Note: The TEC APO180FL ships as the OTA (Optical Tube Assembly) only. The TEC 180 does not include rings, mounting plates, field flatteners, and other accessories must be purchased separately. Please see our "related" section below for quick links to all the additional accessories available for this telescope. The price of this scope also reflects a $170 packing and insurance fee (shipping will be calculated at checkout). The TEC APO180FL F/7 is the pinnacle of apochromatic refractor design. Arguably one of the largest portable APO refractors, the APO180FL will give you jaw-dropping views and breath-taking images. If you are looking for the very best in apochromatic refractors, look no further than Telescope Engineering Company. Telescope Engineering Company (TEC) began in 1994 as a distributor/subcontractor of optics and optical materials. Initially, their primary products were zero-expansion Sitall blanks from LZOS, large mirrors and optical systems from LOMO, and optics for Maksutov telescopes made in Kiev, Ukraine. In the late 90's, TEC decided to start its own production line of optics and telescopes. TEC began by producing a line of Maksutov telescopes ranging from 6" to 10" diameter and continued to work on special optics for professional observatories. At the turn of the century, TEC began working on a new product: apochromatic refractors. In 2002 they started regular production of smaller refractors, beginning with the APO140 F7 ED. Later on, TEC added larger models including the APO160, APO180 and APO200. Apochromatic refractors make up the majority of TEC's ongoing present and near future production. The TEC APO180FL is a telescope that will definitely not disappoint. The excellent color correction expected from the TEC line combined with the contrasty images and superb mechanical design, the TEC APO180FL will have you smiling every time you put your eye to the eyepiece. Please note: If this item shows "out of stock," please give us a call to reserve your order. TEC produces telescopes in limited production runs, so we recommend getting your name on the list as soon as possible. TEC requires only a small deposit to hold your spot, which is refundable. Final shipping costs to be determined after checkout Clear aperture 180 mm Focal length 1260 mm Focal ratio 7 Resolution (theoretical) 0.66 arc sec Tube diameter 8" / 201 mm Tube length (dew shield retracted) 45" / 1140 mm Tube weight 36.5 lb / 16.5 kg
