Refractor telescope Skywatcher BK 1149 EQ2 114mm aperture 900mm focal length

The Skywatcher BK 1149 EQ2 refractor telescope combines a 114 mm objective aperture with a 900 mm focal length on a simple equatorial EQ2 mount to deliver clear views of the Moon, planets and brighter deep-sky objects. The instrument is designed to offer a balance between light-gathering capability and portability, making it suitable for hobby astronomers and beginners who require a stable platform for visual observation and basic astrophotography with small cameras.

Advantages

The telescope’s 114 mm aperture gathers sufficient light for detailed lunar and planetary observation while remaining compact enough for transport and setup at a backyard or field site. The 900 mm focal length provides moderate magnification potential with standard eyepieces, supporting crisp views of planetary disks and lunar features. The EQ2 equatorial mount facilitates manual tracking of celestial objects, allowing users to follow targets more naturally along right ascension. Optical design and mechanical balance make the system straightforward to align and use for those new to refractor telescopes.

Suitable for

• Visual observation of the Moon and planets (e.g., Jupiter, Saturn, Mars)
• Observation of brighter deep-sky objects such as open clusters and some nebulae
• Beginner-level manual tracking and learning celestial coordinates on an equatorial mount
• Casual astrophotography with small, lightweight cameras or smartphone adapters

Key specifications

• Optical type: Refractor
• Aperture (objective diameter): 114 mm
• Focal length: 900 mm
• Mount type: EQ2 equatorial manual mount
• Recommended use: Visual astronomy and beginner astrophotography
• Portability: Compact tube and lightweight mount for easy transport

How to use

Set the EQ2 equatorial mount on a stable surface and roughly level the tripod. Attach the optical tube to the mount using the provided dovetail or mounting bracket, then balance the tube by adjusting its fore-aft position and the mount’s counterweights if supplied. Align the mount’s polar axis to the North celestial pole (or approximate alignment using a distant terrestrial reference for daytime setup). Start observation with a low-power eyepiece to locate targets, then switch to higher-power eyepieces as needed for more detail. For manual tracking, use the mount’s slow-motion controls or gently move the telescope along right ascension to follow objects as the Earth rotates.

Recommendations

Use a sturdy tripod and allow the telescope to cool to ambient temperature before detailed observation to reduce image distortion. Begin with the Moon and bright planets to learn focusing and tracking. When attempting basic astrophotography, use short exposure times and a lightweight camera or smartphone adapter to avoid stressing the mount. Keep eyepieces and lenses clean and store the instrument in a dry place when not in use.