SV555 Astrograph Overview & FAQ

The SV555 Astrograph is a astrophotography telescope specially designed for deep sky objects, offering numerous unique advantages for both astronomical observation and astrophotography. It is particularly suitable for astronomy enthusiasts and beginners.

This APO telescope combines the simple objective structure of traditional telescopes with the refined appearance of digital camera lenses. It is not only compact and portable but also features an automatic focusing function. Additionally, it is compatible with mainstream telephoto digital camera lenses, providing excellent value for money.

Pic1: the SV555 adds svbony guider

1. 44mm Full-Size Sensor Compatibility

First and foremost, the SV555 telephoto lens meets the demands of full-frame photography. The image is flat from the center to the edges, ensuring that star points are perfectly circular throughout the entire frame. The SV555 astro camera lense also offers higher resolution; full-frame sensors provide a larger photo area, allowing you to capture more details and generate higher resolution images. As the sensor can capture more image information, high-quality images can be produced. Moreover, when shooting in dark conditions at night, the full-size advantage significantly reduces noise and enhances image clarity and quality.

2. Petzval Lens Structure

The SV555 APO utilizes a Petzval design, addressing various optical aberrations such as spherical and chromatic aberration. This significantly improves imaging quality, making it easy to find the optimal focus position through the focusing system. Petzval lenses typically have shorter focal lengths compared to other types of objectives, making it easier to achieve a shallow depth of field during photography.

3. Aperture Ratio

With an adjustable aperture ranging from f/4.5 to f/22, the SV555 astro telephoto lens caters to various scenarios, including exposure control, depth of field selection, and artistic expression, providing great creative opportunities for astrophotographers. The adjustable aperture allows for ideal exposure in different lighting conditions, from bright outdoor settings to dim indoor environments.

f/4.5: A shallower depth of field leads to a very blurred background, which helps the subject stand out and directs visual attention to the photographer's intended focal point. Ideal for close-up photography.
f/22: A deeper depth of field captures clear backgrounds, resulting in a photograph that leaves a serious impression. Suitable for capturing detailed subjects.

4. 185mm Dovetail Plate

Equipped with a 185mm dovetail plate, the SV555 is compatible with most tripods available on the market.

Pic2: the SV555 installs on skywatcher mount

5. EAF Mounting Kit Included (Without EAF)

The EAF (Electric Focusing System) is an electric focusing system designed for fine focusing in astrophotography. It is applicable in various scenarios, from planetary to nebula and cluster photography. The focusing ring of the lens or telescope is driven by a motor to ensure optimal focus during high-magnification observations. The EAF makes adjustments easier, especially in challenging manual focusing situations at high magnifications. The EAF system can obtain clear images even in low-light conditions, facilitating effective observation.

Pic3: the SV555 compatible with ZWO EAF

6. Starry Sky Real-World Test

Shooting Method: Medium-long exposure stacking
Telescope: SV555 54mm f/4.5 telescope (fully open mode)
Camera: QHY268M cooled to -10°C
Equatorial Mount: Sky-Watcher EQ6R
Filter: LRGB filter
Exposure Time: 1.5 hours

7. FAQs about SV555 Astrograph

Q1. What is the weight of the SV555 Astrograph?

A1. The main unit weighs approximately 2450g (excluding accessories).

Q2. What material are the lenses made of?

A2. It features a Petzval design consisting of 3 groups with 5 elements (1 ED).

Q3. What are the dimensions of the SV555 Astrograph?

A3. Approximately 205 mm with the storage cover and around 256 mm with the installed cover.

Q4. Can it also be used as a camera lens?

A4. Yes, it has an adjustable aperture from f/22 to f/4.5 and is compatible with mainstream DSLR and mirrorless cameras, functioning as a manual telephoto lens.

Q5. Is this equivalent to a 240mm telephoto lens? How large is the image circle?