Explore Scientific AR102 102mm Air-Spaced Doublet Achromat Refractor

When you choose the Explore Scientific AR102 102mm air-spaced doublet refractor, you will be impressed by the stunning images revealed to you at the eyepiece. Designed to handle the rigors of public star parties and educational outreach, the Explore Scientific AR102 telescope comes with heavy-duty, high quality components, including a 2" dual-speed Crayford-style focuser, a one-piece 2" diagonal with 99% dielectric coatings, an 8x50 finderscope and quick release bracket and a cradle ring assembly with Vixen-style dovetail mount. This special package comes with the Explore Scientific Twilight I alt-azimuth mount. Add a few eyepieces and you'll have the perfect grab-and-go telescope. About the Mount The Explore Scientific Twilight I alt-azimuth mount head is made of powder-coated aluminum and there are worm gears on both axes. The adjustable angle head can be tilted forward or back at a 45deg. angle, or you can point it straight up for viewing at the zenith. Slow motion control cables are attached on the vertical and horizontal axes and are easy to turn during the night, even with gloves on, due to the over-sized knurled knobs that are attached to the end of each cable. A small wrench is included with this package and is stored in the fork arm and held in place with a magnet. If you need to make quick adjustments to your mount, it is a snap to access the wrench and then store it safely away when done. The Tripod The chrome-plated steel tripod that comes standard with the Twilight I mount has adjustable legs and a wide foot print of 42 inches, which makes the tripod more stable. A spreader bar locks against the inside of the legs to secure the tripod even further and keep vibrations to a minimum.