RASA performance for all
For astrophotographers who demand speed, accuracy and convenience in a compact package, the RASA 6" is the ultimate tool. Its f/2.2 design dramatically shortens exposure times, making it easy to capture sharp, detailed images of faint deep-sky objects without the heavy burden of prolonged tracking.
Since RASA technology debuted in 2014, it has become the trusted choice for space surveillance and satellite tracking, relied upon by defense contractors, professional researchers and governments alike. Like its big brothers, RASA 6 features a flat field for sharp edge-to-edge stars. With the RASA 6, you get the same technology that professionals rely on, but at a price that is affordable for most, including those looking to add a second astrograph to their arsenal.
The RASA 6 challenges the limitations of smaller, slower instruments. It collects more light and provides higher resolution than refractors in its price range, allowing you to capture faint details in galaxies, nebulae and star clusters in less time.
Shorter exposures for a "near real-time" experience
The magic of the RASA 6 lies in its speed. Its f/2.2 optics make it possible to image even faint objects at short exposures. When combined with sensitive cameras and live-stacking software on your laptop, you can create a near real-time imaging experience. Bright, detailed images will appear on your laptop screen in just a few short exposures.
The system's ultra-fast focal ratio also reduces mount tracking requirements. Because it allows you to use much shorter underexposures, you won't need to use an autoguider in many cases, so you'll spend less time dealing with the equipment and more time exploring the universe.
RASA Optical Design: Engineering Excellence
The patented Rowe-Ackermann Schmidt optical design sets the RASA 6 apart from other systems. This design features:
A Schmidt corrector and a high-precision primary mirror that work in tandem to minimize optical aberrations.
A specialized three-element lens group using rare-earth glass, which ensures that more of the light emitted by celestial objects is focused sharply on its sensor.
A removable 2" clear filter: designed to maintain maximum F/2.2 performance when a filter is added, as no additional glass is added to the light path.
StarBright XLT coating system for all refractive and reflective surfaces, ensuring maximum light transmission and superior field illumination.
RASA optical design provides better overall performance and field illumination than a Schmidt-Cassegrain in the Fastar configuration.
It can be used with sensors up to 22 mm diagonal to provide a wide field of 3.8° while offering sub-arcsecond resolution.
Advanced features and versatility
Designed with the modern astroobserver in mind, the RASA 6 is packed with features that enhance usability and adaptability.
Integrated filter system
The integrated filter drawer accommodates both 1.25" and 2" filters, giving you the flexibility to use multiple image filters. The removable 2" clear filter (i.e. optical window) allows you to add optional filters if desired, without introducing additional glass into the optical path that could compromise performance at f/2.2.
Integrated cooling system
A 12V MagLev fan draws air through mesh vents to quickly cool the system to room temperature and provide the best images while keeping internal components dust-free.
M42 camera adapter
The included camera adapter for the RASA 6 features standard M42 threads, making it easy to mount a wide variety of astronomical CMOS cameras.
Enhance your setup
To achieve the highest level of performance, we strongly recommend combining this telescope with the Focusing Motor, 6" Aluminum Dew Shield, 6" Dew Ring, and 6" RASA Bag (all sold separately). The Focusing Motor allows you to achieve sharp, accurate focusing electronically from the same computer used to control your camera. To prevent dew during long image capture sessions, the Dew Protector or Dew Ring will help keep your optics clean, especially in humid conditions. When your telescope is not in use, store your RASA in this protected, portable and easy-to-carry case.
A universe of possibilities in a compact package
The 6" RASA offers the perfect combination of speed, accuracy and portability. Its innovative optical design and robust mechanical features allow you to capture the night sky like never before. Enjoy a portable astrograph that opens the door to a large and limitless universe.
Technical Specifications
Optical design: Rowe-Ackermann Schmidt Astrograph
Aperture: 152mm (5.98")
Focal length: 335mm (13.18")
Focal ratio: f/2.2
Center obstruction diameter: 77mm (3.03") (46% of aperture diameter)
Light gathering power (compared to the human eye): 472x
Resolution (Rayleigh): 0.91 arc sec
Resolution (Dawes): 0.76 arcseconds
Image circle: 16 mm (0.63") Ø, 2.74°.
Useful field: 22 mm (0.86") Ø, 3.76°, only minimal loss of performance at the edge of the field of view.
Wavelength range: 400 - 700 nm
Spot size
Optical coatings: StarBright XLT
Off-axis illumination: 91% at 8 mm (0.31") off-axis
Rear focus with included camera adapter: 17.5 mm (0.69")
Optical tube: Aluminum
Optical tube length: 609.6 mm (24")
Optical tube diameter: 177.8 mm (7")
Focuser: Schmidt-Cassegrain standard focuser
Viewfinder: Not included
Optical tube weight: 3.8 kg (8.4 lbs)
Other features: Air-cooling system, integrated filter mount
Included items: 42 mm (1.65") T-thread camera adapter
Battery pack with fan
Filter drawer with 2" transparent filter
Dovetail: Dovetail bar CG-5
Filter drawer: Accepts 2" format filters, includes 1.25" filter adaptor
Transparent filter: 2" filter, removable, AR coated, 2 mm glass thickness
Cooling fan: 12 V DC, MagLev
Camera mounting threads: M42
Solar warning
Never look directly at the sun with the naked eye or with an optic (unless you have the proper sunscreen). Permanent and irreversible eye damage may result.
Never use your optics to project an image of the Sun onto any surface. Internal
