With the FS-60CP, Takahashi offers a version of its compact FS-60 refractor designed specifically for astrophotography. The objective remains unchanged (it is the fluorite Doublet of the FS-60CB); however, an extremely powerful focal length reducer – known as the FU RD 0.65x – is also available, transforming the instrument into a true Astrograph with a very short focal length (230 mm, f/3.8). T
The optical and mechanical design of this reducer required the Japanese manufacturer to completely overhaul the FS-60’s focusing system and convert the focuser from 1.25-inch to 2-inch format.
The FU 0.65x reducer represents an optical innovation. It consists of four lens elements, one of which is made of fluorite – a first for instruments of this class in the amateur sector. It effectively eliminates residual chromatic aberration; in fact, chromatic aberration is reduced by a further 50% compared to the previous model. The image field is perfectly flat and covers the entire area of a full-frame sensor (24x36 mm). The spot radius – 3 µm RMS – remains constant from the absolute centre of the image field right out to the edge.
The larger dimensions of the lens elements, combined with the altered positioning of the reducer within the tube, increase the image field illumination at the focal plane by approximately 80% – even in the peripheral areas.
The installation of this exceptional reducer required a fundamental redesign of the FS-60’s rear mechanical assembly. The original FS-60 tube design is incompatible with this type of accessory, as it requires the use of a larger and more robust focusing system. Consequently, the rear section of the tube has been replaced by a wider assembly to which the SKY-90’s focuser is attached. This configuration allows the reducer (which features an M64 thread) to be screwed in directly; at the same time, it offers native compatibility with a 2-inch eyepiece holder (50.8 mm) – a feature not previously available on the FS-60CB model. This redesigned rear assembly thus opens up new mounting possibilities and supports either 2-inch plug-in accessories or the standard M56 threaded connection. The adaptation of certain existing accessories may occasionally require specific adjustments during assembly; for example, imaging with the standard FC/FS MFL1.04X field corrector (multi-flattener) requires the installation of an L30 extension tube.
The optical tube’s mounting system has also been fundamentally redesigned. Two tube rings and a Vixen-style prism rail (available as an optional accessory) replace the original one-piece ring. The mounting elements are attached to the wider rear section of the optical tube. The prism rail features several mounting holes to facilitate precise balancing – regardless of which specific imaging chain is mounted in the focal plane.
A high-end AstrographWith the FS-60CP – in combination with the FU RD 0.65X reducer – Takahashi offers a first-class alternative to Chinese-made wide-field Astrographs. True to its reputation, the renowned Japanese brand has once again succeeded in combining exceptional optical performance with impeccable mechanical precision – and this without any compromises. The telescope is sold exclusively as an optical tube assembly (OTA); accessories are not included in the scope of delivery.
The tube rings and the prism rail are not included. The FU RD 0.65X field reducer is available separately.
It not only matters which telescope you buy but also where you buy it. Our additional services:
- We are a leading telescope dealer and know the devices we sell. Our customer service team will gladly help you after your purchase if you have problems with assembly or operation.
- We provide a copy of the 80-page Telescope ABC beginners handbook with every telescope.
