Years of dedicated observing have proven to us the value of quality optics. Quality and consistency are the criteria that we use to choose our optical suppliers.

Each Zambuto primary mirror is provided with certification of optical quality using zonal measurements.

For our 14.5" through 28" FX telescopes, F/4 and F/3.7, we use primary mirrors supplied exclusively by Lockwood Custom Optics. Mike Lockwood also produces mirrors that have smooth and accurately figured surfaces, edge to edge. Working at F/4 (14.5") and F/3.7 (other FX sizes) and working with the 1.25"-thick 14.5" and 16.5" means more careful work is required to figure a mirror, but this results in a markedly shorter telescope. Careful testing of the FX optics has shown that they too provide the best possible full-aperture views of planets and deep sky objects. There is absolutely NO compromise in the optical quality of the FX telescopes, just more convenience.

Each Lockwood primary mirror is provided with certification of optical quality using zonal measurements and highly sensitive figure-of-revolution tests.

Primary mirror coatings utilize Ion-Assisted Deposition (IAD) and quartz overcoat. This provides higher reflectivity than the "standard" 89% sputtered coatings. Using a single IAD metallic layer also eliminates the tendency of multilayer "enhanced" metallic coatings to roughen the mirror surface thereby degrading the image. We believe that the fidelity of the optical images are better preserved with this process, with the additional assurance that the optical coatings will outlast "run-of-the-mill" SiO-overcoated (monoxide, not the superior quartz) sputtered coatings.

Secondary Mirrors: Carefully sized secondary mirrors provide superb full-aperture planetary views and high contrast deep sky images. 96-97% enhanced coatings are standard.

Mike Lockwood now tests the entire surface of all Starmaster secondary mirrors, and he refigures them if necessary. This ensures that the entire optical system meets our exacting specifications. Why? Because testing of batches of secondaries showed significant variation in quality, regardless of supplier, and Mike would not agree to supply optics without making sure that the secondary mirrors used in the FX telescopes were up to his specifications. As a result of this, Starmaster telescopes, which already were the most carefully tested commercial truss-telescopes available, are now even more carefully tested!

-The upper cage, which is shown being packed in the image at left, utilizes lightweight ABS material for the liner. This material is far more stable than Kydex and will not deform. Kydex has a tendency to change dimension when exposed to sunlight, such as when a telescope is left out in the sun at a star party.

-Oak plywood construction with polyurethane finish is standard on all models.

-Premium Crayford 2" focuser, with 1 1/4" adapter, standard on all models.