Skywatcher Telescope AC 120/1000 EvoStar EQ3-2

AC 120/1000 EQ3-2 Telescope

The AC 120/1000 refractor telescope on the EQ3-2 equatorial mount is a powerful, high-resolution optical system designed for detailed planetary observations and deep-sky exploration. Combining a 120mm aperture with a 1000mm focal length, this achromatic refractor delivers high-contrast images, well-corrected chromatic aberration, and sharp planetary views.

Key advantages

• Powerful achromatic refractor with a 120mm aperture for high-resolution observing.
• High-contrast images and reduced chromatic aberration via an f/8.3 focal ratio.
• 2-inch focuser with a 1.25-inch reducer adapter for broad eyepiece compatibility.
• Astrophotography ready for photographing the Moon, planets, and bright nebulae.
• Vixen-style prism rail for quick and secure mounting of the optical tube.
• 6x30 finder scope included for easy object location.

Product description

The AC 120/1000 features a 120mm aperture, making this achromatic refractor one of the larger optical tubes in its class for amateur astronomy. Its f/8.3 focal ratio provides effective correction of chromatic aberration. As a refractor design, it yields high-contrast images essential for planetary observation, enabling clear views of subtle details such as Mars' polar ice caps or Jupiter's Great Red Spot, as well as deep-sky objects like the Ring Nebula (M57) or globular cluster M13.

Gathering 294 times more light than the human eye and 44% more light than a 100mm telescope, it reveals objects that are invisible without optical assistance. The 2" rack-and-pinion focuser includes a 1.25" adapter, allowing the use of both eyepiece barrel sizes. Paired with a 2" eyepiece (e.g., a 40mm 2" eyepiece with a 72° apparent field of view offering a 2.8° real field of view), extended deep-sky objects fit comfortably into the field of view. The included 6x30 finder scope is mounted parallel to the tube for easy targeting. The optical tube and finder feature an elegant shimmering black metallic finish.

The EQ3-2 equatorial mount (in white) offers a stable foundation for medium-sized optical tubes. Once polar aligned, objects can be located and smoothly tracked using flexible slow-motion controls on both right ascension and declination axes. Polar elevation is set via a fine scale with two adjusting screws. The mount can be retrofitted with a polar finder scope, tracking motors, or a GoTo upgrade kit for long-exposure astrophotography of galaxies and nebulae.

The mount supports OTAs such as C5, C6, short Newtonians, or refractors smoothly. Longer tubes within the weight limit may take slightly longer to damp vibrations due to the lever effect. SkyHunters provides professional advice and customer support for setup and operation.

Technical specifications

Package contents

• AC 120/1000 Optical Tube Assembly
• EQ3-2 Equatorial Mount with manual slow-motion control knobs
• Aluminium tripod with accessory tray
• 2" 90° star diagonal
• 2" to 1.25" eyepiece adapter
• 1.25" eyepieces (25mm and 10mm)
• 6x30 finder scope
• Tube clamps with Vixen-style prism rail
• Dew shield
• Counterweights (2 pcs)