In December 2024, I purchased the Apertura 75Q refractor and was blown away at the high-quality optics and overall build of the scope. With all the wide field, fast optics needs covered, I wanted a longer focal length instrument. I narrowed my search to a 140mm Quad/APO or the Apertura Carbonstar 8"RC.
After a very obsessive time of debating

between the two, and with the helpful advice and input from the folks at HighPoint, I purchased the Carbonstar 8"RC and the 0. 67x reducer. I do not regret it!
Out of the box, its appearance is awesome, the finish of the carbon tube is superb, and the anodized red pre-mounted dove tail bars are a beautiful eye-popping accent! After unboxing, I immediately checked the collimation, and it was slightly out of alignment but was easy to adjust using the Ocal Collimator. The focuser is relatively standard but does come EAF ready. (5 min to attach the ZWO EAF)
First Light was an exciting night! I could not believe that I had clear skies the same day it arrived!! I have attached the first two images (my goto for my first images, M42 of course!). 2nd is Caldwell 49 Rosette Nebula.
Overall, I would HIGHLY recommend this budget-friendly, high-quality optical design for anyone of moderate experience. I love my Apertura Carbon Star 8"RC!

Wonderful optics - better than I expected. I bought for use as a dedicated solar scope, but now will use for night-time use as well.

This fits the original shipping foam perfectly.

Works just fine with my Nikon D90

Great service and easy to use web site.

Absolutely required