The Vixen AP-A80Mf refractor telescope package is the perfect entry-level refractor telescope package that balances performance and affordability. As part of the Advanced Polaris (AP) series, this set delivers an excellent cost-performance ratio, making it ideal for beginners looking to explore the night sky with precision and ease.
AP-SM Equatorial Mount
The Advanced Polaris mount is a compact and user-friendly equatorial platform, ideal for both beginners and experienced observers. Designed for grab-and-go convenience, it provides stable support for your telescope and utilizes a friction control system for quick, precise movement. A wide range of optional accessories makes the mount highly versatile.
R.A. Motor Module and STAR BOOK ONE Set
This mount includes the R.A. motor module and STAR BOOK ONE controller set, which serves as the main motor for celestial tracking. It forms the foundation of the modular AP system, allowing for customized configurations by adding additional modules.
Stylish Design
The AP mount features a clean, modern design with a lightweight 3.6 kg body. It integrates four AA batteries internally and uses internal electrical contacts, eliminating the need for exposed external wiring.
Friction Control System
Manually point your telescope by hand—no knobs or clamps required. The friction control system makes it easy to track your target smoothly and intuitively.
Simple Polar Alignment
Beginners can easily align the polar axis using the optional polar meter, especially in locations where Polaris is not visible. For high-precision alignment, the standard polar axis scope can be used.
Polar Alignment Scope PF-L
The PF-L scope uses a three-star alignment system and features a built-in dark field illuminator with automatic shutoff. It pairs with the free “PFL Assist” app, which helps you visualize the constellation for quick and accurate alignment.
Power Supply System
Powered by four AA batteries (alkaline or rechargeable Ni-MH/Ni-Cd), the mount offers flexibility and portability. For extended sessions, connect a USB mobile battery or AC adapter via the built-in USB Micro-B port.
A80Mf Optical Tube
High quality at low price f-series 80mm aperture achromatic refractor with multi-coated is ideal for star gazing of moon crater, Saturn's ring, stripe of Jupitor.
APP-TL130 Tripod
This compact, adjustable tripod extends from 60 cm to 130 cm and offers both the portability of a camera tripod and the strength needed for astronomical equipment. Its rubber or metal spike tips allow for indoor and outdoor use.
CA Residents: Prop 65 WARNING(S)
⭐ Features & Benefits
- 80 mm Achromatic Refractor (f/11.4) – Multi-coated optics ideal for Moon, Jupiter, and Saturn viewing
- Friction Control System – Allows smooth manual pointing without knobs or clamps
- AP-SM Modular Equatorial Mount – Supports future upgrades and accessories
- RA Motor Module with STAR BOOK ONE – Enables precise celestial tracking
- Mobile Power Supply System – Use AA batteries or USB for flexible, travel-friendly use
- PF-L Polar Scope Compatible – Allows quick and accurate polar alignment
- Compact APP-TL130 Tripod – Lightweight, adjustable tripod for indoor/outdoor use
🌟 Who It’s For
- Beginner stargazers looking for a reliable and user-friendly first telescope
- Families or educators wanting an all-in-one astronomy kit
- Anyone who needs a portable, affordable system with room for upgrades
🎯 What You’ll Be Able to See
- Craters and shadows on the Moon’s surface
- Saturn’s rings and Jupiter’s equatorial bands
- Bright star clusters and nebulae under dark skies
- Wide-field sweeps of constellations with lower-power eyepieces
🎒 What’s Included
- A80Mf 80 mm Achromatic Refractor Optical Tube
- AP-SM Equatorial Mount with RA Motor Module
- STAR BOOK ONE Controller
- 1 kg Counterweight
- APP-TL130 Adjustable Aluminum Tripod
- 6x30 mm Finderscope
- PL20 mm and PL6.3 mm Eyepieces (31.7 mm)
- Visual Back and Mounting Accessories
Specs
| Configuration | Optical tube assembly, 1 kg counterweight, AP-SM equatorial mount, Eyepiece, APP-TL130 tripod |
|---|---|
| Achromatic Objective | 80 mm refractor with multi-coating |
| Focal Length / F-Ratio | 910 mm (f/11.4) |
| Resolving Power / Limiting Magnitude | 1.45 arc seconds / 11.3 |
| Light-Gathering Power | 131x (compared to unaided eye) |
| Telescope Dimensions / Weight | L: 860 mm × Ø90 mm; 3.3 kg (Tube Body: 2.5 kg) |
| Finder Scope | 6x30 mm, 7° actual field of view |
| Visual Back | 43 mm, 42 mm for T-ring, 31.7 mm push-fit |
| Eyepieces (31.7 mm) | PL20 mm (46x), PL6.3 mm (144x) |
| Tripod Material / Type | Aluminum, 3-section adjustable leg |
| Tripod Dimensions / Weight | Length: 570–1,296 mm; Height: 526–1,159 mm; Closed: 598.4 mm; Radius: 350–710 mm; 3.0 kg |
| Total Weight | Approx. 11.3 kg (without battery and eyepiece) |
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