Explore Scientific FCD100 Refractor
Top Pick
Explore Scientific

Explore Scientific FCD100 Refractor

4.6

Best high performance refractor for serious deep sky astrophotography enthusiasts

This air-spaced triplet refractor delivers exceptional contrast and sharpness, making it a premier choice for serious visual observers and astrophotographers alike. The lightweight carbon fiber construction ensures portability without sacrificing structural rigidity, providing a stable platform for high-resolution imaging.

$1599.99

In stock

at

Explorescientific

Aperture Mm 127
102
127
Focal Length Mm 952
714
952

Who it's for

  • Astrophotographers seeking professional-grade color correction and clarity
  • Serious imagers using heavy DSLR or dedicated CMOS camera setups
  • Mobile observers who frequently transport gear to remote dark sites

Who should skip it

  • Budget-conscious hobbyists looking for an entry-level telescope
  • Users with lightweight mounts or limited physical lifting capacity
  • Impatient observers wanting to start viewing immediately after setup

Performance breakdown

Optical Clarity

Hoya FCD100 glass virtually eliminates false color for razor-sharp planetary views.

Excellent

Build Durability

Carbon fiber construction balances rugged field resilience with impressive thermal stability.

Excellent

Focusing Precision

The dual-speed hexagonal focuser handles heavy imaging gear without slipping.

Excellent

Portability

Lightweight design makes this a manageable setup for frequent travel observers.

Excellent

Mounting Versatility

Standard Vixen-style dovetail ensures compatibility with most common equatorial mounts.

Good

Imaging Capability

Apochromatic triplet design delivers the flat, high-contrast fields astrophotographers demand.

Excellent

Key Specs

Aperture

127 mm

Focal Length

952 mm

Focal Ratio

f/7.5

Optical Design

Air-Spaced Triplet Refractor

Total Weight

14 lbs

Focuser Size

2.5 inches

Mount Type

OTA Only (No Mount)

Included Accessories

Cradle Ring, Vixen Dovetail, Hybrid Finder Base, 2-inch Star Diagonal

Warranty

1 Year

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Explore Scientific FCD100 Refractor

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Explorescientific
Explorescientific
In stock
$1599.99
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Highpointscientific
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