Explore Scientific FCD100 Series 127mm f/7.5 Carbon Fiber Triplet ED APO Refractor Telescope User Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides essential instructions for the proper setup, operation, and maintenance of your Explore Scientific FCD100 Series 127mm f/7.5 Carbon Fiber Triplet ED APO Refractor Telescope. This high-performance instrument features an air-spaced triplet optical design with HOYA FCD100 extra-low dispersion (ED) glass, a lightweight carbon fiber tube, and a robust 2.5-inch HEX focuser, designed for exceptional astronomical observation and astrophotography.

Please read this manual thoroughly before using your telescope to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

Figure 1.1: Explore Scientific FCD100 Series 127mm Carbon Fiber Refractor Telescope.

2. Safety Information

• Never look directly at the Sun through the telescope or its finder scope without a professionally manufactured solar filter. Permanent and irreversible eye damage, including blindness, can result.
• Always supervise children when using the telescope.
• Handle optical components with care to avoid scratches or damage.
• Ensure the telescope is securely mounted on a stable tripod or mount to prevent accidental falls.
• Avoid exposing the telescope to extreme temperatures or sudden temperature changes.

3. Package Contents

Verify that all components listed below are present in your package:

• Explore Scientific FCD100 Series 127mm f/7.5 Carbon Fiber Triplet ED APO Refractor Telescope Optical Tube Assembly (OTA)
• Integrated Dew Shield
• 2.5-inch HEX Focuser
• Two Focuser Extension Tubes
• Cradle Ring with Handle
• Vixen-Style Dovetail Plate
• Explore Scientific 2N1 Finder Scope Base (installed on OTA)
• 99% Reflective 2-inch Diagonal

Figure 3.1: Included 2-inch Diagonal and Focuser Extension Tubes.

4. Component Identification

Familiarize yourself with the main parts of your telescope:

• Objective Lens: The large lens at the front of the telescope, composed of a triplet ED APO design with HOYA FCD100 glass for superior chromatic aberration correction.
• Dew Shield: Extends from the front of the telescope to protect the objective lens from dew formation and stray light.
• Carbon Fiber Optical Tube: The main body of the telescope, constructed from lightweight and thermally stable carbon fiber.
• Cradle Rings and Handle: Used to secure the optical tube to a mount and provide a convenient carrying handle.
• Vixen-Style Dovetail Plate: Attached to the cradle rings, this plate allows the telescope to be mounted onto compatible equatorial or alt-azimuth mounts.
• 2.5-inch HEX Focuser: A robust focusing mechanism designed for precise adjustments and capable of supporting heavy accessories.
• Finder Scope Base: A mounting point for an optional finder scope, which aids in locating celestial objects.
• Diagonal: An optical accessory that redirects the light path at a 90-degree angle, providing a more comfortable viewing position.

Figure 4.1: Overview of the telescope assembly.

Figure 4.2: Detail of the objective lens with FCD100 glass.

Figure 4.3: The 2.5-inch HEX Focuser for precise adjustments.

Figure 4.4: The installed 2N1 Finder Scope Base.

5. Setup

Follow these steps to set up your telescope for observation:

1. Mounting the Telescope: Secure the Vixen-style dovetail plate (attached to the cradle rings) into the saddle of your compatible equatorial mount. Ensure all clamps are tightened to prevent movement.
2. Attaching the Diagonal: Insert the 2-inch diagonal into the focuser drawtube. Secure it by tightening the thumbscrew(s) on the focuser.
3. Inserting an Eyepiece: Insert your desired 2-inch eyepiece into the diagonal. If using a 1.25-inch eyepiece, you will need a 2-inch to 1.25-inch adapter (not included). Secure the eyepiece with the diagonal's thumbscrew(s).
4. Attaching a Finder Scope (Optional): If you have a compatible finder scope, attach it to the pre-installed 2N1 finder scope base. Align the finder scope with the main telescope by pointing the main telescope at a distant terrestrial object and then adjusting the finder scope until the object is centered in both the finder and the main eyepiece.
5. Extending the Dew Shield: Gently slide the integrated dew shield forward until it is fully extended.

6. Operating the Telescope

Once assembled, you can begin observing:

1. Pointing the Telescope: Use your mount's controls to point the telescope towards your desired celestial object. The finder scope, if installed and aligned, will help you quickly locate objects.
2. Focusing: Look through the eyepiece and slowly turn the focuser knobs (coarse and fine adjustment) until the image appears sharp. Start with a low-power eyepiece (higher focal length) for easier focusing.
3. Changing Magnification: To change magnification, swap eyepieces. Lower focal length eyepieces provide higher magnification. Always refocus after changing eyepieces.
4. Tracking Objects: As the Earth rotates, celestial objects will drift out of view. If using an equatorial mount, you can track objects by adjusting the right ascension axis, often with a motor drive (if equipped).

7. Maintenance

Proper care will ensure your telescope remains in excellent condition:

• Cleaning Optics: Dust on the objective lens is normal and rarely affects performance. If cleaning is necessary, use a soft brush or compressed air to remove loose particles. For stubborn smudges, use a specialized optical cleaning solution and lens tissue, applying minimal pressure. Avoid touching optical surfaces with bare hands.
• Cleaning the Tube: Wipe the carbon fiber tube with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid abrasive cleaners.
• Storage: Store the telescope in a clean, dry, and dust-free environment. Keep the objective lens cap on when not in use.
• Focuser Maintenance: The 2.5-inch HEX focuser is designed for durability. If it becomes stiff or loose, consult the manufacturer's support for guidance; do not attempt to disassemble it yourself.

8. Troubleshooting

9. Specifications

• Model Number: FCD100-127075-CF-01
• Optical Design: Air-Spaced Triplet ED APO Refractor
• Objective Lens Diameter: 127 mm
• Focal Length: 952 mm
• Focal Ratio: f/7.5
• ED Glass Type: HOYA FCD100
• Resolution: 0.9 arcsec
• Limiting Magnitude: 13
• Focuser: 2.5-inch HEX Focuser (Manual Focus)
• Optical Tube Material: Carbon Fiber
• Telescope Mount Description: Equatorial Mount (requires compatible mount)
• Finderscope: Reflex (base installed, finder scope not included)
• Product Dimensions: 33.25 x 33.25 x 33.25 inches (approximate shipping dimensions)
• Item Weight: 14 pounds

Optical Performance Data

Figure 9.1: Optical Spot Diagram illustrating performance.

Figure 9.2: Optical properties of HOYA FCD100 glass.

10. Warranty and Support

For warranty information, technical support, or service inquiries, please contact Explore Scientific directly. Refer to the official Explore Scientific website or your purchase documentation for the most current contact details and warranty terms.

It is recommended to register your product with Explore Scientific to facilitate any future support needs.