description Explore Scientific ED100CF APO Refractor Overview
The Explore Scientific ED100CF APO is a well-regarded apochromatic refractor offering excellent value. Its 100mm aperture and f/6.2 focal ratio make it suitable for wide-field astrophotography, capturing large nebulae and star clusters. A built-in flattener corrects field curvature, ensuring sharp images across the entire field of view. Its a robust and reliable telescope, popular among astrophotographers seeking a balance of performance and affordability.
It's a great choice for those wanting to capture expansive deep-sky views.
info Explore Scientific ED100CF APO Refractor Specifications
| Focuser | 2.5-inch Rack and Pinion with Compression Rings |
| Aperture | 100mm |
| Dovetail | Vixen-style |
| Backfocus | 75mm |
| Focal Ratio | f/6.2 |
| Tube Length | Approximately 500mm |
| Tube Weight | 4.5kg (9.9 lbs) |
| Finder Scope | Not Included |
| Focal Length | 620mm |
| Tube Material | Carbon Fiber |
| Optical Design | Apochromatic Triplet with ED Glass |
| Field Flattener | Built-in |
| Typical Price Range | $1,500 - $1,700 USD |
balance Explore Scientific ED100CF APO Refractor Pros & Cons
- Apochromatic triplet optics with ED glass provide excellent color correction and minimal chromatic aberration
- Built-in field flattener eliminates need for separate accessories and ensures sharp stars to the edge of the sensor
- Carbon fiber tube construction offers thermal stability and resists temperature-related focus shifts during imaging sessions
- 2.5-inch Rack and Pinion focuser provides smooth, precise focusing with high load capacity for imaging rigs
- Fast f/6.2 focal ratio enables short exposure times for deep-sky astrophotography
- Compression ring fittings on focuser prevent marring of accessories
- No goto or tracking mount included, requiring separate purchase for full functionality
- Limited to 100mm aperture, making it less suitable for high-magnification planetary observation
- Carbon fiber construction increases cost compared to aluminum tube alternatives
- Heavy for a 100mm refractor at approximately 4.5kg, may require robust mounting
- Finder scope not included, necessitating additional accessory purchases
- Narrow field of view limits effectiveness for very large nebulae
help Explore Scientific ED100CF APO Refractor FAQ
Is the Explore Scientific ED100CF good for astrophotography?
Yes, the ED100CF excels at astrophotography thanks to its apochromatic triplet optics that minimize chromatic aberration, the built-in field flattener for sharp stars across the sensor, and its fast f/6.2 focal ratio that allows shorter exposure times to capture deep-sky objects.
What type of mount works best with this telescope?
The ED100CF works well with equatorial mounts rated for at least 15-20 lbs of capacity to handle the optical tube, heavy imaging accessories, and provide stable tracking. Popular choices include the Sky-Watcher EQ6-R, iOptron CEM40, or similar heavy-duty mounts.
Does the telescope come with a field flattener or reducer?
The ED100CF features a built-in field flattener, eliminating the need for a separate corrector. It uses a standard 2-inch thread on the back for direct connection to camera rigs without additional adapters.
How does the ED100CF compare to the William Optics ZenithStar 100mm?
Both are premium 100mm apochromatic refractors, but the Explore Scientific offers a slightly faster f/6.2 focal ratio, built-in field flattener, and carbon fiber tube, while the William Optics has a reputation for ultra-sharp optics and a lower price point.
What accessories are included with the ED100CF?
The telescope includes a robust 2.5-inch Rack and Pinion focuser, tube rings, a dovetail plate compatible with Vixen-style mounts, and dust caps. A finder scope, diagonal, and carrying case must be purchased separately.
What is Explore Scientific ED100CF APO Refractor?
How good is Explore Scientific ED100CF APO Refractor?
How much does Explore Scientific ED100CF APO Refractor cost?
What are the best alternatives to Explore Scientific ED100CF APO Refractor?
What is Explore Scientific ED100CF APO Refractor best for?
Amateur to intermediate astrophotographers seeking a portable, thermally stable refractor for wide-field deep-sky imaging of nebulae and star clusters without needing separate field correction accessories.
How does Explore Scientific ED100CF APO Refractor compare to Astro-Tech AT100EDT?
Is Explore Scientific ED100CF APO Refractor worth it in 2026?
What are the key specifications of Explore Scientific ED100CF APO Refractor?
- Focuser: 2.5-inch Rack and Pinion with Compression Rings
- Aperture: 100mm
- Dovetail: Vixen-style
- Backfocus: 75mm
- Focal Ratio: f/6.2
- Tube Length: Approximately 500mm
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