This Explore Scientific carbon fiber series ED102CF 102mm f/7 Apo Triplet Refractor Telescope package gives users a complete observational rig that includes a lightweight refractor optical tube assembly (OTA), a precise GoTo mount with the StarTracker computer hand controller, and a 2" adjustable-height stainless steel tripod - all that is required to start observing is a 2" eyepiece, available separately.
The ED102 102mm f/7 Carbon Fiber Refractor Telescope from Explore Scientific is a versatile optical tube assembly that is powerful enough to clearly see the planets and bright deep sky objects. It has a relatively small form-factor that makes it perfect as a portable grab-and-go option, or set up on a dual-mount rig for astrophotography/astroimaging. Using Extra-low Dispersion (ED) glass in a triplet lens configuration, with fully multicoated optics, creates images that are clear and bright without distortion across the entire field of view, with true color rendition.
Its carbon fiber optical tube is temperature-resistant with reduced expansion/contraction due to temperature changes that can affect the fine focusing abilities under extreme fluctuations. The carbon fiber is durable while reducing the overall weight. A 2" 90° star diagonal is included for comfortable viewing and aids in viewing objects approaching the zenith.
- 102mm objective lens
- 714mm focal length
- Focal ratio: f/7
- Refractor-style optical design
- Extra-low Dispersion (ED) glass
- Proprietary anti-reflection EMD enhanced multicoatings on all optics
- Triplet optical design virtually eliminates chromatic aberrations
- Carbon fiber OTA eliminates focus change due to shrinking/expansion caused by temperature changes
- 2" rack-and-pinion focuser
- Bracket for user-supplied finderscope
- 2" 90° star diagonal included
- Two 2" threaded extender-tubes provide additional back-focus range if required
- 1.25" eyepiece adapter to use smaller barreled eyepieces/accessories
- Vixen-style dovetail plate for easy compatibility with a variety of mounts
- Lightweight and durable carbon fiber optical tube
Built for use by beginners or experienced amateurs, Bresser's Exos-2GT Computerized German Equatorial Mount with Tripod helps take the guess-work out of astronomy and gets you observing faster by combining an EQ mount and stainless steel tripod with a 100,000+ database computer guidance system and dual-axis motors. The mount is designed for refractors up to 152mm aperture and reflectors of up to 203mm, with a maximum payload capacity of 29 pounds. It features a GP-level dovetail saddle for compatible OTAs and an integrated bubble level to assist in set-up.
The SkyTracker kit includes the hand controller unit, and right ascension and declination motors. Its hand controller has more than 100,000 objects with the ability for users to input custom coordinates and favorites. With a slew speed of 2°/second and nine tracking speeds the SkyTracker can accurately keep near and deep sky objects such as the Moon, planets, galaxies and nebulae centered in your eyepiece for long exposure imaging and astrophotography or prolonged observation sessions.
The tripod is built with large 2" diameter stainless steel legs and tight tolerances to reduce vibration for clearer viewing. A center stabilizer bar pulls the accessory tray up to lock the legs in place adding further rigidity and vibration reduction. It is adjustable from 29 to 49" to accommodate a wide range of users and features large thumbscrews for tool-free adjustment in the field. An adjustable plastic tray is also included with the tripod to keep eyepieces, flashlights, and other accessories safe and at the ready.
- Cast aluminum with white powder-coat
- GP-level dovetail saddle to mount compatible OTAs
- Ball bearings on both axes reduce vibrations and minimize backlash
- Integrated bubble level on mount base
- 9.9lb (4.5kg) counterweight with 20mm diameter bar
- Latitude, Right Ascension, and Declination scales
- Right ascension axis release lever allows for fast adjustment
- Dual-axis DC servo motors with digital encoders
- Database includes over 100,000 astronomical objects
- Add user-defined objects and favorites
- Controls dual axis motors for precision tracking
- Slewing speed: 2° per second
- Nine tracking rates for near and deep-sky objects
- 2.5x1.4" (6.3x3.6cm) LCD screen, eight-rows with 21 digits per row
- Three-section adjustable-height
- 29lb payload capacity
- 2.0" stainless steel legs
- 29 to 49" height range
- Center stabilizer bar locks legs in place to reduce vibrations
- Accessory tray with holes for 1.25" eyepieces
- Spiked feet for use in ground and grass for increased stability, especially on rough or uneven area