Explore Scientific ED 127 CF – FCD01 compared to FCD-100
A product test: two models in direct comparison. Von J.S. Schlimmer
1. Introduction
Figure 1: Explore Scientific ED 127 CF models under test
Since April 2016 I own the apochromatic one Refractor ED 127 CF, Model FCD01 by Explore Scientific and I use it for moon and planetary observation as well as for the photography of extended nebulas, open star clusters and galaxy clusters. In addition to the very good look, the possibility for photographic use with the help of a focal reducer, also the low weight of the telescope has influenced my purchase decision. Therefore, I could continue to use my old mount and invest the existing budget in optical accessories. The telescope is still transportable and thus suitable for mobile use outside the light-polluted cities.
Explore Scientific is listed as a Bresser brand. The technical support I approached initially for some questions was very friendly, accommodating and very helpful.
2. Description
The ED 127 CF has a three-lens lens. Between the lenses there is an air gap. The tube is made of carbon fiber and processed to high quality. The ED 127 CF has a three-lens objective. There is an air gap between the lenses. The tube is made of carbon fiber and processed to high quality. Thanks to its low weight of only 7 kg, it can still be carried by a GP-DX or comparable mount.
Since November 2016, the improved FCD-100 model is on the market, which is advertised with high color purity and a perfect optical design. What’s the difference between these two models? To test this, Bresser has kindly provided me with an ED 127 FCD-100.
At first glance, both models resemble each other like twins, as my older model also has the 2.5-inch Hexafoc extract. In addition to the stable construction, it can also be rotated as a whole. In astrophotography this offers the advantage of preserving the focal position, even if the camera needs to be realigned for another object. The 1:10 reduction allows an exact focus. A scale applied on the pullout facilitates the presetting (Figure 2). In the case of visual observation the zenith mirror can of course be adjusted independently of the focuser.
Figure 2: Camera, 0.7x Focal Reducer and Hexafoc Extract
Both models have an aperture of 127 mm and a focal length of 952 mm. In lens labeling, the new model differs only in the additionally printed model designation. Only by closer inspection you can see that the tube of the new model FCD-100 is 15mm shorter. This is a great advantage, because my intrafocal area is very short on my own model. Therefore, in my model, orthoscopic eyepieces (e.g. measuring eyepieces) cannot be used if the extension is provided with an extension sleeve. With my wide-angle eyepieces the extension sleeve always comes to commitment.
3. Objective lenses
For observation I prefer to use wide-angle eyepieces. For almost 2 years my Nagler range has also been supplemented by eyepieces in the 82° series by Explore Scientific. For the telescope comparison the Explore Scientific 2-inch eyepiece with 24 mm focal length, as well as two Explore Scientific 1 ¼ inch eyepieces, with 8.8 and 4.7 mm focal length were used.
4. Explore Scientific 0.7 focal reducer and corrector
of 64 mm (2.5 inches). To connect to Canon cameras, a special T2 adapter must be used. The adapter ring is only 1 mm thick and therefore made of steel. He has a free opening of 36.7 mm.
5. Visual tests
Figure 3: Explore Scientific 82 ° Series Eyepieces
In particular, moon and planets are suitable as test objects for the visual comparison, while in the deep sky range the Orion comes into question with its richness of detail. Open star clusters, on the other hand, offer a very good opportunity to assess the edge imaging at low magnifications.
For the tests, the objects should be as high as possible in the sky, where the influence of astronomical seeing is significantly lower. Because the planets only reached a height of 23° at the meridian passage at the time of the tests, they were out of the question for the tests. For better temperature adaptation, the telescopes were brought to the open air 1-2 hours before the tests.
At dusk on the 23rd of February
In 2018, Aldebaran was covered by the moon. The picture above shows the moon a few seconds before covering on the bright Sky. The small image inside shows the entire image field during the covering. The picture below shows the moon for one hour at the end of the Aldebaran covering. ES 127 FCD-100 and Focal Reducer, Canon 1100D
a) The moon
With the 2-inch 24 mm eyepieces, the moon fits comfortably in the field of vision. While the FCD01 showed a light, yellow color fringe around the bright edge of the crescent, the image of the successor model FCD-100 was without any color aberrations. The higher the magnification the more details revealed on the lunar surface. The sight became really fascinating at 200x magnification with the 4.7 mm eyepiece.
In the Apennine Mountains were already single, larger rock formations to recognize. In the south, on the edge of the Mare Nubium, the Long Wall was just visible, an approximately 100 km long embankment. The crater Thebit could be easily observed on one side of the long wall and Birt and the side crater Birt A on the other side. On closer inspection you could see further small craters such as e.g. Thebit D at the end of the long wall. Also Rima Birt, a groove that runs almost parallel to the Long Wall, but only as half long, was easy to see.
Below are some pictures of the Aldebaran covering from 23rd February 2018. The
beginning was still in the clear sky, so that Aldebaran was difficult to locate.
At the exit one hour later the sky was already dark.
b) Open star cluster: Pleiades and NGC 1647
For the observation of the Pleiades also the 2-inch 24 mm eyepieces was used. With this eyepiece, the Pleiades are a breathtaking sight, because they fit completely into the field of view. In both telescopes, the stars were as fine as needle points and point-shaped to the edge. Visually, no color errors were noticeable. It was such a perfect sight.
NGC 1647 is a very loose open star cluster nearby 97 Tau. Because it is very extensive, it is best seen at low magnification. Approximately 20 stars with a brightness of 8 mag can be captured well with the 2-inch 24-mm eyepiece. Again, the sight is fantastic, as the entire field of view is sharply displayed.
c) Stars and binary stars
AFigure 5: Intrafocal and extrafocal diffraction disks
What about the comparison at high magnifications? Inadequate color correction of refractors is shown by blue color fringes around bright stars. To test this, the choice fell on Bellatrix, the "warrior" in Orion. This star is 1.6 mag bright, bluish giant star of the spectral class B2. At moderate magnification with the 8.8 mm eyepiece (108x), neither the CD01 nor the successor FCD-100 showed any fringing. At high magnification with the 4.7 mm eyepiece (203x), diffraction rings around Bellatrix were clearly visible, but no fringing. However, at this magnification already the atmospheric dispersion was noticeable, as Bellatrix only reaches a height of 46 ° in the meridional passage. The atmospheric dispersion is shown by blue color in the upper area and red color in the lower area of the star. However, it is an atmospheric effect and not due to the telescope optics.
In the constellation Orion there are also numerous binary stars, which can be used to test the resolution. For example, 32 Ori (STF 728) could not be resolved at a distance of about 1.2 arcseconds. For 52 Ori (STF 795), which has a spacing of only 1.0 arcseconds, both components could be detected but not completely separated. The reason for this is in different contrast: the components of 32 Ori have a brightness difference of 1.3 magnitudes, while the components of 52 Ori are equally bright. The observation of Alnitak (STF 774), the eastern belt star of Orion was also interesting. With a distance of at least 4.7 arc seconds, this double star should be easy to separate, despite its brightness difference of 1.8 magnitudes. At 203x magnification Alnitak was also clearly to separate, however the B-component could only be seen at second glance in the diffraction rings. With the 8.8 mm eyepiece Alnitak was inseparable.
Of course, with this type of observation, astronomical seeing plays a crucial
role. Unfortunately, lunar observation was only possible with good astronomical
seeing. At all other tests the astronomical seeing was not very good. In
conclusion, the difference between the two models FCD01 and FCD-100 is hardly
noticeable in visual observations.
6. Photographic tests
a) Diffraction slices in the primary focus
To get a better overview of the color difference between the two models, the defocused diffraction discs were first used recorded in the primary focus at 952 mm focal length (Figure 5). For this a QHY 5L II-C color CMOS camera was used. The images were taken at a distance of -2.2, -1.1, 0, +1.1 and + 2.2 mm from the focus. The light source was Bellatrix.
Overall, my model FCD01 showed slightly more color differences between the intra- and extra-focal diffraction slices. In the intrafocal area it appears slightly greenish, while in the extrafocal area it shines reddish. The successor model FCD-100 shows no color differences between the intra- and extra-focal diffraction disks.
Figure 6: Orion Nebula 16 x 30 seconds, 800 ASA, ED127 CF FCD-100, 0.7 x Focal Reducer
a) Astrophotography with the Explore Scientific 0.7x focal reducer
Figure 7: Bellatrix and Betelgeuse, 5x30 seconds, 800 ASA
Figure 8: Complete picture of Betelgeuse, the inlays show the Star illustrations in the corners on the lower left and upper right
The photos in this review were taken with a modified Canon EOS 1100D. It can also be used for the absorption of hydrogen regions due to the lack of red filter. For the recordings, the camera was connected directly to a laptop via a USB cable and operated exclusively via the Canon "long-distance shot" menu. The focus was set on the live image in 10x zoom mode. Exposure time and sensitivity were also controlled via the laptop. The pictures could be viewed directly after the picture was taken on the screen. The pictures were taken with an exposure time of 30 seconds at 800 ASA. To reduce noise, flat and dark images were also created.
With my FCD01 model, the sharpness can be easily adjusted by the color of the diffraction disk. As soon as the color becomes minimal, or changes from a slight green cast to reddish, the perfect focus is found. This method always worked well and led to quick results. In which Successor model FCD-100, this method could not be applied due to the color purity. Therefore it took some practice to find the right focus. A self-made focusing aid has proven to be helpful. The focusing aid consisted of a ring that was placed on the dew cap. Attached to the ring was a thin ridge that ran through the center, creating a one-dimensional diffraction pattern in the image. Based on the diffraction image was the adjustment of sharpness.
The focusing aid was removed again for photography and bright stars in Orion were once again chosen as test objects. Figure 7 shows Bellatrix (spectral type B2) and Betelgeuse (spectral type M2) taken with the FCD01 and the FCD-100. Exposing time was 5 × 30 seconds and corresponding flat pictures were taken. The different colors are shown very nice in both models. Due to the red sensitivity of the camera, a correspondingly large halo appears around Betelgeuse.
Für For deep sky shots of extended objects not only the color but also the marginal image is of interest. Figure 8 therefore shows the complete picture of Betelgeuse taken with the FCD-100. The inlays show the star pictures in two opposite corners. The 0.7x Focal Reducer levels the image over the entire APS-C format of the camera. Very red stars in the border area are no longer 100% displayed due to dispersion phenomena. The strength of this effect depends on the spectral type of the star and of course on the red sensitivity of the camera and can be observed only at full image resolution (here 4273 pixels x 2848 pixels).
On the basis of the flat images, the vignetting of the two telescopes could also be determined very easily. The vignetting is shown by the edge darkening of the image field. In both models, the brightness drops to around 77% of the center brightness in the outermost corners. This corresponds to about half an aperture.
Figure 6 shows another shot of the Orion Nebula taken with the FCD-100. At the time of shooting, the sky was already lit by the half moon. The colors of the stars are rendered beautifully. There was no color correction during the image process, only the tonal values have been changed. In the predecessor model FCD01, the stars appear on deep sky shots usually with a slight green tint, which is easy to correct in subsequent image editing.
7. Conclusion
In all tests, the FCD-100 has shown no color errors, while the previous model FCD01 still has low color errors. With the improved look of the FCD-100, Explore Scientific / Bresser has reached the limits of color purity in imaging. Bei der Fotografie ist es beim FCD-100 schwieriger den exakten Fokus zu finden wie beim Vorgängermodell FCD01. Eine Fokussierhilfe und etwas Übung verhelfen aber auch hier zum gewünschten Ergebnis.
In photography, the FCD-100 is harder to find the exact focus like the previous model FCD01. A focus aid and a little bit of practice help to achieve the desired result.
The border image on both models is in conjunction with the Explore Scientific 0.7 x Focal Reducer APS-C format punctiform.
The image field illumination is very uniform and shows only slight vignetting.
The 2.5-inch Hexafoc extract is built mechanically very stable and can be rotated as a whole. This allows a camera to be arbitrarily aligned with the focus position almost preserved.
Due to the 15 mm shorter tube on the FCD-100 compared to the FCD01, the intrafocal area of the hexafoc is significantly larger. This also means that orthoscopic Eyepieces (for example, measuring eyepieces) can be used without removing the extension sleeve.
Overall, the Explore Scientific 127 FCD-100 is a fantastic 5-inch telescope that
impresses visually and photographically. In addition, it is transportable with a
weight of just under 7 kg and is also carried by a GP-DX or comparable mount.
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Product information "EXPLORE SCIENTIFIC 3" 0.7x Reducer/corrector"
The EXPLORE SCIENTIFIC 3" 0.7x Reducer/corrector, reduces a compatible telescope's focal length by a factor of 0.7x (for around f/8) and 0.8x (for around f/10) respectively. The reducer/corrector not only reduces the focal length but also flattens the field. Although originally developed for the Explore Scientific ED-APOs 127mm and 152mm, the reducer can be used with many systems - for example with the Explore Scientific ED-APOs 102mm and 165mm (please note, this will not work on the Explore Scientific 80mm ED Apo refractors though). With certain telescope focal lengths, a slight restriction of the correction at the edge of the image field can be expected when using full-frame sensors. This unit comes with 3" barrel adaptor for direct focuser thread M54x0.75 (the standard focuser thread of the Explore Scientific Essential series of ED Apos) and T2 camera adaptor. This reducer/corrector features a free aperture of 65mm, so that it can be used even with cameras that have a large sensor - if the telescope allows for this.
Note: As previously mentioned, this Reducer/corrector comes with a screw on ring, which fits the standard focuser thread of the Explore Scientific Essential series of ED Apos. For telescopes which are equipped with the 2.5" HEX Focuser, the optional screw-on adapter part no: 0510366 is needed. Other telescopes, not in the Explore Scientific range, with standard 2" push-fit focusers will need the Explore Scientific 2" Adaptor for 3" Corrector - part no: 0510364 to get this reducer correctly fitted.
SPECIFICATIONS
Reduces the focal length by 0.7x at f/8
Flattens the field for astrophotography
Developed for ED127 und ED152 APO telescopes
Also fits Explore Scientific ED102 and ED165 telescopes - and others
Free aperture: 65mm
Inner thread for telescope adaption: M76x0.75mm
Outer thread for camera adaption: M72x0.75mm
3" focuser barrel adaptor included
Adaptor for Explore Scientific focuser M54x0.75mm included
General safety instructions DANGER Risk of eye injuries! Never look directly at the sun or near the sun through this device. There is a risk of blindness! Children should only use the device under supervision. Keep packaging materials (plastic bags, rubber bands, etc.) away from children! There is a risk of suffocation! FIRE HAZARD! Do not expose the device – especially the lenses – to direct sunlight! The light concentration could cause fires. RISK of material damage! Do not dismantle the device! In case of a defect, please contact your dealer. They will contact the service center and may send the device in for repair. Do not expose the device to temperatures above 60°C!
Never look at the sun through an eyepiece/telescope without a certified protection filter. A moon filter can never be used for solar observation. The moon filter is only suitable for moon observation. The solar filter must be mounted in front of the telescope opening, not at the eyepiece. Otherwise, the concentrated light beam through the optics will immediately destroy the filter foil, leading to severe eye damage, including permanent blindness.
Never leave the optics unattended. Children and inexperienced adults could point the telescope at the sun without proper precautions and lose their eyesight.
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This adaptor enables you to connect the 0510360 0.7x focal reducer/field flattner to telescopes that feature the 2.5" Hexafoc. The big inner diameter of the 2.5" Hexafoc is fully utilised with this adaptor to avoid vignetting.What's Included1x Hexafoc 2.5 adaptor for 3" 0.7x Corrector ring
Highly corrected 102mm air-spaced triplet apochromat (with three lenses) and aluminium tube and a 2.5" high-precision HEXAFOC focuser. Apochromats are the ultimate choice in small to medium sized telescopes: the combination of compactness, transportability, very high image contrast and sharpness together with the possibility to make excellent astrophotos cannot be bested. The advances in glass manufacturing during the last few years have made true apochromats available to more astronomy enthusiasts than ever before. The new Explore Scientific FCD-100 Alu Hex represents another major improvement in this field - the overall correction (color and spherical) is setting new standards in this price class. The optical design shows a polystrehl value of 0,97 indicating a level of correction that is absolutely top of the line.This excellent apochromat is a very versatile telescope: the fast f-ratio makes short exposure times possible. The high contrast and sharpness of the image provide breathtaking views of large objects like the North america nebula or the Andromeda galaxy as well as tack sharp planetary images. The telescope is lightweight and compact - the dew shield slides down the tube to minimize size for transportation. Revolutionary glass and precision manufacturing created a telescope that offers observing joy on the highest level. This does not only qualify this telescope as the ideal travel scope, it is also the perfect choice for fast observations and for astrophotography. The excellent 2,5" HEXAFOC focuser with 10:1 reduction is perfect for this - the large inner diameter of 65mm prevents vignetting by the focuser when the telescope is used for astrophotography with large sensors. These very popular EXPLORE SCIENTIFIC Triplet ED APO Refractors we do offer in 3 different product lines:Essential Line: HOYA FCD-1 Glass lens, AL-Tube, 2.0" Rack&Pinion Focusser with 1:10, 2.0" Star Diagonal 99% Reflectivity (see Part No. 0112084(AL), 0112106(AL), 0112132(AL)), 0112155(CF + 3"FT)) Professional Line: HOYA FCD-100 Glas lens, AL/CF-Tube, 2.5" HEXAFOC Focusser with 1:10, 2.0" Star Diagonal 99% Reflectivity (see Part No. 0112086(AL), 0112108(AL), 0112109(CF), 0112134(AL), 0112135(CF))High-End Line: OHARA FPL-53 Glass lens, Carbon(CF) Tube, 3.0" Feather-Touch Focusser with 1:10, 2.0" Star Diagonal 99% Reflectivity (see Part No. 0112165(CF))SPECIFICATIONSAperture: 102mmFocal Length: 714mmFocal ratio: f/7.0Weigth: 4,0kgBackfocus: 150mm above 2" adaptorDesign: Apochromat with three lenses, two air spaces and FCD-100 glassSCOPE OF DELIVERYOptical tube with retractable dew-shield2.5" HEX focuser with 1:10 gear reduction 2" Star Diagonal 99% reflectivityTube rings with dovetail plate and handleDust caps for front-lens and focuserUniversal finder slot
Highly corrected 127mm air-spaced triplet apochromat (with three lenses) and carbon fibre tube and a 2.5" high-precision HEXAFOC focuser. NEW: Now with hybrid viewfinder shoe to accept different viewfinder holders. Apochromats are the ultimate choice in small to medium sized telescopes: the combination of compactness, transportability, very high image contrast and sharpness together with excellent astrophotographic performance cannot be bested. The advances in glass manufacturing during the last few years have made true apochromats available to more astronomy enthusiasts than ever before. The new Explore Scientific FCD-100 CF Hex represents another major improvement in this field - the overall correction (colour and spherical) is setting new standards in this price class. The optical design shows a polystrehl value of 0.97 indicating a level of correction that is absolutely top of the line.This excellent apochromat is a very versatile telescope: its reasonably fast f-ratio makes for short exposure times when imaging deep sky objects, but it is still of a significant focal length, making higher power planetary and lunar observation comfortable without having to use really high magnification eyepieces. The high contrast and sharpness of the image provide breathtaking views of large objects like the North America nebula or the Andromeda galaxy, as well as tack sharp planetary images. The telescope is lightweight and compact - the dew shield slides down the tube to minimize size for transportation. Revolutionary glass and precision manufacturing come together to deliver a telescope that offers observing and imaging at the highest level. The Carbon Fibre construction allows this telescope to be used on lower capacity mounts, increasing convenience and portability. Although there are smaller instruments available, the combination of aperture and optical excellence at such a low weight and compact tube makes this an excellent travel scope. The well-designed 2.5" HEXAFOC focuser with 10:1 reduction is perfect for both visual and astrophotographic use - the large inner diameter of 65mm prevents vignetting by the focuser when the telescope is used for astrophotography with large sensors (full frame and above).We offer the very popular EXPLORE SCIENTIFIC Triplet ED APO Refractors in 3 different product lines:Essential Line: HOYA FCD-1 Glass lens, AL-Tube, 2.0" Rack & Pinion Focuser with 1:10, 2.0" Star Diagonal 99% Reflectivity (see Part No. 0112084(AL), 0112106(AL), 0112132(AL)), 0112155(CF + 3"FT)). Professional Line: HOYA FCD-100 Glass lens, AL/CF-Tube, 2.5" HEXAFOC Focuser with 1:10, 2.0" Star Diagonal 99% Reflectivity (see Part No. 0112086(AL), 0112108(AL), 0112109(CF), 0112134(AL), 0112135(CF))High-End Line: OHARA FPL-53 Glass lens, Carbon(CF) Tube, 3.0" Feather-Touch Focuser with 1:10, 2.0" Star Diagonal 99% Reflectivity (see Part No. 0112165(CF))SPECIFICATIONSAperture: 127mmFocal Length: 952mmFocal ratio: f/7.5Design: Apochromat with three lenses, two air spaces and FCD-100 glassWeight: 5.2kg, lightweight due to carbon fibre tubeBackfocus: 150mm above 2" adaptorHybrid viewfinder shoe to accept different viewfinder holdersWHAT'S INCLUDED Optical tube with retractable dew-shield2.5" HEX focuser with 1:10 gear reduction 2" Star Diagonal 99% reflectivityTube rings with dovetail plate and handle Extension tubes for focuser (2pcs)Dust caps for front-lens and focuserHybrid viewfinder shoe
Highly corrected 127 mm air-spaced triplet apochromat (with three lenses) and aluminium tube and a 2.5'' high-precision HEXAFOC focuser. NEW: Now with hybrid viewfinder shoe to accept different viewfinder holders.
Apochromats are the ultimate choice in small to medium-sized telescopes: the combination of compactness, transportability, very high image contrast and sharpness together with the possibility to make excellent astrophotos cannot be bested. The advances in glass manufacturing during the last few years have made true apochromats available to more astronomy enthusiasts than ever before. The new Explore Scientific FCD-100 Alu Hex represents another major improvement in this field - the overall correction (colour and spherical) is setting new standards in this price class. The optical design shows a polystrehl value of 0.97 indicating a level of correction that is absolutely top of the line.
This excellent apochromat is a very versatile telescope: the fast f-ratio makes short exposure times possible. The high contrast and sharpness of the image provide breathtaking views of large objects like the North America nebula or the Andromeda Galaxy, as well as tack sharp planetary images. The telescope is lightweight and compact - the dew shield slides down the tube to minimize size for transportation. Revolutionary glass and precision manufacturing created a telescope that offers observing joy on the highest level. This does not only qualify this telescope as the ideal travel scope, it is also the perfect choice for fast observations and for astrophotography. The excellent 2,5'' HEXAFOC focuser with 10:1 reduction is perfect for this - the large inner diameter of 65 mm prevents vignetting by the focuser when the telescope is used for astrophotography with large sensors.
These very popular EXPLORE SCIENTIFIC Triplet ED APO Refractors we do offer in 3 different product lines:
Essential Line:
HOYA FCD-1 Glass lens, AL-Tube, 2.0'' Rack and Pinion Focusser with 1:10, 2.0'' Star Diagonal 99% Reflectivity (see Part No. 0112084(AL), 0112106(AL), 0112132(AL)), 0112155(CF + 3''FT)
Professional Line:
HOYA FCD-100 Glass lens, AL/CF-Tube, 2.5'' HEXAFOC Focusser with 1:10, 2.0'' Star Diagonal 99% Reflectivity (see Part No. 0112086(AL), 0112108(AL), 0112109(CF), 0112134(AL), 0112135(CF))
High-End Line:
OHARA FPL-53 Glass lens, Carbon(CF) Tube, 3.0'' Feather-Touch Focusser with 1:10, 2.0'' Star Diagonal 99% Reflectivity (see Part No. 0112165(CF))
SPECIFICATIONS
Aperture: 127 mm
Focal Length: 952 mm
Focal ratio: f/7.5
Design: Apochromat with three lenses, two air spaces and FCD-100 glass
Weight: 7.7 kg
Back focus: 150 mm above 2'' adaptor
Hybrid viewfinder shoe to accept different viewfinder holders
SCOPE OF DELIVERY
Optical tube with retractable dew-shield
2.5'' HEX focuser with 1:10 gear reduction
2'' Star Diagonal 99% reflectivity
Tube rings with dovetail plate and handle
Dust caps for front-lens and focuser
Hybrid viewfinder shoe
This adapter replaces the M42x0.75 Adapter for CCD Camera that comes standard with the EXPLORE SCIENTIFIC 3-inch Field Flattener/0.7x Focal Reducer. Allows the connection of a camera via M48x0.75 thread. The larger free inner diameter than T2/M42 effectively prevents vignetting when using a full format camera. The illumination of the camera sensor is therefore optimised.FEATURESAllows the connection of a camera via M48x0.75 threadLarger free inner diameter than T2/M42No vignetting by using cameras with full frame sensor Fits to EXPLORE SCIENTIFIC 3" Flattener 0.7 x ReducerMade of black anodized aluminumSCOPE OF DELIVERYAdapter with M48x0,75 thread
The visual effect of these new 6,5mm 82° LER eyepieces with their long eye-relief and their 82° apparent field is truly a full-immersion experience. Your eye is relaxed, allowing you to easily use the averted vision technique to study faint details across a huge field-of-view. The 82° Series eyepieces come with foldable eyecups make handling and using in the field easy. As experienced astronomers know, eye comfort is critical when trying to observe at the visual limits of the telescope. To keep internal reflections to a minimum, all internal surfaces of the eyepiece barrel are flat black, as well as the edges of the lenses themselves to minimize the scattering of light within the lenses themselves.These eyepieces are the choice for observers wearing glasses - with excellent performance and durability. The patented EMD-coating produces high contrast images and prevents reflexes and ghosting. The argon purging effectively prevents internal fogging, and you don´t have to deal with dirt, fungus or cleansing fluids getting between the lenses. The eyepieces are sealed - this makes sure you will be able to enjoy these eyepieces for many years to come.Comfort, Quality, Value. The Explore Scientific 82° LER Series Most short focal length eyepieces are excellent flat-field multi-element oculars that can transform your visual astronomy experience. These extreme wide field eyepieces are optimized to produce high contrast and high resolution characteristics.SPECIFICATIONSLarge eye distance, large field and great image sharpnessExcellent viewing position for people with glassesExcellent field sharpness even with fast optics82° apparent field of viewArgon-purging prevents internal fogging, the sealing facilitates cleaningPatented EMD"-coating to maximize contrastBlackened lens edges to avoid reflexesAll eyepieces of this series are parfocalStainless steel barrel with conical security cutoffDust covers and protective bag includedSCOPE OF DELIVERY82° EyepieceDust coversProtective bag
Diagonals provide a user-friendly observing position for refractors and Cassegrain telescopes. The Explore Scientific 2" Diagonal Mirror here is precision machined from aluminium and contains carbon fibre parts. The large eyepiece port diameter of 2"(50.8mm) is ideal for modern wide angle eyepieces and a non-marring brass compression ring holds the eyepiece in place securely. The dielectric coating of the mirror delivers 99% reflectivity and is very durable against environmental influences. A step-down reducer to 1.25"(31.8mm) is included, so all of your 1.25" eyepieces and accessories can also be used.FEATURES Star diagonal mirror for focuser with 2" barrel High quality flat mirror Dielectrical mirror coating delivers 99% reflectivity Very durable against environmental influences Brass eyepiece clamping ring Housing completely made of metal Dust caps included WHAT'S INCLUDEDdiagonal mirror dust caps
This adaptor enables you to connect the 0510360 0.7x focal reducer/field flattner to telescopes that feature the 2.5" Hexafoc. The big inner diameter of the 2.5" Hexafoc is fully utilised with this adaptor to avoid vignetting.What's Included1x Hexafoc 2.5 adaptor for 3" 0.7x Corrector ring
Explore Scientific 82° Series™ extreme wide field eyepieces are optimized to produce high contrast, high resolution, and superior flat field characteristics.
The visual effect of these eyepieces with their long eye-relief and their 82° apparent field is truly a full-immersion experience. Your eye is relaxed, allowing you to easily use the "averted vision" technique to study faint details across a huge field-of-view. The 82° Series eyepieces come with a twist-up rubber eye-guard that raise to the desired height for the comfort of the observer, and as experienced astronomers know, eye comfort is critical when trying to observe at the visual limits of the telescope. To keep internal reflections to a minimum, all internal surfaces of the eyepiece barrel are flat black, as well as the edges of the lenses themselves to minimize the scattering of light within the lenses themselves.
All 82° Series eyepieces are fully multi-coated and edge-blackened to produce maximum contrast.
One of the most important obstacles for the exploration of the night sky is the brightening of the night sky by artificial lights, such as streetlights. The night sky is not really dark in the vicinity of towns or cities, which reduces the visibility of objects beyond the solar system enormously. Depending on the type of the celestial object, it is possible to dramatically increase the contrast by blocking annoying artificial light. The EXPLORE SCIENTIFIC UHC filter "zeros in" on the wavelengths of so-called emission nebulae. Those objects glow in special colours - their emission lines. Those emission lines are linked to chemical elements - in this case hydrogen at 486nm and 656nm, plus oxygen at 496nm and 501nm. The EXPLORE SCIENTIFIC UHC nebula filter blocks all other colour wavelengths (and thereby nearly all of artificial light) and only the emission line of the hydrogen and oxygen can pass the filter. The result is astonishing: suddenly nebulae are visible at locations that were completely invisible from, without filters. In suburban skies, for example the Owl-nebula M97, the Veil-nebula NGC 6992 or even the bright Dumbell-nebula M27 are not clearly visible. Using this filter allows you to see nebulae and their structures in much finer detail. A must for every visual observer.
The Explore Scientific nebula filters come with a individual test certificate - your guarantee to receive a premium filter.
Highly corrected 127 mm air-spaced triplet apochromat (with three lenses) and aluminium tube and a 2.5'' high-precision HEXAFOC focuser. NEW: Now with hybrid viewfinder shoe to accept different viewfinder holders.
Apochromats are the ultimate choice in small to medium-sized telescopes: the combination of compactness, transportability, very high image contrast and sharpness together with the possibility to make excellent astrophotos cannot be bested. The advances in glass manufacturing during the last few years have made true apochromats available to more astronomy enthusiasts than ever before. The new Explore Scientific FCD-100 Alu Hex represents another major improvement in this field - the overall correction (colour and spherical) is setting new standards in this price class. The optical design shows a polystrehl value of 0.97 indicating a level of correction that is absolutely top of the line.
This excellent apochromat is a very versatile telescope: the fast f-ratio makes short exposure times possible. The high contrast and sharpness of the image provide breathtaking views of large objects like the North America nebula or the Andromeda Galaxy, as well as tack sharp planetary images. The telescope is lightweight and compact - the dew shield slides down the tube to minimize size for transportation. Revolutionary glass and precision manufacturing created a telescope that offers observing joy on the highest level. This does not only qualify this telescope as the ideal travel scope, it is also the perfect choice for fast observations and for astrophotography. The excellent 2,5'' HEXAFOC focuser with 10:1 reduction is perfect for this - the large inner diameter of 65 mm prevents vignetting by the focuser when the telescope is used for astrophotography with large sensors.
These very popular EXPLORE SCIENTIFIC Triplet ED APO Refractors we do offer in 3 different product lines:
Essential Line:
HOYA FCD-1 Glass lens, AL-Tube, 2.0'' Rack and Pinion Focusser with 1:10, 2.0'' Star Diagonal 99% Reflectivity (see Part No. 0112084(AL), 0112106(AL), 0112132(AL)), 0112155(CF + 3''FT)
Professional Line:
HOYA FCD-100 Glass lens, AL/CF-Tube, 2.5'' HEXAFOC Focusser with 1:10, 2.0'' Star Diagonal 99% Reflectivity (see Part No. 0112086(AL), 0112108(AL), 0112109(CF), 0112134(AL), 0112135(CF))
High-End Line:
OHARA FPL-53 Glass lens, Carbon(CF) Tube, 3.0'' Feather-Touch Focusser with 1:10, 2.0'' Star Diagonal 99% Reflectivity (see Part No. 0112165(CF))
SPECIFICATIONS
Aperture: 127 mm
Focal Length: 952 mm
Focal ratio: f/7.5
Design: Apochromat with three lenses, two air spaces and FCD-100 glass
Weight: 7.7 kg
Back focus: 150 mm above 2'' adaptor
Hybrid viewfinder shoe to accept different viewfinder holders
SCOPE OF DELIVERY
Optical tube with retractable dew-shield
2.5'' HEX focuser with 1:10 gear reduction
2'' Star Diagonal 99% reflectivity
Tube rings with dovetail plate and handle
Dust caps for front-lens and focuser
Hybrid viewfinder shoe
This adaptor enables you to connect the 0510360 0.7x focal reducer/field flattner to telescopes that feature the 2.5" Hexafoc. The big inner diameter of the 2.5" Hexafoc is fully utilised with this adaptor to avoid vignetting.What's Included1x Hexafoc 2.5 adaptor for 3" 0.7x Corrector ring
Five extension tubes from 30 to 5mm length with thread connection M48x0,75mm in a set. For adjusting different distances of the camera to the focal plane of the telescope or the corrector/field flattener. There is an M48.0,75 internal and external thread in each individual tube. The M48x0.75 thread is also called large T2 photo thread or 2.0 inch filter thread. Camera specific bayonet adapters or color and nebula filters can be used. Included are 5 different tubes with the steps 30, 20, 15, 10 and 5 mm. The larger free inner diameter of 45.0 mm effectively prevents undesired vignetting of the camera sensor. The outer diameter of the sleeves is exactly 50.65 mm and can therefore be mounted directly in any 2 inch diameter eyepiece adapter. FEATURES Extension sleeves M48x0,75 in set Five extension sleeves: 30, 20, 15, 10, 5 mm Use with correctors and field flatteners Distance adjustment from camera to focal plane Suitable for camera-specific bayonet adapters Also suitable for 2.0 inch colour and nebular filters Internal and external thread M48x0.75 mm (large T2 thread) Large inner diameter of 45.0 mm Outer diameter is 50.65 mm (2 inches) Black matt anodized aluminium Total weight 85 grams SCOPE OF DELIVERY Extension sleeves M48x0.75 (5 pieces)
Highly corrected 127mm air-spaced triplet apochromat (with three lenses) and carbon fibre tube and a 2.5" high-precision HEXAFOC focuser. NEW: Now with hybrid viewfinder shoe to accept different viewfinder holders. Apochromats are the ultimate choice in small to medium sized telescopes: the combination of compactness, transportability, very high image contrast and sharpness together with excellent astrophotographic performance cannot be bested. The advances in glass manufacturing during the last few years have made true apochromats available to more astronomy enthusiasts than ever before. The new Explore Scientific FCD-100 CF Hex represents another major improvement in this field - the overall correction (colour and spherical) is setting new standards in this price class. The optical design shows a polystrehl value of 0.97 indicating a level of correction that is absolutely top of the line.This excellent apochromat is a very versatile telescope: its reasonably fast f-ratio makes for short exposure times when imaging deep sky objects, but it is still of a significant focal length, making higher power planetary and lunar observation comfortable without having to use really high magnification eyepieces. The high contrast and sharpness of the image provide breathtaking views of large objects like the North America nebula or the Andromeda galaxy, as well as tack sharp planetary images. The telescope is lightweight and compact - the dew shield slides down the tube to minimize size for transportation. Revolutionary glass and precision manufacturing come together to deliver a telescope that offers observing and imaging at the highest level. The Carbon Fibre construction allows this telescope to be used on lower capacity mounts, increasing convenience and portability. Although there are smaller instruments available, the combination of aperture and optical excellence at such a low weight and compact tube makes this an excellent travel scope. The well-designed 2.5" HEXAFOC focuser with 10:1 reduction is perfect for both visual and astrophotographic use - the large inner diameter of 65mm prevents vignetting by the focuser when the telescope is used for astrophotography with large sensors (full frame and above).We offer the very popular EXPLORE SCIENTIFIC Triplet ED APO Refractors in 3 different product lines:Essential Line: HOYA FCD-1 Glass lens, AL-Tube, 2.0" Rack & Pinion Focuser with 1:10, 2.0" Star Diagonal 99% Reflectivity (see Part No. 0112084(AL), 0112106(AL), 0112132(AL)), 0112155(CF + 3"FT)). Professional Line: HOYA FCD-100 Glass lens, AL/CF-Tube, 2.5" HEXAFOC Focuser with 1:10, 2.0" Star Diagonal 99% Reflectivity (see Part No. 0112086(AL), 0112108(AL), 0112109(CF), 0112134(AL), 0112135(CF))High-End Line: OHARA FPL-53 Glass lens, Carbon(CF) Tube, 3.0" Feather-Touch Focuser with 1:10, 2.0" Star Diagonal 99% Reflectivity (see Part No. 0112165(CF))SPECIFICATIONSAperture: 127mmFocal Length: 952mmFocal ratio: f/7.5Design: Apochromat with three lenses, two air spaces and FCD-100 glassWeight: 5.2kg, lightweight due to carbon fibre tubeBackfocus: 150mm above 2" adaptorHybrid viewfinder shoe to accept different viewfinder holdersWHAT'S INCLUDED Optical tube with retractable dew-shield2.5" HEX focuser with 1:10 gear reduction 2" Star Diagonal 99% reflectivityTube rings with dovetail plate and handle Extension tubes for focuser (2pcs)Dust caps for front-lens and focuserHybrid viewfinder shoe
Highly corrected 102mm air-spaced triplet apochromat (with three lenses) and carbon fiber tube and a 2.5" high-precision HEXAFOC focuser. Apochromats are the ultimate choice in small to medium sized telescopes: the combination of compactness, transportability, very high image contrast and sharpness together with the possibility to make excellent astrophotos cannot be bested. The advances in glass manufacturing during the last few years have made true apochromats available to more astronomy enthusiasts than ever before. The new Explore Scientific FCD-100 CF Hex represents another major improvement in this field - the overall correction (color and spherical) is setting new standards in this price class. The optical design shows a polystrehl value of 0,97 indicating a level of correction that is absolutely top of the line.This excellent apochromat is a very versatile telescope: the fast f-ratio makes short exposure times possible. The high contrast and sharpness of the image provide breathtaking views of large objects like the North america nebula or the Andromeda galaxy as well as tack sharp planetary images. The telescope is lightweight and compact - the dew shield slides down the tube to minimize size for transportation. Revolutionary glass and precision manufacturing created a telescope that offers observing joy on the highest level. This does not only qualify this telescope as the ideal travel scope, it is also the perfect choice for fast observations and for astrophotography. The excellent 2,5" HEXAFOC focuser with 10:1 reduction is perfect for this - the large inner diameter of 65mm prevents vignetting by the focuser when the telescope is used for astrophotography with large sensors. These very popular EXPLORE SCIENTIFIC Triplet ED APO Refractors we do offer in 3 different product lines:Essential Line: HOYA FCD-1 Glass lens, AL-Tube, 2.0" Rack&Pinion Focusser with 1:10, 2.0" Star Diagonal 99% Reflectivity (see Part No. 0112084(AL), 0112106(AL), 0112132(AL)), 0112155(CF + 3"FT)) Professional Line: HOYA FCD-100 Glas lens, AL/CF-Tube, 2.5" HEXAFOC Focusser with 1:10, 2.0" Star Diagonal 99% Reflectivity (see Part No. 0112086(AL), 0112108(AL), 0112109(CF), 0112134(AL), 0112135(CF))High-End Line: OHARA FPL-53 Glass lens, Carbon(CF) Tube, 3.0" Feather-Touch Focusser with 1:10, 2.0" Star Diagonal 99% Reflectivity (see Part No. 0112165(CF))SPECIFICATIONSAperture: 102mmFocal Length: 714mmFocal ratio: f/7.0Design: Apochromat with three lenses, two air spaces and FCD-100 glassWeigth: 3,3kg , lightweight due to carbon fiber tubeBackfocus: 150mm above 2" adaptorDesign: Apochromat with three lenses, two air spaces and FCD-100 glassSCOPE OF DELIVERYOptical tube with retractable dew-shield2.5" HEX focuser with 1:10 gear reduction 2" Star Diagonal 99% reflectivityTube rings with dovetail plate and handleExtension tubes for focusser (2pcs)Dust caps for front-lens and focuserUniversal finder slot
The image plane of many telescopes is not plane, but curved. This results in a picture that has its optimal focus only in the center of the field of view - the edge of the field is out of focus and thus unsharp. The human eye is able to accomodate most of this but a camera will show stars that get increasingly unsharp towards the edge of the field. The Explore Scientific Multi Purpose Curvature Corrector eliminates field curvature in a variety of telescopes - Explore Scientific Apos and many other refractors and cassegrain telescopes. This increases the edge sharpness in the image drastically. Improves edge sharpness not only with Explore Scientific Apos, but also with many other refractor and cassegrain telescopes. This image field leveller fits all Canon EOS cameras, but can also be used for other camera types due to the universal T2 thread connection. This requires an optional camera-specific T2 ring. SPECIFICATIONSImage flattener for Canon EOS cameras Eliminates the field curvature of ED APO telescopes Can also be used for various cassegrains The image sharpness at the edge is drastically increased 2 inch/50.8mm push-in connector with filter thread T2 threaded connection (M42x0,75mm) Full multi-coating on all lens surfaces Stainless steel housingAdapter for Canon EOS bayonet included DELIVERY SCOPE Bildfeldebner Canon EOS (1 piece)
€116.00*
€145.00*(20% saved)
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