Askar SQA55 f/4.8 Quintuplet APO  

Bringing you an innovative, feature-packed, high quality refractor, Sharpstar introduces their SQA55! This impressive f/4.8, 256 mm focal length telescope is fitted with five internal lens elements for super fine detail within your images. Not only this, but the SQA55 comes loaded with qualities such as an interchangeable lens/scope design, a dual-speed helical focuser, an aperture adjustment wheel, and plenty more, all within a 4 lb., compact body. Whether you’re just getting started in astrophotography excited to get your hands on your first telescope, or an esteemed astroimager wanting a premium, easy-to-use refractor, this Sharpstar SQA55 is the perfect answer.

Furnished with a Petzval lens design, there is no need to fumble with backspacing calculations, nor do you have to purchase an external field flattener for sharp stars from corner to corner. This makes setup incredibly easy—simply attach your camera, and you’re ready to image! With the interchangeable lens/scope design, this SQA55 houses the familiar aspects of a lens, though provides the high performance light gathering power of a telescope. Utilize the premier optics for terrestrial photography during the day, then capture the cosmos as soon as the stars emerge. Sharpstar understands the importance of user-experience, and has furnished this telescope with ergonomics such as focus locking knobs for both the coarse and fine adjustment wheels, quick-release hardware, and multiple filter threads for daytime and astrophotography use. This little refractor can also easily be packed up for photography trips thanks to its compact frame and included carrying case. With qualities like these, this SQA55 takes the term “user-friendly” to a whole new level!

Interchangeable Lens/Telescope Architecture

Struggling to make a decision between purchasing a camera lens or a telescope? No need to fret, this Sharpstar SQA55 provides the best of both worlds! The unique cross-functional lens/telescope design is perfect for those familiar with camera lenses who are ready to make the transition into the world of telescopes. Just like a lens, you have the ability to adjust the aperture, with a range of f/4.8 to f/22. The included helical focuser also resembles that of a lens, though Sharpstar takes it up a notch—including two independent coarse and fine adjustment speeds.

This dual-focuser is perfect for achieving sharp focus on terrestrial scenes while simultaneously making it easy to achieve pinpoint stars. Not only is the focuser dual speed, but this Sharpstar telescope also features a dual-rotator design as well. For daytime shooting, the entire OTA body can be rotated, while the high-precision rotator can be utilized for astrophotography applications. Both rotators include their own locking knobs to keep your framing locked down. The use of filters is something that adds another layer of creativity when imaging. 

This is why Sharpstar not only included 2” filter threads to the rear of this telescope, but also M67 filter threads to the front of the objective! When it comes to mounting this Sharpstar SQA55, easily attach it to a tripod with the 1/4” and 3/8” screw holes found at the bottom of the mounting shoe, or affix it to your equatorial mount with the included 200 mm Vixen-style dovetail plate. If you wish to image hand-held, effortlessly remove this SQA55 from the tripod or mount with the quick-release knob found on the mounting shoe. The handle itself also features a quick-release function for easy removal. Whether you plan to utilize this Sharpstar SQA55 for daytime terrestrial use or for capturing your favorite celestial objects, your images are sure to impress!

Technical Specifications

In the Box

• SQA55 OTA with Attached Dovetail and Handle

• Military-Grade Waterproof Carry Case

• Inspection List

• Manual

Warranty & Manuals