by Vixen telescopes, their VMC (Vixen Maksutov Cassegrain) models. Maksutov–Newtonians Maksutovs optics can be used in Newtonian configurations that have minimal aberration over a wide field of view, with one-fourth the coma of a similar standard Newtonian and one-half the coma of a Schmidt-Newtonian. Diffraction can also be minimized by using a high focal ratio with a proportionally small diagonal mirror mounted on the corrector, allowing this design to achieve contrast and image quality approaching that of unobstructed high-end refractors (although with some vignetting when used photographically). Like the Maksutov–Cassegrain, the overall diameter of the optical system is limited, due to the mass of the corrector plate. Synta Taiwan currently produces a 190 mm version under the Sky-Watcher brand as does Explore Scientific with a 152 mm version designed in collaboration with astronomer David Levy. Maksutov cameras The Maksutov system can be used in a (rare) type of prime-focus ultra-wide-field astronomical camera design similar to the Schmidt camera. Like the Schmidt camera, the Maksutov camera has a curved focal plane. See also List of telescope types Timeline of Russian innovation References External links Evolution of the Maksutov design A Photovisual Maksutov Cassegrain Telescope Telescope types Science and technology in the Soviet Union Soviet inventions Russian inventions