Astro-Tech AT80EDL Refractor OTA FCD-100 and Lanthanum f/7 Doublet

I wanted a good grab & go scope for those nights when I only had a short time to observe so I chose this one. This was a great choice. There is nothing to complain about, IMO. Optically and mechanically it is very impressive. I only use it visually - no A/P. (Posted on 3/30/2023)

I replaced a Televue Pronto with this.

The only category the Pronto wins in, is build quality. Everywhere else the AT80EDL is dimensions and light years ahead.

For the money (even the non sale price), you’d have a hard time taking down the 80EDL. Is it free of color? No, but it’s unbelievably hard to detect. You almost have to go out of your way to find it. I did find a minuscule amount of CA during the day on specific objects but 99% of the time it wasn’t there. Collimation was spot on and the sharpness and contrast are absolutely superb. Astrotech is a family owned company catering to the Astro community. They go above and beyond for the community by offering ridiculously great products like this at absurdly good prices. Thank you (Posted on 3/28/2023)

This has got to be the most well thought out telescope I’ve ever seen in this class. Generally the first thing I do to a new scope is modify it in some way - a focuser upgrade, milled tube rings and so on. The AT80EDL needs nothing, the retractable dew shield, the milled rings, the CNC handle are all a treat to use and to look at. Then there’s the focuser- it’s smart looks and intelligent design really set the stage for the crown jewel of this scope. The objective is truly impressive. The glass types and minimum Strehl virtually guarantee delightful views and this scope doesn’t disappoint. Coupled with quality eyepieces this window to the universe simply disappears from view. (Posted on 12/25/2022)