Figure 4.1. The stock orientation of the ED80T CF mounting block.

Figure 4.2. Using the included 5mm hex key, remove the 2 socket head screws to reverse the orientation of the mounting block to balance the telescope for heavier accessories.

Figure 4.3. Orientation of the mounting block when reversed to balance the telescope for heavier accessories.

found on your camera tripod to the underside of the mounting block.

The mounting block also functions as a dovetail plate which is compatible with many Orion telescope mounts. The dovetail plate is also compatible with many other mounts. To connect the ED80T CF to a telescope mount, loosen the attachment screw(s) on the mount’s dovetail holder until the screw(s) pro- vides enough clearance for the dovetail mounting plate. Align the mounting block with the dovetail holder and slide it for-

ward. Tighten the attachment screw(s) on the dovetail holder of the mount.

If you are using a camera tripod or telescope mount and need additional balance adjustment, the orientation of the mounting block can be reversed. This is especially helpful when using heavy accessories, such as 2" eyepieces or DSLR cameras. To reverse the orientation of the mounting block, remove the two socket head screws (using the included 5mm hex key) that attaches the mounting block to the telescope tube and turn the block around 180° (Figure 4.1-4.3). Once the mount- ing block orientation has been reversed, reattach the two socket head screws.

Connecting the ED102T CF to a Telescope Mount

The ED102T CF refractor includes a preinstalled pair of tube rings and a dovetail mounting plate, ready to attach to a heavy-duty telescope mount. The dovetail plate is compatible with many Orion telescope mounts. The dovetail plate is also compatible with many other available mounts. To connect the ED102T CF to a mount, loosen the attachment screw(s) on the mount’s dovetail holder until the screw(s) provide enough clearance for the dovetail mounting plate. Carefully place the dovetail plate flat against the top surface of the dovetail holder of the mount and tighten the attachment screw(s) securely.

Balancing the ED102T CF can be achieved by sliding the dovetail mounting plate forward or backward within the mount’s dovetail holder. You can also move the telescope for- ward or backward within the tube rings. The tube rings offer the most adjustment range. Loosen the tube ring clamps slightly and slide the telescope tube forward or backward as needed to reach optimum balance, then retighten the tube ring clamps.

Using Different Eyepieces

The ED T CF refractors work well with virtually any 1.25" or 2" eyepiece. Because the ED T CF refractors implement high- quality ED optics, the eyepieces you use should also have excellent, fully multi-coated optics to utilize the full perfor- mance of the telescope.

It is desirable to have a range of eyepieces of different focal lengths, to allow viewing over a range of magnifications. To calculate the magnification, or power, of a telescope, simply divide the focal length of the telescope by the focal length of the eyepiece:

Telescope Focal Length (mm)

Eyepiece Focal Length (mm) = Magnification

If all outside viewing conditions are ideal, every telescope with good optics supports a maximum of about 60x per inch, or 2.4x per millimeter, of aperture. Keep in mind that at higher powers, an image will always be dimmer and less sharp (this is a fundamental law of optics). In most cases the steadiness of the air (the “seeing”) will limit how much magnification the scope can tolerate, rather than the telescope itself.

Always start viewing with your lowest-power (longest focal length) eyepiece in the telescope. After you have located and observed the object with it, you can try switching to a higher-

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Orion ED102T CF #9530, ED80T CF #9534 Connecting the ED102T CF to a Telescope Mount, Using Different Eyepieces
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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.
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