Astro-Physics 130 GTX Review: A High-End Refractor for Astrophotography
Manufacturer: Astro-Physics
Introduction
The Astro-Physics 130 GTX is a top-tier apochromatic refractor telescope, designed for serious astrophotographers and professional astronomers. As a high-end instrument, it delivers exceptional clarity, precision tracking, and minimal chromatic aberration, making it a go-to choice for deep-sky imaging.
Astro-Physics is a well-respected name in the astronomy community, known for producing meticulously crafted optics that push the limits of image sharpness and accuracy. Whether observing planetary details or capturing faint galaxies, the 130 GTX stands as one of the finest refractors available today.
Key Features of the Astro-Physics 130 GTX
✔ 130mm f/6.3 Focal Length 819mm Apochromatic Refractor – Delivers high-contrast, sharp images with minimal chromatic aberration.
✔ Oil-Spaced Triplet Lens Design – Provides superior color correction compared to standard refractors.
✔ Long Back Focus (175mm) – Ideal for accommodating advanced imaging setups
✔ Wide Mount Compatibility – Works with a variety of equatorial mounts, giving flexibility in astrophotography.
✔ Premium Optical Coatings – Maximizes light transmission and contrast for deep-sky imaging.
✔ Compact & Portable – Weighs 19 lbs and is designed for easy transport while maintaining rigidity.
✔ Precision Machining – Ensures optical alignment stability, reducing collimation concerns.
✔ Fast Focal Ratio (f/6.3) – Suitable for both planetary (Barlow lens recommended for this purpose) and deep-sky astrophotography.
✔ Large 3.5” focuser
Optical Performance & Imaging Quality
The Astro-Physics 130 GTX delivers outstanding optical performance, rivaling or surpassing other premium refractors in its class.
✔ Pinpoint Star Clarity – The oil-spaced triplet lens design reduces chromatic aberration, making stars appear pinpoint sharp across the field of view.
✔ Flat-Field Imaging – Minimizes field curvature, making it ideal for astrophotography without requiring a field flattener.
✔ Excellent Contrast & Color Accuracy – True-to-life planetary colors and deep-sky details stand out with exceptional clarity.
✔ High Light Transmission – The advanced multi-coatings ensure maximum brightness for capturing faint celestial objects.
💡 Best For: Deep-sky astrophotography, planetary imaging, and high-contrast visual observation.
Mount Compatibility & Tracking Precision
✔ Compatible with Multiple Mounts – Works with Astro-Physics 900GTO, 1100GTO, and other high-end equatorial mounts.
✔ Stable & Rigid Design – The high-quality aluminum construction minimizes flexure, crucial for long-exposure astrophotography.
✔ Smooth Focusing System – Equipped with precision-machined dual-speed focusers, ensuring fine adjustments for imaging.
✔ Ideal for Long Exposure Imaging – Excellent tracking performance when paired with an auto-guided mount.
💡 Pro Tip: Pair with a premium mount (like the Astro-Physics 1100GTO) for the best tracking accuracy and minimal drift.
Ease of Use & Setup
The Astro-Physics 130 GTX is a premium instrument, but its setup is surprisingly straightforward given its precision engineering.
✔ Portable Yet Sturdy – At 19 lbs, it’s manageable for transport yet solid enough for stable imaging.
✔ User-Friendly Assembly – The telescope’s intuitive design makes setup and collimation easy, even for complex astrophotography rigs.
✔ Compatible with Leading Software – Works with NINA and other astrophotography software.
💡 Best For: Intermediate to advanced users comfortable with setting up high-end imaging systems.
Pros & Cons of the Astro-Physics 130 GTX
✅ Pros
✔ Exceptional Optical Quality – True apochromatic performance with zero chromatic aberration.
✔ Excellent for Astrophotography – Produces tack-sharp deep-sky images with minimal distortions.
✔ Precision Engineering – High-end mechanical construction ensures stability and longevity.
✔ Portable Yet Powerful – Compact for travel, yet delivers pro-level imaging performance.
✔ Long Back Focus – Supports multiple imaging accessories without requiring additional adapters.
✔ Can be disassembled for easy transport
❌ Cons
✖ Premium Price – One of the most expensive 130mm refractors on the market.
✖ Learning Curve – Requires some experience with high-end astrophotography setups.
✖ Limited Availability – Often backordered due to high demand.
✖ Must be special ordered
How Does the Astro-Physics 130 GTX Compare to the Competition?
| Telescope Model | Aperture | Focal Ratio | Weight | Best For | Price |
| Astro-Physics 130 GTX | 130mm | f/6.3 | 19 lbs | Deep-sky imaging, planetary | $7950 |
| Takahashi TOA-130 | 130mm | f/7.7 | 22 lbs | Visual & astrophotography | $7200+ |
| Tele Vue NP127is | 127mm | f/5.2 | 15 lbs | Wide-field imaging | $7373 |
| William Optics FLT132 | 132mm | f/7 | 20 lbs | General astrophotography | $4378 |
💡 Verdict: The Astro-Physics 130 GTX is for serious astrophotographers and professionals looking for uncompromising optical excellence.
💡 Why Choose the Astro-Physics 130 GTX?
✔ Best for deep-sky imaging due to its oil-spaced triplet lens design.
✔ Better tracking stability than competitors when paired with high-end mounts.
✔ Superb optical performance with minimal chromatic aberration.
Final Verdict: Is the Astro-Physics 130 GTX Worth It?
✔ For serious astrophotographers, the Astro-Physics 130 GTX is a top-tier investment.
✔ Its optical clarity, precision tracking, and premium build quality make it one of the best 130mm refractors available today.
✔ While expensive, its performance justifies the price for those seeking the highest-quality deep-sky and planetary imaging.
💡 Best For: Professional astronomers and astrophotographers looking for a lifetime telescope.
Final Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5) – Elite-Level Optics for High-End Imaging
