From Sunspots to Nebulae — See It All in Ultra Clarity

Dream of capturing the Sun’s detail and the deep red glow of distant nebulae? The Explore Scientific ED80-FCD100 Solar Kit lets you image both — with advanced optics that reveal what lower-tier glass simply can’t.

Features

• Premium FCD100 Apochromatic Optics: Built with genuine HOYA FCD100 glass — comparable to Ohara FPL-53 — this air-spaced triplet delivers superior correction of chromatic aberration and dramatically better transmission of red and infrared light. Perfect for photographing emission nebulae in rich detail.
• Dual-Purpose Observation: Includes a certified Sun Catcher solar filter for safe and stunning solar viewing. Remove it, and you’re ready for deep-sky imaging without changing your setup.
• Astrophotography-Ready Mount: Paired with the iEXOS-100 GoTo equatorial tracker, this system offers precision polar alignment, Wi-Fi control, and ASCOM compatibility for long-exposure imaging.
• 2.5" Hexagonal Focuser: A robust, rigid design that supports up to 10 lbs of gear — ideal for heavy imaging trains. Includes two extension tubes for extra flexibility.
• Optimized for Portability: With a compact 91mm outer diameter and total weight of 7.5 lbs, this scope is travel-ready — perfect for road trips, star parties, or chasing eclipses.
• Enhanced Contrast & Light Transmission: Proprietary EMD multi-layer coatings combined with FCD100 glass maximize contrast and light throughput across the full spectrum.
• Complete Imaging Package: Includes the ES-FF2F5/F7 field flattener, ES-CW22-00 counterweights, and SC80/102-00 solar filter — all precisely matched for seamless integration.

The ED80-FCD100 Solar Kit is for you if…

• You’re ready to invest in top-tier optics and want better performance than standard ED glass scopes can offer — especially in the red/infrared spectrum.
• You want a truly dual-purpose system that goes from solar observation to nebula imaging with zero compromises in quality or convenience.
• You’ve outgrown entry-level refractors and need optics that deliver true diffraction-limited performance without color fringing or soft edges.
• You’re running heavier gear like filter wheels or cooled cameras and need a focuser that can handle it with precision and stability.
• You travel for astrophotography and want a compact but powerful system that’s built for performance on the move.
• You value optical quality above all else — and want to shoot images you’ll be proud of for years to come.

Whether you're observing the solar surface in fine detail or capturing the crimson glow of the Rosette Nebula, the Explore Scientific ED80-FCD100 Solar Kit gives you professional-level performance in a portable, all-in-one system. It’s designed for serious imagers and ambitious beginners who refuse to compromise on optical quality.

At the heart of the kit is the FCD100 air-spaced triplet — an upgrade over the standard ED80, using glass that rivals Ohara FPL-53 in performance. This premium glass transmits red and infrared light with higher efficiency, making it ideal for imaging emission nebulae and capturing crisp contrast on planets, the Moon, and solar activity. You’re not just getting a triplet — you’re getting one of the finest optical assemblies Hoya has ever produced.

The included Sun Catcher solar filter is lab-tested for safety and performance, letting you capture solar detail confidently. Remove it, and you have a high-end refractor ready for deep-sky work. With 99% reflectivity in the 2" diagonal, even the faintest detail pops with brightness and contrast — no upgrade needed.

To deliver distortion-free images across your frame, the kit includes the ES-FF2F5/F7 field flattener, preserving the native f/6 focal ratio while correcting field curvature for pinpoint stars from edge to edge. Whether you're shooting with a DSLR or a cooled astro camera, you'll get clean, sharp results.

Tracking is handled by the iEXOS-100 GoTo equatorial mount, complete with Wi-Fi control, ASCOM support, and smooth polar alignment tools. Counterbalancing is easy with the included ES-CW22 weights, perfectly matched to this mount for long-exposure sessions.

Supporting your imaging gear is the rugged 2.5" hexagonal focuser, capable of holding up to 10 lbs of equipment without flex. Two extension tubes are included to help dial in the exact back focus you need — no scrambling for parts or spacers.

Details like the integrated dew shield and Vixen-style dovetail round out the package, giving you everything you need for flexible mounting and reliable performance in changing outdoor conditions. With a compact tube diameter of 91mm and a total weight of just 7.5 lbs, this system is made for the road — perfect for chasing eclipses, attending star parties, or setting up at dark-sky sites.

Just starting out? This kit is a smart investment that you won’t outgrow. Already experienced? You’ll appreciate the refinement, the premium optics, and the way everything just works — from solar imaging to capturing your best deep-sky shots yet.

With the ED80-FCD100 Solar Kit, you’re not piecing together a system — you’re stepping into a thoughtfully engineered, performance-optimized platform that delivers from sunrise to starlight.