Explore Scientific · Apochromat Refractor
Explore Scientific ED80 Essential Series Air-Spaced Apochromatic 80mm Triplet Re
Compact 80mm apochromat with genuine ED glass and f/6 versatility for imaging and visual use under $600
Price updated Mar 22, 2026
Performance Scores
Overview
The Explore Scientific ED80 Essential Series is a well-specified 80mm air-spaced triplet apochromat that punches above its price point for both visual observing and entry-level astrophotography. The 480mm focal length and f/6 ratio make it a natural fit for wide-field targets: open clusters, emission nebulae, and the Moon all look sharp and contrasty. The FCD1 Hoya ED glass, combined with enhanced multi-layer coatings on every optical surface, keeps chromatic aberration genuinely well controlled, which matters most when you are imaging bright objects or splitting double stars.
At 2.7kg, it travels easily and sets up quickly, making it one of the more practical grab-and-go options in this aperture class. A few things worth knowing before buying: at f/6, some camera sensor corners may show coma or field curvature without a dedicated field flattener, so budget for that if deep-sky imaging is your goal. The push-pull collimation adjustment on the front cell is a thoughtful addition that most refractors at this price omit.
With only 14 Amazon reviews, the user feedback pool is still thin, so factor that into your research alongside reviews from dedicated astronomy forums.
At a Glance
80mm
Aperture
f/6
Focal Ratio
2.7kg
Weight
480mm
Focal Length
Specifications
Key Features
- FCD1 Hoya ED glass in an air-spaced triplet design keeps chromatic aberration tightly controlled across visual and photographic use
- f/6 focal ratio suits wide-field astrophotography of nebulae and clusters, though a field flattener is recommended for full-frame sensors
- 480mm focal length in a retractable dew shield body keeps the package compact and genuinely portable at 2.7kg
- Front cell push-pull collimation adjustments allow precise optical alignment, a feature uncommon at this price
- Doubles effectively as a guide scope when mounted alongside a larger imaging telescope, thanks to its compact form factor
- Enhanced multi-layer coatings on all optical surfaces improve contrast and light throughput for both visual and photographic sessions
- US-based customer support in Springdale, Arkansas provides accessible assistance if issues arise after purchase
Customer Reviews
14 reviews
The image quality at high powers was stunning. The scope arrived fast and was super packed for protection. The only downside was the odd finder scope and mount attachments. I had to order rings and a dovetail to mount it.That dovetail was modified to align with the original mounting holes.I had to c...
I use this scope with my ZWO 183mc cool Pro for deep space astrophotography and it is a wonderful little piece of equipment. It's well built and of good quality. I originally purchased a Sky-Watcher doublet that cost the same price, but returned it and got this triplet APO instead. I did remove the ...
Pretty good little scope. The only issues I have are a minor manufacturing defect (doesn't affect performance, just annoying), and I tend to bang my hands into the sharp edges of the focuser and mounting a lot. I definitely recommend getting mounting rings, as I found the included mount to have a lo...