Explore Scientific Apochromatic refractor AP 80/480 ED Alu OTA (44829)

Explore Scientific offers a range of three-element ED special glass apochromats that cater to the desires of amateur astronomers at a reasonable price point. These telescopes boast exceptional quality and performance.

Optical Design and Performance

The three-element construction features special Hoya FCD01-ED glass and two air gaps, creating a corrector of significantly higher quality compared to two-element ED apochromats in the same price range. With a calculated polystrehl value exceeding 0.9, these optics produce much clearer images than the 0.8x typically achievable with two-lens designs. This outstanding image performance, combined with a robust mechanical structure, results in a package that meets all expectations.

Photography Capabilities

An optional field flattener accessory is available for astrophotography enthusiasts, allowing unrestricted use of the instrument for photographic purposes.

Specifications

Optical System:

• Type: Refractor

• Design: Apochromat

• Aperture: 80mm

• Focal length: 480mm

• Focal ratio: f/6

• Resolving power: 1.6 arcseconds

• Limiting magnitude: 11.3

• Light gathering capacity: 130x (compared to human eye)

• Maximum useful magnification: 160x

• Tube weight: 2.6kg

• Tube material: Aluminum

• Tube dimensions: 340mm length, 120mm diameter

• Coating: EMD

• Tube construction: Full tube

• Lens design: Triplet

• Glass material: HOYA FCD-1

Focuser:

• Type: Rack and pinion

• Eyepiece connection: 2-inch

• Fine focusing: 1:10 gear reduction

• Back focus: 165mm

Mount:

• Type: OTA (Optical Tube Assembly only, no mount included)

• GoTo control: Not included

Included Accessories:

• Prism rail: Vixen-style

• Finder base: Compatible with Meade/Explore Scientific T-Profile

• Dew shield

• 2-inch 90° star diagonal

• Extension tubes

General Information:

• Series: Essential Line

• Suitable for: Moon & Planets, Nebulae & galaxies, Astrophotography

• Not recommended for: Nature observation

• Solar observation: Possible only with appropriate solar filter (not included)

• User level: Advanced (not recommended for beginners or observatories)

This Explore Scientific apochromat offers high-quality optics and versatility for various astronomical applications, making it an excellent choice for advanced amateur astronomers seeking superior performance in a compact package.