
( Brand: Vixen ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: SD115 ), ( Model: VIXEN SD115 SII ), ( Type: Refractor ), ( Aperture: 120 Mm )
The Vixen Sd115 SIICNUS is an exquisitely crafted Newt-design refractor telescope specifically designed for astroimaging enthusiasts. Its primary optical component is a 115mm (4.5 inches) f/7.7 SII Coated Triplet Apochromatic (T-CAT) objective lens, engineered to deliver outstanding performance highlighting the finest details in deep-sky objects.
The telescope boasts a generous focal length of 854mm (33.6 inches), allowing for ample reach to capture faint, distant celestial phenomena. It is well-suited for narrowband astroimaging, as the SII coated lens enhances sensitivity to the Sulfur-II emission line, bringing out subtle nuances in nebulas and other deep-sky targets.
The telescope comes equipped with a robust, fork-mount design, delivering high critical focus accuracy, stability, and excellent tracking capabilities. A dual-speed 2-inch Crayford focus mechanism is integrated to facilitate easy and precise focusing for astroimaging applications. The Vixen Sd115 SIICNUS also includes a built-in mineral oil-filled focusing drawer, maintaining appropriate focus and spacing between the objective lens and the imaging train.
Additionally, this telescope features two 1.25" and one 2" Crayford focusers for visual use, allowing the user the flexibility to couple a range of eyepieces to the instrument. One noteworthy feature is the adjustable Vixen EQ Drive motor drive system attached to the fork mount, offering both manual and motorized tracking of celestial objects for extended exposure times.
The entire structure is meticulously constructed using high-quality materials and precision engineering for longevity and durability. The tube body is formed from lightweight aluminum, featuring a black anodized finish, while the base and accessories are built from robust stainless steel for longevity.
The Vixen Sd115 SIICNUS is an impressive tool for dedicated astroimagers seeking high-performance unwanted from a Newt-style refractor. Its expertise in SII light, immense focal length, and robust engineering make it an unrivaled option for capturing the minutest details hidden within the vast cosmos.
The Vixen SGV-NING S115 SII Focal Length Reducer/Flattener is an optics accessory designed for astrophotography with its primary function being to reduce the effective focal length of a telescope and to flatten the image field for off-axis imaging systems, such as CCD or SCT telescopes. Here, we will discuss the pros and cons of using this accessory for astrophotography.
Pros:1. Image quality improvement: The Vixen SGV-NING S115 SII provides a flatter and more even illumination of the image sensor, resulting in better image quality compared to imaging without a reducer/flattener.
2. Wide-field imaging: With a reduction ratio of 0.54x, the Vixen SGV-NING S115 SII enables wider fields-of-view for your astrophotography sessions, making it a great choice for capturing large astronomical structures, such as constellations or larger deep-sky objects.
3. Compatibility: This accessory is suitable for a range of telescopes and camera systems, including short tube refractors, Schmidt-Cassegrain telescopes (SCTs), and larger telescopes like reflectors and Ritchey Chr tien systems. It can be used with cameras with sensors up to 4/3 or APS-C formats.
4. Thin, lightweight design: The Vixen SGV-NING S115 SII features a thin and lightweight design, making it an excellent choice for transportability andphoto sessions that require a setup change.
5. Easy installation: The straightforward and simple installation process ensures that users can quickly attach the accessory to their telescope and begin taking images, saving time and streamlining their astrophotography setup.
Cons:1. Amplification of optical aberrations: Although the Vixen SGV-NING S115 SII improves image quality in many ways, it may also amplify the presence of optical aberrations, such as coma, spherical aberration, and astigmatism. Cinching down the spacing collar tightly during installation can help minimize its effect, however.
2. Requires adequate telescope focus adjustment: The use of a reducer/flattener like the Vixen SGV-NING S115 SII can change the effective focal length of your telescope, which necessitates the need for fine-tuning focus when adapting to the new configuration.
3. Potential vignetting: While the Vixen SGV-NING S115 SII significantly flattens the image field, it may introduce some vignetting for wide-field imaging with long focal length wheels or cameras. Appropriately orienting the camera within the camera adapter ring can help minimize this effect.
4. Limited compatibility: Although versatile, the Vixen SGV-NING S115 SII may not be suitable for all camera systems, especially those with larger sensors like full-frame cameras. In such cases, an alternative solution may be needed.
Conclusion:The Vixen SGV-NING S115 SII focal length reducer/flattener is a valuable tool for astrophotographers seeking to improve image quality, achieve wider fields-of-view, and simplify their observing setup. Although it may present some challenges like prominent optical aberrations, focusing issues, and potential vignetting, the pros outweigh the cons for many applications, making the Vixen SGV-NING S115 SII a solid recommendation for astrophotographers.
Recommendation:If you are an astrophotographer looking to upgrade your imaging capabilities, the Vixen SGV-NING S115 SII focal length reducer/flattener is an excellent choice for those seeking a means to flatten the image field, take wider-field images, and enhance image quality with their telescope and CCD or SCT cameras. However, be sure to consider your specific telecope, camera system, and imaging objectives before making the investment. By comparing the available options, assessing your imaging requirements, and evaluating the pros and cons carefully, you'll be well on your way to an optimized astrophotography setup.
Virtually new and optically, mechanically cosmetically flawless!, Latest version purchased in mid 2024 of the largest aperture model all Japanese sourced well regarded Vixen super ED refactors. Many reviewers find these Japanese made Vixen refactors optically and mechanically the equal of their more expensive fellow premium from Turkish. Used only a handful of times and always kept, when not in use, the included, padded scope inside climate controlled storage. This model is sold out from the US distributor and was very last in stock when I purchased it.
Selling as recent severe health issues has caused me to sell off a collection of premium refactors I can no longer use at substantial discount over purchase price earlier this year.