Sky-Watcher Plossl SWA 15mm 58° 1.25″ Eyepiece
Overview
The Sky-Watcher Plossl SWA 15mm is a wide-angle eyepiece with a 58° apparent field of view, delivering sharp and high-contrast images across the entire field. Thanks to a hybrid Plossl optical system with five elements in three groups, this eyepiece achieves exceptional image quality for observing bright planets, star clusters, and nebulae alike. Fully multi-coated (FMC) anti-reflection coatings on all optical surfaces minimize unwanted reflections and maximize light transmission for a bright, natural view.
Comfort and Ergonomics
The eye relief is a generous 16mm, making observation comfortable even for eyeglass wearers. A roll-up rubber eyecup allows easy adjustment of the eye-to-eyepiece distance, improving comfort during extended observing sessions. The robust all-metal barrel with a standard 1.25″ diameter fits securely in the focuser of most telescopes on the market.
Versatility and Performance
This eyepiece is an excellent choice for both beginner astronomers and experienced observers looking for a reliable and affordable addition to their eyepiece collection. The 15mm focal length provides a medium magnification that is universally suitable for a wide range of celestial objects - from fine details on the Moon and solar system planets to expansive nebulae and open star clusters. The Sky-Watcher SWA 15mm eyepiece is compatible with telescopes of various focal lengths, and performs best in instruments with a focal ratio of f/6 and above. With a field stop diameter of 15.2mm and a total length of 70mm, it is compact and easy to carry in the field.
Optical Quality and Build
The excellent combination of field of view, optical performance, and ergonomics places this eyepiece among the most popular accessories in the Sky-Watcher lineup. FMC coatings ensure high light transmission and natural, accurate color rendering, allowing observers to extract maximum performance from their telescope without unnecessary light loss. The total weight of 172g reflects a solid construction with metal components that ensure a long service life even under regular field conditions.
Why Choose This Eyepiece
A wide-angle eyepiece with quality FMC coatings is an outstanding option for anyone who wants to enhance their visual astronomy experience without a major investment. The Sky-Watcher Plossl SWA 15mm offers an excellent price-to-performance ratio and holds its own against more expensive alternatives on the market. Its versatility, durability, and optical quality make it an ideal everyday companion for nighttime observing sessions.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter |
Value |
| Focal Length |
15mm |
| Apparent Field of View |
58° |
| Barrel Diameter |
1.25″ |
| Optical Design |
Plossl SWA - 5 elements in 3 groups |
| Coatings |
Fully Multi-Coated (FMC) |
| Eye Relief |
16mm |
| Field Stop Diameter |
15.2mm |
| Total Length |
70mm |
| Weight |
172g |
| Eyecup |
Roll-up rubber eyecup |
| Recommended Focal Ratio |
f/6 and above |
Who Is This Eyepiece For
Beginners
The 15mm focal length and wide field of view make it easy to locate and frame objects, which is ideal when you are just starting out in astronomy. The comfortable eye relief and simple design mean less fatigue and more enjoyment at the eyepiece.
Experienced Observers
Seasoned astronomers will appreciate the high-quality FMC coatings, solid metal construction, and the reliable performance across a broad range of telescope types and focal ratios. It serves as a dependable mid-range eyepiece in any well-rounded collection.
Compatible Objects for Observation
- Moon - surface detail and craters
- Planets - Jupiter, Saturn, Mars, Venus
- Open star clusters
- Bright nebulae
- Globular clusters
- Wide double stars