SkyWatcher MAK-90 Virtuoso telescope

The Virtuoso telescope is an innovative device with a wide range of capabilities. The design combines the features of a portable telescope for beginners and a computerized photographic head with precise electric drive. The device can act as a tripod and allow photographing selected objects in a specific order, taking timelapses and spherical panoramas. The compact size is also worth mentioning. The telescope is lightweight, fits on a table and is several tens of centimeters high.

Virtuoso applications in astronomy
Virtuoso is a complete astronomical telescope built on the Maksutov-Cassegrain system, which can be used for simple astronomical observations. The model is characterized by sharp images and no chromatic aberration. It features a 90 mm objective lens and 2 eyepieces with focal lengths of 25 mm and 10 mm. The eyepieces offer magnifications of 50x and 125x and are sufficient for observing the Moon and the primary planets. They allow you to see details such as the equatorial belts on Jupiter, the rings of Saturn or the polar caps of Mars.

The Virtuoso's biggest advantage is the ability to track astronomical objects. The model features Sky-Watcher's advanced system of precision stepper motors and dual axis encoders. The system is capable of tracking an astronomical object by rotating the telescope in both axes. It can work with SynScan AZ remote controls known from large Dobson telescopes (not included). The device is also easy to use. Once the telescope is leveled and geographic coordinates are entered into the system, Virtuoso starts tracking astronomical objects on its own.

Virtuoso application in photography
A sturdy camera mount is included. The mount's automation allows timelapses, smooth guided video, cyclic shooting of several preset subjects, and panoramic shooting, including 360-degree spherical shooting.

The mount is equipped with a 2.5 mm minijack standard trigger hose cable. The cable is compatible with all Canon cameras of the three and four-digit series (300D, 400D, 1000D, 550D, etc.). The Virtuoso can be mounted on a photo tripod with a load capacity of about 10 kg and a 3/8" mount. The set also includes a reduction to 1/4". To connect the tube to a camera, you will need a T-Ring for the corresponding camera.

Included:
- 1.25" 90° angle cap,
- Star Pointer finder,
- 1.25" Super 20, Super 10 eyepieces,
- "L" adapter with 1/4" screw to mount camera,
- compass,
- 2.5 mm minijack trigger hose.

The camera shown in one of the photos is not included.

Technical data
Optical system of the telescope: Maksutov-Cassegrain
Objective diameter: 90 mm
Focal length of the lens: 1250 mm
Focal length of eyepiece 1: 20 mm
Focal length of eyepiece 2: 10 mm
Magnification with eyepiece 1: 62x
Magnification with eyepiece 2: 125x
Mount type: Azimuthal
Stellar range: 13.2 magnitude
Maximum usable magnification: 135x
Tube diameter: 100 mm
Tube length: 240 mm
Eyepiece focuser diameter: 1.25"
Finder: red dot (Star Pointer)
Maximum resolving power: 1.56″
Lens speed: 13.9
Collective capacity (compared to the unaided eye): 165x
Mounting control: SynScan Go-To
Eyepiece focuser type: SCT/MAK
Angle cap: mirror 90 deg.
Center obstruction: 29.5 mm
Weight of the tube: 1.4 kg
Mount weight: 4 kg
Manufacturer: Sky-Watcher, Canada