Move-Shoot-Move Telescope MAK 90

THE PROBLEM

Traditionally, if you wanted to get started observing, and perhaps photographing, deep-sky objects, the costs involved in getting a telescope were daunting. Also, adequate telescopes were bulky and really intimidating to use.

THE SOLUTION

Move-Shoot-Move’s MAK 90 telescope is a great beginner’s tool. Its 1250mm focal length with a compact body is achieved with catadioptric mirrors. This allows for narrow field observation at a fraction of the cost, length and weight of refractor (glass-lens) telescopes.

Out of the box, the MAK 90 comes with two eyepieces, a red dot finder and dual channels. The 25mm eyepiece provides 50X magnification and the 12mm provides 104X magnification while observing through the scope. Focusing is smooth and easy.

This is a dual-channel telescope, which means that with the flip of a lever, you can go from observing though the eyepiece to photographing with your camera.

Attaching a camera to the scope requires an M42x0.​75 T-threads adapter ring, which means you will need to obtain a T adapter for your camera’s mount separately. If you are unsure, contact the team at Move-Shoot-Move to confirm which adapters are compatible. I purchased this one from Novoflex for my Nikon Z cameras. Note that there is a price and quality range for adapters.

THE BREAKDOWN

WHEN THIS IS NOT THE RIGHT TOOL

When you want a wider field of view, you will want to leave the MAK 90 in the bag, or at home. It has a very narrow focal length.

If you want a fast scope, you will have to spend more. The MAK 90 has a fixed aperture of f/13.​8. So if you want to observe or photograph dim objects, you would need to add a GOTO tracking mount.

The quality of the optics are acceptable, but the sharpness is not the same as a glass-lens based system. Some people have reported having trouble with calibrating and using the included red dot viewfinder. (For the record, I did not.)

Finally, note that the MAK 90 will not cover a full-frame camera sensor. You would need to either shoot full-frame and crop or use the reduced sensor size mode of the camera.

WHEN THIS IS THE RIGHT TOOL

Many of the “not” points mentioned above will likely matter little to a first-time telescope owner. If your interest in deep space expands, you might indeed grow out of the MAK 90, but it is excellent for building that foundation to someday grow out of.

If you want to dip your toes into observing and possibly photographing deep-sky objects without spending a ton of money, then the Move-Shoot-Move MAK 90 telescope is a great tool for learning and practicing. It’s also awesome for tight moonrise and moonset photography (see above).

UPCOMING WORKSHOPS FROM NATIONAL PARKS AT NIGHT