CHF 949.00incl. Swiss VAT
Will be ordered for you
Timeframe: 10 days to 3 weeks
Estimated shipping: Entre le 22 et le 27 November 2026
The Sky-Watcher EXPLORER-300PDS is a large-diameter Newton telescope designed for exceptional performance in astrophotography as in visual observation. A direct evolution of the famous Explorer-300P, this PDS (Photo Dual Speed) version incorporates major improvements that make it the instrument of choice for demanding astronomers wishing to capture images of the deep sky with great precision.
This model retains the same 305 mm parabolic primary mirror than its predecessor, guaranteeing impressive light-gathering capacity. With 44% more light than a 250 mm telescope, With its long focal length, it reveals fine details of galaxies, nebulae and star clusters. Its long focal length of 1500 mm (f/4.9) offers an excellent compromise between wide field and resolution, particularly suited to deep-sky imaging.
One of the main advantages of the EXPLORER-300PDS is its 2-inch dual-speed Crayford eyepiece holder (10:1 ratio). This system enables extremely precise focus adjustment, essential for astrophotography where perfect sharpness is essential. The fine gearing facilitates fine adjustments, even with high-resolution sensors.
The optical tube has been slightly shortened compared to the standard version to optimize use in primary focus shooting. This design improves compatibility with a wide range of cameras and astronomical cameras, while making it easier to reach the focus point without additional accessories.
The primary and secondary mirrors are treated Radiant™ Aluminum Quartz (RAQ™), offering up to 94% reflectivity. This coating guarantees excellent light transmission, greater durability and consistent performance over time. What's more, the secondary mirror supports are made of ultra-thin 0.5 mm handles, significantly reducing diffraction and improving image contrast.
To get the most out of this instrument, we recommend that you use a Sky-Watcher coma corrector. This accessory corrects the optical distortions typical of fast Newton telescopes (f/4.9), guaranteeing perfectly punctual stars across the entire field, an essential asset in astrophotography.
The EXPLORER-300PDS is supplied with a 28 mm LET eyepiece (2″), with a magnification of x53.5, ideal for wide-field observations. Its theoretical maximum power reaches x610, This allows you to explore the finest details in optimal conditions. A 9×50 finder is also included to help locate celestial objects.
The tube is supplied with sturdy clamps as well as a Losmandy-type dovetail, The telescope is compatible with heavy equatorial mounts capable of supporting this type of instrument. This telescope is particularly well suited to robust mounts for advanced astrophotography.
Powerful, precise and optimized for imaging, the Sky-Watcher EXPLORER-300PDS has established itself as a benchmark for enthusiasts wishing to take their deep-sky observation and astrophotography skills to the next level.
With an open aperture of 305 mm at f/4.9 and a focal length of 1,500 mm, it is primarily an astrophotography instrument: when used with a camera, it is designed to photograph nebulae, galaxies, and clusters, offering a good balance between field of view and detail.
Included eyepiece: 28 mm. With a focal length of 1,500 mm, it provides 54× magnification. To calculate the magnification of an eyepiece, divide the telescope's focal length by the eyepiece's focal length.
It can still be transported by car: the tube weighs about 23 kg.
Yes, and with care: in astrophotography, an open-aperture Newtonian telescope at f/4.9 requires precise collimation. A collimation laser simplifies the adjustment. The Sky-Watcher Collimation Guide (EN) explains the procedure.
Yes, that's what it's designed for: it mounts on a motorized equatorial mount (not included) with an astro camera or a regular camera. At f/4.9 and a focal length of 1,500 mm, it requires precise tracking: be sure to use autoguiding for long exposures. With a tube weighing approximately 23 kg (without accessories), choose a mount with a load capacity that leaves some margin.
300 mm Newtonian telescope, 9×50 finder scope, 2″ eyepiece holder with 10:1 reduction ratio and 1.25″ / 2″ adapters, 28 mm LET 2″ eyepiece.
Here are a few accessories we've selected for this model, depending on your needs.
Recommended diameter: 380 mm. Check the measurement and the mounting.
