New GS Series Guide Scopes

PAPO Optical System | Precision Guiding | Superior Image Quality

Specifications

  • Self-flattening PAPO apochromatic optics
    Self-Flattening Apochromatic
    (PAPO)
  • Broadband multi-layer coating
    Broadband Multi-Coating
    Anti-Reflection
  • Standard 1.25-inch interface
    1.25-inch /
    31.7 mm Interface
  • Rear M42 external thread
    Rear M42
    External Thread
  • Focal length options
    Focal Length
    150 mm (GS-150)
    200 mm (GS-200)
    250 mm (GS-250)
    300 mm (GS-300)
    350 mm (GS-350)
  • Effective aperture
    Aperture
    50 mm (GS-250)
    58 mm (GS-350)
  • Focal ratio options
    f/5 (150/200/250)
    f/6 (300/350)
  • Flexible compatibility
    Broad Compatibility
    Versatile Workflows

PAPO Apochromatic Optical Design
True Star-Color Reproduction

The GS Series guide scopes employ a proprietary 1-inch flat-field PAPO triplet with an ED low-dispersion element. Chromatic aberration, astigmatism, and field curvature are effectively corrected for crisp, pinpoint star images. One scope covers guiding, visual observing, and entry-level deep-sky imaging.

GS-150 spot diagram

High-Transmission Coatings + Anti-Reflection Threads
Boost Guiding Sensitivity

Every optical surface receives broadband multi-layer AR coatings to minimize reflections and maximize throughput. Precision-machined anti-reflection threads inside the OTA further suppress stray light for higher contrast images.

CNC Precision Machining
Fine Matte Finish

The tube, rings, and dovetail are CNC-machined from aluminum alloy for an ideal balance of low weight and rigidity. Anodized surfaces resist wear and corrosion in the field, while the refined matte texture delivers a comfortable, non-slip grip.

  • CNC precision machining details
  • Matte anodized surface
  • Anodized finish close-up

Modular Design
Highly Expandable

A dedicated matte-black M48 extension tube forms the core of the OTA. Mix and match modules to suit your required back focus—covering visual observing, guiding, and imaging without compromise.

GS-250 guide scope paired with GPM guide camera
GS-250 Guide Scope + GPM Guide Camera
GS-350 guide scope with diagonal and eyepiece
GS-350 Guide Scope + Diagonal + Eyepiece
GS-350 guide scope with filter drawer and cooled camera
GS-350 Guide Scope + Filter Drawer (+ optional EAF) + Deep-Sky Camera
*GS-250 may not reach focus with a diagonal due to limited back focus.

Dual Focuser Configurations
Match Your Workflow

  • Rackless focuser (AC version): paired with the FSB-125C rackless focuser. Precision bearing guidance and a classic Crayford mechanism deliver silky-smooth motion with stable collimation—perfect for lightweight manual focusing scenarios.

    Rackless focuser for GS AC version
  • Rack-and-pinion focuser (AR version): paired with the FSB-125R gear focuser. Bearing-guided gear drive increases load capacity and precision, and it supports ToupTek AAF or third-party motor focusers for automated focusing.

    Rack-and-pinion focuser for GS AR version

Broad Compatibility | Flexible Configurations
Seamless Integration Across Systems

GS Series guide scopes are ready for a wide range of accessories. High-transmission coatings and fully baffled interiors preserve contrast, whether you attach cameras, focusers, or diagonals.

  • 1) Supports high-quality imaging with 1-inch and smaller guide or planetary cameras.

    GS guide scope with 1-inch guide camera
  • 2) Focuser drawtube offers a 1.25-inch inner diameter with an external M42×0.75 thread—connect cooled cameras (optimized for a 1-inch image circle) or add motor focusers such as the ToupTek AAF or IFR focus stations.

    *We recommend pairing with sensor formats up to 1 inch.
    GS focuser connected to cooled camera and electric focuser
  • 3) Use third-party bayonet-to-M42 adapters to attach mirrorless or DSLR cameras. Adjust the extension tubes to match the flange distance—APS-C sensors are recommended to minimize vignetting.

    GS guide scope with bayonet adapter and mirrorless camera
  • 4) Modular M48 extension tubes let you swap to shorter tubes when pairing with eyepieces or diagonals.

    GS guide scope modular M48 extension for eyepiece
  • 5) Tube rings include multiple M5 threaded holes on the top and sides to mount additional accessories.

    GS guide scope accessory mounting points
  • 6) The dovetail base provides multiple M6 threaded holes plus a 3/8-16 port for quick attachment to tripods or equatorial mounts.

    GS guide scope dovetail mounting interface

All-New Upgrades

Compared with the previous FS series, the new GS family delivers comprehensive improvements from optics to overall performance.

Model FS-250AC / AR GS-150AC / AR
GS-200AC / AR
GS-250AC / AR
GS-300AC / AR
GS-350AC / AR
Optical Design Achromatic Doublet PAPO Triplet with Integrated Field Flattener
Aperture / Focal Length 45 mm / 250 mm 30 mm / 150 mm (GS-150)
40 mm / 200 mm (GS-200)
50 mm / 250 mm (GS-250)
50 mm / 300 mm (GS-300)
58 mm / 350 mm (GS-350)
Focal Ratio f/5.6 f/5 (GS-150/200/250)
f/6 (GS-300/350)
Interface Size 1.25-inch / M42×0.75 1.25-inch / M42×0.75
OTA Weight 0.60 kg 0.59 kg (GS-150)
0.68 kg (GS-200)
0.82 kg (GS-250)
0.94 kg (GS-300)
1.21 kg (GS-350)
Focuser Type AC: Rackless (FSB-125C)
AR: Rack-and-Pinion (FSB-125R)
AC: Rackless (FSB-125C)
AR: Rack-and-Pinion (FSB-125R)

Dimensions

GS-150AC dimension diagram
GS-150AC Dimension Drawing
GS-150AR dimension diagram
GS-150AR Dimension Drawing

What's in the Box

The GS series delivers end-to-end upgrades compared with the FS predecessors—from optics and mechanics to usability.

GS series package contents
  • Guide Scope Packaging Box
  • GS-150AC/AR,
    GS-200AC/AR,
    GS-250AC/AR,
    GS-300AC/AR,
    GS-350AC/AR
    Guide Scope
    (with tube rings / dovetail & focuser)
  • Guide Scope Dust Cap