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SKU: T-P-68BU

Pleiades 68 Astrograph

Sale price$1,998.00 USD Tax excluded.
⛟ Free Shipping Free shipping on orders over $498. Import charges not included.
Description
Description

Experience unmatched clarity and precision with the Pleiades 68 - 7-Elements Imaging APO Telescope. Designed for the passionate astrophotographer, this state-of-the-art instrument is a key part of our WIFD series, crafted to deliver impeccably sharp images of the cosmos. With its rapid f/3.8 aperture and advanced optical system, the Pleiades 68 ensures stunning deep-sky captures with reduced exposure times, perfect for both seasoned astronomers and astrophotography enthusiasts.

Highlights

Precision Engineering
The advanced 7-element optical system produces sharp, vibrant images while minimizing chromatic aberration.

Optimized for Swift, Detailed Imaging
A generous 68mm aperture and f/3.8 focal ratio allow for detailed deep-sky imaging in shorter exposure times.

Adaptable to Various Imaging Systems
Comes equipped with 48mm and 54mm adapters to ensure compatibility with a broad range of CCD and DSLR cameras.

WIFD Series Excellence
This telescope exemplifies our commitment to superior astro-imaging gear, integrating seamlessly into the esteemed WIFD series.

Compare with Cat71 WIFD
Compare with Cat71 WIFD

Choosing between the William Optics RedCat 71 and Pleiades 68 isn’t simply about comparing numbers — it’s about finding the imaging experience that matches your style. Both are precision-engineered instruments, yet they serve different creative philosophies in astrophotography.

The RedCat 71 is built for simplicity, consistency, and portability. Its balanced optical system and forgiving spacing make setup straightforward, allowing photographers to focus on composition and timing rather than calibration. The integrated Petzval design maintains a flat, stable field, ensuring crisp stars even during long exposures. It’s ideal for those who want a reliable, travel-ready telescope that performs flawlessly right out of the box — a true “grab-and-shoot” imaging tool that encourages creativity without complexity.

By contrast, the Pleiades 68 appeals to advanced users who enjoy fine-tuning every parameter. Its ultra-fast optical design rewards precision, delivering exceptional color correction, pinpoint star performance, and unmatched depth in wide-field imaging. This astrograph thrives when paired with careful spacing and meticulous focus, offering professionals the control needed to push the boundaries of deep-sky photography.

In essence, your decision reflects your astrophotography personality. The RedCat 71 embodies effortless performance and ease of use, while the Pleiades 68 represents precision, speed, and mastery. Both share the same William Optics heritage — elegant design, mechanical excellence, and a pursuit of optical perfection — ensuring that whichever you choose, the night sky will never look the same again.

Notice
Notice

Astrophotography Only
This telescope is specifically designed for astrophotography, and its optical design does not support visual observation.

Filter Thread is Not Available
This telescope model does not feature an internal M48 filter thread due to its proximity to the second lens group near the camera adapter.This design choice prevents interference with the lenses within the telescope tube, making direct attachment of a 48mm filter challenging. 
For optimal results, we recommend using a filter wheel attached to either M48 or M54 thread. 
This ensures seamless filter usage without compromising the telescope's optical performance.

Critical Backfocus Information
The recommended backfocus for our 68 telescope is precisely 55mm. Given its fast F ratio, maintaining an exact 55mm backfocus is crucial for optimal performance. 
Please ensure accurate adjustment to enhance the sensitivity and overall functionality of your telescope.

Color:Blue

GuideStar Special

GuideStar 61
GuideStar 61
Sale priceFREE Regular price$438.00 USD
Addon Overview

Lens Type
Doublet APO Prime Lens
Focal Length
360 mm
Diameter
61 mm
Focal Ratio
f/5.9
Image Circle
42 mm
Focuser
Threaded Focuser
Adapter Included
M54 → 2" Visual Back
Optional Flattener
FLAT 61A 1.0x FLAT 61R 0.8x
Tube Length
340 mm
Total Weight
1.44 kg / 3.17 lbs
View details

Pleiades 68 Astrograph
Pleiades 68 Astrograph Sale price$1,998.00 USD Tax excluded.

What's in the box

Main Tube

Bahtinov Cap

M48, M54
Camera Adapter

Dual-side Plate

Mounting Ring & Handle bar

Riser Blocks

Soft Carry Case

Allen Key Set

showcase

Pleiades 68

P68 - Boogeyman - Trevor Jones

The Boogeyman Nebula & Friends

Trevor Jones

P68 - M31 - Trevor Jones

The Andromeda Galaxy (M31)

Trevor Jones

P68 - M45 - Tom Zepf

M45 - Pleiades

Tom Zepf

P68 - IC2118 - Trevor Jones

Witch Head Nebula

Trevor Jones

P68 - IC434 - Jeko Jekov

Orion’s Belt LHaRGB

Jeko Jekov

P68 - Boogeyman - Trevor Jones

The Boogeyman Nebula & Friends

Trevor Jones
P68 - M31 - Trevor Jones

The Andromeda Galaxy (M31)

Trevor Jones
P68 - M45 - Tom Zepf

M45 - Pleiades

Tom Zepf

P68 - IC2118 - Trevor Jones

Witch Head Nebula

Trevor Jones
P68 - IC434 - Jeko Jekov

Orion’s Belt LHaRGB

Jeko Jekov

Expert Review

William Optics Pleiades 68 Review

In late 2023, William Optics announced the Pleiades 68 Astrograph. A compact, 7-element astrograph design featuring Super 3 ED lenses and FPL-53 glass.
The biggest selling features of the William Optics Pleiades 68 Astrograph are its fast focal ratio of f/3.8 and innovative WIFD focuser design. 
I had the pleasure of testing one of the first Pleiades 68 models at the Winter Star Party in early 2024. I’ll share my image results and impressions of this compact refractor telescope in this article.