Sky-Watcher Plossl SWA 3.2mm 58° 1.25″ Eyepiece
The Sky-Watcher Plossl SWA 3.2mm eyepiece is a high-quality optical accessory designed primarily for planetary observation and detailed viewing of the Moon. Thanks to its short 3.2mm focal length, it delivers high magnification while maintaining excellent image quality. The eyepiece is compatible with all telescope types equipped with the standard 1.25″ focuser, making it easy to integrate into virtually any existing setup. It is a reliable choice for both beginner astronomers and experienced observers looking for a precise and affordable high-magnification eyepiece.
Key Features
Wide Field of View and Optical Design
The 58° apparent field of view provides comfortable and immersive observation with a pleasant sense of spaciousness. The hybrid Plossl optical system consists of 5 elements in 3 groups, guaranteeing high sharpness across the entire field of view and minimizing optical aberrations. All optical elements feature fully multi-coated (FMC) anti-reflection coatings, ensuring outstanding light transmission, high contrast, and accurate color rendition. The resulting image is sharp, bright, and detailed even at the high magnifications this focal length produces.
Eye Relief and Comfort
The 16mm eye relief is an above-average value for an eyepiece with such a short focal length. This means the observer does not need to press their eye directly against the lens, making observation more comfortable - including for eyeglass wearers. The height-adjustable, twist-up eyecup is fitted with a soft rubber sleeve that protects both the eyelid and the eyepiece optics, and allows precise adjustment of the eye distance. These design features contribute to comfortable viewing even during extended observation sessions.
Build Quality and Construction
The eyepiece is precisely crafted from high-quality materials and features a robust yet compact build. The barrel diameter is the standard 1.25″, the maximum body diameter reaches 44mm, and the overall length is 90mm. The weight of 184g is moderate and does not place excessive strain on the telescope focuser.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter |
Value |
| Focal Length |
3.2mm |
| Apparent Field of View |
58° |
| Barrel Diameter |
1.25″ |
| Optical Design |
Plossl - 5 elements in 3 groups |
| Coatings |
Fully Multi-Coated (FMC) |
| Eye Relief |
16mm |
| Maximum Body Diameter |
44mm |
| Overall Length |
90mm |
| Weight |
184g |
| Eyecup |
Twist-up, adjustable, rubber |
What Can You Observe?
The Sky-Watcher Plossl SWA 3.2mm is an ideal eyepiece for planetary astronomy - it enables detailed observation of the lunar surface, planetary disks, double stars, and bright nebulae. Thanks to its standard 1.25″ barrel, it is fully compatible with telescope focusers from virtually all manufacturers. The eyepiece can be used to great advantage in combination with a Barlow lens for further magnification increase, while image quality remains at a high level. It is suitable for both visual observation and basic astrophotography of planets with short exposure times.
Who Is This Eyepiece For?
- Beginner astronomers looking for a high-magnification eyepiece at an accessible price
- Experienced observers who need a precise short focal length eyepiece for planetary work
- Eyeglass wearers who require comfortable eye relief
- Users who want to expand their eyepiece collection with a wide-angle, high-magnification option
- Astrophotographers capturing planetary detail with short exposures
Compatibility
The eyepiece features a standard 1.25″ barrel and is compatible with all telescopes - refractors, reflectors, and catadioptric designs - equipped with a 1.25″ focuser. This includes popular brands such as Sky-Watcher, Celestron, Meade, Bresser, and many others. It can be used with or without a Barlow lens for flexible magnification options.
