Operating the ED T CF Refractor

3" Dual-Speed Crayford Focuser For the ED102T CF

The ED102 T CF features a large 3" format focuser to sup- port imaging cameras with a greater imaging area. The visual back of the focuser steps down to a standard 2", however, the wider opening of the focuser and baffling system of the ED102T CF yields greater field illumination to support 35mm or larger format cameras. Additionally, the focuser supports very heavy payloads such as a large format CCD camera, filter wheel, and other accessories.

Focuser Rotation

The focuser assembly on the ED T CF refractors have the ability to be rotated. Under normal use, you should not have to rotate the focuser, since the eyepiece and diagonal can be rotated instead. However, focuser rotation can be beneficial for changing the camera orientation while imaging. Additionally, this feature can allow you to keep the focus knobs parallel to the ground no matter how your telescope is positioned.

To rotate the focuser, loosen the focuser rotation lock screw (Figure 3) counter-clockwise. Gently rotate the focuser to the desired orientation. Lock the focuser in place by turning the focus rotation lock ring clockwise. If you find the focuser is too difficult to rotate, you may have to also loosen the three socket head screws around the focuser with a 1.5mm hex key (not included). Leave the three socket head screws with slight tension, but do no over tighten them.

Using 1.25" and 2" Accessories

Your ED T CF refractor can accommodate both 1.25" and 2" accessories, including just about any eyepiece, diagonal, or camera. The Crayford focuser has a 2" eyepiece holder with a 1.25" eyepiece adapter installed (Figure 3). Both the 2" eye- piece holder and 1.25" eyepiece adapter feature a brass com- pression ring to hold your accessories in place without mark- ing them. The telescope must be used with either a diagonal or extension tube in order for the eyepiece to reach focus. In most cases, you will be using a 90° star diagonal for visual use with an eyepiece.

To attach a 1.25" diagonal or extension tube to your telescope:

1.Remove the dust cap from the 1.25" eyepiece adapter.

2.Insert the barrel of your diagonal or extension tube into the 1.25" eyepiece adapter.

3.Secure the barrel in place by firmly tightening the thumb- screw on the 1.25" eyepiece adapter.

To attach a 2" diagonal or extension tube to your telescope:

1.Loosen the thumbscrews on the focuser’s 2" eyepiece holder and remove the 1.25" eyepiece adapter.

2.Insert the barrel of your diagonal or extension tube into the 2" eyepiece holder.

3.Secure the barrel in place by firmly tightening the thumb- screws.

Focuser rotation lock thumbscrew

Threaded holes for

finder scope dovetail base (ED102T CF)

2" Eyepiece holder

1.25"

Eyepiece adapter

Figure 3. Rotatable focuser.

Finder Scope Compatibility

The included finder scope dovetail base on the ED80T CF is ready to accept any Orion finder scope (Figure 1.1). The ED102T CF does not include a finder scope dovetail base; however, it is available optionally from Orion and directly fits the holes in the ED102T CF (Figure 3).

To insert a finder scope onto your ED T CF refractor, slide the finder scope bracket into the finder scope dovetail base and secure it in place by tightening the thumbscrew(s) on the dovetail base.

Now that you have become familiar with the different features and functions of your ED T CF refractor, you are ready to begin using your new telescope outside under a starry night. The ED T CF refractors are essentially ready to begin observ- ing with immediately. There is a small period of time where the internal temperature of the telescope must match the outside temperature to obtain the best image quality. This only takes a few minutes. Typically, the ED T CF will have reached outside temperature by the time the telescope is setup.

Connecting the ED80T CF Tripod or

Telescope Mount

The ED80T CF has a built-in mounting block ready to connect to a sturdy camera tripod or telescope mount (Figure 1.1). The mounting block is threaded to accept a common 1/4"- 20 stud found on almost any camera tripod. To connect the ED80T CF to a camera tripod, simply screw the 1/4"-20 stud

ED102T CF #9530, ED80T CF #9534 specifications

The Orion ED80T CF #9534 and ED102T CF #9530 are exceptional telescopes designed for both amateur astronomers and astrophotographers. They combine advanced optical technologies with lightweight, portable designs to enhance the stargazing experience.

The Orion ED80T CF, featuring an 80mm aperture, is renowned for its exceptional clarity and color accuracy. It employs extra-low dispersion (ED) glass to minimize chromatic aberration, leading to sharp, high-contrast images of celestial objects. Its optimized four-element air-spaced design provides excellent light transmission, ensuring bright observations, even in dim conditions. The telescope's carbon fiber tube construction not only reduces weight but also adds durability, making it an ideal choice for portable setups. This model comes with two-inch and one-and-a-quarter-inch focuser options, allowing users to switch between different eyepieces seamlessly.

On the other hand, the Orion ED102T CF #9530 features a larger 102mm aperture, providing even greater light-gathering ability for detailed observations of deep-sky objects. Like its smaller counterpart, the ED102T also employs ED glass technology, ensuring that chromatic aberration is effectively minimized. This telescope's focal length of 714mm gives it a versatile field of view, making it suitable for both planetary observation and wide-field astrophotography. The ED102T CF also boasts a robust carbon fiber design, making it lightweight without compromising strength or stability.

Both telescopes include a high-quality two-speed focuser, enhancing focusing precision, especially important for astrophotographers who require sharp images. The retractable lens hood minimizes stray light and enhances image contrast, ensuring a clearer view of the night sky.

These models also come fully equipped with mounting rings and a sturdy carrying case for easy transport and setup. Their compatibility with a variety of mounts allows users to find the perfect balance and stability for different observing conditions.

In summary, the Orion ED80T CF #9534 and ED102T CF #9530 stand out for their combination of innovative optics, lightweight construction, and user-friendly features. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced observer, these telescopes offer the performance and versatility needed to explore the wonders of the cosmos.