Meet the Rowe-Ackermann Schmidt Astrograph (RASA) 6, a compact powerhouse that delivers spectacular astroimages, anywhere. Engineered with ultra-fast f2.2 optics, the smallest member of the RASA family proves that you do not have to sacrifice performance for portability. Whether you are chasing dark skies in remote locations or elevating your backyard setup, RASA 6 opens the door to new possibilities.

RASA Performance for Everyone

For astrophotographers who demand speed, precision, and convenience in a compact package, the 6-inch RASA is the ultimate tool. Its f2.2 design dramatically shortens exposure times, making it easier to capture crisp, detailed images of faint deep-sky objects without the heavy burden of extended tracking. Since RASA technology debuted in 2014, it has become the trusted choice for space surveillance and satellite tracking, relied upon by defense contractors, professional researchers, and governments alike. Like its bigger brothers, RASA 6 features a flat field for sharp stars from edge to edge. With RASA 6, you get the same technology trusted by the pros, but at a price that is within reach for most, including those looking to add a second grab-and-go astrograph to their arsenal. RASA 6 defies the limitations of smaller and slower instruments. It collects more light and provides higher resolution than the refractors in its price range, allowing you to capture faint details in galaxies, nebulae, and star clusters in less time.

Shorter Exposures for a ‘Near-Real Time’ Experience

The magic of RASA 6 is in its speed. Its blazing f2.2 optics mean that even faint objects can be imaged in short exposures. When paired with sensitive cameras and live-stacking software on your laptop, you can create an almost real-time imaging experience. Bright, detailed images appear on your laptop screen in just a few short exposures. The system’s ultra-fast focal ratio also eases the tracking demands on your mount. Since it allows using much shorter sub-exposures, you won’t need to use an autoguider in many instances, so you’ll spend less time dealing with equipment and more time exploring the universe.

RASA Optical Design: Engineering Excellence

The patented Rowe-Ackermann Schmidt optical design sets RASA 6 apart from other systems. This design features a Schmidt corrector and a high-precision primary mirror that work in tandem to minimize optical aberrations. A specialized three-element lens group using rare-earth glass, which ensures that more of the light emitted from celestial objects is sharply focused onto your sensor. A removable 2-inch clear filter, engineered to maintain peak f2.2 performance when you add a filter, as no extra glass is added into the light path. StarBright XLT coating system for all refractive and reflective surfaces guarantees maximum light transmission and superior field illumination. The RASA optical design provides better overall performance and field illumination than a Schmidt-Cassegrain in the Fastar-style configuration. It can be used with sensors up to 22mm diagonal to provide a wide 3.8 degrees while delivering sub-arcsecond resolution.

Advanced Features and Versatility

Designed with the modern astroimager in mind, RASA 6 is loaded with features that enhance usability and adaptability. The integrated filter drawer accepts both 1.25-inch and 2-inch filters, giving you the flexibility to use various imaging filters. The removable 2-inch clear filter (i.e. optical window) allows you to add optional filters if desired, without introducing additional glass into the optical path that could compromise performance at f2.2. A 12V MagLev fan pulls air through mesh vents to rapidly cool the system to the ambient temperature to provide best images while keeping internal components dust-free. The included camera adapter for the RASA 6 features standard M42 threads, making it easy to mount a wide variety of astronomical CMOS cameras.