ED80-FCD100 Series Air-Spaced Triplet Refractor Telescope + iEXOS-100-02 Mount (Bundle)

ED80-FCD100 Series Air-Spaced Triplet Refractor Telescope:

Explore the universe with stunning clarity using the Explore Scientific ED80-FCD100 Series Air-Spaced Triplet Refractor. This compact, high-performance telescope features genuine HOYA FCD100 extra-low dispersion (ED) glass, delivering exceptional chromatic aberration correction and true-to-life color fidelity comparable to the renowned Ohara FPL-53 glass. Its 80mm aperture and 480mm focal length balance portability with sharp, high-contrast views of lunar details, planetary rings, and deep-sky objects. The air-spaced triplet optical design virtually eliminates chromatic aberrations, while proprietary EMD multi-layer coatings optimize light transmission for brilliant images. A rugged 2.5" hexagonal focuser provides precise control and supports imaging setups up to 10 lbs. Lightweight at just 7.5 lbs, the ED80 is ideal as a standalone grab-and-go instrument or as a versatile guiding scope when paired with larger telescopes, enhancing your astrophotography experience.

iEXOS-100-02 PMC-Eight Equatorial Tracker System with Wifi and Bluetooth:

The iEXOS-100-02 PMC-Eight Equatorial Tracker System with WiFi and Bluetooth is a computerized German equatorial GOTO tracking system designed for portable astronomy and astrophotography. Combining Explore Scientific’s PMC-Eight Precision Motion Control technology with a proven equatorial mount design, the iEXOS-100-02 delivers accurate tracking, smooth slewing, and wireless control for small telescopes and DSLR camera setups. The PMC-Eight motion control system uses eight independent CPUs dedicated to specific operational tasks, improving responsiveness, reliability, timing precision, and tracking accuracy compared to traditional single-processor mounts.

Built-in WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity allow wireless control through the free ExploreStars app for Windows, Android, Amazon Fire, and Apple tablets. Users can align the mount, browse celestial objects, navigate the night sky, and access information on thousands of astronomical targets. The system also supports wired or wireless ASCOM connectivity through the PMC-Eight ASCOM driver and POTH Client, making it compatible with most ASCOM-supported astronomy software. The German Equatorial Mount (GEM) design provides accurate sidereal tracking for visual observing and astrophotography while minimizing field rotation during long exposures.

Features include:

• PMC-Eight multi-processor motion control system
• Built-in WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity
• Quiet dual-axis precision stepper motor belt drives
• Clutched worm gears for smooth balancing and repositioning
• Polar alignment sight hole through the RA axis
• Precision altitude adjustment controls
• ExploreStars app support for Windows, Android, Amazon Fire, and Apple tablets
• ASCOM-compliant driver support
• Two included 1 kg counterweights
• Glow-in-the-dark mount and tripod markings
• Compatible with small telescopes and DSLR camera systems
• Portable design for observing and astrophotography

Smooth RA and DEC locking clutches allow precise balancing and quick repositioning of telescope or camera setups. The integrated bubble level and built-in polar alignment sight hole simplify field setup without requiring a separate polar scope.

The included battery pack mounts directly to the tripod leg bracket and powers the PMC-Eight system using 8 C-cell batteries (not included). Standard alkaline batteries typically provide less than two hours of operation before voltage drop may affect motor performance. For extended use, Explore Scientific recommends a compatible lithium-ion power bank or AC power adapter.

The mount supports payloads up to 19 lbs total, including the telescope, accessories, and counterweights. Additional counterweights may be required for heavier optical setups. Tablet, telescope, camera, and computer equipment are sold separately.