Sky-Watcher Starlux 190MN – 190mm Maksutov-Newton (OTA)

Please note: This model was previously named Sky-Watcher Explorer-190MN DS Pro. Sky-Watcher now markets it under the name Starlux 190MN. It is the same instrument.

Sky-Watcher Starlux 190MN: The Coma-Free Specialist

The Sky-Watcher Starlux 190MN is a 190/1000mm (f/5.3) Maksutov-Newton: the meniscus lens at the front corrects the coma that afflicts ordinary f/5-Newtons, without a corrector. The result is a flat, sharp star field all the way to the edges and refractor-like contrast on planets. A cult classic among discerning photographers.

What can you do with it?

Photographically, this is the class where smaller galaxies, planetary nebulae, and fine structures come within reach: plenty of aperture, plenty of resolution, plenty of signal. Visually, you get a full-fledged deep-sky telescope: globular clusters resolve, nebulae show structure, and planets are razor-sharp. These are tubes that serve two hobbies at once.

The best of two designs

The closed tube keeps the optics dust-free and stable, the Newton configuration provides brightness, and the meniscus takes care of the correction. So you're photographing without a coma corrector, with an obstruction small enough for high-level planetary work. Do expect cool-down time: the thick lens requires patience, and an EQ6-class mount will best carry the 10 kg tube.

This is how to get the most out of this telescope

• Allow the meniscus lens one hour of cooling time.; a fan significantly speeds up the process.
• Dew control is essential: The front lens fogs up faster than an open Newtonian; a dew shield or dew heater is part of the standard equipment.
• No comma corrector needed: That budget can go towards a guiding set, which directly yields results at a 1000 mm focal length.
• Collimation is more stable than with an open Newtonian., but check after transport; see our guide on collimation.
• Visual planetary work: a 6 mm eyepiece gives 167x with a refractory contrast.

For whom yes and for whom no

Hello the demanding photographer who wants flat fields without a corrector, and the dual-role observer who values planetary contrast as much as deep-sky.

Not Wie maximale mobiliteit zoekt, is met een lichtere PDS beter af; Wil je deep-sky-foto’s zonder montering, guiding en nabewerking, dan zijn de smart telescopes the shorter route; ours Telescope Buying Guide for Beginners explain the trade-off.

Featured accessories

These accessories add the most after purchase:

• Cheshire eyepiece An imaging Newton only performs with tight collimation; a Cheshire makes the adjustment accurate and fast.
• Light Pollution Filter (2 inch) Under Dutch or Belgian skies, it brings out significantly more contrast in your images and your eyepiece view.
• Moon Filter 13%: with this opening, the moon is blindingly bright; the Omegon Moon Filter 13% (1.25 inches) The light fades. More explanation in our Moon filter guide.

Technical specifications

Included in the box

• Sky-Watcher Starlux 190MN Optical Tube Assembly (OTA, telescope tube only)
• Crayford focuser
• Oculai adapter

Honest advice from observers

We sell and use the Sky-Watcher line ourselves. In our Sky-Watcher merk Guide We'll explain which series are strong and which you'd rather skip. View the full range on our Sky-Watcher merk Page. Order before 11:59 PM for fast delivery, in the Netherlands and Belgium. Uncertain about mounting, guiding, or coma corrector? Call or email us: we're happy to help with photo setups.

Manufacturer's additional specifications

• Manufacturer model name: Starlux 190MN (formerly Explorer-190MN DS Pro)
• Maximum useful magnification: 570x
• Venturi / center obstruction: 64 mm
• Mirror material: Low-expansion borosilicate glass
• Mirror coating: RAQ (Radiant Aluminum Quartz), 94% reflectance
• Zoeker: 9×50 haaks
• Five internal knife-edge baffles against internal reflections
• Supplied without eyepieces