The William Optics Pleiades 68 is a super fast f/3.8 astrograph featuring a triplet front lens and a built-in quadruplet flattener/reducer. Three Super ED extra-low dispersion elements ensure excellent colour correction. The telescope features William Optics' new WIFD internal focusing mechanism for enhanced stability, particularly with heavy image trains.
The WIFD series has been designed from the ground up to support the latest large and heavy high-resolution cooled cameras and accessories. The focuser movement is integrated inside the main OTA, so no external focuser drawtube is needed. This will reduce tilt caused by focuser sag and mechanical flex and lessen vignetting.
WIFD focuser detail as found on the Redcat 61.
The focuser utilizes a zero image shift rack & pinion mechanism for precise adjustability of critical focus, with an external graduated display showing focus position. The lens cell is protected from the elements and is designed to not come out of alignment. The focuser is fully compatible with the ZWO EAF without the need for optional accessories.
With a super fast focal ratio of f/3.8 and a focal length of 260mm, the Pleiades 68 is perfect for capturing large deep space objects such as the Rosette nebula, the Pleiades, Eta Carina and more.
The unique optical design includes the highest quality FPL-53 synthetic fluorite glass for the best possible colour correction and a flat field across a full-frame sensor, with a generous 48mm image circle. The CNC-machined and anodized handle bar with finder-style saddle is perfect for attaching a guide scope or other accessories.
Note: Due to the proximity of the rear lens elements to the camera-side of the telescope it is not possible to include an internal 2" filter thread. Instead, it is necessary to use an external filter drawer or filter wheel.
Given the fast focal ratio of the Pleiades 68, it is critical to keep the backfocus spacing to 55mm (plus 1/3mm filter thickness) for optimal star shapes.