Explore Scientific FCD100 127mm f/7.5 Triplet APO Refractor Telescope

Next-Level Optics – True Color, Zero Chromatic Aberration

Tired of soft, blurry images and color fringing? Upgrade to the Explore Scientific FCD100 127mm APO and experience razor-sharp, high-contrast views with true-to-life colors—thanks to HOYA’s premium FCD100 glass and air-spaced triplet APO design. Whether you’re viewing Saturn’s intricate rings, Jupiter’s swirling clouds, or deep-sky nebulae, this telescope ensures stunning clarity with zero false color.

Features

• HOYA FCD100 Extra-Low Dispersion Glass – Virtually eliminates chromatic aberration for true-color, high-contrast images of planets, nebulae, and galaxies.
• Air-Spaced Triplet APO Design – Advanced optical precision with diffraction-limited performance for astrophotographers and visual observers alike.
• Durable Aluminum Optical Tube – Provides excellent thermal stability and durability, making it a reliable choice for all environments.
• 2.5” Hexagonal Focuser (Supports Up to 10 lbs) – Ensures precise, stable focusing with zero image shift—perfect for heavy astrophotography setups.
• Versatile f/7.5 Focal Ratio – Ideal for both deep-sky observation and high-magnification planetary views, with optional reducers for faster imaging speeds.
• Premium EMD Multi-Layer Coatings – Enhances light transmission and contrast, providing breathtaking detail in faint deep-sky objects.
• Integrated Dew Shield – Prevents lens fogging and increases contrast by blocking stray light during long observation sessions.
• Sturdy Cradle Ring with Vixen-Style Dovetail Plate – Compatible with a wide range of equatorial mounts for both grab-and-go sessions and precision tracking.
• Compact Yet Powerful – 952mm focal length with a 127mm aperture for superior resolution without the bulk of a large reflector or SCT.
• 99% Reflective 2” Diagonal Included – Maximizes light throughput, providing brilliant, high-contrast views through eyepieces.

The Explore Scientific FCD100 127mm f/7.5 Carbon Fiber APO is for you if…

• You’ve outgrown entry-level refractors and want a serious optical upgrade – If you’ve been frustrated by chromatic aberration in doublets or achromats, this true triplet APO will give you sharp, color-accurate images.
• You need a telescope that excels in both visual observing and astrophotography – With a balanced f/7.5 focal ratio, this scope delivers high-resolution planetary views and detailed deep-sky imaging, making it a true all-rounder.
• You’re looking for a focuser that can handle serious imaging setups – The 2.5” hexagonal focuser provides rock-solid stability, eliminating image shift when using heavy cameras, filter wheels, and auto-guiders.
• You need a telescope with professional-grade optics without the premium price tag – The HOYA FCD100 glass rivals Takahashi and Astro-Physics optics at a fraction of the cost, offering incredible value for serious astronomers.

When it comes to exploring the cosmos, precision matters. You’ve spent years refining your craft, pushing the limits of what your current setup can do. Now, it’s time for an instrument that matches your expertise. The Explore Scientific FCD100 127mm f/7.5 APO Refractor isn’t just an upgrade—it’s a leap forward in clarity, color accuracy, and optical performance.

Astrophotography demands the best optics, and nothing frustrates a dedicated stargazer more than chromatic aberration distorting a perfect shot. With HOYA FCD100 extra-low dispersion glass and an air-spaced triplet design, this telescope eliminates false color and delivers razor-sharp, high-contrast images. Whether you're capturing the delicate structure of the Orion Nebula or resolving fine planetary details, you’ll get true-to-life colors and exceptional sharpness every time.

You know that serious imaging requires stability. A flimsy focuser won’t cut it when you’re working with precision auto-guiding, heavy filter wheels, and dedicated astronomy cameras. That’s why this telescope features a 2.5” hexagonal focuser engineered to hold up to 10 lbs of gear without image shift. You can trust your framing and focus to stay rock solid—even during long-exposure captures.

This isn’t a telescope you’ll outgrow. It’s an investment in decades of breathtaking views and detailed astrophotography. If you’re ready to move beyond entry-level optics and experience true diffraction-limited performance, this is the refractor that will take your stargazing to the next level.

What’s Included in the Explore Scientific FCD100 127mm APO Package?

This package includes everything you need for a seamless setup, stable mounting, and high-precision focusing:

• Explore Scientific FCD100 127mm f/7.5 Carbon Fiber Triplet APO Refractor – A true air-spaced triplet APO with HOYA FCD100 glass, delivering stunning clarity and zero false color.
• 2.5" HEX Focuser – Ultra-stable and precise, supports up to 10 lbs—perfect for astrophotography setups.
• Two Extension Tubes – Ensures optimal back-focus adjustments for eyepieces, cameras, and accessories.
• Cradle Ring with Handle & Vixen-Style Dovetail Plate – Provides secure mounting and easy transport, ensuring broad compatibility with most equatorial mounts.
• Hybrid Finder Scope Base – A versatile mounting base for finder scopes and guiding systems, allowing for precise star tracking.
• 99% Reflective 2” Diagonal – Maximizes light transmission, delivering brighter, high-contrast planetary and deep-sky views.

Note: A Finder Scope and a Carrying Case are NOT included. For the best experience, see recommended accessories below.

Recommended Accessories

To get the most out of your Explore Scientific FCD100 127mm APO, these expert-recommended accessories enhance alignment, tracking, and imaging performance:

• Explore Scientific 8x50 Illuminated Right Angle Polar Finder Scope – Achieve accurate polar alignment with an illuminated reticle for easier star tracking in low-light conditions.
• Explore Scientific EXOS2-GT Equatorial Mount – A GoTo motorized mount for automatic object tracking, ideal for long-exposure astrophotography.
• Explore Scientific Soft-Sided Telescope Case – Custom-fit protection against dust, moisture, and travel damage, perfect for dark-sky trips.
• Explore Scientific 3" Field Flattener and 0.7x Focal Reducer – Corrects field curvature for sharp stars edge-to-edge while reducing focal length to f/5.25 for faster deep-sky imaging.

Elevate to the Lightweight Upgrade

For those interested in the lightweight carbon fiber model, the Explore Scientific FCD100 127mm f/7.5 Carbon Fiber Triplet APO Refractor Telescope is the ultimate upgrade. This model features the same premium HOYA FCD100 ED glass for exceptional clarity but is housed in a lightweight, durable carbon fiber tube. The carbon fiber construction not only reduces weight but also enhances thermal stability, ensuring your telescope performs optimally in varying conditions.