ASA AZ800 Ritchey-Chrétien telescope f6.85

ASA AZ800

A high-end, fully integrated observatory telescope system.

The ASA AZ800 is a 0.8-meter (800mm) Ritchey-Chrétien telescope system designed for precision astrophotography and advanced observational research. Featuring a fast f/6.85 optical system with Nasmyth focus, direct-drive motors, and absolute encoders on all axes, the AZ800 delivers superior performance in both imaging and tracking. This fully automated Alt-Az mounted system is engineered for reliability, speed, and scientific-grade accuracy.

Key Specifications

Optical Design: Ritchey-Chrétien (RC)

Clear Aperture: 800mm (31.5 in)

Clear Aperture / Focal Ratio Primary Mirror: f/2.5

System Focal Ratio: f/6.85

Focal Length: 5480mm

Image Field: 120mm (1.25°)

Central Obstruction: 41% (linear)

Focus Positions: Nasmyth 2 standard, Nasmyth 4 optional

Mirror Material: Fused Silica

Surface Quality: >94 Strehl

Microroughness: 1nm RMS / <0.7nm Ra

Coating: Al + SiO₂, Reflectivity >96%

Back Focus from Flange: 252.7mm

Total Weight: 650 kg (1433 lbs)

Mount Type: Alt-Azimuth

Azimuth Range: 680°

Altitude Range: 5° to 90°

Performance & Control

Max Slew Speed: Up to 50°/second

Pointing Accuracy (20°–85°): <8″ RMS (with pointing model)

Tracking Accuracy (unguided, 5 min): <0.25″ RMS (with current pointing file)

System Natural Frequency: ≥10 Hz

Satellite Tracking: Supports TLE and CPF file upload with orbit correction

Software & Integration

Includes the full ASA Software Suite with platform-independent ASCOM Alpaca API over TCP/IP. Compatible with a wide range of control programs and plugins, with advanced features for:

-Pointing file creation and optimization

-MLPT (Multi-Layer Pointing Technique) — usable with N.I.N.A. plugin

-Satellite tracking and orbit correction

-Focus control via Alpaca API

-Dome and cover control (if installed)

-Full API control of rotator and Nasmyth ports