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 become accessible: lots of aperture, lots of resolution, lots of signal. Visually, you get a fully fledged deep-sky telescope with it: globular clusters resolve, nebulae show structure, and planets are tack 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 Those seeking maximum mobility are better off with a lighter PDS; if you want deep-sky photos without mounting, guiding, and post-processing, then the 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
• 9x50 right-angle binoculars
• Five internal knife-edge baffles against internal reflections
• Supplied without eyepieces