Optical tube assembly only ready for daytime solar or nighttime stellar use, for visual or astroimaging applications.
80mm aperture will reveal impressive lunar details ranging from craters to rilles, planetary features like Saturn’s ring structure or Jupiter’s cloud belts; and bright deep sky treasures like galaxies, nebulae and clusters.
Telescope comes with an over-the-lens professional-grade solar filter, for studies of sunspot activity, observations of partial phases of an eclipse, or transits.
Precision 25mm Plössl eyepiece, a 90° diagonal for more comfortable viewing and a red dot viewfinder to aid in object location.
Built-in dew shield slows moisture build-up on the objective lens and reduces interference from stray light.
Included adapter helps observers use their smart device to capture and share images.
Rugged metal tube construction with black carbon fiber look.
Telescope mounts to all of Explore Scientific mounts and other popular altazimuth and equatorial mounts.
NOTE: The Solar Filter material being used is the new advanced ‘Solarlite’ Film manufactured by world-famous Thousand Oaks Optical through years of research and development. ‘Solarlite’ a new solar film that has the optical quality of glass with the advantages of impregnated polymer -- perfect for the solar astrophotographer!
The solar film used with this telescope is the same material used in Explore Scientific Eclipse Glasses which is ratedISO12312–2, tested and approved by ICS Labs for Direct Observation of the Sun. In addition, Explore Scientific Eclipse Glasses are meant to be used by anyone from adult to children under 14 years of age, which requires stringent ASTM testing and compliancy. ASTM is a mandatory set of safety rules and regulations under ASTM F963 – Standard Consumer Safety Specification for addressing safety requirements for any object designed, manufactured or marketed for children under 14 years of age. In addition we are recognized by the American Astronomical Association as a supplier of safe eclipse glasses.
iEXOS-100 PMC-Eight Equatorial Tracker System
Integrated Explore Scientific PMC-Eight™ system that transcends the industry standard single processor by utilizing eight CPUs that operate independently of one another to focus on defined functions, which results in superior responsiveness, efficiency, reliability and astoundingly fast timing intervals.
Clutched dual-axis worm gears with quiet precision stepper motor belt drives
Intuitive ExploreStars app, which is available for Apple, Android and Windows tablets, that makes it simple to operate the GOTO system. Through it, users can quickly align their telescope, navigate the stars and learn specifics about tens of thousands of celestial objects
Clutched RA and Declination axis are smooth and allow for precise balancing which makes the process of repositioning your telescope efficient
Polar alignment sight hole through the RA axis and precise altitude control for fast alignment without polar scope.
Battery pack powering the PMC-Eight™ system uses 8 C batteries and is secured in a bracket on one of the tripod legs when in use
Two 1 kg counterweights included
Glow-in-the-dark markings on mount and tripod
Description
Whether you're eager to explore the intricacies of the Sun, delve into the breathtaking beauty of Saturn's Ring Structure, document the dynamic changes in Mars' ice caps, or embark on a mesmerizing journey through the vastness of time and space to discover deep sky wonders, the versatile Explore FirstLight 80mm CF Optical Tube Assembly with Solar Filter provides an observation package tailored to your specific needs. This telescope comes equipped with essential tools for solar exploration, featuring a lightweight telescope, a professional-grade over-the-lens solar filter, a smartphone camera adapter, eyepiece, and a fully-adjustable red dot viewfinder.
The FirstLight AR80mm showcases a 640mm focal length, f/8 telescope with a precision fully-coated optical Crown-and-Flint main objective lens. Notable features include an oversize 40mm draw tube focuser for optimal field illumination, especially for smartphone astroimaging. The package also includes a Solar Filter, a 1.25" O.D. 90° Diagonal, a 1.25" O.D. 4-element fully-coated 25mm Plossl eyepiece (25.6 X; 1.95 Deg True FOV), an adapter to connect a DSLR using a T2 ring specific to each brand of camera, a Red-dot Finder, and a Smartphone Camera adapter.
The iEXOS-100 PMC-Eight™ Equatorial Tracker System is the ideal equatorial mount designed to complement the capabilities of the FirstLight AR80. This comprehensive astronomical solution features a computerized WiFi or wired GOTO Equatorial Tracker equipped with integrated PMC-Eight™ electronics, making it compatible with DSLR Cameras attached to a standard "Vixen Style" Dovetail Plate. Seamlessly connect to the ExploreStars App for Tablets (Windows, Android, Amazon, and Apple), or use the free ASCOM Standards Compliant PMC-Eight™ ASCOM driver with the ASCOM POTH Client from Explore Scientific, either wired or wireless, to interface with a wide range of sky software. Please note that a tablet or computer must be purchased separately.
The iEXOS-100 incorporates a reliable German equatorial mount design and leverages Explore Scientific’s revolutionary PMC-Eight™ Precision Motion Control system, ensuring impeccable navigation of the night sky and precise tracking of celestial objects. This combination delivers superior observing and imaging performance at an affordable price point.
GOTO systems are crucial in the busy lives of amateur astronomers, reducing their valuable time spent searching for objects and allowing more time for observation and imaging. The PMC-Eight™, with versatile connections and free downloadable apps for Windows, Android, and iOS, or through the free ASCOM PMC-Eight™ driver and POTH Client, enables telescope control from nearby or remotely via computer-to-computer communication with an Internet connection.
A standout feature of the iEXOS-100 system is its German equatorial design, offering precise tracking as celestial objects move across the sky. This design is advantageous for both observers, keeping targets in the eyepiece, and imagers, preventing common astrophotography issues like field rotation.
Navigating the vast night sky becomes frustration-free with the iEXOS-100's powerful GOTO system. The integrated PMC-Eight™ system sets itself apart by employing an 8-core microcontroller with independent CPUs, ensuring superior responsiveness, efficiency, reliability, and rapid timing intervals for seamless image acquisition and accurate tracking.
Operation of the complex GOTO system is simplified through the user-friendly ExploreStars app, available for Apple, Android, or Windows tablets. The app facilitates quick telescope alignment, star navigation, and provides details about thousands of celestial objects with its regularly updated database.
The iEXOS-100's design prioritizes user convenience, featuring smooth locking clutches for swift telescope repositioning, an altitude knob for easy height adjustments, a polar alignment tunnel for rough alignment with Polaris, and a bubble level for stabilizing the tripod. Additional features include a bracket for the battery pack (powering the PMC-Eight™ system with 8 C batteries, not included), two 1 kg counterweights for balancing, and glow-in-the-dark markers for orientation during nighttime setups. The iEXOS-100 mount accommodates up to 19 lbs (scope, accessories, and counterweights combined), allowing for many possible portable configurations should you wish to switch to another optical tube assembly.
The mount assembly weighs 9.45 pounds (4.29 kg), and the tripod and accessory tray weigh 5.5 pounds (2.5 kg). The tripod, when collapsed is 27.25 inches (69.21 cm) tall.
Video
Specs
Comes WithSmartphone Adapter One 25 mm Plössl Eyepiece Red Dot Viewfinder Downloadable SoftwareMagnification125xFocal Length640mm focal lengthFocal Ratiof/8Adapter40mm draw tube focuser; 1.25" 90° Diagonal;Optical Diameter80mmEyepiece (Included)25 mm Plössl MountMount head weightInstrument 9.45 lbs.Tripod weight5.35 lbs.Tripod fully collapsed, no mount head25.5”Tripod open, retracted legs, no mount head25”Tripod open, retracted legs with the mount head38.5” at highest point, 36” to the center of the mounting bracketTripod open, legs fully extended, no mount head42”Tripod open, legs fully extended with the mount head45” at highest pointCounterweights1 kg eachMount weight capacityApprox. 9 lbs (equipment weight only),15 lbs Photographic (equipment and counterweights); Approx. 19 lbs Visual (equipment and counterweights)
Warranty
Limited USA One Year Warranty. Click Here to register.
Shipping is FREE on all orders to customers within the United States. We don't want to mess around with fine print and extra charges, we like things to be simple and easy.
Want to know about our Returns Policy? Read more here.
Order Confirmation: As soon as you place your order you will receive an order confirmation e-mail. This means that we have received your order in our system and pre-authorized your credit card for the purchase.
As soon as we receive your order we automatically check to confirm that your order is in stock and available for immediate shipment. If your item is on back-order or unavailable we will void the pre-authorization and reach out to you via e-mail to see if alternate arrangements can be made.
If your item(s) are available for immediate shipment (within 5 business days) we will process the charges and get to work preparing your order for shipment.
Order Shipment: If your order is in stock and we process the charges to your credit card it will ship within three business days from the date of your order. We will send you shipping confirmation within 24 hours of your order leaving the warehouse to the e-mail address you provided when checking out.
If you do not receive shipping confirmation from us within four business days of your order feel free to follow up with us at info@stargazeroptics.com.
International Orders: Please be aware that our products are made specifically for the United States market. This means that they require a 110V electrical system to function correctly.
Our products have generally not been certified for use with other countries electrical safety standards but all of our products are certified to United States standards.
We will happily ship our fantastic products to international customers. Due to the extremely wide variety of product dimensions we will provide an up to date shipping price quote for you on request.
If you are happy with our shipping quote we will prepare an order and payment though our ultra secure online payment gateway.
Damages: Please inspect the packaging of your item(s) when they arrive, if you notice any damage you should make note of it when signing for delivery or do not agree to accept the delivery.
If you do accept delivery you are required to immediately take photos using your smart phone or camera of the damaged packaging or products inside the packaging.
If your item(s) do arrived damaged please send photos to info@stargazeroptics.com, then visit our Returns page and lodge your return claim online.
Free Returns
While we fully stand by every product that we sell, we understand that sometimes you might change your mind or realize the product you ordered wasn't exactly what you were hoping for.
That's why we offer a 30 Day Return Policy.
If you decide you want to return an item for any reason within 30 days after receipt of your order, please email us at info@stargazeroptics.com with your order number and we will provide detailed instructions on how to process the return.
Return shipping costs will be covered by Stargazer Optics.
Once your return item(s) have been received and inspected at our warehouse(s), we will send you an email notification that we have processed your return payment.
*Please note: In order to receive a refund for the item(s) ordered, the item(s) must arrive back to our distribution center in "Like New" condition and must contain all original packaging and accessories.
"Like New" means that the items you ordered must not show any visual signs of wear. Opened products will be accepted, as long as the above criteria are met.
If items are returned with visual signs of wear, or have any issues due to use will not be accepted and no refund will be given.
If you decide you want to return your order, please email us at info@stargazeroptics.com with your order number and we will assist you. We want to make this as simple of a process as possible for you.
Damages If the product is damaged, you must make note of it immediately when signing for delivery and send photos to info@stargazeroptics.com the day of delivery.
Stargazer Optics will pay for shipping defective, damaged, or incorrect merchandise at our cost.
Remember to keep all the original packaging for any items that need to be returned. All returns need to be authorized by our customer service department prior to being processed.
We will ensure you get the product you ordered, undamaged, as soon as possible. Items that become damaged after use are non-refundable unless specified under warranty.
Cancellations If you would like to cancel an order, please email or call our customer service team immediately.
Cancellations received before shipment will receive a full refund.
Orders canceled after items have shipped will follow our 30 Day Return policy.
Other Return Policy Notes: If a certain vendor or product does not support the return policy stated above, this will be noted in the product descriptions or in the product- specific return information.
Products that are specified as certified pre-owned or used are ineligible for a return
Stargazer Optics only sells to purchasers who intend to use the item(s) for the duration of its economic life. Orders purchased for the specific purpose of a "one time use or temporary use" are not eligible for return under any circumstances. This includes but is not limited to; orders intended for use in a trade show or a conference venue, orders that are purchased by promotional companies, and orders that are purchased by trade show facilitators.
For more information on Shipping & Returns see our FAQ page.
Optical tube assembly only ready for daytime solar or nighttime stellar use, for visual or astroimaging applications.
80mm aperture will reveal impressive lunar details ranging from craters to rilles, planetary features like Saturn’s ring structure or Jupiter’s cloud belts; and bright deep sky treasures like galaxies, nebulae and clusters.
Telescope comes with an over-the-lens professional-grade solar filter, for studies of sunspot activity, observations of partial phases of an eclipse, or transits.
Precision 25mm Plössl eyepiece, a 90° diagonal for more comfortable viewing and a red dot viewfinder to aid in object location.
Built-in dew shield slows moisture build-up on the objective lens and reduces interference from stray light.
Included adapter helps observers use their smart device to capture and share images.
Rugged metal tube construction with black carbon fiber look.
Telescope mounts to all of Explore Scientific mounts and other popular altazimuth and equatorial mounts.
NOTE: The Solar Filter material being used is the new advanced ‘Solarlite’ Film manufactured by world-famous Thousand Oaks Optical through years of research and development. ‘Solarlite’ a new solar film that has the optical quality of glass with the advantages of impregnated polymer -- perfect for the solar astrophotographer!
The solar film used with this telescope is the same material used in Explore Scientific Eclipse Glasses which is ratedISO12312–2, tested and approved by ICS Labs for Direct Observation of the Sun. In addition, Explore Scientific Eclipse Glasses are meant to be used by anyone from adult to children under 14 years of age, which requires stringent ASTM testing and compliancy. ASTM is a mandatory set of safety rules and regulations under ASTM F963 – Standard Consumer Safety Specification for addressing safety requirements for any object designed, manufactured or marketed for children under 14 years of age. In addition we are recognized by the American Astronomical Association as a supplier of safe eclipse glasses.
iEXOS-100 PMC-Eight Equatorial Tracker System
Integrated Explore Scientific PMC-Eight™ system that transcends the industry standard single processor by utilizing eight CPUs that operate independently of one another to focus on defined functions, which results in superior responsiveness, efficiency, reliability and astoundingly fast timing intervals.
Clutched dual-axis worm gears with quiet precision stepper motor belt drives
Intuitive ExploreStars app, which is available for Apple, Android and Windows tablets, that makes it simple to operate the GOTO system. Through it, users can quickly align their telescope, navigate the stars and learn specifics about tens of thousands of celestial objects
Clutched RA and Declination axis are smooth and allow for precise balancing which makes the process of repositioning your telescope efficient
Polar alignment sight hole through the RA axis and precise altitude control for fast alignment without polar scope.
Battery pack powering the PMC-Eight™ system uses 8 C batteries and is secured in a bracket on one of the tripod legs when in use
Two 1 kg counterweights included
Glow-in-the-dark markings on mount and tripod
Description
Whether you're eager to explore the intricacies of the Sun, delve into the breathtaking beauty of Saturn's Ring Structure, document the dynamic changes in Mars' ice caps, or embark on a mesmerizing journey through the vastness of time and space to discover deep sky wonders, the versatile Explore FirstLight 80mm CF Optical Tube Assembly with Solar Filter provides an observation package tailored to your specific needs. This telescope comes equipped with essential tools for solar exploration, featuring a lightweight telescope, a professional-grade over-the-lens solar filter, a smartphone camera adapter, eyepiece, and a fully-adjustable red dot viewfinder.
The FirstLight AR80mm showcases a 640mm focal length, f/8 telescope with a precision fully-coated optical Crown-and-Flint main objective lens. Notable features include an oversize 40mm draw tube focuser for optimal field illumination, especially for smartphone astroimaging. The package also includes a Solar Filter, a 1.25" O.D. 90° Diagonal, a 1.25" O.D. 4-element fully-coated 25mm Plossl eyepiece (25.6 X; 1.95 Deg True FOV), an adapter to connect a DSLR using a T2 ring specific to each brand of camera, a Red-dot Finder, and a Smartphone Camera adapter.
The iEXOS-100 PMC-Eight™ Equatorial Tracker System is the ideal equatorial mount designed to complement the capabilities of the FirstLight AR80. This comprehensive astronomical solution features a computerized WiFi or wired GOTO Equatorial Tracker equipped with integrated PMC-Eight™ electronics, making it compatible with DSLR Cameras attached to a standard "Vixen Style" Dovetail Plate. Seamlessly connect to the ExploreStars App for Tablets (Windows, Android, Amazon, and Apple), or use the free ASCOM Standards Compliant PMC-Eight™ ASCOM driver with the ASCOM POTH Client from Explore Scientific, either wired or wireless, to interface with a wide range of sky software. Please note that a tablet or computer must be purchased separately.
The iEXOS-100 incorporates a reliable German equatorial mount design and leverages Explore Scientific’s revolutionary PMC-Eight™ Precision Motion Control system, ensuring impeccable navigation of the night sky and precise tracking of celestial objects. This combination delivers superior observing and imaging performance at an affordable price point.
GOTO systems are crucial in the busy lives of amateur astronomers, reducing their valuable time spent searching for objects and allowing more time for observation and imaging. The PMC-Eight™, with versatile connections and free downloadable apps for Windows, Android, and iOS, or through the free ASCOM PMC-Eight™ driver and POTH Client, enables telescope control from nearby or remotely via computer-to-computer communication with an Internet connection.
A standout feature of the iEXOS-100 system is its German equatorial design, offering precise tracking as celestial objects move across the sky. This design is advantageous for both observers, keeping targets in the eyepiece, and imagers, preventing common astrophotography issues like field rotation.
Navigating the vast night sky becomes frustration-free with the iEXOS-100's powerful GOTO system. The integrated PMC-Eight™ system sets itself apart by employing an 8-core microcontroller with independent CPUs, ensuring superior responsiveness, efficiency, reliability, and rapid timing intervals for seamless image acquisition and accurate tracking.
Operation of the complex GOTO system is simplified through the user-friendly ExploreStars app, available for Apple, Android, or Windows tablets. The app facilitates quick telescope alignment, star navigation, and provides details about thousands of celestial objects with its regularly updated database.
The iEXOS-100's design prioritizes user convenience, featuring smooth locking clutches for swift telescope repositioning, an altitude knob for easy height adjustments, a polar alignment tunnel for rough alignment with Polaris, and a bubble level for stabilizing the tripod. Additional features include a bracket for the battery pack (powering the PMC-Eight™ system with 8 C batteries, not included), two 1 kg counterweights for balancing, and glow-in-the-dark markers for orientation during nighttime setups. The iEXOS-100 mount accommodates up to 19 lbs (scope, accessories, and counterweights combined), allowing for many possible portable configurations should you wish to switch to another optical tube assembly.
The mount assembly weighs 9.45 pounds (4.29 kg), and the tripod and accessory tray weigh 5.5 pounds (2.5 kg). The tripod, when collapsed is 27.25 inches (69.21 cm) tall.
Video
Specs
Comes WithSmartphone Adapter One 25 mm Plössl Eyepiece Red Dot Viewfinder Downloadable SoftwareMagnification125xFocal Length640mm focal lengthFocal Ratiof/8Adapter40mm draw tube focuser; 1.25" 90° Diagonal;Optical Diameter80mmEyepiece (Included)25 mm Plössl MountMount head weightInstrument 9.45 lbs.Tripod weight5.35 lbs.Tripod fully collapsed, no mount head25.5”Tripod open, retracted legs, no mount head25”Tripod open, retracted legs with the mount head38.5” at highest point, 36” to the center of the mounting bracketTripod open, legs fully extended, no mount head42”Tripod open, legs fully extended with the mount head45” at highest pointCounterweights1 kg eachMount weight capacityApprox. 9 lbs (equipment weight only),15 lbs Photographic (equipment and counterweights); Approx. 19 lbs Visual (equipment and counterweights)
Warranty
Limited USA One Year Warranty. Click Here to register.
Shipping is FREE on all orders to customers within the United States. We don't want to mess around with fine print and extra charges, we like things to be simple and easy.
Want to know about our Returns Policy? Read more here.
Order Confirmation: As soon as you place your order you will receive an order confirmation e-mail. This means that we have received your order in our system and pre-authorized your credit card for the purchase.
As soon as we receive your order we automatically check to confirm that your order is in stock and available for immediate shipment. If your item is on back-order or unavailable we will void the pre-authorization and reach out to you via e-mail to see if alternate arrangements can be made.
If your item(s) are available for immediate shipment (within 5 business days) we will process the charges and get to work preparing your order for shipment.
Order Shipment: If your order is in stock and we process the charges to your credit card it will ship within three business days from the date of your order. We will send you shipping confirmation within 24 hours of your order leaving the warehouse to the e-mail address you provided when checking out.
If you do not receive shipping confirmation from us within four business days of your order feel free to follow up with us at info@stargazeroptics.com.
International Orders: Please be aware that our products are made specifically for the United States market. This means that they require a 110V electrical system to function correctly.
Our products have generally not been certified for use with other countries electrical safety standards but all of our products are certified to United States standards.
We will happily ship our fantastic products to international customers. Due to the extremely wide variety of product dimensions we will provide an up to date shipping price quote for you on request.
If you are happy with our shipping quote we will prepare an order and payment though our ultra secure online payment gateway.
Damages: Please inspect the packaging of your item(s) when they arrive, if you notice any damage you should make note of it when signing for delivery or do not agree to accept the delivery.
If you do accept delivery you are required to immediately take photos using your smart phone or camera of the damaged packaging or products inside the packaging.
If your item(s) do arrived damaged please send photos to info@stargazeroptics.com, then visit our Returns page and lodge your return claim online.
Free Returns
While we fully stand by every product that we sell, we understand that sometimes you might change your mind or realize the product you ordered wasn't exactly what you were hoping for.
That's why we offer a 30 Day Return Policy.
If you decide you want to return an item for any reason within 30 days after receipt of your order, please email us at info@stargazeroptics.com with your order number and we will provide detailed instructions on how to process the return.
Return shipping costs will be covered by Stargazer Optics.
Once your return item(s) have been received and inspected at our warehouse(s), we will send you an email notification that we have processed your return payment.
*Please note: In order to receive a refund for the item(s) ordered, the item(s) must arrive back to our distribution center in "Like New" condition and must contain all original packaging and accessories.
"Like New" means that the items you ordered must not show any visual signs of wear. Opened products will be accepted, as long as the above criteria are met.
If items are returned with visual signs of wear, or have any issues due to use will not be accepted and no refund will be given.
If you decide you want to return your order, please email us at info@stargazeroptics.com with your order number and we will assist you. We want to make this as simple of a process as possible for you.
Damages If the product is damaged, you must make note of it immediately when signing for delivery and send photos to info@stargazeroptics.com the day of delivery.
Stargazer Optics will pay for shipping defective, damaged, or incorrect merchandise at our cost.
Remember to keep all the original packaging for any items that need to be returned. All returns need to be authorized by our customer service department prior to being processed.
We will ensure you get the product you ordered, undamaged, as soon as possible. Items that become damaged after use are non-refundable unless specified under warranty.
Cancellations If you would like to cancel an order, please email or call our customer service team immediately.
Cancellations received before shipment will receive a full refund.
Orders canceled after items have shipped will follow our 30 Day Return policy.
Other Return Policy Notes: If a certain vendor or product does not support the return policy stated above, this will be noted in the product descriptions or in the product- specific return information.
Products that are specified as certified pre-owned or used are ineligible for a return
Stargazer Optics only sells to purchasers who intend to use the item(s) for the duration of its economic life. Orders purchased for the specific purpose of a "one time use or temporary use" are not eligible for return under any circumstances. This includes but is not limited to; orders intended for use in a trade show or a conference venue, orders that are purchased by promotional companies, and orders that are purchased by trade show facilitators.
For more information on Shipping & Returns see our FAQ page.
