Explore Scientific ED APO 102mm f/7 FCD-100 CF HEX

Explore Scientific ED APO 102mm f/7 FCD-100 CF HEX

Description

The Explore Scientific ED APO 102mm f/7 FCD-100 CF HEX is a high-end apochromatic refractor designed for both demanding visual observers and astrophotographers. It features a triplet objective with two air-separated elements and a central HOYA FCD-100 ED glass lens, delivering exceptional color correction and contrast. With a polystrehl of 0.97, this refractor ensures crisp, detailed views free of chromatic aberrations.

Thanks to its carbon fiber tube, the telescope is remarkably lightweight at only 3.3 kg, making it an ideal travel telescope or portable astrograph. The integrated retractable dew shield enhances its compactness and makes transport and setup easier.

Its 2.5" HEXAFOC Deluxe focuser, equipped with a 1:10 dual-speed reduction and a generous clear aperture of 65mm, allows for smooth and precise focusing, even with heavy cameras. The large drawtube diameter helps avoid vignetting even with larger imaging sensors.

This APO is perfectly suited for a wide range of applications:

• Deep-sky imaging (e.g., North America Nebula, Andromeda Galaxy),

• Lunar and planetary observation,

• Daytime terrestrial viewing,

• And quick grab-and-go sessions thanks to its portability.

The build quality and optical performance position this model in the "Professional Line" of Explore Scientific's refractor lineup, above the Essential series (FCD-1 glass) and below the High-End line (FPL-53 glass with Feather-Touch focusers).

Technical Specifications

Optical System:

• Optical Design: Triplet Apochromatic Refractor (3-lens objective)

• Lens Configuration: 2 air-spaced elements with central HOYA FCD-100 ED element

• Aperture: 102 mm

• Focal Length: 714 mm

• Focal Ratio: f/7

• Resolution: 1.35 arcseconds

• Limiting Magnitude: approx. 12

• Maximum Useful Magnification: 200x

• Optical Coating: Enhanced Multilayer Deposition (EMD)

• Strehl Ratio (Polystrehl): 0.97

Tube & Mechanics:

• Tube Material: Carbon fiber

• Tube Diameter: 121 mm

• Tube Length: 640 mm (retracted dew shield: 550 mm)

• Tube Weight: 3.3 kg (optical tube only), approx. 4.5 kg with accessories

• Dew Shield: Retractable

• Focuser: 2.5" HEXAFOC Deluxe focuser with 10:1 fine adjustment

• Back Focus Distance: 150 mm from the rear end of the drawtube

• Visual Back: 2" with extension tubes included

Included Accessories

• Optical tube assembly with FCD-100 Triplet objective

• 2" 99% dielectric diagonal

• 2 extension tubes for drawtube

• Tube rings with Vixen-style dovetail bar and integrated carry handle (with camera mounting option)

• Dust caps for objective and focuser

• Universal finder shoe

Construction & Material

• Finish: Visible carbon fiber

• Color: Black/Carbon

• Materials: Carbon fiber tube, aluminum accessories

• Front Lens Material: HOYA FCD-100 ED glass

• Length: 640 mm (560 mm without dew shield)

• Weight (optical tube with accessories): approx. 4.5 kg

• Heaviest component: 3.3 kg

• Prism Rail: 44 mm Vixen-type with stainless steel reinforcement (compatible with GP/EQ5/EXOS mounts)

Use Cases & Target Audience

• Ideal for:

  • Deep-sky astrophotography

  • Lunar and planetary imaging

  • Visual observation of DSOs and Solar System objects

  • Travel and mobile observing setups

• Suitable for:

  • Advanced amateurs

  • Visual observers

  • Researchers and imaging specialists

Additional Information

• Focuser connection: 2" (50.8 mm)

• Not height adjustable (no tripod included)

• No battery required or included

• Extended warranty: 10 years (after registration)