Vixen SD103SII 103mm Refractor Telescope
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Vixen Optics SD103SII 103mm ED APO f/7.7 Refractor Telescope
Presenting the Vixen SD103SII Optical Tube Assembly Telescope, the successor to the acclaimed SD103S in the apochromatic refractor SD series.
Boasting a 103mm aperture and 795mm focal length, this telescope caters to diverse needs, from visual observation to astrophotography.
Enhancements include replacing spacers with a ring shape, refining star image diffraction.
Optionally, pair it with the SD Flattener HD Kit and SD Reducer HD Kit for a high-performance astrograph, providing a generous 44mm image circle ideal for full-frame imaging sensors in cameras/CMOS cameras.
Elevate your astronomical pursuits with stunning star imagery.
In the previous SD103S optical tube, tin foil fragments were positioned as spacers at three evenly spaced locations around the lens.
These fragments, appearing as protrusions within the lens's effective aperture, caused radial diffractions around the star image due to incident light.
By replacing the fragments with a ring-shaped spacer, the diffraction light becomes uniform, resulting in a beautifully rendered star image without the radial breaks.
In refractors utilizing lenses to gather light, chromatic aberration arises from variations in refractive index among different wavelengths (colors) passing through the lens.
To combat this, extra-low dispersion glass was invented, minimizing chromatic aberration by exhibiting reduced dispersion in various wavelengths.
The SD103SII employs an SD glass (Super ED) lens crafted from FPL53 glass, known for exceptional optical performance among ED glass materials.
This effectively suppresses chromatic aberration, producing clear and sharp star images.
The SD glass lens excels across all visible colors, with g-ray, C-ray, F-ray, d-ray, and e-ray approaching 0, showcasing its outstanding performance and remarkably reduced aberration, particularly in the g-ray (purple) spectrum, enhancing the clarity of star images.
Designed to cater to diverse needs, whether for visual observation or astrophotography.
With a well-balanced focal length of 795mm for its 103mm effective aperture, the SD103SII is versatile, accommodating various purposes, from planetary observations to capturing nebulae and star clusters through photography.
Its supplied flip mirror diagonal facilitates swift transitions between straight-through and vertical orientations, while two interchangeable eyepieces offer varying magnifications for seamless adaptation between visual observing and photography.
Equipped with a standard dovetail attachment plate and a metal carry handle, attaching/detaching from the mount and transporting the optical tube is effortlessly convenient.
Available for full-frame DSLR cameras/CMOS cameras, suitable for high-quality astrophotographyPairing seamlessly with the separately available SD Reducer HD Kit and SD Flattener HD Kit, you'll be well-equipped to embark on high-quality astrophotography adventures using a full-frame DSLR camera or CMOS camera.
7x50mm Finder II with Illuminated Reticle (Eyepiece unit detachable*)An astronomical telescope finder/guide scope featuring 7x magnification and a 50mm aperture.
Equipped with crosshairs and built-in dark field illumination, it facilitates easy sighting in low-light conditions.
The adjustable red illumination enhances visibility, and the detachable eyepiece unit with a 31.7mm sleeve allows conversion into a guide scope by replacing it with a compatible CMOS camera** with a 31.7mm sleeve.
* Although you can insert 31.7mm eyepieces sold separately in the place of the eyepiece unit, this will not work as it does not reach focus.
** Regarding applicability with the CMOS cameras, you make sure that the distance from the 31.7mm visual back (rear end) on the scope body to the surface of an imaging sensor of a camera is about 15mm long or less.
Features:
- 103mm Objective Lens: Embark on detailed celestial exploration with the telescope's substantial 103mm objective lens, delivering impressive light-gathering capabilities. This generous aperture ensures clarity and precision in observing a myriad of astronomical phenomena.
- 202x Highest Useful Magnification: With a highest useful magnification of 202x, this telescope allows for close-up and detailed observations of celestial objects. Experience the intricate details of planets, lunar landscapes, and deep-sky wonders with exceptional clarity.
- 795mm Focal Length: The telescope features a focal length of 795mm, striking a balance between magnification and field of view. This design provides versatility, making it well-suited for both visual observation and astrophotography. Explore the cosmos with clarity and precision.
- Focusing Mechanism: Equipped with a rack-and-pinion focusing mechanism, the telescope ensures precise adjustments for optimal clarity during observations. The included lock knob enhances stability, providing a reliable and steady focal point.
- Finder Scope: Navigate the night sky effortlessly with the included 7x50mm Finder II. With dark field illumination and a 7-degree field of view, this finder scope facilitates easy and accurate locating of celestial objects, enhancing the overall observing experience.
- High-performance SD Glass Lens: Experience superior optical performance with the high-performance SD glass lens. Crafted as an apochromat, it effectively suppresses color fringing, ensuring that observed images are clear, sharp, and free from chromatic aberrations.
- Versatility for Various Purposes: From visual observation to astrophotography, the SD103SII is prepared to meet a wide range of astronomical purposes. Its versatile design caters to both beginners and advanced astronomers, providing a telescope that adapts to diverse needs.
- Compatibility for Astrophotography: Unlock the potential for high-quality astrophotography with the telescope's compatibility for full-frame DSLR cameras and CMOS cameras. Capture stunning images of the cosmos with ease, expanding your astronomical pursuits into the realm of photography.
- Included Accessories: The telescope comes complete with essential accessories, including tube rings, a dovetail attachment plate, and a metal carry handle. These accessories enhance the telescope's convenience, making it easy to attach and detach from mounts and ensuring effortless transportation of the optical tube.
What's Included:
✓ Vixen SD103SII 103mm Refractor Telescope
✓ Tube Rings
✓ Metal Carry Handle
✓ Dovetail Attachment Plate
✓ Vixen Electronic Parts: Limited One Year Warranty
✓ Vixen Mechanical Parts: Limited Two Year Warranty
Specifications:
Objective | 103mm / SD apochromat, multi-coated SD(Super ED)glass lenses |
Focal Length | 795mm(F7.7) |
Resolving Power | 1.13 arc seconds, 11.8 |
Light gathering power | 217x unaided eye |
Focusing mechanism | Rack-and-pinion, with lock knob |
Adapter thread / Visual back | 60mm and 42mm for T-ring / 50.8mm and 31.7mm push fit with flip mirror diagonal |
Finder scope | 7x50mm Finder II, dark field illumination, 7 degrees field of view |
Accessories | Tube rings, dovetail attachment plate, metal carry handle |
Dimensions / weight | 115mm O.D. x 810mm long, 5.5kg (Net 3.6kg) |