Stellarvue SVX102T User manual

A Division of Auburn Precision Optics
WWW.STELLARVUE.COM
11802 EMPERROAD, AUBURN, CA 95603 U. S. A
PHONE [phone], FAX [phone]
STELLARVUE
STELLARVUEC
SEEING IS BELIEVING
The ission of Stellarvue is to inspire a healthy interest in science
and astrono y by handcrafting the finest telescopes on the planet.
STELLARVUE
STELLARVUEC
TELESCOPE OPERATORS MANUAL
SVX102T PREMIER APO TRIPLET

Table of Contents
Section Page
TO , Specifications ..............................................................................................................................1
A message from Vic Maris ....................................................................................................................2
Making world class optics ....................................................................................................................3
Whats inside the box ............................................................................................................................4
Attaching the telescope to the mount....................................................................................................5
Setting up for visual use........................................................................................................................6
Eyepieces ............................................................................................................................................7
Observing tips ......................................................................................................................................8
Accessories chart..................................................................................................................................9
Reflex sights........................................................................................................................................11
Optical finder scopes ..........................................................................................................................12
Solar viewing ......................................................................................................................................13
Astrophotography................................................................................................................................14
Field flattener ......................................................................................................................................16
Reducer/Flattener ..............................................................................................................................16
The focuser ........................................................................................................................................17
are and maintenance........................................................................................................................18
Warranty..............................................................................................................................................19
Solar warning ......................................................................................................................................19
1
SPECIFICATIO S
Objective Lens: 101.5 mm clear aperture, 714 mm focal length (f-7), air spaced apochromatic triplet using
an Ohara FPL53 center element. Meets the SVX standard of .98 Strehl or higher. Test report included.
Tube Assembly: Lightweight, fully baffled, aluminum tube and dewshield. Painted ultra flat black inside.
105 mm diameter main tube.
Dew Shield: 4-3/4” diameter, 8-5/16” long retracting aluminum dewshield with cap.
Dimensions: OTA: 19.25” long in travel mode (focuser unthreaded), 23.5” long with focuser in place and
dewshield retracted; 29” with dewshield extended.
Weight: OTA: 11 lbs with 2.5” focuser, 2” adapter and dual hinged rings.
Focuser: 2.5” Stellarvue rack and pinion focuser. Focuser drawtube is threaded for field flatteners and comes
with 2” and 1.25” compression ring adapters.
Rings: American made R105 set with five 1/4-20 threaded holes top and bottom. Holes are spaced 1.5” and
60 mm apart respectively, with one in the center. Made on Haas N machines.
Case: 009S Heavy Duty Travel ase
Diagonal: Optional. Please note, you can save $50 if you order our best 2” diagonal (D1040Q) with the tele-
scope.
Photographic Field Flattener: Optional. We recommend the SFF4-102 field flattener.
Light Gain: 213 X (human eye = 1)
Contrast & Color Correction (1-10): 10
Image Circle: with SFF4 flattener: 43mm; with SFFR.74 Reducer/Flattener 40mm.

A MESSAGE FROM STELLARVUE FOU DER VIC MARIS
When I was a child, I developed a love for astronomy. My parents wanted
to encourage my interest, so they ought me a 60 mm refractor. Like many
store- ought telescopes it was poorly made, showed very little detail, and
was difficult to use. I struggled for months and ecame very discouraged.
Then, I learned it was possi le to make a telescope. Using my allowance, I
saved and purchased parts, ground and polished a 6” mirror, and made my
first handcrafted telescope.
At the age of 16, I went on to grind and polish a two-element, 5” achromatic lens. I learned a great deal in
these early years and discovered first-hand the importance of excellent optics com ined with mounts that were
mechanically sta le. Viewing the night sky using my handcrafted telescopes fed my interest, and inspired me
to continue learning more a out astronomy and making telescopes.
Realizing that there was a need for high-quality refractor telescopes on the
market, I egan Stellarvue in 1998. We have since invested in high-end
computer numeric controlled equipment and a state of the art testing facil-
ity. I am proud to say that each employee currently working at Stellarvue is
committed to making the est telescopes possi le. Today, we deliver the
finest apo-triplet refractors availa le, and we strive to maintain a very high
standard of customer service.
Learn more here: https://www.stellarvue.com/stellarvue-videos/
Stellarvue telescopes are individually made, and each optic is tested multiple times to ensure perfection.
Please store and use it as you would any optical device. If dust accumulates on the lens, you may use a bulb
type blower to remove it. Always be careful to avoid marring the lens.
Stellarvue refractor lenses are fully multi-coated to increase light
transmission and contrast. Lenses are accurately hand-figured and
glass test plates are used to ensure accuracy. A test plate is a sepa-
rate optic that is figured to the precise curve required for a particular
optical surface. We make test plates for every surface on every optic
we make. These plates are placed on top of the surface of the lens
to ensure it is polished to the exact curve. When the curve on the
lens matches the curve on the test plate, straight lines will show under an intense testing light. Placing these
glass plates on the surface of the lens may result in some very fine cosmetic lines or marks which do not affect
performance in any way. This is normal in a high Strehl lens that is continually tested during polishing.
Stellarvue strives to ensure the highest optical accuracy.
While many companies producing mass-produced lenses
rely solely on test plates, we confirm the accuracy of each
optical surface using our Zygo phase-shifting laser inter-
ferometer and extremely high precision test spheres that
measure the entire clear aperture of the objective lens.
2

MAKI G WORLD-CLASS OPTICS
At Stellarvue we believe you ‘get what you pay for,’ and cater to those who are looking for a high-quality
product with reliable optics. While making commercial grade mass-produced optics is relatively easy and fast,
it results in unreliable products. That’s why we take the time to make each apo-triplet lens as close to perfect
as possible.
People often ask us what type of glass we use, which is the
wrong question. While we use the best, lowest-dispersion glass
made, glass type says nothing of its consistency or
homogeneity. Bad glass makes bad optics, which is why it is
important to test each optic individually.
Stellarvue is a division of Auburn Precision Optics (APO). In
addition to making telescopes we make optics for defense and
space science. This has allowed us to expand our optical and
N machine shops here in Auburn, alifornia. Using state of
the art testing equipment has significantly improved the optical
prowess of all SVX telescopes.
Mechanical quality is of extreme importance in making a world-
class instrument. Using N machines and high-quality materi-
als makes a substantial difference. Our mounting rings for apo
triplets 80 mm and bigger, for example, are machined in our shop using 6061-6 aluminum and stainless steel.
These rings are far stronger than imported cast aluminum rings.
What makes the SVX Premier Series so unique?
Each SVX refractor telescope is individually assembled and tested using our advanced equipment to ensure
they meet our highest optical and mechanical standards. Our entire SVX line of telescopes use optics that are
hand figured in our optical shop in Auburn, alifornia. After machine polishing we map the optical surfaces
using our Zygo Phase Shifting Laser Interferometer. This equipment is capable of measuring surfaces far more
accurately than test plates or other conventional methods. Using these data, we then make fine corrections by
hand and machine using special tools to eliminate zones, trefoil, and other optical defects as we bring up the
optical accuracy as high as possible. When all of
this work is completed and the lens is essentially
perfect, we take one final measurement of the
objective and print the report for the customer
who buys it. All SVX objectives are accompanied
with its unique Zygo test report, boasting an ex-
tremely high Strehl ratio with a smooth figure.
SVX Premier Apo Triplets are for the discerning
(experienced) astronomer who recognizes the
crème de la crème when they see it.
Why designate this series with an “X”?
We have made a number of significant break-
throughs these past two years in developing this
series. It took a major investment in staffing,
N machines, conventional spindles and a
great deal of individual commitment to reach this
extreme level of accuracy in a production instru-
ment. For this reason, we decided to differentiate
these telescopes with an “X” to signify extreme.
These are the telescopes to buy if you wish to
view the universe visually and image it using
matched field flatteners that turn these excep-
tional lenses into wide field astrographs.
3
Alex our Production Manager using Stellarvue’s
Zygo Phase Shifting Laser Interferometer to test
and adjust a Stellarvue bjective lens.
Sample screenshot taken during our Zygo Interferometer testing.
Your SVX102T and SVX102T-R telescope came with a printout just
like this but it is of its own test to verify its high optical standard.
This is your telescope’s report card.

4
WHAT IS I SIDE THE CASE
U PACKI G
Stellarvue telescopes are securely boxed or double boxed in a padded case. Be careful when using a blade to
open the shipping box. This will avoid damaging the case inside by your knife. arefully remove the telescope
from the cardboard box, and set it on a secure surface. Unzip the case to reveal the telescope inside.
Unpack the telescope from its case and make sure you have all the necessary parts:
1. Objective over
2. Telescope
3. Two Mounting Rings
3. Finder Scope Shoe
4. 2” Adapter
5. 1 1/4”
Adapter
6. Plug
7. Travel ase
8. Manual
9. Q hecklist
10. Test Report

5
ATTACHI G THE TELESCOPE TO THE MOU T
With the mounting rail securely attached to the rings, slide the rail into the dovetail shoe on the telescope
mount. Make sure you secure the rail to the mount with the hand screws on the mount. If you do not secure
the rail tightly, the telescope may slide out of the mount, causing serious damage to the telescope.
Step 1: Loosen the hand knobs on
the mount’s dovetail shoe.
Step 2: Slide the mounting rail into
the shoe
Step 3: Tighten the knob(s) securely.
ATTACHI G THE MOU TI G RAIL
The telescope attaches to the telescope mount using one of two optional dovetail mounting rails. We supply
the telescope without a rail since different customers use different rails. The dovetail mounting rail is attached
to the bottom of the mounting rings using 1/4-20 socket cap head screws supplied with the rail. Purchase the
proper size of rail for the mount you are using.
Most larger mounts use the larger Losmandy-style rail, which is 4”
wide. Mounts using this size rail include the Stellarvue mounts with our
TDLV shoes, Paramount, Losmandy, Mathis, Discmounts, and larger
elestron mounts.
Smaller mounts use the Vixen-style mounting rail, which is about 1 3/4” wide.
Mounts using this size rail include the elestron AVX mount, Vixen mounts and
many other hinese import mounts.
Screw the rail securely to the bottom of the rings. Vixen rails use one
screw per ring, Losmandy rails use either one or two screws per ring.
Using two screws in one ring and one in the other as shown in the pic-
ture to the left will securely hold the telescope in place.

6
The Star Diagonal:The Stellarvue D1040Q diagonal uses a thick and accurate
1/10 wave low dispersion quartz mirror with a 99% dielectric coating. These diag-
onals are assembled and tested here at Stellarvue to ensure they maintain your
telescope’s performance. Astronomers prefer mirror star diagonals over prisms
because they are sharper and provide the highest contrast. Mirror star diagonals
present an image that is right side up but reversed left to right. If you are new to
using an astronomical telescope this will take a little practice, but it is worth the
effort because it will allow you to see more detail at night.
If you wish to use your telescope during the day as a
high quality spotting scope you may purchase an
erecting prism. The erecting prism will provide a cor-
rectly oriented view through the eyepiece. While we
do not recommend an erecting prism for star gazing,
it will work exceedingly well during the daylight
hours.
SETTI G UP FOR VISUAL USE
Now that you have securely attached the telescope to the mount, you will need to balance it in both axes. The
mount manual explains how to do this. If you are using an equatorial and/or go-to computerized mount, you
will need to align the telescope according to the mount manual to get it ready for use. Once the telescope is
balanced and the mount aligned, you are ready to observe!
Two additional optical components are necessary to be able to view through
your telescope at night: a star diagonal and an eyepiece.
* The star diagonal reflects the light 90 degrees. Without it the viewer would
be forced to look upward when viewing and this would be extremely
uncomfortable.
* The eyepiece is needed to focus and magnify the image.
The star diagonal is inserted into the focuser, and the eyepiece is then inserted into the star diagonal.
Stellarvue #D1040Q two inch
dielectric quartz star diagonal
Stellarvue #D1035 two
inch erecting prism.
1 1/4” Adapter
Plug
Tension Thumb Screw
Tension Thumb Screw
Remove 1 1/4” adapter by loosen-
ing the tension thumb screws
(all 3).
Install the diagonal and make
sure it is held in place tight by
tightening the tension thumb
screws (all 3).
Insert the eyepiece into the star diagonal
as shown. Make sure the thumb screw
on the diagonal holds the eyepiece in
place securely.
Tension Thumb Screw

7
Eyepieces:While the telescope’s light-gathering power depends on the size of the telescope’s
objective lens, its magnification power depends on the eyepiece used. In order to see objects clearly
at the proper magnification power, we recommend having four or more eyepieces.
1. Low-power, wide-field eyepiece:You need a low-power, wide-angle eyepiece to more easily
locate objects in the sky and to observe extended objects like the Andromeda galaxy. Our best wide
field eyepiece is the Stellarvue Optimus 20.
2. Medium-power eyepieces:Boosting the power darkens the sky background and shows more detail in deep
sky objects such as nebulae, star clusters and galaxies. We recommend the Stellarvue Optimus 9 and 13.5
eyepieces as the best for medium-power deep sky viewing.
3. Two High-power eyepieces:Viewing planets, close double stars, and small craters on the moon requires a
high-power eyepiece. We recommend having two high-power eyepieces because the atmospheric seeing con-
ditions cannot always support the highest power. Having two high-power eyepieces of different focal lengths
will allow you to adjust the magnification based on the seeing conditions. We recommend the Optimus 3.6 and
4.7 eyepieces.
The amount of magnification is determined by dividing the focal length of
the telescope by the focal length of the eyepiece. The SVX102T has a 714
mm focal length. A 20 mm eyepiece, when used with this telescope, will
provide a magnification of 35.7 power (714 mm/20 mm). This means ob-
jects appear 35.7 times closer. The smaller the focal length of the eye-
piece, the higher the power becomes. So our 4.7 mm eyepiece provides
152 power (714mm/4.7mm).
The ability of a telescope to magnify is limited by:
A. The accuracy of the optics
B. The steadiness of the atmosphere
Under perfect conditions the SVX102T is capable of magnifying
objects 30 - 500 times. Unfortunately, the air is often unsteady
due to air turbulence. This causes the stars to twinkle and limits
the ability of any telescope to show fine details. Adding more
power only increases the size of the burry image. This is referred
to as “empty magnification” since it is too high of a power for the
conditions and actually shows you less. Under turbulent condi-
tions, it is best to use a lower magnification eyepiece.
If you purchased the entire set of Optimus eyepieces you may
notice that on a given night the planetary views through the 3.6
mm eyepiece may be soft. This indicates that the seeing condi-
tions are not optimal, so it is wise to switch to the 4.7 mm eye-
piece. The image will be smaller but sharper.
Stellarvue optics are extremely accurate. If details are soft when
you observe through it, you either did not let the optics cool down
enough or you are observing under less than favorable condi-
tions. Be patient. On a steady night you will see magnificent
detail.
Magnification is not as important on larger extended objects.
Many amateur astronomers switch from planets to star clusters
and nebulae when the air is unsteady.
Jupiter appears sharp under steady skies and its
moons appear as disks.
Unsteady air distorts the moons
and Jupiter is soft with little detail
PTIMUS EYEPIECES

8
OBSERVI G TIPS
Cool down: Optics are affected by temperature changes, so it is not recommended to take a telescope from a
warm room to the cold night and immediately observe with it. The objective lens must settle down to the ambi-
ent temperature before it performs as it should. It is best to leave the telescope outside for a couple of hours to
let it cool down and acclimate.
Plan out your observing session: Use a good planetarium pro-
gram to see what celestial objects are viewable in your location
when you are observing. Observe dimmer deep sky objects after it
gets completely dark and planets when they are as high in the sky
as possible. Planets and stars will be less affected by air turbu-
lence and atmospheric refraction when they are higher in the sky.
This is because you are looking through less atmosphere.
Dark adapting: It takes at least 15 minutes for your eyes to adapt to the darkness so
you can see faint objects. If you use white light at night you will ruin your night vision.
The human eye is less impacted by red light, so always use a red observers flashlight
when observing. If a car approaches, avoid looking at the headlights. If your observing
session includes the moon you may want to do it last as it will seriously impact your
night vision. A good moon filter is recommended when observing the moon to filter out
80% of the moons glare. It is reflected sunlight, after all.
Record your observations: It is fun to try your hand at sketching planets, clusters and other deep sky
objects. heck out the Astronomical League https://www.astroleague.org/ for more information.
Heat sources: Avoid looking at planets, the moon, or close double stars when they are positioned above a
house roof or other structure that gives off heat. It will distort the views at higher powers.
Atmospheric Diffraction: The atmosphere can cause your telescope to exhibit false
color. That color is not in the telescope, but above you. Moisture in the atmosphere may
act like prisms, and brighter objects will appear with a reddish color on one side and a
green-blue color on the other. This is the atmosphere, not your telescope.
Observing deep sky objects: Deep sky objects like nebulae and galax-
ies can be very hard to discern for new hobbyists.The more experience
you have, the more of them you’ll be able to see. Avoid observing when
you are tired or after consuming alcohol or drugs. With time, you will be-
come more able to see these very low contrast, diffuse objects. Try using
averted vision, where you look to one side of the object where your eye is
more sensitive. If you are looking at a diffuse object and you are not sure
you are seeing it, lightly tap the side of the telescope and as the stars vi-
brate, so will the object. When observing deep sky objects, if you want to
focus the telescope better, focus on the brightest star in the eyepiece, not
the diffuse object. Finally, when observing objects like gobular star clus-
ters make sure you are not touching the telescope. Even a small vibration
can render dimmer stars invisible.
Comfort: Dress warmly enough for the night air, if you are cold you will not see as much. This is particularly
true for your ears. over your ears and you will retain more body heat. Use a comfortable chair and position
yourself so you are not craning your neck or twisting your back. If you have a refractor that requires you to get
down on your knees, use a padded kneeling mat.
Putting it all away: Always keep the telescope capped and/or covered when not in use. After a night under
the stars, bring your telescope inside and let it acclimate to the indoors. If dew has formed on your lens, uncap
both ends and let it air dry before putting it away. Do this in a room that is dry and relatively dust free. Putting
your telescope away wet can encourage mold growth and while that is rare, it is something you should
always avoid.
Globular luster
Try to o serve o jects
when they are high in the
sky as they are distorted
less y the atmosphere

ACCESSORIES CHART
Stellarvue 1.25”
Diagonal #D1030ED
SFF4
Field Flattener
SFFR.74 Focal
Reducer/Field Flattener
1.25”
Eyepieces
2” Eyepieces
Optional
1.25” Filter
Optional 2” Filter
Optional Quark Solar Filter with
UVIR Energy Reduction Filter
IMAGI G ACCESSORIES
VISUAL ACCESSORIES
MOU TI G OPTIO S
1.25”
Eyepieces
Optional
1.25” Filter
DSLR
Camera
T-Ring
T-Ring
Extension tubes required for
your CCDcamera (call
Stellarvue for assistance)
CCD
Camera
Extension tubes required for
your CCDcamera (call
Stellarvue for assistance)
Stellarvue 2” Dielectric
Diagonal #D1040Q
FA2 1.25”
Adapter
FA2 1.25”
Adapter
DSLR
Camera
CCD
Camera
Remove 2” adapter on
focuser and thread into
focuser drawtube
Remove extension in
front of focuser.
Reattach focuser and
remove 2” adapter on
focuser. Thread into
focuser drawtube.
9

VixenStyle Rail (TP10)
Losmandy Style Rail (TP13)
Telescope mounts using
Vixen sized rails
Please note: The M002C
mount head shown works with
either the Vixen or
Losmandy style rails.
Telescope mounts using the
Losmandy sized rail.
NEEDED M UNTING HARDWARE
FINDERSC PE RINGS NEEDED (see page 12)
(see page 11)
FI DERSCOPES
REFLEX SIGHTS
50 mm Optical
Finderscope
Red Dot Finder Deluxe Red Dot
Finder
60 mm Optical
Finderscope
Standard Thickly Padded Travel Case
10
C9S TRAVEL CASE
80 mm Optical
Finderscope

REFLEX SIGHTS A D FI DER SCOPES
Reflex sights and finder scopes are small viewing devices attached to the side of a telescope to help the user
acquire objects in the eyepiece of the telescope. They serve the same purpose as a rifle scope, ensuring that
your telescope is pointed directly at the object you wish to view. Since telescopes have a relatively narrow field
of view, these sights and finder scopes make locating objects much easier.
REFLEX SIGHTS
Reflex sights do not magnify but have an optical window with a red dot or crosshair pattern displayed on it.
#F001 Red Dot Finder: The simplest reflex sight to use is the Stellarvue Red Dot
Finder #F001. This is an inexpensive, plastic reflex finder that projects a red dot on a
glass window. The red dot indicates where the telescope is pointed.
http://www.stellarvue.com/red-dot-finder/
The F001 red dot finder uses the standard BB gun mount. We offer a number of bases
that allow you to attach this finder to your telescope. For this telescope use the F001EF.
ADVA CED REFLEX SIGHTS
We also offer a more advanced reflex sight, the multi-reticle finder #F002. This
finder permits the user to select the desired reticle pattern including a red dot (two
sizes), a circle, or a crosshair pattern.
http://www.stellarvue.com/deep-sky-mrf-deluxe-red-dot-
finder-f002/
Left: Reticle pattern selection (may vary slightly)
The F002 Multi-reticle finder uses the standard riflescope mount.
We offer a num er of ases that allow you to attach this finder to your telescope. For this telescope use the
F002E and mount it to one of the hinged rings.
#F001B Curved base
with double stick tape
#F002A Low-
profile base
#F002D Base for
standard shoe on
Stellarvue focusers
#F002T Base for
Televue clamshell
#F002E Base for a
Stellarvue
mounting ring
#F002F Base for most
focusers
#F001CT Long base for
clamshells or flat surface
#F001EF Base mounts
to an SV hinged ring.
Red Dot Finder with the recommended
F001EF mounted to a hinged ring
11

STELLARVUEC
OPTICAL FI DERSCOPES
An optical finderscope has the advantage of gathering more light than the naked eye. Deep sky observers pre-
fer these when looking for faint objects. We designed our finder scopes with a 90-degree, fully multi-coated,
correct image erecting prism, 1.25” helical focuser (so other 1.25” eyepieces could be used) and a reticle that
may be illuminated. They come in 50 mm, 60 mm and 80 mm.
We recommend the F50 finderscope for this telescope.
60 mm Finder Scope50 mm Finder Scope 80 mm Finder Scope
12
FI DER MOU TI G RI GS
Your finderscope will need adjustable mounting rings that fit your model of telescope. Our 50 mm and 60 mm
finders use R50 rings. Our 80 mm finder will require R80 rings. For this telescope use the R50DA (50 or 60 mm
finderscopes) or R80DA (for 80 mm telescopes) and mount it to the dovetail shoe on the focuser.
#R50FA/R80FA for
2.5” to 3.5” Feather
Touch focusers
#R50T/R80T mounts
to most Takahashi’s
#R50ST/R80ST mounts
to most SCT’s
#R50AT/R80AT mounts
to flat/curved surfaces
#R50DA/R80DA for
Stellarvue
dovetail shoes
#R50ET/R80ET mounts
to Stellarvue hinged
mounting rings
For more information on our finder scopes and rings
visit http://www.stellarvue.com/finder.
Still not sure? call us at [phone] or
Email us at [email protected].

13
SOLAR VIEWI G
There are three basic, safe ways to look at the sun through this telescope.
1. Approved full aperture solar filter:
This filter is secured around the front of the dewshield and blocks 99.999 percent of light
from entering the telescope.
DONOT use the old eyepiece solar filters that screw onto the eyepiece. These will be
subjected to extreme heat and crack! For more information on solar filters visit:
http://www.stellarvue.com/solar-filters/
2. Hershel Wedge:
A good Hershel Wedge is used like a star diagonal. Insert it in the focuser and the eye-
piece into it. These provide the most detailed white light view of the sun. They are signif-
icantly more expensive than simple glass or mylar full aperture filters but hard core solar
observers swear by them as they show extremely fine detail in sunspots and faculae on
our nearest star.
3. Daystar Quark Chromosphere and Prominence filters:
Observe prominences and surface ( hromosphere) details using a simple
plug in device that fits between the 2” star diagonal and the eyepiece.
Please note: You will need a UV/IR blocking filter on the diagonal or
in front of the objective when using this filter with this telescope.
heck with the manufacturer to ensure what you will need with the partic-
ular telescope you are using.
WAR I G:
LOO ING AT THE SUN CAN CAUSE SERIOUS EYE INJURY AND BLINDNESS.
NEVER POINT A TELESCOPE OR BINOCULARS AT OR NEAR THE SUN. VIEWING THE SUN WITH-
OUT A PROPER SOLAR FILTER MAY RESULT IN BLINDNESS,
AS WELL AS DAMAGE TO THE INSTRUMENT.
NEVER ALLOW CHILDREN TO USE BINOCULARS OR TELESCOPES DURING THE
DAYLIGHT HOURS, UNLESS THEYARESUPERVISEDBYANADULTWHOUNDERSTANDSTHE
DANGEROFPOINTINGANYOPTICALINSTRUMENTINTHEGENERAL
DIRECTIONOFTHESUN.
Solar prominence through the Daystar
Chromosphere Filter
Sunspots and faculae seen
through a Hershel Wedge
Sunspots seen through a
full aperture solar filter

14
ASTROPHOTOGRAPHY
While telescopes are designed to be used visually, they may be easily converted into a super photographic
lens using one of our dedicated photographic correctors. You remove the eyepiece, star diagonal and 2”
adapter from the focuser and you replace it with either our field flattener or focal reducer/field flattener.
Important! When using a field flattener or flattener/reducer, it is essential that the camera’s sensor
is positioned at a precise distance from the back of the field flattener or flattener reducer. If you see
elongated stars in the corners you will need to adjust this spacing. Call or e-mail us if you need
assistance!
There are two types of correctors made for the SVX102T and SVX102T-R, one is a
flattener and one is a reducer/flattener.
SFF4-102T Field Flattener: This full frame field flattener is made specifically for the
aluminum tube SVX102T and the carbon fiber tube SXV102T-R using the Stellarvue
FSV3 3" focuser.
SFFR .74 Reducer/Flattener: This is the Flattener/Reducer designed for the
SVX102T and SVX102T-R using the 3" Stellarvue focuser. This reducer/flattener
converts the 102 mm f-7 714 mm focal length objective into a 102 mm 535 mm
focal length f-5.25 wide field imaging scope. Merely un-thread the 2" adapter from
the draw tube on the focuser and thread this unit into the focuser draw tube (see
page 16). Please note: Since this unit threads into the focuser it cannot be used
with any other focuser.
Without a corrector, stars will become
elongated away from the center
With a properly spaced corrector stars will
appear as they should

GETTI G THE PROPER BACKFOCUS
It is essential that the field flattener or reducer/flattener be placed at a precise distance
from the D sensor in your camera. The sensor in your camera is where the image is
made. If the sensor is not at the correct distance from the flattener, the stars around the
edge of the field will be distorted. So the first thing you need to know is the “backfocus”
of the camera you will be using. The backfocus of the camera is the distance from the
attachment thread on the camera to its sensor. In most DSLR cameras with the neces-
sary t-ring added, this distance is 55mm.
Your field flattener or reducer/flattener also has a backfocus specification.
It’s backfocus is the distance from its rear of the flattener or reducer/flat-
tener to where the field is precisely flat. It is important that the backfocus
of your camera matches the backfocus of the flattener or reducer/flat-
tener. Backfocus measurement on a field flattener is at the base of the
thread, not the end of the thread. Since a field flattener or flattener/re-
ducer has a male thread, you measure from the body where the thread
begins, you do not include the threaded part in this measurement.
On D cameras this distance varies widely so you may need to add spacer rings and/or extension tubes.
Also, it may be necessary to adjust spacing by a millimeter or two to obtain optimal results.
15
With Single Lens Reflex ameras (DSLR’s) remove
the lens and replace it with a t-ring that has the
same size thread as the flattener or reducer/flat-
tener. The backfocus must include the t-ring that is
attached to the camera in place of the camera’s
lens. When you add a t-ring to your anon or Nikon
DSLR, this distance from the t-ring to the sensor in
the camera is about 55mm. Our flatteners may be
ordered with a “55 mm backfocus.” Use one of
these if you are shooting with a DSLR.
Focuser Flattener or T-ring
Reducer/Flattener DSLR
With other D cameras, the backfocus distances vary.
heck with the maker of the camera to determine the
backfocus of your camera. If the distance is less than 55
mm you will need to add extension tubes and/or spacer
rings to make up the difference. For example, if your cam-
era has a 35 mm backfocus you will need 20 mm of ex-
tension tubes to get the flattener 55 mm from
the sensor in the camera.
Telescopes vary in focal length slightly. This may have an
impact on the necessary spacing between the field flat-
tener and the ccd sensor. For this reason, astro-imagers generally have a collection of spacer rings and exten-
sion tubes so they can vary the distance slightly between a flattener or flattener/redicer and their camera to
optimize the spacing.
Stellarvue produces a variety of spacer rings and
extension tubes. Visit our astro-photography accessory page on the web at: http://www.stellarvue.com/astro-
photography/
Focuser Flattener or Extensions
Reducer/Flattener CCD Camera

USI G THE SFFR.74 LARGE REDUCER/FLATTE ER
WITH SVX102T OR SVX102T-R (3” STELLARVUE FOCUSER)
To use the SFFR102T-3SV Reducer/Flattener, un-screw the 1 1/4” and 2” eyepiece adapters from the focuser.
Next, remove the knurl focuser adapter, by turning it counter-clockwise. If this adapter has small set screws
locking it is place, these will need to be loosened.
nce the knurled focuser
adapter is removed, take the
SFFR.74 Reducer/Flattener and
insert into the open end of the
draw-tube of the focuser.
Thread into the focuser draw-
tube by turning clockwise.
nce the Reducer/Flattener is
securely hand-tightened, this
conversion is complete.
Now attach your camera to the
flattener/reducer. If your sys-
tem needs extension tubes or
spacer rings, place them in
between the camera and the
reducer/flattener.
16
USI G THE SFF4-102T FIELD FLATTE ER WITH SVX102T OR SVX102T-R
(3” STELLARVUE FOCUSER)
To use the SFF4-102T Field Flattener, un-screw the 1 1/4” and 2” eyepiece adapters from the focuser. The
SFF4-102T can then thread onto the focuser. This process is easily accomplished without any tools.

17
THE FOCUSER
Stellarvue focusers are oversized and designed to be accurate,
very smooth and stable. They can lift far more weight than is
necessary so heavier accessories may be used.
The focuser may be rotated 360 degrees so the user can put the
focuser knobs in the most convenient position. To rotate the
focuser loosen the rotator lock thumb screw slightly and rotate
the focuser. Once it is positioned where you want it, lock the
thumb screw.
The coarse focus knobs on either side of the focuser move the
drawtube in and out smoothly to attain focus. On one side there
is a separate fine focus knob. This knob rotates 7 - 10 times with
every single rotation of the coarse focus knobs. This permits ex-
tremely minute adjustments necessary to focus precisely at
higher powers.
Focus Knobs: If there is a little play in the focusing knobs, use the supplied Allen
wrench and tighten the set screw in the knob with play. This will fix the problem.
If the focus knobs make a noise when they are turned, they may be rubbing on
one another or against the side housing. To eliminate this, loosen the knobs with
the Allen wrench and pull them slightly apart from each other and the side hous-
ing. This will eliminate any rubbing.
Adjusting the Focuser: There is a tension control thumb screw
under the focuser. Use this to adjust tension for your various ac-
cessories. Place your heaviest diagonal and eyepiece (or camera)
in the focuser. If there is sideways movement when you focus or if
the focuser drawtube slips, increase the tension by slightly tigh-
tening the Tension ontrol. Do not over-tighten or the focuser will
be harder to adjust.
Upper Tension ontrol: There is an upper ten-
sion control that applies additional pressure to
the drawtube and makes it more stable espe-
cially when imaging with a heavy camera. This
tension control may be a set screw as shown or
a thumb screw. Tighten this screw very slightly if
needed to stabilize the drawtube. Use this ad-
justment screw only when necessary.
Tension Control Thumb Screw
Upper Tension
Control Set Screw
Rotater Lock
Coarse Focus
Fine Focus

CARE A D MAI TE A CE
Your telescope is a precision optical device that should be handled with care. Store it in a cool, dry place that
is as dust free as possible. Do not drop the telescope, accidently strike a door frame or subject it to excessive
vibration. When sitting on its mount on a hot day, cover it with a Telegizmos cover to keep it cool.
Bringing a telescope inside after observing in the cold night air can cause condensation to form on the lens
and tube. Never put a telescope away wet, let it air dry in a warm room before putting it away. Never store a
telescope in a sealed case as this could lead to mold formation. The soft case we provide with our telescopes
allows them to breathe while keeping dust at bay. Use the case your telescope came in for storage.
LE S CLEA I G
Lens cleaning should be done very infrequently. A small amount of dust or small spots on a lens will not af-•
fect performance. If dust accumulates on the lens, blow it off with a large bulb syringe like a “Rocket
Blower.”
If the lens needs cleaning, make sure you blow all the dust off the lens with the bulb syringe. Neveruse•
canned air as it can damage the surface.
Use a 1” wide, fine camel hair brush to gently brush off dust when blowing with the syringe.•
Dust particles can be hard and scratch glass. So every bit of dust should be removed before you use a•
lens cloth.
Once the lens is clear of any particles, use Stellarvue lens cleaner on a Kimwipe or optical cleaning cloth•
to clean the lens, followed by a dry wipe. Never spray directly onto the lens as the liquid could
migrate around the lens to the inside. Apply a small amount to the cloth and gently wipe. Follow with a
dry cloth to remove streaks.
The tube exterior can be cleaned with a lint free cloth and a commercial cleaner like “Fantastic.”
As with any cleaner, follow the instructions on the container. The tube and dewshield may be waxed with a au-
tomotive wax designed for gel coat finishes. Do this very infrequently to avoid scatching the tube and clean off
all wax debris when finished. You do not want to get any of it on the lens.
ADJUSTI G THE RETRACTI G DEW SHIELD
Your telescope comes with a retracting dew shield. Velvet is used to provide a smooth motion. After a while,
the velvet may compress slightly and the dew shield may slip down when the telescope is pointed upward. In
this case, you need to simply tighten the set screws located on the tapered ring behind the dew shield. Do not
over-tighten these set screws. Turn them only 1/4 turn at a time and tighten it only enough to keep the dew
shield from dropping down when the telescope is pointed upward.
18
Tappered ring

STELLARVUE C
LIMITED WARRANTY FOR U.S.A. END PURCHASERS ONLY
STELLARVUE (SV) WARRANTS THAT EA H SV BRAND TELES OPE AND A ESSORY SHALL BE FREE FROM DEFE TS IN MATE-
RIALS AND WORKMANSHIP FOR TWO YEARS FROM THE DATE OF PUR HASE. SV WILL REPAIR OR REPLA E SU H PRODU T OR
PART THEREOF, WHI H UPON INSPE TION BY SV IS FOUND DEFE TIVE IN MATERIALS OR WORKMANSHIP
. ASA ONDITION TO
THE OBLIGATION OF SV TO REPAIR OR REPLA E SU H PRODU T, THE PRODU T MUST BE RETURNED TO SV AS SPE IFIED IN
THIS WARRANTY .
REGISTER YOUR NEW TELES OPE ONLINE NOW. IT’S FAST AND EASY:
http://www.stellarvue.com/warranty-registration/
THIS LIMITED WARRANTY, AND ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES THAT MAY EXIST UNDER STATE LAW
APPLY ONLY TO THE ORIGINAL PUR HASER AND LASTS ONLY AS LONG AS THE PUR HASER OWNS
THE PRODU T.
RETUR REQUIREME TS
 PROOF OF PUR HASE A EPTABLE TO SV MUST A OMPANY ANY RETURN.
 A RETURN AUTHORIZATION MUST BE OBTAINED FROM SV IN ADVAN E OF RETURN.
E-MAIL STELLARVUE AT [e-mail] OR ALL [phone] TO RE EIVE THE AUTHORIZATION & PA KING IN-
STRU TIONS.
 THE AUTHORIZATION ODE MUST BE WRITTEN ON THE OUTSIDE OF THE ONTAINER.
 ALL RETURNS MUST BE A OMPANIED BY A WRITTEN NOTE STATING THE MODEL NUMBER OF THE PRODU T,
AUTHORIZATION ODE, NAME, ADDRESS, E-MAIL ADDRESS AND DAYTIME TELEPHONE NUMBER OF THE OWNER, AND AN EXPLA-
NATION OF THE PROBLEM. REPLA ED PARTS SHALL BE OME THE PROPERTY OF SV.
 THE USTOMER SHALL BE RESPONSIBLE FOR ALL OSTS OF TRANSPORTATION AND INSURAN E, BOTH TO AND FROM SV.
SV REQUIREME TS
 SV SHALL USE REASONABLE EFFORTS TO REPAIR OR REPLA E ANY PRODU T OVERED BY THIS LIMITED WARRANTY WITHIN
THIRTY DAYS OF A EPTAN E. IF REPAIR WILL TAKE LONGER, SV SHALL NOTIFY THE USTOMER.
 SV MAY REPLA E ANY PRODU T THAT HAS BEEN DIS ONTINUED WITH A NEW PRODU T OF OMPARABLE VALUE AND FUN -
TION.
PRODU TS THAT HAVE BEEN DAMAGED, DROPPED, DISASSEMBLED, ABUSED, MISUSED, MISHANDLED, SUBJE TED TO TEMPER-
ATURE OR WEATHER EXTREMES, SUBJE TED TO WEAR OR MODIFIED IN ANY WAY WILL NOT BE OVERED BY THIS WARRANTY.
THIS IN LUDES BUT IS NOT LIMITED TO SU H A TIVITIES AS REPLA ING THE FO USER,
DISASSEMBLING THE OBJE TIVE LENS, ET . IN THESE INSTAN ES, THIS WARRANTY SHALL BE NULL AND VOID.
THESE WARRANTIES REPLA E ALL OTHER WARRANTIES EXPRESS OR IMPLIED IN LUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED
TO THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MER HANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTI ULAR PURPOSE. SV MAKES
NO EXPRESS WARRANTIES BEYOND THOSE STATED HERE AND DIS LAIMS ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, EX-
PRESS OR IMPLIED, IN LUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MER HANTABILITY, AND FIT-
NESS FOR A PARTI ULAR PURPOSE THE SOLE OBLIGATION OF SV UNDER THIS LIMITED WARRANTY SHALL
BE TO REPAIR OR REPLA E THE OVERED PRODU T, IN A ORDAN E WITH THE TERMS SET FORTH
HEREIN. SV DIS LAIMS ANY LOST PROFITS, GENERAL, SPE IAL, INDIRE T OR ONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES
WHI H MAY RESULT FROM BREA H OF ANY WARRANTY, OR ARISING OUT OF THE USE OR INABILITY TO USE
ANY SV PRODU T FOR ANY PARTI ULAR PURPOSE. THIS WARRANTY GIVES YOU SPE IFI LEGAL RIGHTS
AND YOU MAY ALSO HAVE OTHER RIGHTS THAT VARY FROM JURISDI TION TO JURISDI TION.
WAR I G: LOO ING AT THE SUN CAN CAUSE SERIOUS EYE INJURY AND BLINDNESS. NEVER POINT A TEL-
ESCOPE AT OR NEAR THE SUN. VIEWING THE SUN WITHOUT A PROPER SOLAR FILTER MAY RESULT IN
BLINDNESS, AS WELL AS DAMAGE TO THE INSTRUMENT. NEVER ALLOW CHILDREN TO USE BINOCULARS
OR TELESCOPES DURING THE DAYLIGHT HOURS, UNLESS THEYARESUPERVISEDBYANADULTWHOUN-
DERSTANDSTHEDANGEROFPOINTINGANYOPTICALINSTRUMENTINTHEGENERALDIRECTIONOFTHE
SUN.
19