The Vixen AX103S is a premium-level ED apochromatic refractor designed for astrophotographers and serious visual observers alike. At its core is a fully multi-coated triplet ED lens system with a built-in field flattener, delivering razor-sharp, high-contrast images across the entire field — even with full-frame DSLR and mirrorless cameras. Chromatic aberration is virtually eliminated thanks to the central ED lens element, ensuring true-to-color images without distortion or fringing.
With an f/8.0 focal ratio, this telescope offers a great balance between resolution and light-gathering power, making it excellent for planetary, lunar, and deep-sky observations. For those seeking faster photographic performance, an optional focal reducer brings the ratio down to f/5.6.
Whether you’re imaging distant nebulae or admiring Saturn, the AX103S is built to deliver stunning clarity and detail for a lifetime of astronomy.
CA Residents: Prop 65 WARNING(S)
⭐ Features & Benefits
- 📷 Triplet ED Lens System – Features a central extra-low dispersion (ED) element for minimal chromatic aberration and color fringing.
- 🔧 Built-in Field Flattener – Maintains edge-to-edge sharpness, eliminating field curvature—perfect for full-frame astrophotography.
- 🎯 Astrophotography-Optimized – Designed from the ground up to support high-resolution imaging with DSLR and mirrorless cameras.
- ⚖️ f/8 Optical Speed – A great all-around focal ratio for visual and imaging use. Optional reducer brings it down to f/5.6 for faster exposures.
- 🛠️ Precision Aluminum Construction – Durable, lightweight, and made for long-term use in observatories or remote field setups.
- 🔭 2” Eyepiece Compatibility – Works seamlessly with standard visual and imaging accessories.
🌟 Who It’s For
- Advanced amateurs and professionals needing field-flattened imaging for astrophotography
- Visual observers who want high contrast and true color with zero chromatic distortion
- Users with full-frame DSLR or mirrorless cameras looking for edge-to-edge sharpness
🎯 What You’ll Be Able to See
- Fine surface detail on the Moon and planets
- Crisp star fields and deep-sky nebulae in long-exposure imaging
- Color-accurate galaxies and rich star clusters with photographic precision
🎒 What’s Included
- Vixen AX103S ED Apochromatic Refractor Optical Tube
- Tube Clamps
- Integrated Metal Carry Handle
- Flip Mirror Diagonal
- Illuminated 7x50 Finderscope
Specs
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Optical Design | Apochromatic Refractor |
| Objective Diameter | 103 mm |
| Focal Length / F-Ratio | 825 mm f/8.0 |
| ED Glass | Yes |
| Angular Resolution | 1.13 arc seconds |
| Visual Limiting Magnitude | 11.8 (approx., mag) |
| Light-Gathering Power | 217× (compared to naked eye) |
| Coating Type | Fully Multi-Coated |
| Color of Coating | Green |
| Focusing System | 60 mm Focuser (2” compatible) |
| Finderscope | Illuminated 7x50 mm |
| OTA Material | Aluminum |
| OTA Dimensions | 687 mm x 115 mm |
| OTA Weight | 4.6 kg |
Warranty
Vixen warranties its products to be free from initial defects in materials and workmanship for a specified period based on part type:
Vixen Electronic Parts: Limited One Year Warranty
Vixen Mechanical Parts: Limited Two Year Warranty