Scarlet A62Q: a pocket-friendly gateway to beginner astrophotography

365Astronomy’s NOVAStar Scarlet A62Q is a compact, budget-friendly 62mm quadruplet refractor (~£195) aimed at beginners in astrophotography. It arrives in a sturdy case, features a Crayford single-speed focuser, and weighs about 1.5 kg, making it easy to transport and set up on small mounts. Daytime views are sharp, and its lunar imaging via a color camera shows good detail; for deep-sky work, the scope provides a flat field and pleasant color correction but exhibits chromatic aberration on the brightest stars. Longer exposures are needed for faint nebulae, though the overall performance exceeds expectations for its price. A versatile, travel-friendly instrument suitable for visual use, guiding, and quick astrophotography sessions.