ED102 Essential Series Air-Spaced Triplet APO Refractor Telescope
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ED102 Essential Series Air-Spaced Triplet APO Refractor Telescope
Description
The Explore Scientific ED102 Essential Series is a true apochromat refractor telescope built for astronomers who refuse to compromise on optical quality. Featuring an advanced air-spaced triplet design with genuine HOYA FCD1 extra-low dispersion glass and proprietary EMD multi-layer coatings, it eliminates chromatic aberration and delivers razor-sharp, high-contrast views across the entire field. Whether you're studying the craters of the Moon, the rings of Saturn, or distant deep-sky nebulae, the 102mm aperture strikes an ideal balance between light-gathering power and portability.
Equally at home as a visual instrument or a serious astrophotography platform, the ED102 pairs its premium optics with a precision 2" rack-and-pinion focuser and included extension tubes for broad imaging equipment compatibility. Lightweight and travel-ready, this scope is engineered to go wherever the night sky takes you - without sacrificing the performance that demanding observers expect.
Key Features
- True APO Air-Spaced Triplet Optics: Three-element air-spaced lens design produces genuine apochromatic correction, virtually eliminating chromatic aberration for crisp, color-accurate views.
- HOYA FCD1 ED Glass: Premium extra-low dispersion glass from Hoya ensures exceptional light transmission and color fidelity that sets a high bar at this price point.
- Proprietary EMD Multi-Layer Coatings: Explore Scientific's EMD coatings maximize light throughput and contrast, delivering brilliantly detailed images even on faint targets.
- 102mm Aperture, f/7 Focal Ratio: A 714mm focal length at f/7 makes the ED102 versatile for both wide-field deep-sky imaging and high-magnification planetary observation.
- Precision 2" Rack-and-Pinion Focuser: Smooth, reliable focusing with included extension tubes ensures compatibility with a wide range of eyepieces and camera systems.
- Astrophotography-Ready: Optical and mechanical design supports serious imaging setups right out of the box - no upgrade needed to get started with deep-sky or planetary photography.
- Limiting Magnitude of 12.5: Reaches stars and objects well beyond naked-eye visibility, opening up a wealth of galaxies, nebulae, and star clusters.
- 1.14 Arcsec Resolution: Resolves fine planetary detail and tight double stars with excellent sharpness.
- Vixen Dovetail Compatible: Standard Vixen dovetail bar fits a wide range of alt-azimuth and equatorial mounts for flexible setup options.
- Lightweight & Portable (12 lb / 5.4 kg): Compact enough for travel and remote observing sessions without sacrificing aperture or optical quality.
Aperture Options & Which to Choose
- 80MM f/6: The most compact and lightweight option in the Essential Series - ideal for grab-and-go visual observing and wide-field astrophotography where portability is the top priority.
- 102MM f/7: The sweet spot of the lineup. The ED102 balances impressive aperture, a versatile focal ratio, and a manageable size - perfect for observers and imagers who want serious performance without a bulky setup.
- 127MM f/7.5: Steps up light-gathering and resolving power for observers who want to push deeper into the night sky and resolve finer planetary detail, while still remaining portable.
- 152MM f/8 CF: The flagship Essential Series carbon fiber model. Maximum aperture and a long focal length deliver the highest resolution and light collection in the lineup - built for serious astrophotographers and advanced visual observers who want top-tier performance.
What's Included
- ED102 Essential Series Air-Spaced Triplet APO Refractor Telescope (OTA)
- 2" Rack-and-Pinion Focuser
- Extension Tubes
- Dew Shield
- Vixen Dovetail Bar
Why You'll Love It
Explore Scientific has built a strong reputation among amateur astronomers and serious observers alike, and the ED102 Essential Series is a prime example of why. The combination of HOYA FCD1 glass and EMD multi-layer coatings puts genuine apochromatic performance within reach of observers who might otherwise have to spend significantly more to get there. Verified buyers have praised the optics for delivering absolutely no visible chromatic aberration - a high standard that many refractors at this price point simply cannot meet. Whether you're setting up in your backyard or heading to a dark-sky site, the ED102's lightweight build and Vixen dovetail compatibility make it easy to pair with virtually any mount in your kit. For astrophotographers, the 2" rack-and-pinion focuser and extension tubes provide the flexibility needed to dial in focus across a variety of camera systems. The ED102 is the kind of telescope you'll reach for night after night, year after year.
Product Specifications
View Product Specs
| Item Number | ES-ED10207-02 |
|---|---|
| Aperture | 102mm |
| Focal Length | 714mm |
| Focal Ratio | f/7 |
| Limiting Magnitude | 12.5 |
| Resolution | 1.14 arcsec |
| Tube Length (with Dew Shield) | 30.5 in / 774mm |
| Tube Length (without Dew Shield) | 23.75 in / 603mm |
| Tube Diameter | 119mm |
| Weight | 12 lb / 5.4 kg |
| Dovetail Type | Vixen |
| Optical Design | Air-Spaced Triplet APO Refractor |
| Glass Type | HOYA FCD1 Extra-Low Dispersion (ED) |
| Coatings | Proprietary EMD Multi-Layer |
| Focuser | 2" Rack-and-Pinion |
| Brand | Explore Scientific |
FAQ
What is the difference between an APO refractor and an achromatic refractor?
An apochromatic (APO) refractor uses a multi-element lens design - in this case, an air-spaced triplet - to bring three wavelengths of light to a common focal point, virtually eliminating chromatic aberration (false color fringing). A standard achromatic refractor corrects for only two wavelengths and typically shows noticeable purple or green fringing around bright objects like the Moon and planets. For serious visual observing and especially astrophotography, an APO like the ED102 produces dramatically cleaner, sharper, and more color-accurate images.
Is the ED102 suitable for astrophotography?
Yes - the ED102 is purpose-built to support imaging as well as visual use. The 2" rack-and-pinion focuser with extension tubes accommodates a wide range of DSLR cameras, mirrorless cameras, and dedicated astronomy cameras. The f/7 focal ratio and 714mm focal length make it well-suited for both planetary and deep-sky imaging. You will need a separate equatorial or tracking mount for long-exposure deep-sky photography.
Does the ED102 come with a mount or tripod?
No - the ED102 is sold as an optical tube assembly (OTA) with a Vixen dovetail bar. It is designed to be paired with your choice of alt-azimuth or equatorial mount. This gives you the flexibility to choose a mount that matches your observing style and budget. Explore Scientific offers several compatible mounts, and the Vixen dovetail standard ensures broad compatibility with third-party options as well.
Does it come with an eyepiece?
The ED102 includes a 2" rack-and-pinion focuser and extension tubes, but eyepieces are not included. You will need to purchase eyepieces separately. The 2" focuser accepts both 2" and 1.25" eyepieces (with the appropriate adapter), giving you a wide selection of compatible options to choose from.
What can I expect to see with the ED102?
With a 102mm aperture and a limiting magnitude of 12.5, the ED102 opens up a huge range of targets. You can expect crisp views of the Moon's craters and mountains, the cloud bands and moons of Jupiter, Saturn's rings, Mars surface features during opposition, and a wealth of deep-sky objects including nebulae, star clusters, and galaxies. The apochromatic optics ensure these views are rendered with exceptional contrast and minimal color distortion.
What warranty does the ED102 come with?
The ED102 comes with a limited warranty from Explore Scientific. To activate full warranty coverage, you must register your product within 60 days of purchase. Explore Scientific's warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship. Contact our team or visit Explore Scientific's warranty page for full details on coverage and the claims process.
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While many of our products are prepared and shipped out within 48 hours, some of our items are built to order or require custom pieces that could take 2-6 weeks to prepare before shipping! Please contact us at 888-884-2234 for a delivery ETA if you have a strict timeline.
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Returns & Refunds Policy
Return Policy
We have a 30-day return policy, which means you have 30 days after receiving your item to request a return.
To be eligible for a return, your item must be in the same condition that you received it, unworn or unused, with tags, and in its original packaging. You’ll also need the receipt or proof of purchase. To start a return, you can contact us at service@omahasportsandgames.com.
If your return request is accepted, it will be up to you as the buyer to return the item in its original packaging, unworn and unused. You as the buyer will be responsible for paying the return shipping. We may be able to assist you in scheduling a pickup for return but the payment will still be your responsibility. You can always contact us for any return question at service@omahasportsandgames.com.
All products are subject to a minimum 15% restocking fee based on the quality of the returned product and packaging.
Items opened, tested, used, or any other non-new condition may be eligible for return based on the manufacturer's return policy.
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| Specification name | Specification Value |
|---|---|
| Color pattern | White, Black |
| Material | Glass, Metal |
| Telescope level | Advanced |
| Telescope tracking system | Manual |