The ED80 Essential Series Air-Spaced Triplet Refractor from Explore Scientific is a true apochromatic telescope designed for serious stargazing and disciplined imaging. Built around an 80mm aperture, it delivers bright, high-contrast views of the lunar surface, the delicate structure of Saturn’s rings, and deep-sky targets from the Messier catalog with remarkable color fidelity and edge-to-edge sharpness.
Why this telescope stands out
- True diffraction-limited optics using genuine HOYA FCD1 ED glass and an air-spaced triplet design to virtually eliminate chromatic aberration. The result is crisp stars with natural color rendition across a wide, flat field.
- High-contrast imaging achieved through proprietary EMD enhanced multi-layer coatings on all optical surfaces, maximizing light transmission while suppressing glare for every kind of observing—from planetary detail to faint deep-sky structure.
- Compact, portable 80mm package with a 91 mm outside diameter tube, combining impressive light-gathering with grab-and-go practicality. It’s easy to carry, quick to set up, and flexible enough to pair with larger scopes for expanded imaging workflows.
- 2" rack-and-pinion focuser with two extension tubes ensures precise, repeatable focusing and ample back focus for camera setups. The included Hybrid Finder Scope Base is already mounted for fast alignment (finder scope not included).
- Included 0.8x Focal Reducer unlocks wide-field imaging in a single, easy-to-use package. It shortens the focal length from 480 mm to 384 mm (f/6 to f/4.8) on the 80 mm class, and from 714 mm to 571 mm (f/7 to f/5.6) on the 102 mm equivalents, dramatically increasing brightness and field of view without a complex setup.
- Back focus and threading compatibility with 55 mm (+/- 2 mm) back spacing and a threaded 42 mm T-ring interface, making camera attachment straightforward and reliable for astrophotography workflows.
- Powerful Go-To tracking via the iEXOS-100-02 PMC-Eight Equatorial Tracker System, delivering precise object acquisition and smooth tracking so you can image or observe for longer sessions with fewer interruptions. This package includes two extra counterweights for balanced mounting.
Real-world use cases that maximize this setup
- Wide-field astrophotography with the 0.8x reducer: capture sweeping star fields, large nebulae, and neighboring galaxies with excellent edge-to-edge sharpness and naturally vibrant colors.
- Guided imaging on a larger telescope: the ED80’s compact size makes it an ideal portable guider or imaging companion, letting you separate guiding duties from a larger primary scope for longer, more productive sessions.
- High-contrast visual sessions: enjoy crisp lunar terrain and planetary detail, including the graceful structure of Saturn’s rings, with color accuracy that stays true across the field.
- Travel-friendly setup: lightweight enough for quick trips to dark-sky sites while offering serious optical performance once you’re there.
Who this is for
- Astrophotographers who want a true apochromatic, color-corrected 80mm refractor that scales from wide-field imaging to guiding with a larger mount.
- Amateur astronomers seeking a high-quality, compact instrument that delivers premium optics without sacrificing portability or ease of use.
- Observers and shooters who value a robust go-to tracker system (iEXOS-100-02) paired with reliable mounting hardware and the flexibility to expand their setup over time.
Why choose this package over alternatives
- Compared with smaller refractors, you gain significantly more light-gathering capability and brighter field views, thanks to the ED glass and high-contrast coatings, while maintaining a compact form factor.
- The 0.8x focal reducer isn’t a gimmick—it materially expands your field of view and light capture, dramatically reducing exposure times for many of the most popular deep-sky targets without compromising optical quality.
- With the iEXOS-100-2 tracker and two counterweights included, you have a ready-to-use, go-to tracking solution that simplifies alignment and enables longer, more productive imaging sessions from day one.
Practical tips to get the most from your ED80
- Plan imaging with the reducer in mind: the broader field and faster f/ratio mean shorter exposures for the same signal-to-noise, but ensure you’ve accounted for the back focus requirements and camera spacing to maintain sharp corners across the frame.
- Balance is key: use the included counterweights with the PMC-Eight system to achieve smooth slewing and accurate guiding, especially during long imaging runs.
- Keep optics clean and aligned: wipe only with approved optical cloths and store in a protective case to preserve coatings and ED glass performance over time.
- Pairing with larger telescopes: mount the ED80 on a larger instrument to separate guiding and imaging duties, expanding your imaging capabilities without sacrificing visual precision.
Category and heritage
As part of the Explore Scientific family, the ED80 Essential Series combines precision engineering with proven optical design. It sits at the intersection of accessible portability and professional-grade performance within the Cameras & Optics > Optics > Scopes > Telescopes category, making it a standout choice for serious hobbyists who demand true color fidelity, crisp detail, and a dependable, expandable imaging platform.
Shipping Policy
Effective Date: 11/18/2025
1. Introduction
At Hobby Tech Supply, we aim to provide a seamless and transparent shipping experience for our customers. This Shipping Policy outlines the terms and conditions related to the delivery of products purchased from our website, hobbytechsupply.com.
2. Shipping Destinations
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Countries We Ship To:
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United States
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Future Expansion:
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We are continually working to expand our shipping destinations. Please check back for updates.
3. Shipping Costs
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Domestic Shipping (United States):
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Standard Shipping: FREE standard shipping for all orders over $100
- The free shipping threshold applies to the subtotal after discounts and before taxes.
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Expedited Shipping: Calculated based on item weight and priority selection (FedEx)
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Flat Rate Shipping: $5 flat rate for orders under $100.
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International Shipping:
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Coming Soon!
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No Hidden Fees:
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All shipping costs and sales taxes are calculated and displayed at checkout. There are no hidden fees.
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4. Order Processing Time
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Processing Time:
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Orders are processed within 1-2 business days (Monday to Friday, excluding holidays). Note: Processing time does not include weekends or carrier transit time.
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Order Cut-Off Time:
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Orders placed before 12:00 PM EST start processing the same day. Please note that shipping timelines depend on each vendor’s schedule, so same-day shipping cannot be guaranteed.
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Weekend and Holiday Orders:
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Orders placed on weekends or public holidays will be processed on the next business day.
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Note: If your order contains items from multiple vendors, they may ship separately, and each shipment will have its own tracking number.
5. Estimated Delivery Time
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Domestic Shipping:
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Standard Shipping: 3-5 business days
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Expedited Shipping: 1-2 business days
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International Shipping:
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Coming Soon!
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Note: Delivery timeframes are estimates. Actual processing and transit times vary by vendor and carrier and cannot be guaranteed. We are not responsible for supplier delays or carrier issues caused by factors outside our control, including vendor shipment issues or weather-related carrier disruptions.
6. Shipping Methods and Carriers
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Reliable Carriers:
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Domestic Carriers: USPS, FedEx, UPS
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We partner with reputable carriers to ensure your package arrives on time and safely.
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Shipment Tracking:
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All orders include tracking information, which will be provided via email once your order has shipped.
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Orders fulfilled by multiple vendors may arrive in separate packages. Each will include its own tracking number.
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Insurance:
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Most shipments include limited carrier insurance. Additional coverage may be provided by certain vendors. If your order arrives damaged or missing items, please contact us so we can assist with a resolution.
7. Order Tracking
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Tracking Information:
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After your order has been shipped, you will receive an email containing:
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Tracking Number
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Carrier Name
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Link to Track Your Package
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How to Track Your Order:
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Visit hobbytechsupply.com/track-order or the carrier's website.
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Enter your tracking number to view the status and estimated delivery date.
- If your order is split into multiple shipments, you will receive separate tracking emails for each package.
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Assistance:
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If you have questions or need assistance with tracking, please contact our Support team at support@hobbytechsupply.com.
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8. Delivery Issues
8.1 Delayed or Lost Packages
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Delayed Delivery:
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If your package is delayed beyond the estimated delivery time, please contact us at support@hobbytechsupply.com or (412) 520-1022.
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Lost Packages:
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If your tracking information indicates that your package was delivered but you have not received it, please complete the following steps:
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Verify the shipping address provided.
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Check with neighbors or building management.
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Contact us for further assistance.
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8.2 Damaged Packages
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Reporting Shipment Damage:
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If your package arrives damaged:
- Contact us within 7 days at support@hobbytechsupply.com.
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Note: Returns will NOT be authorized if damage is caused by customer misuse or improper setup.
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Take photos of the damaged packaging and items.
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Resolution:
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We will work with you to arrange a replacement or refund as appropriate.
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9. Missing or Incomplete Items
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Reporting Missing Items:
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If any items are missing from your order:
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Contact us within 7 days of receiving your package.
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Provide your order number and details of the missing item(s).
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Resolution:
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We will investigate and resolve the issue promptly by sending the missing item(s) or offering a refund.
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10. Return and Refund Policy
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Returns:
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Damaged or Missing Items:
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These must be reported within 7 days of receiving your package so we can file the appropriate claims with the carrier or supplier.
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General Returns (not related to damage or missing items):
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You may request a return within 30 days of receiving your order.
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After approval, you will receive return shipment instructions.
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Conditions for General Returns:
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Items must be unused, undamaged, with all components present, and in their original packaging.
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Certain items (e.g., personalized goods, gift cards) may not be eligible for return.
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Return Shipping Costs:
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Customer Responsibility: Return shipping costs are the customer's responsibility unless the item is defective or not as described.
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Restocking fees vary by manufacturer and will be clearly communicated before a return is approved.
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Company Responsibility: If the return is due to our error, we will cover the return shipping costs and associated fees.
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Refunds:
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Refunds are processed within 14 days after receiving the returned item.
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Refunds will be issued to the original payment method.
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For More Information:
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Please refer to our Return and Refund Policy for detailed information.
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11. Incorrect Address
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Address Accuracy:
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Please ensure that all shipping information is correct. We are not responsible for orders shipped to incorrect addresses provided by the customer.
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Once an order is placed, if an error is identified, contact us immediately. If the item has not yet shipped, we may be able to update your address as requested.
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Returned Packages:
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If a package is returned to us due to an incorrect address:
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We will contact you to arrange reshipment.
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Additional shipping charges may apply.
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12. International Customs and Duties
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Coming Soon!
13. Contact Information
If you have any questions or concerns regarding your shipment, please contact us:
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Customer Service Email: support@hobbytechsupply.com
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Customer Service Phone: 412-520-1022
Our customer service team is available Monday to Friday, 8 AM to 4 PM EST.
14. Changes to This Shipping Policy
We reserve the right to modify this Shipping Policy at any time. Changes and clarifications will take effect immediately upon posting on the website. We encourage you to review this policy periodically.
Thank you for shopping with Hobby Tech Supply!
We appreciate your business and are committed to providing you with exceptional service.