Explore Scientific FCD100 80mm APO Triplet + Field Flattener + iEXOS-100 GoTo Mount — Premium Astrophotography Bundle

The Explore Scientific FCD100 80mm APO triplet refractor telescope bundle is a complete, premium astrophotography package that pairs a top-tier apochromatic refractor with a matched field flattener and a computerized GoTo mount. An apochromatic (APO) triplet uses three lens elements — here with Hoya FCD100 extra-low-dispersion glass — to bring all colors of light to a common focus, delivering sharp, high-contrast, false-color-free views and images.

This bundle takes the guesswork out of getting started in serious imaging: the 80mm f/6 triplet supplies the optics, the field flattener keeps stars pinpoint to the edge of the frame, and the iEXOS-100 PMC-Eight GoTo mount finds and tracks your targets automatically over WiFi or Bluetooth.

Who it's for

Ideal for beginner-to-intermediate astrophotographers who want a portable, high-quality wide-field imaging rig in one purchase. New to the hobby? See our guide on how to pick your first telescope.

Key features

• FCD100 air-spaced triplet APO with Hoya ED glass for sharp, false-color-free optics.
• 80mm f/6 wide-field design (480mm focal length) well suited to nebulae and large deep-sky targets.
• Matched field flattener included for pinpoint stars across the whole frame.
• iEXOS-100 PMC-Eight GoTo mount with automated slewing and tracking via WiFi or Bluetooth.
• Portable, grab-and-go rig that's easy to transport to dark skies.
• Complete imaging package combining optics, corrector, and mount in one bundle.

What you'll see

With its 80mm apochromatic optics and wide, flat field, this refractor excels on large deep-sky objects — emission nebulae like Orion and the North America Nebula, big star clusters, and the broad sweep of the Milky Way. Views are crisp and free of the color fringing that lower-end scopes show, and on the tracking mount you can capture long-exposure images of faint nebulosity that the eye alone can't see. It also delivers clean, contrasty views of the Moon and brighter planets.

Frequently asked questions

What makes an APO triplet special?
Its three-element design with ED glass brings the colors of light to a common focus, eliminating the false color (purple fringing) seen in simpler refractors and giving sharp, high-contrast images.

Is this a complete astrophotography setup?
It includes the optics, a matched field flattener, and a GoTo tracking mount. You'll still need a camera (and typically a T-ring/adapter) to start imaging.

Can the mount handle this telescope?
Yes. The 80mm tube is light and well within the iEXOS-100's payload, leaving room for a camera and accessories for wide-field imaging.

Do I need a computer to run the mount?
No dedicated hand controller is required — the PMC-Eight connects over WiFi or Bluetooth to Explore Scientific's free app on your phone, tablet, or PC.