astro-tech AT80ED

Thank you for choosing this Astro-Tech AT80ED high- performance ED refractor.

The images from its fully-multicoated ED (Extra-low Dispersion glass element) air-spaced doublet optics are virtually free of the annoying violet haloes of chromatic aberration (spurious color) that are typically seen around the Moon, planets, and bright stars in lesser refractors.

Precision-made, with many useful mechanical features (such as a rotating dual-speed focuser and a very flexible split ring plus dovetail mounting system), the AT80ED is

from Astronomy Technologies

a clear step ahead of competitive scopes.

At its exceptionally low price, we believe that you will find that the mechanical and optical performance of your AT80ED is little short of astonishing.

This instruction sheet will provide you with information on how to get the most out of your new telescope, and how to properly maintain your telescope so it can give you a lifetime of observing enjoyment.

Please familiarize yourself with your telescope’s parts and functions before operating it for the first time.

PARTS OF THE AT80ED

Tube ring

 

 

 

Retractable dew shield

Locking collar for 360°

 

Fine

Right

 

 

Hinged split

rotatable focuser

 

focus

coarse

 

tube rings

 

 

knob

focus

Mounting points for

 

 

 

 

knob

 

optional finder

Focusing

 

 

 

 

scale on

 

 

 

 

focuser

 

 

 

 

drawtube

Lock knob for

focuser drawtube

Removable

Dust cover Locking collar for 360° Vixen-style dovetail rotatable focuser

Brass compression ring

1.25” eyepiece

lock knob

Left coarse

2”

 

 

Fine

accessory

 

 

focus

 

 

focus knob

holder

 

 

knob

 

 

 

 

Right

 

 

 

 

coarse

1.25” eyepiece

 

 

focus

 

lock knob

Dust

knob

 

 

 

cap

2” eyepiece

 

 

 

 

 

1.25”

 

 

lock knob

 

 

 

 

 

eyepiece

 

 

 

 

adapter

 

 

 

Astro-Tech AT80ED Doublet Refractor Specifications

Aperture

80mm (3.1”)

Focal Length

560mm

Focal Ratio

f/7

Objective Type .... air-spaced doublet with ED element

Optical Coatings

fully multicoated

Resolving Power (Dawes’ Limit)

1.45 arc seconds

Visual Limiting Magnitude

12.0 maximum

Light Grasp (versus the eye)

131x

Field Stops ... two glare-reducing baffles in optical tube Focuser ............................... dual-speed Crayford-type

with 11:1 reduction ratio fine focus (a 10:1 ratio Feather Touch focuser is optional); 360° rotating camera angle/observing angle adjuster; and 2” and 1.25” compression ring eyepiece holders

Focuser Travel

3.35” (85mm)

with millimeter scale on drawtube for repeatable focus

Lens Shade

retractable

Objective Lens Cover

.............................

slip-on metal

Tripod Mount

dual split hinged tube rings with

Vixen-style dovetail for direct mounting on

Astro-Tech, Celestron, Meade, and Vixen mounts

Tube Diameter

90mm o. d.

Tube Length (lens shade retracted)

18” (457mm)

Tube Length (lens shade extended) ...

21.75” (527mm)

Optical Tube Weight ..... 6.8 lbs (3.09 kg) with standard

focuser; 6.45 lbs (2.93 kg) with optional Feather Touch focuser (both weights include rings and dovetail)

Case

aluminum-frame foam-fitted

lockable hard case, with carrying handle

Case Dimensions

20.75” x 12.75” x 8.75”

Lowest Usable Power

14x (40mm eyepiece)

Highest Terrestrial Power

.......... 80x (7mm eyepiece)

Highest Practical Power

160x (3.5mm eyepiece)

Theoretical Maximum

187x (3mm eyepiece)

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Meade instruction sheet Astro-tech AT80ED, From Astronomy Technologies, Parts of the AT80ED

AT80ED specifications

The Meade AT80ED is a high-quality refractor telescope designed for both amateur astronomers and seasoned observers. This portable telescope combines advanced optics, solid construction, and user-friendly features, making it a versatile choice for those who want to explore the heavens.

One of the standout features of the AT80ED is its 80mm aperture, which allows for impressive light-gathering capabilities. This aperture strikes an ideal balance between size and portability, enabling users to easily transport the telescope to various observing locations. The telescope’s ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass optics are designed to reduce chromatic aberration, resulting in crisp, clear images of celestial objects. Users can expect enhanced color accuracy and improved contrast, making the AT80ED suitable for both planetary and deep-sky observation.

The telescope boasts a focal length of 600mm, providing a focal ratio of f/7.5. This configuration strikes an excellent balance for observing both wide-field star clusters and detailed views of the Moon and planets. The included 2-inch Crayford-style focuser allows for smooth and precise focusing, accommodating a variety of eyepieces and accessories, including 1.25-inch fittings.

The AT80ED features a sturdy aluminum tube construction, which enhances its durability while keeping it lightweight. It comes with a mount that provides stability during observation and tracking, making it easier to follow celestial objects as they move across the night sky. The telescope also includes a finderscope to assist with initial alignment and locating objects, further enhancing the user experience.

Another notable aspect of the Meade AT80ED is its compatibility with various imaging and astrophotography accessories. With the right adapters, users can easily attach DSLR cameras or dedicated astrophotography cameras for capturing stunning images of astronomical subjects.

In summary, the Meade AT80ED is an exceptional refractor telescope that combines advanced optical technology with user-friendly design. Its compact size, outstanding optical performance, and versatility make it an excellent choice for astronomers looking for a reliable and efficient observing tool. Whether you're scanning the night sky for deep-sky wonders or honing in on planetary details, the AT80ED delivers impressive results that are sure to inspire awe and curiosity about the universe.