Explore the intricate features of the lunar surface, the elegant structure of Saturn’s rings, and the brilliance of deep sky objects from the Messier catalog with the Explore Scientific 102mm FCD100 Apochromatic Refractor.
This telescope is a refined version of the original ED102 model, now featuring premium HOYA FCD100 ED glass, a material known for its exceptional chromatic correction and performance on par with Ohara FPL-53. Paired with high-refractive index glass, FCD100 delivers high-contrast, color-accurate views across the field. It represents the pinnacle of Hoya’s ED glass development—engineered for those who demand excellence in visual and imaging performance.
The air-spaced triplet optical system minimizes false color and maximizes image sharpness, while EMD multi-layer coatings enhance light transmission for crisp, brilliant results at the eyepiece or camera.
Whether you're headed to a dark sky site or setting up in the backyard, the ED102’s compact form and diffraction-limited optics make it a superb grab-and-go telescope. At the rear, the scope is equipped with a 2.5" HEX focuser, known for its rigid hexagonal build, and capable of supporting up to 10 lbs of astrophotography equipment without flex or slippage.
Its 91 mm outer tube diameter also makes it an excellent guide scope companion when mounted alongside a larger imaging setup—offering flexibility without compromise.
CA Residents: Prop 65 WARNING(S)
⭐ Features & Benefits
- 102mm f/7 Air-Spaced Triplet Apochromat – Delivers diffraction-limited performance for stunning planetary and deep sky detail
- HOYA FCD100 ED Glass – Premium extra-low dispersion glass for excellent chromatic correction
- EMD Multi-Coatings – Improves contrast and brightness across the full field of view
- 2.5" HEX Focuser – Supports up to 10 lbs of imaging equipment with rock-solid stability
- Two Included Extension Tubes – Offers flexible back focus adjustment for visual and imaging setups
- Compact & Portable – Excellent for mobile observing or guiding alongside larger scopes
- Dew Shield & Dovetail Bar – Integrated components for durability and mounting versatility
🌟 Who It’s For
- Intermediate to advanced visual observers who want premium optics in a portable form
- Astrophotographers needing excellent color correction and a reliable imaging platform
- Observers who want a versatile refractor for use as both a primary scope and guide scope
🎯 What You’ll Be Able to See
- Detailed features of the Moon, including craters, rilles, and the lunar terminator
- Stunning planetary views, such as Saturn’s rings, Jupiter’s moons, and Mars' polar caps
- High-contrast images of bright nebulae like Orion and Lagoon
- Razor-sharp star clusters and galaxies with true color and clarity
🎒 What’s Included
- 102mm f/7 FCD100 Air-Spaced Triplet Optical Tube Assembly
- 2.5" HEX Focuser
- Two Extension Tubes
- Integrated Dew Shield
- Vixen-Style Dovetail Bar
- Explore Scientific 2N1 Hybrid Finder Scope Base (finder not included)
- 99% Reflective 2" Diagonal Mirror
Specs
| Item Number | FCD100–10207–02 |
|---|---|
| Focal Length | 714 mm |
| Focal Ratio | f/7 |
| Limiting Magnitude | 12.5 |
| Resolution | 1.14 arcseconds |
| Tube Length (w/ Dew Shield) | 30.5 in (774 mm) |
| Tube Length (w/o Dew Shield) | 23.75 in (603 mm) |
| Optical Tube Diameter | 119 mm |
| Weight | 10.9 lbs (4.94 kg) |
| Dovetail Plate | 45 mm wide V-block (Vixen-style) |
Warranty Information:
This product includes a Limited One-Year USA Warranty, which converts to the Explore STAR Transferable Extended Life of the Product Warranty when registered within 60 days of purchase.
To activate your warranty, register your product at:
www.explorescientific.com/pages/product-registration





