Sarblue Planet Mate 60mm Maksutov

In this detailed video, Robert looks at an extraordinary recent development, the low-cost 60mm Maksutov telescope. There have been other 60mm Maks, but the high performance was matched by the high cost. Here the price is startlingly low, but what about the performance? Watch the video and find out.

To purchase on Amazon.com:
As shown in the video
https://amzn.to/3hsF9oD

Or this version that includes a small finder scope and a full-height tripod (instead of the table-top tripod).
https://amzn.to/2To7wKX

Or this new version that includes a simple Dobsonian mount (a bit more stable than the tripod and easier for a child to use but more bulky and takes up space if travelling light is a priority).
https://amzn.to/2WQLsdC

To purchase in Europe:
The Acuter Maksy is, in principle the same telescope *, and is available from stock or to order from a wide range of independent astronomical equipment dealers.
*, at the time of uploading European stocks were low due largely to the C19 sales boom.

Disclosures: All opinions are our own. If you click on one of the product links above and choose to make a purchase, our channel will receive a commission at no additional cost to you. As an Amazon Associate/Affiliate, we earn a small commission from qualifying purchases.

00:00 Start
00:36 Introduction
02:32 The 60mm Mak: basics
06:32 A telescope for children?
10:20 The tripod but see 41:32
10:40 Weighing in
11:12 Prismatic Star Diagonal and see 13:20
12:30 Close focus: 3.5m
13:20 Erect image
13:42 The 20mm eyepiece
14:40 Eyepieces compared
23:35 Two brands: Sarblue and Acuter with changes
25:46 The smartphone bracket
27:40 Practical test of smartphone digiscoping
28:10 Fitting your smartphone
28:46 The birds
29:58 The Moon
31:48 The weirdest thing of all
32:42 A look inside!
33:14 How to destroy a telescope with a Jammy Dodger
34:23 The good points start with Dmitry Maksutov
35:09 In praise of small things
35:41 Why have one when you can have three?
36:34 The focus knob good point
36:58 The focus knob bad point
39:12 The dark side of pointing
41:32 The tripod's trying
42:43 Dealing with dew
43:17 Summary of opinion
43:47 That's it for this video

Of the two models, the Sarblue Planet Mate and Acuter Maksy, the Sarblue Planet Mate is currently the most widely available model - the situation is evolving, however.

Presented by Robert J Dalby FRAS

Produced by DB Video Services for Astronomy and Nature TV