Takahashi Epsilon E-160ED Reflector

Takahashi Epsilon E-160ED — Ultra-Fast Wide-Field Astrograph for Modern CMOS Imaging

The Takahashi Epsilon E-160ED is a 160mm f/3.3 hyperbolic Newtonian astrograph engineered specifically for deep-sky astrophotography with modern CMOS sensors. With a fully corrected 44mm image circle, 530mm focal length, and edge-of-field spot sizes as small as 3 μm RMS, the E-160ED produces sharp, coma-free stars across full-frame sensors like the ZWO ASI6200 and QHY600 — all in a compact 15.2 lb (6.9 kg) package that travels to dark sites without complaint. Deep Space Products is an authorized Takahashi dealer with hands-on expertise in Epsilon systems, from camera spacing and focuser upgrades to mount pairing for portable and observatory use.

The Epsilon series has been a benchmark in fast wide-field imaging since Takahashi introduced the original Epsilon-160 in 1984. Rather than simply redesign the corrector for digital sensors, Takahashi rebuilt the entire optical tube for the E-160ED — incorporating the push-pull collimation system from the E-180ED, an improved primary mirror cell, and a new two-element corrector using ED glass that reduces chromatic aberration by roughly half compared to conventional Schmidt camera designs. The result is a modern astrograph that bridges the portability of the smaller Takahashi Epsilon E-130D with the optical performance of the larger E-180ED.

Optical performance that rewards precise setup

The E-160ED's hyperbolic primary mirror and integrated ED corrector deliver a flat, well-illuminated field with just 0.3% distortion — comparable to a Takahashi TOA refractor with its dedicated field corrector. Takahashi achieves this by placing the secondary mirror slightly off-center (eccentric oblique design) to optimize illumination across the full 44mm image circle without oversizing the central obstruction. The spider vane geometry further suppresses scattered light, keeping contrast high for faint emission structures.

At f/3.3, the E-160ED captures photons roughly four times faster than a typical f/7 refractor at equivalent aperture. For narrowband imaging of faint targets like the Cygnus Wall or Sh2-129, that speed translates directly into more signal per sub-exposure and less total integration time — a meaningful advantage for both dark-site expeditions and light-polluted backyards where efficiency matters.

Collimation and the focuser question

Takahashi's redesigned collimation system uses three sets of push-pull screws on the primary mirror cell — two push screws flanking each pull screw — borrowed from the proven E-180ED design. A removable center cover provides access to the primary for faster temperature equilibration. Once properly collimated using the recommended Takahashi Collimating Eyepiece (rather than a laser collimator, which is less accurate for this optical design), the E-160ED holds alignment remarkably well, even through transport.

The stock rack-and-pinion focuser includes a Camera Angle Adjuster (CAA) for photographic framing. It's functional, but many experienced Epsilon users upgrade the focusing mechanism for the precision that f/3.3 demands. Deep Space Products carries several proven options: the Starlight Instruments Micro Pinion Assembly adds 10:1 fine focus to the existing focuser, the Optec TCF-Leo replaces the focuser entirely with a motorized, temperature-compensating system, and the PrimaLuceLab ESATTO 3.5" LP offers a fully robotic solution with a dedicated Epsilon adapter that maintains the correct corrector spacing.

Camera pairing and backfocus precision

The E-160ED's 44mm fully corrected image circle covers today's popular full-frame sensors (Sony IMX455, IMX571) without vignetting, making it an ideal match for cameras like the ZWO ASI6200 or QHY600 for mono imaging, or the ASI2600MC for one-shot color. APS-C sensors work beautifully as well, with even less edge correction demand.

At f/3.3, backfocus spacing tolerances are tight — adjustments in ±0.1mm increments are typical when dialing in optimal correction. Tilt management is equally critical, particularly with larger sensors. Astrophotographers using narrowband filters should consider filters specifically designed for fast optical systems, such as the Astronomik MaxFR series, which maintain their transmission characteristics at steep angles of incidence. Deep Space Products can advise on the complete imaging train — from camera to filter selection to spacer configuration — to help you avoid the trial-and-error that fast astrographs sometimes demand.

Where the E-160ED fits in the Epsilon lineup

Takahashi currently offers three Epsilon astrographs, each serving a slightly different niche. The E-130D (~$2,600) is the most portable at just 4.3 kg, ideal for grab-and-go dark-site sessions with APS-C sensors. The E-160ED (~$4,660) steps up to 160mm of aperture with a full-frame-optimized corrector and the improved push-pull collimation system — it's the sweet spot for astrophotographers who want serious light grasp and full-frame coverage in a package that still travels. The E-180ED (~$4,670) delivers even more aperture at f/2.8 but adds weight and is often better suited to a permanent observatory pier.

Compared to alternatives outside the Takahashi family, the E-160ED occupies a premium position. The Celestron RASA 8 (~$1,800) is faster at f/2.0 and produces no diffraction spikes, but its build quality and QC tolerances frustrate some users pursuing consistently round stars at the edges. The Sharpstar 15028HNT (~$2,500) offers carbon fiber and f/2.8 speed at a lower price, but without Takahashi's decades of hyperbolic astrograph refinement. For astrophotographers who value optical quality, mechanical precision, and a collimation system that holds through setup after setup, the E-160ED remains one of the most capable fast astrographs in its class.

Talk to Deep Space Products about your Epsilon setup

Whether you're building a portable fast-imaging rig or integrating the E-160ED into a permanent observatory, Deep Space Products can help you select the right focuser upgrade, camera spacing configuration, and mount pairing. DSP also carries the Takahashi 204WM double ring tube holder designed specifically for the E-160ED, as well as compatible finder brackets, dovetail plates, and filter systems. Contact us — we use and service this equipment, and we're here to help you get it right the first time.