Steve Ringwood writing for Astronomy Now Magazine.
"The RedCat71 comfortably demonstrated its abilities as an astrograph, and in the hands of those more able than I it is clearly capable of incredible astrophotography, especially wide-field imaging to which its focal length is suited.
The large tactile helical focuser is a nod towards making it useful as a terrestrial telephoto too, so those who love to capture candid shots of wildlife get an extra bonus. I thoroughly enjoyed my time using this excellent instrument."
About this product
Model: wo_redcat_71
Part Number: T-C-71RD
The RedCat 51's bigger brother, with Bahtinov Focusing Mask.
The William Optics RedCat 71 is a 71mm f/4.9 refractor with Petzval optics comprising a doublet front group with an FPL-53 glass element, a single central element, and a single rear lens.
Designed primarily for astrophotography, the RedCat 71 provides a flat image plane (without needing an additional flattener), an image circle over 45mm, excellent colour correction and pinpoint stars.
Other features include a calibrated helical focuser with a 2GT gear ring that is more precise than those found on most typical camera lenses. The ring can also be locked, making finding and maintaining focus easy.
(2GT standard gear ring, 153 teeth, Diameter 98mm, width 8mm).
What's in the box
- M48 Dust Cap/Thread
- Tilt Adapter
- Camera Angle Rotator
- Rotator Tension Knob
- Saddle Handlebar (with two M4 thumb screws)
- Helical Focuser with 2GT Gear Ring
- Arca Swiss/Vixen Plate
- Mounting Rings
- Dew Shield with Focus Tension Ring
- Super Bright Bahtinov Mask
- Soft Carry Bag
Specifications
| Aperture | 71mm |
| Focal Ratio | F/4.9 |
| Focal Length | 348 mm |
| Objective Type | Petzval (4 elements in 3 groups) and Ohara FPL 53 ED element. |
| Image Circle | Φ 45mm (Full Frame) |
| Focuser | Helical |
| Dimensions |
| Tube Weight | 3.7kg |
Customer reviews
| Average Rating (1 Review): | |
19 September 2023 | John
I bought my Redcat around January 2022 and feel now that I can write a review.
I have been waiting for this larger version of the excellent Redcat 51 for some time (including all through the pandemic) and as soon as it was announced, I ordered one.
The image is very flat when using my DSLR, I bought the WO high precision copper T ring to use which is a great upgrade and well worth the money.
I took it to La Palma for an Astrophotography holiday and I would say it is right on the limit of the weight allowance including all my clothes etc (I hired a mount while there)
It performed wonderfully and I'm taking it again next month for another break.
The helical focuser is not everyone's cup of tea but in use I found it excellent, especially using the electric focuser which is an extra.
The bahtinov mask is a nice addition to the supplied dewcap (it is part of the construction) and at F4.9 it is a plenty quick enough system.
It IS expensive but it is beautifully made, typical WO build quality with some great features included. WO have listened to Astrophotographers about what they want and it really shows with this product.
A top of the range telescope for the mobile astrophotography, I will not be getting rid of mine!
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