WILLIAM OPTICS MINICAT 51 WIFD f/3.5 REFRACTOR

The William Optics Minicat 51 WIFD is an ultra-fast f/3.5 Petzval refractor for widefield imaging with a focal length of 178mm. Its 6-element optical design including two Super ED and lanthanum lenses controls chromatic aberration across a large image circle.

Currently only available in Space Grey.

The WIFD internal focusing design makes it simple to install autofocusers such as the ZWO EAF without the need for clumsy belt-driven add-ons. This design ensures precise and repeatable focusing and prevents drawtube tilt issues caused by optical misalignment.

Like the other telescopes in the Cat series, the Minicat's Petzval design means no external field flattener is needed and there isn't a precise backfocus distance to get right - as long as you can reach focus, you're good to go!

WIFD focuser detail.

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/3.5 and a focal length of 178mm, the Minicat 51 is perfect for capturing large deep space objects such as the Rosette nebula, the Pleiades, Eta Carina and more. It also doubles as a beautiful photographic or cinema lens, with exceptional sharpness and accurate colour.

The unique optical design includes the highest quality ED glass for outstanding colour correction. The CNC-machined and anodized handle bar with finder-style saddle is perfect for attaching a guide scope or other accessories. At only 2.29kg, the Minicat 51 is the ultimate travel scope.

Note: Due to the nature of the Minicat's fast optical design, edge stars may not be as round as with other Redcats. William Optics' tests suggest that the scope still outperforms traditional camera lenses. Modern star reduction algorithms may be required for perfect star shapes on APS-C and larger sensors. 

Unprocessed image showing corner sharpness on an APS-C ASI2600MC Duo camera.

Features

• Apochromatic ED lenses
• Anti-reflection multicoating
• Brand new patented integrated focuser design
  
• Super bright Bahtinov mask
• Dual Vixen / Arca-Swiss mounting plate
• Field rotator with markings for easy framing
• Built-in tilt adjuster
• Small and easy to store
• 48mm filter slot for standard 2" filters
• Modular mounting options

Specifications

Included items

• Minicat 51 WIFD
  
• Patented Bahtinov mask
• Dew shield
• 210mm dual dovetail
• Finder-style handle bar saddle
• Camera angle rotator
• Internal tilt adapter
• Mounting ring
• Soft carry case

Instructions

Downloads

Instruction manual