The SVBONY SV501P is a refractor with a 60 mm objective lens and a 400 mm focal length. With the supplied K20 eyepiece, it provides 20× magnification. It is intended primarily for beginners who want to observe the Moon, planets and terrestrial scenery.
The SVBONY SV501P is a refractor with a 60 mm objective lens and a 400 mm focal length. With the supplied K20 eyepiece, it provides 20× magnification. It is intended primarily for beginners who want to observe the Moon, planets and terrestrial scenery.
Key specifications
- Type: Refractor with glass lenses
- Objective diameter: 60 mm
- Focal length: 400 mm
- Focal ratio: f/6.7
- Eyepiece: K20 mm, 1.25-inch diameter
- Magnification with supplied eyepiece: 20×
- Finderscope: 5×24 mm optical finder
- Other accessories: 45° diagonal mirror and adjustable aluminium tripod
The objective diameter determines how much light the telescope collects and also affects how much detail it can resolve. The focal ratio is calculated by dividing the focal length by the objective diameter: 400 ÷ 60 is approximately 6.7. The shorter focal length also contributes to the telescope’s compact size.
The objective has multiple coatings that help reduce reflections on the lenses. In practice, these may improve image contrast, although the result also depends on observing conditions.
Magnification and what you can observe
Magnification is calculated by dividing the telescope’s focal length by the eyepiece’s focal length. For the SV501P with the K20 eyepiece, that is 400 ÷ 20, or 20×. This magnification is useful for finding objects and observing the Moon or distant terrestrial scenery.
On the Moon, you can look for prominent features. You can also point the telescope at Jupiter and Saturn, but at 20× the planets will appear small, with limited visible detail. Atmospheric conditions, light conditions and tripod stability will also affect the view.
Accessories and use
The 5×24 mm optical finderscope helps you locate an object and aim the telescope at it. Before observing, it is useful to align the finderscope with the main telescope using a distant terrestrial object. You can then locate an object in the finder and sharpen the view through the eyepiece using the focuser.
The supplied 45° diagonal mirror changes the viewing angle at the eyepiece, which can make observing more comfortable. The lightweight aluminium tripod has adjustable height. Place it on firm ground and check that the telescope is securely attached after setting it up. Image shake can make both focusing and tracking an object more difficult.
Who is the SVBONY SV501P for?
The SV501P gives beginners the basic equipment to learn how to find and follow objects. Its capabilities are limited by its 60 mm objective and the magnification of the eyepiece in use, so do not expect large, detailed views of planets.
Safety: Never look at the Sun through the telescope or finderscope without suitable solar filters securely fitted in front of their objective lenses. Looking at the Sun through unfiltered optics can cause immediate and permanent eye damage.