Refractor telescope Skywatcher SolarQuest 70/500 with HelioFind mount (SW-3500)

Skywatcher SolarQuest 70/500 with HelioFind mount is a compact refractor telescope with a 70 mm objective and 500 mm focal length, supplied with a computerized HelioFind pointing and tracking mount. The optical tube is optimized for solar and daytime observations, allowing clear views of the solar disk (with appropriate solar filter), terrestrial landscapes and bright daytime sky objects. The integrated HelioFind system simplifies target acquisition by guiding the mount to the Sun and other registered objects, making this set suitable for users who prefer a portable and easy-to-operate instrument.

Advantages

The combination of a 70 mm aperture and a short 500 mm focal length provides a wide field of view and good contrast for daytime scenes and extended solar features when used with a certified solar filter. The HelioFind computerized mount offers guided pointing and basic tracking functions, reducing setup time and manual searching. The package is lightweight and compact, designed for convenient transport and quick deployment in urban or field locations. Mechanical and optical design focuses on stability and straightforward operation for users new to solar observing.

Suitable for

• Solar observation (use only with a proper solar filter)
• Daytime terrestrial viewing and landscape observation
• Beginner-level astronomical observing of bright daytime sky objects
• Portable field use and urban setups

Key specifications

• Optical design: Achromatic refractor
• Aperture: 70 mm
• Focal length: 500 mm
• Mount type: Computerized altitude-azimuth HelioFind mount with guided pointing
• Pointing system: HelioFind database and guided slewing for solar/daytime targets
• Portability: Compact and lightweight for transport
• Intended use: Solar and daytime observation with mount-assisted pointing and tracking

How to use

Attach the optical tube to the HelioFind mount following the included mechanical fittings and secure all clamps. Install a certified solar filter over the telescope objective before any solar observation; never observe the Sun without a proper filter. Power the HelioFind mount and select the Sun or another daytime object from the mount database; allow the system to slew and center the object through the eyepiece. Use coarse focus and the focuser knob to achieve a sharp image, then fine-tune using slow adjustments. For terrestrial viewing, remove the solar filter and adjust aiming and focus as required.

Recommendations

For safe solar observing, always use a certified full-aperture solar filter placed over the front of the telescope. Avoid using improvised filters or eyepiece-level filters. Stabilize the mount on a firm surface, perform a brief polar/level alignment if applicable, and power the mount from a reliable supply to ensure consistent guided pointing and tracking performance.