Explore Scientific 92° Series 12mm Argon-Purged Waterproof Eyepiece

1. Introduction

This manual provides essential information for the proper use, setup, and maintenance of your Explore Scientific 92° Series 12mm Argon-Purged Waterproof Eyepiece. Designed for astronomical observation, this eyepiece offers a wide apparent field of view and is constructed for durability and optical performance.

Image 1.1: The Explore Scientific 92° Series 12mm Argon-Purged Waterproof Eyepiece.

2. Key Features

• Superior Viewing: 92° apparent field of view for immersive astronomical observations.
• Enhanced Comfort: Long 19.92mm eye relief minimizes eye strain, suitable for eyeglass wearers.
• Optimized Clarity: 12mm focal length engineered for high-magnification views with sharpness and minimal distortion.
• Versatile Compatibility: Standard 2" barrel size for integration with a wide range of telescopes.
• Waterproof Design: Argon-purged construction prevents internal fogging and protects against moisture.

Image 2.1: Detail of the eyepiece highlighting its argon-purged and waterproof features.

3. Setup and Installation

1. Unpacking: Carefully remove the eyepiece from its packaging. Retain all packaging materials for future storage or transport.
2. Removing Dust Caps: Remove the protective dust caps from both ends of the eyepiece.
3. Inserting into Telescope: Insert the 2" barrel of the eyepiece into the telescope's focuser or diagonal. Ensure it is fully seated.
4. Securing the Eyepiece: Tighten the thumbscrew(s) on the focuser or diagonal to securely hold the eyepiece in place. Do not overtighten.
5. Adjusting Eye Cup: The rubber eye cup can be folded down for users wearing eyeglasses or extended for those not wearing them, to optimize eye relief and block stray light.

4. Operating Instructions

Once the eyepiece is installed, you can begin your observation session.

• Focusing: Use your telescope's focuser knob to achieve a sharp image. Start with a bright object like the Moon to practice focusing.
• Observing Faint Objects: For very faint celestial objects, a technique called averted vision can be beneficial. Instead of looking directly at the object, look slightly to the side. This places the image on a more light-sensitive part of your retina, potentially revealing fainter details.
• Eye Relief: The long eye relief of this eyepiece allows for comfortable viewing. Experiment with the distance between your eye and the eyepiece lens to find the optimal position where the entire field of view is visible without vignetting.

5. Maintenance and Care

Proper care will ensure the longevity and performance of your eyepiece.

• Cleaning Lenses: Use a soft, lint-free microfiber cloth specifically designed for optics. For stubborn smudges, use a small amount of optical cleaning fluid applied to the cloth, not directly to the lens. Avoid touching the lens surfaces with your fingers.
• Cleaning Barrel: The metal barrel can be wiped with a clean, soft cloth.
• Storage: Always replace the dust caps when the eyepiece is not in use. Store the eyepiece in a clean, dry environment, preferably in its original case or a padded container, to protect it from dust and physical damage.
• Argon Purging: The argon-purged design prevents internal fogging and moisture intrusion, making it suitable for use in varying humidity conditions. This feature requires no special user maintenance.

6. Troubleshooting

• Blurry Image: Ensure your telescope's focuser is properly adjusted. Check if the eyepiece is securely seated in the focuser/diagonal. Verify that the telescope's optics are clean and collimated (if applicable).
• Dust on Lens: Use a blower brush or compressed air (specifically for optics) to remove loose dust particles. Follow lens cleaning instructions for more persistent dust.
• Vignetting (Dark Edges): Adjust your eye position relative to the eyepiece. Ensure the eye cup is set correctly for your viewing preference.
• Eyepiece Fogging: Due to its argon-purged design, internal fogging is unlikely. If external fogging occurs, allow the eyepiece to acclimate to the ambient temperature or use a dew shield on your telescope.

7. Specifications

8. Warranty and Support

For specific warranty information, please refer to the documentation provided with your purchase or visit the official Explore Scientific website. For technical support or service inquiries, please contact Explore Scientific customer service directly.

Manufacturer: Explore Scientific

Date First Available: December 28, 2016