore. Have you noticed the impact in the loss of aperture when you downsizes to the 6” or has this really made very little difference due to the camera sensor size placing limits on the FOV? Have you noticed any compromise in the reduction of focal length on exposure times? Also for anyone worrying about the horror stories about collimation on fast newts, let me reassure you that I was worried by this when starting out and purchasing a fast newt, and it really was and is, a non issue. There are many more things about getting started in astronomy to worry about than collimation, which is a simple process to learn and easy to execute. At least for parabolic mirrors anyway. I can’t speak to the difficulty of collimating hyperbolic optics but maybe someone with an RC or hyperbolic newt can comment.
On minute 16:30 it's clearly visible the crayford focuser rail, this should introduce some reflections. Anyway, I don't agree that the pinched optics is a minor issue, this should be solved at QC. On the other hand, SW mirror was loose upon receiving, I prefer a loose mirror instead of a pinched mirror. Looking forward your corrected images.
At that time the focus tube was fully racked in, but once in focus the focuser tube isn't visible in the primary, so I don't think it's an issue... At least I see none of the reflection issues I had with the Quattro, which were a nightmare to fix! I have a different view of the mirror - I much prefer getting a pinched mirror rather a mirror that's far too loose - the pinched mirror will have immediate, obvious impact with an obvious solution. A too loose mirror can introduce some much more difficult to diagnose symptoms! But yeah ideally the mirror should NOT arrive pinched (or too loose for that matter) :)
300mm focal length vs 600mm. Depends on what you want to image. Personally, I'd go for the newt. F4 is still very fast. F2 requires more expensive filters and the focus point is more sensitive.
The Newt is less of a specialist scope, and has more room for growth overall (such as monochrome with EFW) and sharper star (and the cost of 2 stops difference!)
At least one other is using it with it. You may need to move the primary mirror with the collimation screws to adjust where the point of best focus is (and to avoid the focuser protruding in the light path)
TLDR; They're essentially the same telescope at the end of the day. One is almost half the price stock, almost the same price after mods. One has upgrades from factory. So neither is necessarily better or worse, It just depends on you as an individual and if you can even buy the scope in your geographic region. Cuiv thanks for putting in the effort you do with all your content it's appreciated and I'm glad you are enjoying this scope. That said this is like comparing a 1999 Honda Civic modified to be as fast as a Mercedes C63 and then saying the Mercedes is clearly better. Well yeah. There's no carbon fibre in a stock civic and no massaging seats. Something I just want to point out is you mention pros of the Apertura as being 'included' - like I say, it's *really* important to mention that there is a price difference! A substantial one at that as it's almost twice the price ($970 vs $515) It's not quite like for like, apart from aperture and that's still where (imho) most people will be better off with the 150 Quattro as most people price is a barrier over difficulty. With that in mind, if people are having to ship internationally from the USA, that just adds to it. A few people in the comments are slating the construction of the Quattro while simultaneously comparing it to scopes (like a Lacerta newt) that are literally 3-4 times the price. The 150 Quattro in stock form is quite a lot cheaper for anyone outside of the USA. Modifying a newtonian leads to a lot of learning and how it actually works, which will be very helpful if you have to at any point take the mirrors out. Either way, I do think it's really important to remind people this isn't a silver bullet option. If you have to sort out pinched optics and take out the primary mirror cell to add a mask, then really is that good for a beginner? How many beginners will even know pinches optics are a thing. At that point taking the mirrors out of a 150 Quattro to modify it isn't any harder and for a *lot* of people, it's more ACCESSIBLE. The fact that Apertura have gone to all they have to still have pinched optics showcases it doesn't matter if you slap a carbon tube, CNC spider etc into a scope - it'll still have issues that need adjusting. I also had to chuckle at the fact they made the spider black, yet are so focused on image quality - that makes absolutely zero sense. Marketing getting in the way of results. I know two Takahashi Epsilon users who both have had to modify their scopes, it's just the fact of newtonian life that there will be *something* that'll need adjusting with the current line of newts on the market. It doesn't help that basically all brands are laser focused on just producing even MORE expensive refractors. Skywatcher DEFINITELY should overhaul the Quattro line with a factory fitted CNC spider and aperture mask. That would go a long way and still keep the price somewhat in check, or simply offer it as an upgrade package - basically DLC for telescope haha. On the larger 10" Quattros there should be a better focuser for sure. On the 150 Quattro tube flex is waaaay less due to how short it is and the distance between the primary cell and the spider, especially if you're using a CNC spider. I say all this from experience btw. I have used and modified multiple Skywatcher newtonians. What I do find amusing is, you even demonstrate it in this video, does half of these upgrades even matter when software fixes are a thing that people rely on heavily nowadays anyway?
I disagree here due to the crazy amount of work and guesswork that went into fixing the quattro. Overall Quattro+new spider+replacement for garbage focuser+flocking the whole tube+butt plug build+taping the tube and sides of the focuser base plate is needed to finally get to what the CarbonStar offers our of the box. And even that isn't a guarantee. The spider and focuser add over $350 to the price... and then I remember wasting entire nights and pulling my hair out at remaining reflections with the Quattro that no amount of software wizardry could fix in the final stack, it was extremely frustrating. I'm not even sure in the end which mod I did actually fixed the darn thing. Concerning the pinched optics, I much prefer getting those than getting the floating mirror I had gotten with the Quattro :/ I find those much harder to diagnose. The potential pinched optics and their fix are specifically called out in the manual of the CarbonStar so I don't think it would be such an issue for beginners. Cheers!
As a beginner I found it incredibly helpful to start with a Newt, and it is also a good transition for people that have attended star parties and dobsonion newts. Yes there is a small learning curve, but the knowledge you gain around basic fundamentals like aperture, focal length, fov and the way a reflector works are fundamental tools when it comes to understanding many of the things that affect your viewing such as coma chromatic aberration, camera sensor selection that are all things you will need to learn to optimise as you progress in the hobby. The main legit reason to avoid newts is if you hate diffraction spikes.
My Patreon: www.patreon.com/cuivlazygeek
Apertura CarbonStar with coma corrector: bit.ly/3W7ZFiA
Apertura CarbonStar standalone: bit.ly/3UB9kNg
Modernizing the Apertura Imaging Newtonian Telescopes: bit.ly/3UhczZ3
Apertura Cheshire Eyepiece: bit.ly/3WenNjA
Apertura Collimation Laser: bit.ly/3y5Sr4p
Camera used for testing: bit.ly/3Jti7KQ (HPS) or bit.ly/3M8IkPS (Agena) or tinyurl.com/2227k637 (FLO)
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Hi Cuiv. I live in NY about 80 mins from High Point Scientific. Wednesday I decided to drive over to visit not knowing they no longer have a showroom. Luckily the folks at the warehouse were super friendly. In my conversation with the staff I mentioned I might be interested in a CarbonStar 150 in the future and that I learned about it from a guy on UA-cam. They immediately knew it was you and seemed very excited and had nice things to say about you. Just thought you’d like to know.
Hahaha that's awesome! Thanks for letting me know!!
I bought a CarbonStar several months ago. Highpoint Scientific called me this week to advise that Apertura was sending replacement parts to address some of the issues encountered by purchasers of early models of the telescope. They are sending something to address the pinched optics, a better light shield for the primary mirror, a better screw for the focuser lock and maybe some other things. Highpoint said the items were in production but weren't sure when they would be shipped, although they estimated around September. I think it would be helpful if you could do a video showing how to properly install these things, especially the part where the primary mirror will be adjusted. Thanks for all the great videos.
Wow that's excellent support! Thanks for letting me know, I'll reach out to them :)
I just built my system out and I am having focuser issues, the weight of the camera is too heavy to move the focuser, and I am hoping the corrected parts will correct this issue.
Wow, for all that headache they should ship a replacement free and you send back the old one!
Thanks for the comprehensive review. I received my CarbonStar last week and it brought rain and cloudy skies with it. I am hopeful for a clear night in the next few days. I checked the collimation on mine with laser and Cheshire collimators and collimation was perfect out of the box. Your review helps me feel confident I made a wise choice with the CarbonStar.
Great to hear the collimation was good from the get go! Hope you get clear skies soon!!
Very nice review, Cuiv. I’ve been using the CarbonStar 150 Newtonian for the last to months and agree with your comments. It’s a high quality, beginner friendly Newtonian that has both aperture and speed. Beginners shouldn’t shy away from this excellent scope.
That's awesome, glad it's been working well for you!
Whenever I feel down I come here and watch a Cuiv video for a little pick me up.
Glad to bring happiness hope you're feeling less down now!!
Cuiv is definitely always upbeat, smiling, and happy. I agree with you, I always feel good when watching him anyway because I am naturally a happy guy, but somehow afterward I feel even better!
50 minutes of Cuiv! That's not lazy! Let's start watching.
There's a video un UA-cam of a new SkyWatcher Newt (p200, p250 and p300). Maybe it's the same as this apertura one but with skywatcher branding. In that case it would be easier to get in Europe.
I'm toying with the idea of sending a 200mm F4 new with a starizona nexus (making it a 600mm focal length F3) with my Samyang F2 piggibacked on top to a remote observatory since I hate only using my equipment once every 3 month due to work and it would be nice having a cheaper option than the TS-Opticsw or Orion Uk Newts.
I hope you enjoyed!
Thanks for the comprehensive review !
My thoughts, 1) a 6 inch reflector is light to begin with, and while I like the carbon fiber, in my opinion, that is not a major advantage on that size scope. On a 10 inch its a game changer. 2) The pinched optics bothers me, that points to a build -quality control issue, you shouldn't have to remove a primary and adjust it on a NEW scope. (I own three Orion reflectors never had a quality build issue of that magnitude. 3) question the quality of the included flat field coma corrector based on your results. I own a Badder MPCC mark III and it has nearly eliminated all coma in the all four corners on my F3.9. Conclusion: There are similar scopes in the same price range : Thanks again Cuiv ! appreciate the effort and time you put into making this video, cheers !
2. Cuiv've already mentioned that the pinched optics might because the manufacture doesn't want the damage to the primary during oversea transportation.
1) the Skywatcher Quattro 150P disagrees! It is noticeably heavier, although I'm sure the carbon tube is only part of it
2) I understand on the pinched optics. I've seen newts that had the inverse problem and had a primary that was too loose. That is a very insidious problem that is difficult to diagnose, so I'd take pinched optics over that any day!
3) The results were to reflect what a beginner just following the basic steps in the manual might get (and I skipped the final star collimation). Currently I get good star shapes across the field of view :)
Of course all valid criticisms, which is why I was very open about any shortcomings I saw!
I was reviewing the included documentation for this scope and have to disagree with your comments in point #2. At least from the perspective about it being a build-quality issue. The manufacturer is very transparent about this in their documentation.
They state: "When the telescopes are transported, the optics need to be well secured so that they are not damaged. This requires that the primary mirror clips be tight and secure from the factory. Some users might find that they want to adjust the primary mirror clips to be sure that they are not placing undue pressure on the optics, which can distort their fine optical figure."
While I think you can argue you may not like their approach, it is clearly not a build or quality issue. As a matter of fact I've never before seen a manufacturer address this so directly, and the steps needed to correct the issue are extremely well documented.
Also regarding your concluding remarks, where can you find a similar scope? The closest I could find is from Teleskop Express (TS Photon model) and while a good scope, it does not appear to be as well made as this one and the price is about the same.
I have to admit that I have a bond with my Quattro 10". I've gone through basically everything you've gone through with your Quattro 150P, but I did end up with the slightly better version of the focuser so I'm still using the stock focuser. It's probably Stockholm Syndrome, but even if Apertura made a 10" version of the CarbonStar I wouldn't consider it. And, honestly, depending on the personality of who I was talking to I would even recommend the Quattro over it because, like I said, there is a bond that forms when you have to modify so much of a telescope and learn exactly how everything works.
I have a Quattro 250p 10" and took it from box to mount in October, have not moved it since as it is too heavy for me alone. I haven't had to collimate or do anything to it, it was good to go out of the box but I live in the woods with no lights on around me. I added an EAF, fan on the rear, but that was all the altering done. I guess I got lucky!
I have 3 Newtonians and I "modded" and upgraded all 3 of them. I fixed all their issues so I actually don't have a real honest reason to get another Newtonian. That doesn't mean I won't, but at the same time I have put work into my current ones so I feel attached to them. Same thing with my car too.
X@@astroattorney
Yeah I know the feeling - it's one of the reasons I built my dual barrel Frankenscope - in a very real sense, my Quattro 150P is worth more to me than the Carbon star because of all the effort I put into it!
@astroattorney, awesome to hear things worked out for you from the get go!
Thanks for sharing this. I’ve always wanted to try a Newt but was nervous about the extra complexity. Your video gave me faith I could figure it out. I ordered one from HighPoint this morning!!
Woohoo!! Congratulations!!! Enjoy it!!
Thanks Cuiv for another excellent video. 50 minutes packed with little gems of information. When you explain it it all seems so straight forward. Keep up the good work. I currently have a SW 72ED, and this galaxy season I have been considering where my astrophotography journey will develop. I think the Carbonstar is a serious option for 2025.
Thanks for your feedback and for your support!! It's definitely a good option :) Refractors are easier but reflectors are so much fun :)
I also absolutely love that it looks like the front ring and the spider are a single machined part so no more worrying about centering the spider and also I suspect itll hold collimation heaps better
Great info. Thanks for taking the time to review this properly. I’m in the market for reflector and I’ve been on the fence on what to do. I hate that sky watcher has made theirs so difficult to work with.
Yeah this is much better out of the box than sky watcher...
Going back in time to 2004. I got an 80mm cheap achromat and a 130mm Newtonian telescope. I set up both during a summer night, I used to live in a Bortle 3/4 area. I managed to find the Andromeda galaxy on my own, which was a huge success- again I'm on a manual German eq mount, I just learned it how to use them. The galaxy looked AMAZING in the 130mm Newtonian! In the slow 80mm achromat, it was nothing but a fuzzy dot. That's when I became a Newtonian fan and being one ever since!
Even for beginner observers: Get a Newtonian!
Yesss, Aperture rules and so Newtonians rule :)
I share your excitement Cuiv! What a beautiful, near perfect "out the box" newt! Thank You for such a comprehensive, very informative review! I look forward to seeing your future images using this beautiful 'scope!
My pleasure Wesley! Thanks for your feedback as always!
In addition to the work required to trick out the skywatcher there is also cost. This adds to the bottom line price comparison. Nice work.
Exactly!
Nice example for the $$$! Thanks for the review!
I have a homemade Dob built around a 10" (250mm for you heathens) Meade research grade mirror 24 years ago. After blackening the mirror bevel I mounted the mirror with no mirror clips by using silicone aquarium sealant. Put blobs of sealant on the mirror mount and support the mirror on 3 spacers while the sealant sets up (nails /pencils /washers /whatever). No need for clips but I did put perimeter blocks with more sealant to hold it from falling out. No intrusion into the light path!
20+years later after much bouncing around in my vehicle and being banged around in the house and garage and it's still holding with no problems, no movement on its slightly flexible, unmodified, stress-free mount. So... All of that is too say that those clips are not needed unless you maybe want to keep them attached out of the way for those times you transport it. Lots of cool tricks in that ancient ATM book!
That's awesome on the sealant trick! I'll keep it in mind :)
Hi King! I built a 10" Dob in 1983. That was 41 years ago! Time flies. That was fun. I still have it but I didn't protect the mirrors so it is now pretty much unusable.
@@dannylgriffin Danny, maybe send the mirror and diagonal of for recoating! I'm sure the glass is fine unless it got pitted, in which case a regrind, polish, refigure and coat might also be needed. I don't know but it also might be cheaper buying a new 10" these days. Seems like telescope mfg's are practically giving away really nice scopes these days compared with back then! But on the other hand you might get away with cleaning and recoating. I don't know if they are still in business but Galaxy optics used to do any of the above in a reasonable time frame. /Dave
Wow 😮 Now I wish for an 8 inch version of aperura scope.
That would be awesome!
I've been looking forward to this. Thanks for the thorough review!
Glad it was helpful!
Love watching you putting new Astro gear to a torture test! One thing that I find strange about the sensor size illumination situation is that this should be a lot better. Many beginners will use a camera they already have which most likely would be either a full frame or APS-C DSLR. APS-C should be the bare minimum sensor illumination!
Overall I think it's perfectly fine for an APS C size sensor, especially after collimating it better after shooting the video. I think they're too conservative here
Thanks for your thorough and honest review. I think my trusty WO Star 71 petzval is going to have some company!
Woohoo! I always wanted to get the Star71, it's good to see it will have company!
Fantastic video, Cuiv! I especially enjoyed your final thoughts. The mischievous glee on your face was phenomenal. 😁 Hopefully, what you found in the Carbon Star is somewhat applicable to Apertura's other reflectors. My 10" F4 reflector arrived this week... 🤓
Hehehe I love this feedback thank you! And enjoy your new 10", that's a massive scope!!
I hope they will release an 8" version. I can't see such model
So do I.
Me too.
I have the same swq 150 Cuiv does.. and find it very lacking unless significantly upgraded.
fr
Yep! I hope it's in the cards :)
If you’re looking for something of similar quality at 8 or more inches, take a look at the ONTC telescope. They are highly customizable from the factory.
Hey we love the long videos brotha. I have been waiting for a review of this telescope for a while. I grew up with reflectors and have wanted to get one for astrophotography! Also as someone who has a built evo 9 and love of all things jdm i love love carbon fiber anything
Glad you do like those long videos - they're a lot of work to make! And yeah, carbon fiber has such a unique allure :)
Beautiful build quality and at a great price point. I think it will be a good seller.... great video, Cuiv 😊
Yep, it's good to see such a nice alternative!
Taking delivery of one today…can’t wait for clear skies
Congrats!!!
this is amazing all I wanted. If they sell when I need a second scope I will buy this for sure.
Yep, it's the perfect little newt
What do I think? Well, I think you are the geeky-est AP nerd out there. Please don't ever change that. Also, I like the more in depth and longer videos.
I'm going to buy this scope in the next few weeks (thanks for convincing me), but I too would like a mirror mask to cover up the mirror clips, hopefully Apertura will make one available soon.
Keep up the good work, and until the next video... Clear Skies. 👍
Thanks mate! I love being a geeky AP nerd haha :)
Outstanding video Cuiv, thank you ! This will be a serious contender to replace my 80ED refractor, gain 90mm FL and it's more than a full stop faster !
Perfect timing for my lunch break! 🎉
I like making people's lunch breaks brighter :)
This is the scope this segment needed!
Buyers remorse having a mostly stock Skywatcher Quattro 150.
Yes, exactly! I'm sure you'll love your Quattro in the end, I love mine because of all the work I put into it haha
Excellent review. Appreciate all you do for the Hobby!
Thanks Robert!!
what a great scope. really considering getting one for myself. either that or the 150p quattro
I am considering getting a longer focal length telescop later this year.
What I settled on before this video is the AT102EDL F7 with the Hotech SCA Field Flattener.
It does come with a travel bag and taking it on trips (low weight) or moving it around between sessions wil be a must.
Not sure what the community here thinks about my option or the video option.
I think both are very valid options!
I think something like this will be ny next scope. Happy to learn Apertura are doing a good and dedicated job.
Yep, it's good to see they're really doing their best on this project!
Great review Cuiv! I've been using mine for the last 5 weeks. The only issue I've noticed is bright stars just out of frame tend to have reflected star spikes that ended up in my images. I'm thinking the anodized red spider reflects a bit too much, my 6" GSO F/4 newt doesn't have this issue. Going to do a few tests and try to cover the struts to dampen the reflection and hopefully its a fix! This was also with a Nexus 0.75 reducer and going to try it out with the 0.95 later as well.
Good idea! I may paint the inside of the spider with black musou paint, see if it makes images better!
Its actualy a GSO designed telescope based on thier latest upgade of thier 6 inch f/4 imaging newtonian..Its sold as a GSO brand outside the US and european market..
That's great to know there's an alternative!
Hello Cuiv. For information, Teleskop Service in Germany makes a very similar telescope: the UNI/Photon line. I have used one for more than one year now, and I am very pleased with the quality of the images. My only complaint would be the focuser, since I am not a big fan of Crayford style ones.
That's awesome! And I agree Crayford focusers are difficult to use especially for beginners... But no backlash is nice...
Just pulled the trigger on this scope package and hope to have it in a few weeks (backordered). Thanks for the in-depth review. I'm currently using a DSLR with an 420mm Apochromatic Triplet, so am curious to see what the difference will be. Maybe one day I will upgrade to a dedicated AP camera...
Hope you can get it soon!! I'll have a video detailing a small flare issue with the scope (or actually potentially another cause, I'm told ZWO cameras have bright unpainted screws inside that can cause reflection) up soon, but please don't panic about it! It's already mentioned in this review, and the scope is still excellent in my opinion!
Cuiv, love your channel. Some great product reviews. Thank you.
I just checked HighPoint Scientific and I see they have a CarbonStar 8” RC!!?
Now that would be a scope worth a review
They seem on fire 🔥 :)
I love this. I only wish it was an 8” 1000mm like my current newt
I think they're looking into an 8" version
This video is sincerely making me consider this scope (I actually have it in my cart right now). My main concern is all the accessories I would potentially run with it. As I haven't owned a newt before, I'm unsure if the focuser and tube could handle all that weight. I'm looking at a 533, 8 position filter wheel, OAG, and the EAF.
Newt's scare me.
Wow the hype is real! I mean I knew this review was coming but what a beautiful thing. And so light. What is it just over 4kg? That I could even see working well with my little potable rig based on my ioptron CEM26.
Been waiting for this review. I love my quattro 150p. Did take quite a bit of work but i enjoyed the tinkering. Im really hoping they release a 10in version. Im currently wanting a 10 in mewt to replace my 8in sct
quote of the century - 'skywatcher i hope you're taking notes'' - never a truer word spoken
Yeah, and my guess is that they are NOT taking notes but I hope I get proven wrong!
It's actually a GSO scope that Apetura have simply put their name on. They will be sold with a lot of different nametags.
Second comment to say that, do you have a source to that GSO scope? I guess the differentiation then comes with the pre collimation and the provided butt plug for the scope :)
So happy with your review. I just received mine but haven't had any hope for clear skies. Would love to see you do something with a mirror mask and how that works. Can't wait to get mine out for first light.
I have a mirror mask design on thingiverse if you search for it! Including photo of the primary
From your videos Cuiv you seemed to really enjoy those forty hours on the Quatro, but I see your point with this scope and if didn't already have a medium sized refractor of a similar focal length I would most likely buy one. As a beginners scope considering you will have to buy a mount and if you want to do photography the camera, guide scope or OAG, EAF and a mini pc this is going to be a very expensive first step. A small refractor on something like a Star Adventurer GTi is going to be a lot cheaper and easier to set up, In fact I leave mine set up by the patio doors ready to take outside if I get an unexpected break in the clouds. I take your point with Sky Watcher but to be fair most of their Newtonians are really aimed at visual astronomy but can of course be upgraded for astro photography. The Quatro is different and is aimed at the astro photography market which makes it a very disappointing offering given the modifications that have to be made to make it perform properly. I still think many begginers are going to go for something a lot cheaper that the Apertura, the See Star 50 for example cannot be beaten on price and ease of use, but as a next step scope I believe this could do very well and certainly give Sky Watcher something to think about.
Yep absolutely agree :)
Now to get it in 8" or 10"!
I hope at least the 8 inch is in the plan!
lol, as soon as I saw this video was out, I quickly panic-ordered one before they go out of stock :)
Hahaha congrats on your new scope!
@@CuivTheLazyGeek thank you :)
one question, with a bunch of streelights nearby, I'm going to need a dew shield. Is that one from your skywatcher good for the apertura? Do you have a link for the STL maybe so I can print one?
No idea - and unfortunately I'm not allowed to share that STL file...
Hoping to see a review of the 'ASIAir killer' ToupTek AstroStation soon :D
Yep, I hope to get a sample soon too!
nice video ,but I would hardly consider this a "beginner setup ".The mount alone costs a cool $2000 ( not to mention the cameras ,guidescope etc.) . There's a reason folks keep advising beginners to start with a short refractor : total cost of setup . With a short refractor you can get away with a mount like the skywatcher star adventurer GTI
Just purchased this scope after watching your review (using your link) :) My first newt!
Congratulations!! I hope you enjoy it!! You'll learn some new stuff for sure :) and thanks for using my link!
Hahaha you make me happy with your exited happiness!
Always happy to make people happy!
I would like to see a strain wave mount that also had motorised polar alignment, its 2024 it shouldn't be that hard.
Ok, that might be a bit of a rant.
That would be nice indeed!
So after a month with the 150 I'm only found one serious issue, and that's a significant light leak around the focuser. I had mine pointed UP rather than down, which probably contributed to the issue, but it's not hard at all to get light into this focuser. I had mentioned before that my focuser installation was lose when I got this scope, not sure if that's related or not.
Very interesting, thanks for letting me know! I haven't seen that on mine but as you say the location is different.. if you have issues, you can use the tricks I showed in my Quattro videos!
@@CuivTheLazyGeek A black non frilly hair band seems to have fixed it. No cardboard, YET.
Been waiting for this for sooooo long
When you showed the non reflective interior at the 12 minute mark you can see a reflection from the bottom of the focus tube, I wonder if that contributed to only the top spike on the star being extended
So… my AT115EDT is at f/5.6 and 644 mm with the reducer. This rig is one stop faster. Is there any advantage for me to get this?
Probably not for you, but I nearly bought a carbonstar to fit it onto my eqm-35 due to its light weight. I ended up buying a 130pds (130mm f5) with a x1.0 CC because it was about half the price and almost exactly the same weight.
If it ain't broke, don't fix it! I think the newt is more compact and lighter (and yes one stop brighter, but then it has a central obstruction) but besides this I don't think you'd benefit
@@CuivTheLazyGeekThanks guys, I was going to ask the same question.
Hi Cuiv, do you know if Aperture sell as something else in the UK? Done a few web searches and can’t find them or CarbonStar at all in the UK
Seems that for now it's US only :( Although HPS does ship abroad...
That explains it! Thanks for responding- clear skies
Good review, seems to be a nice small telescop but unfortunately it does not seem to be available out of the US
Yeah seems at this stage it's only HPS, so would require shipping abroad...
Bonjour. Merci pour cette nouvelle vidéo. Puisque vous possédez les deux instruments, savez-vous si le réducteur de focale 0,85x vendu avec le Skywatcher 150/600 PDS Quattro est compatible avec le Apertura CarbonStar ? Cela permettrait d'avoir un rapport f/D=3,4 sur ce dernier et qui le rendrait encore plus rapide. Merci pour votre réponse.
A couple of quick questions. Thinking about getting this scope as my first reflector. Are you still happy with the focuser a few months after you got the scope. And does the primary mirror have a center dot?
Hello Marvin! I'm still happy with the focuser (you do need to tighten that thumbscrew quite a lot, I even used pliers to be safe, but once done it never slips AND is super smooth - they're apparently going to be shipping the scope with a larger thumbscrew to help with that!). The primary does have a center dot!
I certainly love the sound of a faster scope for the light pollution in my area (according to LP maps I apparently have just as bad LP as probably your area). However I have kinda narrowed my search of scope to something in the 180mm-300mm focal length because I'd want to get some of the larger nebulas/andromeda in one shot (something my seestar struggles with without attempting a manual mosaic or something). This scope does sound interesting if I ever do want more 'zoomed in' images, so might jot it down for far future if I ever get around to having two setups lol.
Legit question though, why does it seem like all newts/reflectors all start at like 500mm focal lengths and go up from there? Is it just not possible to make a wider field reflector say sub-300mm Focal length? Or just not really anyone asking for that? I know hyperstar/RASA exists but for the expense and effort, doesnt seem like the most beginner friendly.
Most Newts will have F4 as a base, and so that makes them start at such focal lengths. The specialized newts like Takahashi Epsilon or Sharpstar HNT will have F2.8 or F3, so you go towards the range of FL that works for you, but they're a lot of work to collimate apparently
Can you please weigh the OTA assembly, with rings & Vixen bar. The CarbonStar is quoted at 4.6KG compared to the TS Optics 150/F4 carbon which is 4.0KG. I suspect the extra 600gms maybe the coma corrector. I also suspect this is a re-badged GSO (exclusive to certain dealers) scope.
I'll have to do it but probably not soon as it's now on the dual barrel frankenscope
Would be interesting to see if the red color is causing issues. I also wonder if you new Batman appetizers would help this telescope.
I'm thinking of painting the back of the spider black with musou paint, to see if it makes any difference
Hello Cuiv! I think the fuziness you see on brighter stars is due to the tip of the focuser tube protruding on the light path, appart from also the mirror clips, check if this is not the case? If so you need to move the primary upwards on the tube to get the focal point "out". Cheers
Yep I thought of that as well, but it's not the case, it's well behind the baffles...
@@CuivTheLazyGeek huumm..thats odd, there's clearly something obstructing the light path, I see you are using an OAG, maybe the pick up prism is too far in? Cheers
Great video! Am I correct in thinking that the carbon star won’t work with the ASI2600MC Air or DUO, as the image circle may be too small?
In theory yes, in practice no - I'm using it with the 2600MC Duo without issues :p
@@CuivTheLazyGeekthanks! I have the redcat 51 WIFD now… but really wanting to try this Newtonian!
Great video... looks like a great package too.
Why did they use a Crayford focuser instead of a good rack and pinion focuser?
I've had issues where baffles do more harm than good by forcing warm air into the light path while it is escaping. Will the baffles on this scope force warm air into the light path in the same way, or are they vented somehow? This might be more of an issue with planetary photography, but it still can cause some weird issues with stars.
Both have their advantages, the lack of backlash on a Crayford focuser is nice but I agree a rack and pinion is easier for beginners...
HI Cuiv, thank you for this excellent video! I took delivery of one today and noticed the secondary adjustment screws are VERY tight. Did yours have this as well? Im hesitant to apply the amount of torque needed to "break them free" so I can collimate the scope.
Mine were tight but not egregiously so - I liked it that way since it held collimation quite well! Maybe shoot an email to Apertura so you have advance permission in case something goes wrong?
Affordability is of course a subjective thing., but is way. beyond the average working man's pay with a family., but it is something to aim for by starting off with the tube and add as you go.Nice video.
Yeah I fully agree, unfortunately everything is relative ..
Thanks Cuiv, I've been looking forward to this review. Looks like a great scope. I've only ever had Newtonians and, while they are big and heavy and need careful setup and balancing to track properly, my 8" gathers light a huge lot faster than the tiny William Optics (though I really want one of those too!) Apertura don't seem to have gotten to the UK so far but will keep an eye out. Out of interest, do you know where it was manufactured?
Yep, Newts are such a sweet spot between performance and price, I love those things!
I would assume the bulk of the scope is made in China, probably mostly GSO parts ..
@@CuivTheLazyGeek I notice that their website says “This focuser features a linear bearing design, which, while closely resembling the Crayford-style focuser, utilizes a flat rail running on dozens of ball bearings. These hard ball bearings provide more points of contact for a strong and fluid focusing mechanism capable of smoothly moving all types of imaging equipment. “. So not exactly a Crawford. I upgraded my Newt (Orion Optics UK - not the same as US) to a Baader Diamond Steeltrack which has no movement under any load. It’s fabulous
I'm looking this scope and Nexus 0.75 CC/FR combination :D
Cool F3 result ':)
Question: would Blurexterminator change a very small galaxy (similar to one of the elongated stars it made round) the same way it did elongated stars?
It's actually very smart, it makes the difference between small galaxies and stars in my opinion!
That sounds pretty exciting to be honest
Idk why but I never knew you lived in Tokyo. I was in Houston for a time and I was pulling my hair out at the light pollution. Cant imagine how you do it in Tokyo lol
Clear skies!
I think Houston and Tokyo end up having similar levels! It's very frustrating indeed!
Glad to see this.
Awesome review!! Appreciate it, Cuiv!
1 question: Can I attach a dew heater to this scope's primary mirror to avoid condensation on my primary mirror?
This made me rethink getting a newt. I have had a small refractor but considering this. Should I get the laser or Cheshire Collimator? Will my HEQ5 be able to carry this - seems like it will based on the weights.
If you get this one, I would recommend getting both laser and Cheshire - or an OCAL collimator. And it's quite light, so the HEQ5 shouldn't have issues
@@CuivTheLazyGeek thanks for the response. what is the logic behind getting both collimators? how often do these scopes need collimation? if its once a year, I can get a more sophisticated friend help me :)
Cuiv- what are your thoughts on the focuser? You and I both struggled with the Quattro focuser and replaced it with the Cyck focuser. Will the focuser on this scope hold when hanging an OAG, filter wheel and APS-C sized camera?
You may need to replace the thumbscrew with a hex bolt to get enough tension for heavy equipment, but for now it seems to work very well, no slippage or anything!
Cuiv, You need to look at the focuser drawtube entering the light path. It seems clear from your video that it impedes on the light path. Forget about mirror clips or pinched optics. Yes they matter. But understand the diffraction caused by a huge drawtube in the light path.
It doesn't though! At good focus it's behind the baffles
Would love it if you could share whether focuser does tilt under an APS-C camera + filter wheel, such as QHY268M with a matching fw.
So, someone may have already posted this, but I'm curious about your experience with the DUO. The specs show an image circle of 28mm and the DUO requires full frame (~44mm). Is the image circle in the specs incorrect?
The image circle in the specs is without noticeable light fall off, but it doesn't just stop - enough light reaches the Duo sensor. My Duo video tests were all done on the CS as I recall!
Thanks for an excellent video and your attention to detail. Question, what was the diagonal Spike on the bright star even after you did the correction for the pinched optics? This might be a fun little scope to venture into Newtonian OTA.
Yep I'm not sure! I need to figure it out sometime!
Can you show the mirror cell? The standard GSO 150mm mirror cell is abysmal...
Search on thingiverse for Carbonstar mirror mask, I've uploaded a photo there.
@CuivTheLazyGeek thanks Cuiv, you're certainly not lazy!
Nice review! Where is the video for the focuser? And it is not listed in your description either.
Super good video. Merci
But not sold in Europe!
🥵
Sorry about that :( I'm told GSO sells very similar scopes, but not sure if they're sold in Europe...
Any thoughts on the Sharpstar 150mm f/2.8 HNT Hyperbolic Newtonian Astrograph - Red # 15028HNT-RD?
None, since I haven't tested it! It looks good though, but I heard people had trouble collimating it!
Cuiv, and anyone else who would like to comment, do you have any insights on why you have chosen 6” aperture newts in recent years over the 8” or 10”. Is it because of one or more of the following?
the sweet spot for sampling with most astrocamera sensors,
a more pragmatic size weight consideration when setting up,
the reduction in the effect of wind buffetting,
The ability to use lighter mounts,
Are there other reasons as well?.
I have used an 8” f4 astrograph newt for many years, originally for visual as well as astrophotography, and it has been a remarkably flexible OTA. However these days with my aging eyes. Eq mount and live stacking I’m really not doing any visual observing anymore. Have you noticed the impact in the loss of aperture when you downsizes to the 6” or has this really made very little difference due to the camera sensor size placing limits on the FOV? Have you noticed any compromise in the reduction of focal length on exposure times?
Also for anyone worrying about the horror stories about collimation on fast newts, let me reassure you that I was worried by this when starting out and purchasing a fast newt, and it really was and is, a non issue. There are many more things about getting started in astronomy to worry about than collimation, which is a simple process to learn and easy to execute. At least for parabolic mirrors anyway. I can’t speak to the difficulty of collimating hyperbolic optics but maybe someone with an RC or hyperbolic newt can comment.
On minute 16:30 it's clearly visible the crayford focuser rail, this should introduce some reflections. Anyway, I don't agree that the pinched optics is a minor issue, this should be solved at QC. On the other hand, SW mirror was loose upon receiving, I prefer a loose mirror instead of a pinched mirror. Looking forward your corrected images.
At that time the focus tube was fully racked in, but once in focus the focuser tube isn't visible in the primary, so I don't think it's an issue... At least I see none of the reflection issues I had with the Quattro, which were a nightmare to fix!
I have a different view of the mirror - I much prefer getting a pinched mirror rather a mirror that's far too loose - the pinched mirror will have immediate, obvious impact with an obvious solution. A too loose mirror can introduce some much more difficult to diagnose symptoms! But yeah ideally the mirror should NOT arrive pinched (or too loose for that matter) :)
Just purchased this newtonian. Do you recommend using a dew shield with it? If so, heated or not?
What about the Aptura Carbonstar RC? 6" baby Hubble with a superior optical design? Looking forward to that review.
Now I'm torn in two!!! Do I go for a Celestron C6-A w/Hyperstar or an Apertura CarbonStar? Choices, choices?!?! 😄
300mm focal length vs 600mm. Depends on what you want to image. Personally, I'd go for the newt. F4 is still very fast. F2 requires more expensive filters and the focus point is more sensitive.
The Newt is less of a specialist scope, and has more room for growth overall (such as monochrome with EFW) and sharper star (and the cost of 2 stops difference!)
Hi Cuiv, Can you compare cost SW 150P + upgrades vs CarbonStar 150 ?
how do you think it will work with the Starizona Nexus?
At least one other is using it with it. You may need to move the primary mirror with the collimation screws to adjust where the point of best focus is (and to avoid the focuser protruding in the light path)
I can't seem to find one in Australia. Any ideas on how to buy one? Nice match for my Redcat 71.
We disagree this time...thanks for the video again !!
This apparently is the GuanSheng GSN550c, rebadged as Apertura.
TLDR; They're essentially the same telescope at the end of the day. One is almost half the price stock, almost the same price after mods. One has upgrades from factory. So neither is necessarily better or worse, It just depends on you as an individual and if you can even buy the scope in your geographic region.
Cuiv thanks for putting in the effort you do with all your content it's appreciated and I'm glad you are enjoying this scope. That said this is like comparing a 1999 Honda Civic modified to be as fast as a Mercedes C63 and then saying the Mercedes is clearly better. Well yeah. There's no carbon fibre in a stock civic and no massaging seats.
Something I just want to point out is you mention pros of the Apertura as being 'included' - like I say, it's *really* important to mention that there is a price difference! A substantial one at that as it's almost twice the price ($970 vs $515) It's not quite like for like, apart from aperture and that's still where (imho) most people will be better off with the 150 Quattro as most people price is a barrier over difficulty. With that in mind, if people are having to ship internationally from the USA, that just adds to it. A few people in the comments are slating the construction of the Quattro while simultaneously comparing it to scopes (like a Lacerta newt) that are literally 3-4 times the price.
The 150 Quattro in stock form is quite a lot cheaper for anyone outside of the USA. Modifying a newtonian leads to a lot of learning and how it actually works, which will be very helpful if you have to at any point take the mirrors out.
Either way, I do think it's really important to remind people this isn't a silver bullet option. If you have to sort out pinched optics and take out the primary mirror cell to add a mask, then really is that good for a beginner? How many beginners will even know pinches optics are a thing. At that point taking the mirrors out of a 150 Quattro to modify it isn't any harder and for a *lot* of people, it's more ACCESSIBLE. The fact that Apertura have gone to all they have to still have pinched optics showcases it doesn't matter if you slap a carbon tube, CNC spider etc into a scope - it'll still have issues that need adjusting. I also had to chuckle at the fact they made the spider black, yet are so focused on image quality - that makes absolutely zero sense. Marketing getting in the way of results.
I know two Takahashi Epsilon users who both have had to modify their scopes, it's just the fact of newtonian life that there will be *something* that'll need adjusting with the current line of newts on the market. It doesn't help that basically all brands are laser focused on just producing even MORE expensive refractors.
Skywatcher DEFINITELY should overhaul the Quattro line with a factory fitted CNC spider and aperture mask. That would go a long way and still keep the price somewhat in check, or simply offer it as an upgrade package - basically DLC for telescope haha. On the larger 10" Quattros there should be a better focuser for sure. On the 150 Quattro tube flex is waaaay less due to how short it is and the distance between the primary cell and the spider, especially if you're using a CNC spider. I say all this from experience btw. I have used and modified multiple Skywatcher newtonians.
What I do find amusing is, you even demonstrate it in this video, does half of these upgrades even matter when software fixes are a thing that people rely on heavily nowadays anyway?
I disagree here due to the crazy amount of work and guesswork that went into fixing the quattro. Overall Quattro+new spider+replacement for garbage focuser+flocking the whole tube+butt plug build+taping the tube and sides of the focuser base plate is needed to finally get to what the CarbonStar offers our of the box. And even that isn't a guarantee. The spider and focuser add over $350 to the price... and then I remember wasting entire nights and pulling my hair out at remaining reflections with the Quattro that no amount of software wizardry could fix in the final stack, it was extremely frustrating. I'm not even sure in the end which mod I did actually fixed the darn thing.
Concerning the pinched optics, I much prefer getting those than getting the floating mirror I had gotten with the Quattro :/ I find those much harder to diagnose. The potential pinched optics and their fix are specifically called out in the manual of the CarbonStar so I don't think it would be such an issue for beginners.
Cheers!
As a beginner I found it incredibly helpful to start with a Newt, and it is also a good transition for people that have attended star parties and dobsonion newts. Yes there is a small learning curve, but the knowledge you gain around basic fundamentals like aperture, focal length, fov and the way a reflector works are fundamental tools when it comes to understanding many of the things that affect your viewing such as coma chromatic aberration, camera sensor selection that are all things you will need to learn to optimise as you progress in the hobby. The main legit reason to avoid newts is if you hate diffraction spikes.