Askar 61EDPHⅢ Full Frame Flattener Instruction Manual

1. Introduzione

This manual provides instructions for the proper setup, operation, and maintenance of your Askar 61EDPHⅢ Full Frame Flattener. This accessory is designed to correct field curvature, ensuring sharp, flat images across the entire field of view when used with the Askar 61EDPHⅢ telescope, particularly beneficial for astrophotography with full-frame cameras.

Per garantire prestazioni ottimali e longevità del prodotto, leggere attentamente il presente manuale prima di utilizzarlo.

2. Impostazione

2.1 Disimballaggio e identificazione dei componenti

Carefully remove all components from the packaging. Verify that all parts are present and undamaged. The main components include the flattener unit and protective caps.

Figura 2.1: The Askar 61EDPHⅢ telescope with the full-frame flattener attached. The flattener is the black cylindrical component connected to the rear of the telescope, extending towards the right.

2.2 Attaching the Flattener to the Telescope

1. Ensure your Askar 61EDPHⅢ telescope is securely mounted and stable.
2. Remove the protective caps from both ends of the flattener and the rear of the telescope's focuser.
3. Carefully thread the flattener onto the focuser of the Askar 61EDPHⅢ telescope. Ensure it is aligned properly to avoid cross-threading.
4. Tighten the flattener securely by hand until snug. Do not overtighten.

Figura 2.2: Un più vicino view of the Askar 61EDPHⅢ flattener connected to the telescope, showing the red and white telescope body and the black flattener unit.

2.3 Collegamento di una telecamera

The flattener features an M48x0.75 thread for camera connection. You will need an appropriate camera adapter (T-ring) for your specific camera model.

1. Attach your camera's T-ring adapter to the M48x0.75 thread on the rear of the flattener.
2. Mount your camera body onto the T-ring adapter.
3. Ensure all connections are secure to prevent accidental detachment.

Figura 2.3: The Askar 61EDPHⅢ flattener with a camera (represented by a red cylindrical component) attached to its rear, ready for astrophotography.

3. Funzionamento

3.1 Back Focus Adjustment

Achieving the correct back focus is crucial for optimal performance of the full-frame flattener. The recommended back focus for the Askar 61EDPHⅢ flattener is 55mm from the rear M48 thread to the camera sensor.

• Measure the distance from your camera's sensor to the front face of its T-ring adapter.
• Subtract this measurement from 55mm to determine the required spacing.
• Use appropriate M48 extension tubes (not included) between the flattener and your camera's T-ring to achieve the precise 55mm back focus.
• Small adjustments (e.g., 1-2mm) may be necessary to fine-tune the field flatness based on your specific camera and setup.

Figura 3.1: A technical diagram illustrating the dimensions and thread types of the flattener, including M54x0.75 female thread, 2" filter thread, and M48x0.75 thread, with a focal plane indication.

3.2 Messa a fuoco

Once the flattener and camera are attached, use the telescope's focuser to achieve sharp focus. The flattener itself does not have focusing capabilities; it works in conjunction with the telescope's primary focuser.

• Point the telescope at a bright star.
• Use a focusing mask (e.g., Bahtinov mask) and your camera's live view or capture software to achieve precise focus.
• Verify focus across the entire field of view to confirm correct back focus.

4. Manutenzione

4.1 Pulizia dell'ottica

Keep the optical surfaces of the flattener clean to ensure optimal image quality. Only clean the lenses when necessary.

1. Use a blower brush to remove loose dust particles.
2. For stubborn smudges or fingerprints, apply a small amount of optical cleaning fluid to a clean, lint-free optical cloth or lens tissue.
3. Gently wipe the lens surface in a circular motion from the center outwards. Avoid excessive pressure.
4. Never use abrasive materials or household cleaners on optical surfaces.

4.2 Cura generale e conservazione

• Always replace protective caps when the flattener is not in use.
• Store the flattener in a clean, dry environment, away from extreme temperatures and humidity.
• Evitare di far cadere l'unità o di sottoporla a forti urti.

5. Risoluzione Dei Problemi

5.1 Problemi comuni e soluzioni

6. Specifiche

Key specifications for the Askar 61EDPHⅢ Full Frame Flattener:

• Modello: 61EDPHⅢ Full Frame Flattener
• Compatible Telescope: Askar 61EDPHⅢ
• Messa a fuoco posteriore: 55mm (from M48 thread to camera sensor)
• Connessione telecamera: Filettatura M48x0.75
• Filettatura del filtro: 2" (M48) filter thread inside
• Flattener Length: Approximately 81.35mm (excluding back focus distance)
• Diametro massimo: Circa 74 mm

Nota: The product dimensions (4.41"D x 4.02"W x 4.8"H) and item weight (0.4 Kilograms) listed in the product details refer to the Askar 61EDPHⅢ telescope unit, not solely the flattener accessory.

7. Garanzia e supporto

7.1 Informazioni sulla garanzia

Askar products typically come with a limited warranty covering manufacturing defects. For specific warranty terms, duration, and claim procedures, please refer to the official Askar webo contattare il rivenditore autorizzato. Conservare la prova d'acquisto per eventuali reclami in garanzia.

7.2 Assistenza clienti

If you encounter any issues or have questions regarding your Askar 61EDPHⅢ Full Frame Flattener that are not addressed in this manual, please contact Askar customer support or your retailer for assistance.

• Produttore Websito: Visit the Askar Store on Amazon (per informazioni generali sul prodotto)
• Contatto del venditore: SHARPSTAR OPTICS (via Amazon's seller contact feature)