The Askar FRA500 strikes a perfect balance between portability and aperture in the celebrated FRA family. With a 90mm objective, 500mm focal length, and f/5.6 focal ratio, it sits comfortably between the agile FRA400 and the massive FRA600, making it a versatile choice for deep-sky imaging that is easy to transport yet gathers significant light.
The telescope features a "three-plus-two" Petzval optical design, comprising a front triplet (with two ED glass elements) and a rear doublet. This quintuplet air-spaced system delivers advanced chromatic aberration correction and a flat field across an impressive 55mm image circle, exceeding standard full-frame requirements.
As with other FRA models, the FRA500 is designed for ease of use. The inherent flat field means there is no need for a separate flattener or complicated back-focus calculations. Just bring your target into focus, and the image is sharp from center to corner.
The OTA is finished in the series' signature ivory and red, exuding quality. It is equipped with a large 3.5-inch rack-and-pinion focuser with a 1:10 micro-adjuster, offering precise and stable focusing for heavy accessory loads. The dew shield is retractable, reducing the packed length to just 410mm.
Weighing 4.1kg (5.2kg with accessories), the FRA500 comes ready to perform. It includes a pair of tube rings, a multi-functional handle, a conical extension adapter (M86 to M48), and a Losmandy-style dovetail plate.