An astrophotography imaging system isn't just the telescope — it's the telescope, the focal reducer, and the field flattener, all matched to each other. The Explore Scientific ED80 APO Triplet Bundle (ES-ED-0806-FF) includes all three in one package. The ED80 is a proven 80mm triplet apochromatic refractor; the matched 0.8× focal reducer drops the focal ratio from f/6 to f/4.8, shortening exposure times; and the field flattener keeps stars pinpoint from center to corner across APS-C and full-frame sensors. This is a complete, ready-to-image wide-field system.
Unlike buying the OTA alone
A bare ED80 OTA at f/6 is a versatile visual and imaging scope. But for wide-field deep-sky imaging, you'll want a focal reducer for faster exposures and a field flattener for sharp corners — the two optical accessories that most astrophotographers add eventually. Buying them separately means matching thread sizes, checking back-focus distances, and assembling the optical train yourself. This bundle ships with matched components designed to work together at the correct spacings.
What you'll capture
At 384mm effective focal length (f/4.8), the field of view is wide — perfect for large emission nebulae that don't fit in narrower imaging scopes. The Orion Nebula complex, the Rosette Nebula, the Heart and Soul Nebulae, the North America Nebula — all fit well within the field at typical sensor sizes. The ED triplet delivers color-accurate, fringe-free star images across the field. The faster focal ratio means the same target brightness is achieved in significantly less exposure time compared to f/6 or slower.
What's in the box
- ED80 APO Triplet refractor OTA (80mm, f/6 native)
- Matched 0.8× focal reducer (reduces to f/4.8, 384mm effective FL)
- Matched field flattener
- Focuser with camera adapter capability
| Spec |
Value |
| SKU |
ES-ED-0806-FF |
| Optical Design |
ED Triplet Apochromatic Refractor |
| Aperture |
80mm (3.1 inches) |
| Native Focal Length / Ratio |
480mm / f/6 |
| Effective FL / Ratio (with reducer) |
384mm / f/4.8 |
| Included |
OTA, 0.8× focal reducer, field flattener |
| Mount |
Not included — compatible with Vixen/Losmandy saddles |
Price Match, Shipping & Questions
We price-match any authorized Canadian or US retailer. Ships free to the contiguous US. Questions? Email us at support@telescopewolves.com or visit our contact page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this come with a mount?
No — the bundle includes the optical tube and matched imaging accessories. For astrophotography, you'll need an equatorial tracking mount (such as an iOptron or Sky-Watcher EQ5/HEQ5). The ED80 is lightweight enough for mid-range EQ mounts.
Is the field flattener necessary, or can I image without it?
For small sensors (micro four-thirds or smaller), the native ED80 field may be acceptable without a flattener. For APS-C and full-frame sensors, corner stars will show coma or field curvature without the flattener. Since this bundle includes it, you get flat, sharp corners from the start.
How does this compare to the SVBONY SV550 Triplet APO?
The SV550 is a visual-priority scope with a 2-inch rack-and-pinion focuser suited for eyepieces and light imaging. This ED80 bundle is configured specifically for imaging — the reducer and field flattener are included, and the focal ratio is faster. If you're primarily observing visually with occasional imaging, the SV550 is more versatile. If astrophotography is your main goal, this bundle delivers a complete imaging system out of the box.
Can I still use it for visual observing?
Yes — the ED80 is an excellent visual refractor when used without the reducer/flattener. The triplet APO glass produces crisp, high-contrast views of planets, the Moon, and star clusters. It's a genuinely dual-use instrument.
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