Askar 65PHQ Telescope Review
Our verdict
The Askar 65PHQ is a purpose-built astrophotography refractor aimed at imagers rather than visual observers, and its perfect 5.0-star score across 9 early reviews reflects strong satisfaction from buyers in that niche. At $898, it is a deliberate investment for someone who wants a capable imaging platform.
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Astrophotographers looking for a compact, high-quality refractor to pair with a dedicated camera and tracking mount.
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You primarily want a visual telescope for planetary or lunar viewing, or you need a scope with verified high review volume before committing.
- Objective lens 1 Mm
- Focus Manual Focus
- Dimensions 15.75 X 8.27 X 11.02 In
- Priced 80% above the category median ($499.99 across 15 tracked models)
Our scorecard
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Owner rating5.0/5
5.0 average across 9 owner ratings
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Popularity2.3/5
9 owner reviews, fewer than most models here
The overall score is owner satisfaction weighted by how many reviews back it, so a high rating from few reviews counts for less. The bars below show where this model stands against the other optics: binoculars, telescopes, spotting scopes, rifle and hunting scopes, rangefinders, night vision and monoculars we track in this category on price, popularity and size. Context, not marks against it, and our read of the data, not a lab test.
Overview
['The Askar 65PHQ is designed with the imaging astronomer in mind. The model designation PHQ signals a flat-field, high-quality optical design, which in practice means it is built to deliver sharp stars edge to edge across an imaging sensor rather than just at the visual center. That is the critical requirement for astrophotography, where corner stars that blur or smear as streaks ruin an otherwise well-exposed frame.', 'At 15.75 by 8.27 by 11.02 inches, the assembled package is compact, which matters for travel to dark sites or for mounting on smaller equatorial rigs without overloading the payload capacity. Manual focus is standard for a refractor at this level, and experienced imagers typically use an electronic focuser add-on or a motorized focuser drawtube to dial in precise focus during imaging runs.', 'Nine reviews with a 5.0 average is a small but encouraging sample. It tells you early adopters are pleased, but the review base is not large enough yet to surface edge-case quality-control issues that sometimes appear in larger populations. The $898 price positions it squarely in the serious hobbyist range.']
Pros
- Perfect 5.0-star average from verified early buyers
- PHQ optical design targets flat-field performance suited to astrophotography
- Compact dimensions, 15.75 by 8.27 by 11.02 inches, for a refractor in this class
- Askar has built a strong reputation in the dedicated astrophotography community
- Manual focus drawtube can be motorized with common aftermarket electronic focusers
Cons
- Only 9 reviews, so the rating sample is too small to be fully conclusive
- At $898 it requires a compatible tracking mount, adding to total system cost
- Objective lens data as listed (1 mm) appears to be a data entry error, so verify current specs with the seller before purchase
Specifications
| Objective lens | 1 Mm |
|---|---|
| Focus | Manual Focus |
| Dimensions | 15.75 X 8.27 X 11.02 In |
Performance notes
The listed objective lens figure of 1 mm appears to be a data anomaly and should be confirmed before purchase. Based on the 65PHQ model designation, this is a 65mm aperture refractor, which is a popular size for wide-field astrophotography. The compact dimensions of 15.75 by 8.27 by 11.02 inches are consistent with a short focal-length imaging refractor. Manual focus is listed, and at this price tier an electronic focuser adapter is a common and practical addition.
What buyers say
Nine buyers have rated this scope at a perfect 5.0 stars, which signals strong early satisfaction. The small sample means the score carries less statistical weight than a model with hundreds of reviews, but it is not a red flag. Buyers in this segment tend to be knowledgeable and leave detailed feedback, so the absence of negative reviews in the early set is meaningful.
More from Askar
Similar optics: binoculars, telescopes, spotting scopes, rifle and hunting scopes, rangefinders, night vision and monoculars to consider
Frequently asked questions
Is the Askar 65PHQ suitable for visual astronomy as well as imaging?
It can be used visually with appropriate eyepieces, but its optical design prioritizes flat-field performance for imaging sensors. For pure visual use, a longer focal-length refractor often delivers higher contrast on planets. If you plan to do both, the 65PHQ handles visual work acceptably, but imaging is where it is optimized.
What mount do I need to use it effectively?
For astrophotography you need a motorized equatorial or alt-az tracking mount. The compact size and moderate weight of the optical tube make it compatible with mid-range mounts like the Sky-Watcher HEQ5 class or similar payload-rated rigs. A sturdy mount is as important to image quality as the optics themselves, so budget accordingly.
Does it come ready to image or do I need additional accessories?
The telescope optical tube is the core component. For astrophotography you will additionally need a camera, a dedicated imaging sensor or DSLR with adapter, a tracking mount, and likely a field flattener or reducer if not already built into the optical design. Confirm the current accessory bundle with the seller before ordering.