Orion Optics UK Telescope N 250/1200 VX10 OTA (60099)

The VX series of telescopes offers many of the major advantages of the high-quality CT series while remaining far more affordable. Each VX instrument uses the same high-grade optics found in the CT series and includes a Zygo interferometer report to verify optical performance.

All models come equipped with a straight 50mm finder and a high-quality 2-inch focuser that includes a 1.25-inch adapter. The aluminium tube design keeps overall weight low, making the telescope easier to mount and transport. A precision, fan-cooled, 9-point suspension mirror cell provides excellent support and thermal stability for the primary mirror, maintaining optical accuracy during cooling and ensuring proper weight distribution through nylon support points.

A VX telescope delivers some of the finest image quality available in a serious introductory instrument.

N 250/1200 Telescope
This Newtonian model features a large 250mm aperture that enables detailed deep-sky observations, gathering nearly three times more light than a 114mm telescope. Where smaller instruments reveal only the bright cores of many galaxies, this telescope can show spiral structure and fine details. Globular clusters appear particularly impressive, often filling the entire field of view with individually resolved stars.

Its fast focal ratio allows shorter exposure times for astrophotography. Despite its 10-inch optics, the telescope is compact enough to fit on the back seat of a car, making it practical to transport. Larger Newtonian optics typically require permanent observatories or lightweight truss tube designs.

A telescope of this size provides an excellent foundation for lifelong enjoyment of the night sky.

Mirror Cell
Even the best optics can perform poorly if not properly supported. Poorly designed mirror cells can degrade a 1/10PV wavefront mirror to worse than a full wavelength of distortion. This telescope uses a computer-optimized, anodized aluminium mirror cell equipped with a 12V DC cooling fan. The nine-point suspension system with nylon-66 tips distributes the weight of the mirror evenly across all support points.

ACU-2S Focuser
The included 2-inch (50.8mm) Crayford focuser provides exceptionally smooth motion. It offers both standard focusing and a fine 10:1 micro-adjustment ratio for precise control when using an eyepiece or camera. It is well-suited for small to medium-sized imaging sensors, including DSLR and medium-format CCD cameras. A locking knob secures the drawtube firmly in place, ensuring stable, sharp images.

Specifications

Optics
Type: Reflector
Design: Newtonian
Aperture: 250 mm
Focal length: 1200 mm
Focal ratio: f/4.8
Resolving capacity: 0.55"
Limiting magnitude: 13.8
Light-gathering power: 1280
Maximum useful magnification: 500×
Tube material: Aluminium
Tube weight: 11 kg
Tube diameter: 280 mm
Tube length: 1140 mm
Tube design: Full tube

Reflector Details
Secondary mirror diameter: 63 mm
Optical surface quality: 1/8
Primary mirror ventilation: Yes
Adjustable: Yes
Secondary mirror shape: Flat
Primary mirror design: Parabolic
Reflectivity: 97%

Focuser
Eyepiece connection: 2"
Type: Crayford
Ring clamp: Yes
Adjustment travel: 23 mm
Clear aperture: 50.9 mm
Fine focus reduction: 1:10

Mount
Design: OTA (optical tube assembly only)
Mount included: No

Included Accessories
Tube clamps: Yes
Finder scope: 8×50
Prism rail: Not included
Extension tubes: Yes
Eyepiece adapter: 2" to 1.25"

General Information
Series: VX

Suitable For
Moon and planets: Yes
Nebulae and galaxies: Yes
Nature observation: No
Astrophotography: Yes
Solar observation: No (requires proper solar filter)