

The achromatic 4" refractor on a small German equatorial. Back through the decades this is one of the defining telescopes of amateur astronomy. In the past, the various brands that have offered this combination include Unitron, Vixen, Celestron and Meade. Compared to its forebears, the modern Skywatcher version is the most economic due to the cost of manufacturing in China.
102mm (4") f/1000 REFRACTOR TELESCOPE
Skywatcher supplied product information -
Magnifications (with eyepieces supplied): x40 & x100
Highest Practical Power (Potential): x204
Objective Lens Diameter: 102mm
Telescope Focal Length: 1000mm (f/9.8)
Eyepieces Supplied (1.25"): 10mm & 25mm
Direct SLR Camera Connection
6x30 Finderscope
Dual-Fit 1.25"/2" Focuser
2"/50.8mm Star Diagonal
Multi-Coated Objective Lens
EQ3-2 Deluxe Equatorial Mount
Built-in Polar Alignment Scope Holder
Aluminium Tripod with Accessory Tray
28% more Light Gathering than 90mm
The achromatic 4" refractor on a small German equatorial. Back through the decades this is one of the defining telescopes of amateur astronomy. In the past, the various brands that have offered this combination include Unitron, Vixen, Celestron and Meade. Compared to its forebears, the modern Skywatcher version is the most economic due to the cost of manufacturing in China. The EQ3-2 can be upgraded to RA tracking or even full GOTO. An ideal white light solar refractor by adding some Baader Astrosolar over the front aperture. A low cost instrument for schools to purchase for science project astronomical observing. Four inches is enough for visibility of all Messier objects as well as good lunar and planetary detail.
Budget for an A4 sheet of Baader Astrosolar and a weak sky pollution filter such as the Baader Neodymium 1.25 filter. Budget also for a 1.25" Baader polarizing set or a 1.25" Neutral density filter for the moon. It is also worth considering a 6mm eyepiece for the moon and planets.