The Takahashi Epsilon E-160ED Reflecting OTA is the newest edition to Takahashi Americas’ reflector lineup. The E-160ED is a complete redesign of the original release decades ago. The new version has been redesigned and optimized for digital imaging.
Like the other Epsilon models, the E-160ED uses a unique optical design that combines an hyperboloid primary mirror, a plane oblique mirror, and an ED glass corrector lens that results in a well illuminated sharp star image from edge to edge. In this newly revised version, Takahashi engineers prioritized imaging performance over optical speed, but have still managed to develop an f/3.3 optical system. This improved system provides a spot size of 3 microns RMS at the outer periphery of a full frame imaging sensor.
The Epsilon series of astrographs are specifically designed for exceptional astrophotography. Takahashi’s proprietary optical design features a hyperbolic, concave primary mirror with a 2 element corrector lens to eliminate spherical aberration and coma. Compared to the conventional Schmidt camera design, the chromatic aberration is reduced by half, even out to large viewing angles.
The E-160ED reflecting telescope has an aperture of 160 mm and a focal length of 530 mm and provides a well corrected flat field for full frame imaging sensors.
Thorough aberration correction is realized by optimizing the interaction of the hyperbolic mirror and the corrector. By using ED glass in the corrector, a spot image within 3 μm has been achieved at the periphery of a full frame imaging sensor. The E-160ED combines the ease of handling of the E-130D with the high performance of the E-180ED.
The eccentric oblique mirror and the spider vane design are used to suppress the scatter of light similar to the current epsilon models. The method of holding the primary mirror uses the same system as E-180ED. The optical axis adjustment screw of the primary mirror has a structure in which push screws are arranged on both sides of the pull screw. The central cover can be removed to allow for rapid temperature acclimation.
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