Product Description
The SVX102T is the aluminum tube version of our premier high-performance lightweight 4” f-7. (714mm focal length) air-spaced apo triplet refractor. This telescope has recently been reviewed by Tony Hallas in Astronomy Magazine and was also reviewed in Sky and Telescope magazine by Dennis DiCicco. Two outstanding reviews by recognized experts in their field. The 90mm and the 102mm telescopes are our most popular since they are relatively light and portable. The 90mm is airline carry-on size and the 102 can be made airline carry-on size by unthreading the focuser.
We now show the 102mm on sale if you order it with the smaller 2.5" focuser. This smaller focuser has been requested by those who only use it visually. For imagers we recommend the 3" focuser which sell for the standard price.
Available now: When ordered with the standard Stellarvue 3SV focuser, these models are now available. There is a waiting period for those ordered with Feather Touch and Moonlite focusers since these focusers are currently backordered.
Fully Multi-Coated Apochromatic Triplet Objective: This telescope has a 101.5mm f-7 apochromatic triplet objective with an Ohara FPL-53 center element and provides extremely high-contrast and reflector-like color correction. Glass is ground and polished to meet our prescription. Once this is accomplished, we utilize our Zygo Phase Shifting Laser Interferometer and a Double Pass Autocollimator to carefully and meticulously hand figure each objective. This is done to eliminate common issues we find in machine polished objectives including astigmatism, coma, and spherical error. We also address trefoil by replacing any elements that exhibit this aberration during the process. SVX optics are more accurate than our former SV models. Each SVX series refractor comes with a Zygo interferometric test report taken in our shop in red light, documenting the accuracy of the objective. To see part of this process in action, watch our YouTube video.
SVX Optics
Specifications:
Focuser: The SVX102T comes with our precision, dual speed, rack and pinion, 2.5" Stellarvue focuser or you can upgrade to a 3” Stellarvue focuser or 3" Feather Touch focuser for additional cost. All focusers come with 2” and 1.25” compression ring adapters for visual use, and the focuser draw tube includes an adapter with a 2" compression ring. When converting from visual use to imaging, unthread the 2" compression ring adapter from the knurled part at the end of the focuser, and thread the field flattener or reducer flattener into its place.
Objective Lens: The 101.5mm clear aperture, 714mm focal length (f-7), air-spaced apochromatic triplet.
Light Gain: 213x (human eye = 1)
Image Circle:
- with 3" Focuser and SFFX-1: 43 mm
- with 3" Focuser and .74X Reducer/Flattener: About 40 mm
Tube Assembly: Lightweight fully baffled aluminum tube and dew shield. Painted ultra flat black inside. 105mm diameter main tube. To compare the differences between an aluminum tube and carbon fiber tube, visit our Aluminum vs. Carbon Fiber comparison page.
Focuser: Comes standard with a Stellarvue 2.5" focuser. Upgrade to a 3" dual speed, rack and pinion focuser either from Sellarvue or Feather Touch for additional charge. We recommend upgrading to the 3" focuser if you plan to do astro-imaging to reduce vignetting.
Dew Shield: 4-3/4” diameter, 8-5/16” long retracting aluminum dew shield with cap. The ring on the end of the dew shield is 4 15/16" in diameter. Compatible with this solar filter.
Dimensions: OTA: 18.25” long in travel mode (focuser unthreaded), or 18.75" if using our large plastic cap to cover the end. 22.5” long with focuser in place and dew shield retracted; 28” with dew shield extended.
Weight: 9.8 lbs with 2” adapter and 1 1/4" adapter. Rings weight .8 pounds each.
Case: Included with the telescope purchase is a heavy-duty, nylon, reinforced refractor case for 102mm - 115mm telescopes. Outside dimensions: 32” X 9 1/2” X 9 1/2”. Inside dimensions: 29 3/4” X 6 1/2” X 6 1/2”.
Rings: Included with the telescope purchase is Stellarvue's cnc machined ring set with five 1/4"-20 threaded holes on top and bottom. Holes are spaced 1.5” and 60mm apart respectively, with one in the center.
Recommended Accessories:
Finder: Optional. We carry the F001 red dot finder and the F002 multi-reticle finder.
Mounting Plate or rail: Optional. We recommend the TP010 rail for telescope mounts using the Vixen style rail, or the optional TP009 for mounts that use the larger Losmandy-style rail.
Star Diagonal: Optional. Please note: You can purchase our 2" quartz dielectric diagonal upgrade for only $199 below. The upgrade diagonal is the same as the D1040Q deluxe dielectric diagonal but does not come with a 1.25" adapter as the telescope already has one.
Photographic Field Flattener: Optional. We recommend the SFFX-1. Select the one for the SVX102T. Converts your telescope into a 714mm f-7 astrograph/telephoto.
Photographic Reducer/Flattener: Optional. We recommend the SFFR.74-102T. Converts your telescope into a 535mm f-5.25 astrograph/telephoto.
MOTORIZED FOCUSER OPTION
WARRANTY
LIGHT GATHERING AND MAGNIFICATION POWER
Additional Information
The Stellarvue SVX102T and SVX102T-R have been designed as our best dual-purpose 4” telescopes for both visual and photographic use. Photographic performance with cameras is excellent with the addition of the photographic field flattener.
Click here for financing information.
Click here for our online operator's manual: SVX102T
Other Details
STELLARVUE LIMITED WARRANTY FOR U.S.A. AND CANADA END PURCHASERS ONLY Stellarvue (SV) warrants that each SV brand telescope and accessory shall be free from defects in materials and workmanship for two years from the date of purchase. SV will repair or replace such product or part thereof, which upon inspection by SV is found defective in materials or workmanship. As a condition to the obligation of SV to repair or replace such product, the product must be returned to SV as specified in this warranty. THIS LIMITED WARRANTY, AND ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES THAT MAY EXIST UNDER STATE LAW APPLY ONLY TO THE ORIGINAL PURCHASER AND LASTS ONLY AS LONG AS THE PURCHASER OWNS THE PRODUCT. Warranty and repair return requirements: • Proof of purchase acceptable to SV must accompany any return for warranty work. • A return Authorization must be obtained from SV in advance of return. E-mail Stellarvue at mail@stellarvue.com or call (530) 823-7796 to receive the authorization & packing instructions. • The authorization code must be written on the outside of the container. • All returns must be accompanied by a written note stating the model number of the product, authorization code, name, address, e-mail address and daytime telephone number of the owner, and an explanation of the problem. Replaced parts shall become the property of SV. • The customer shall be responsible for all costs of transportation and insurance, both to and from SV. SV Requirements • SV shall use reasonable efforts to repair or replace any product covered by this limited warranty within thirty days of acceptance. If repair will take longer, SV shall notify the customer. • SV may replace any product that has been discontinued with a new product of comparable value and function. Products that have been damaged, dropped, disassembled, abused, misused, mishandled, subjected to temperature or weather extremes, subjected to unusual wear or modified in any way will not be covered by this warranty. In these instances, this warranty shall be null and void. THESE WARRANTIES REPLACE ALL OTHER WARRANTIES EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. SV MAKES NO EXPRESS WARRANTIES BEYOND THOSE STATED HERE AND DISCLAIMS ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY, AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. THE SOLE OBLIGATION OF SV UNDER THIS LIMITED WARRANTY SHALL BE TO REPAIR OR REPLACE THE COVERED PRODUCT, IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE TERMS SET FORTH HEREIN. SV DISCLAIMS ANY LOST PROFITS, GENERAL, SPECIAL, INDIRECT OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES WHICH MAY RESULT FROM BREACH OF ANY WARRANTY, OR ARISING OUT OF THE USE OR INABILITY TO USE ANY SV PRODUCT FOR ANY PARTICULAR PURPOSE. THIS WARRANTY GIVES YOU SPECIFIC LEGAL RIGHTS AND YOU MAY ALSO HAVE OTHER RIGHTS THAT VARY FROM JURISDICTION TO JURISDICTION. WARNING: LOOKING AT THE SUN CAN CAUSE SERIOUS EYE INJURY AND BLINDNESS. NEVER POINT A TELESCOPE AT OR NEAR THE SUN. VIEWING THE SUN WITHOUT A PROPER SOLAR FILTER MAY RESULT IN BLINDNESS, AS WELL AS DAMAGE TO THE INSTRUMENT. NEVER ALLOW CHILDREN TO USE BINOCULARS OR TELESCOPES DURING THE DAYLIGHT HOURS, UNLESS THEY ARE SUPERVISED BY AN ADULT WHO UNDERSTANDS THE DANGER OF POINTING ANY OPTICAL INSTRUMENT IN THE GENERAL DIRECTION OF THE SUN.Product Videos
Custom Field
Product Reviews
11 Reviews Hide Reviews Show Reviews
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SV102T
I was surprised to see that there are only 10 reviews for this model! I have the older version SV102T with similar optics and attention to detail as the SVX102T. I can't communicate enough superlatives about this scope. My previous scope was a "quality" 80mm Chinese scope which actually exceeded my expectations... but I didn't; know what I was missing until I got the Stellarvue SV102T! Star color is excellent with almost undetectable fringing, and the detail in photographed nebulae is fantastic, exceeding what is commonly expected for a 4 inch scope.. I also ordered the SFFX1 Field flattener which gives me pinpoint stars to all edges with a full frame camera. If you ask a question, most often Vic Maris, the owner of Stellarvue, will personally reply. After I ordered the field flattener, Vic reached out to me to ensure that all details were correct before he accepted my order. This is outstanding customer service and I couldn't be happier!
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SVX102T
Absolutely the most amazing OTA I’ve ever looked through. I’ve even rediscovered visual viewing again..
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SVX102T
I already have a triplet SV70T for about more than 3 years and decide to keep the SV70T for wide field astrophotography and want something with bigger aperture for galaxy’s and also for visual observations, so I decided to order the SVX102T refractor. I already have more than 7 telescopes and had more than 10 newtonian, refractors, SCT etc, but when I look through this triplet APO even with light pollution Bortle sky 8, I am so surprised about how much light this refractor can get and the quality looking a double cluster with those tiny with perfect contrast and natural color stars. The 3 inch SV focuser is rock solid that after tested, it perform perfectly holding my monochrome camera with filter wheels without any problem. I don’t regret for the waiting period of this telescope, so for that waiting period you will get a masterpiece beautiful and perfect for visual observation and astrophotography quality telescope.
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SVX102T
I finally made the plunge on a "forever scope" and couldn't be happier. The scope is built like a tank, and the Stellarvue focuser has been rock solid. My first light was several weeks after receipt of the scope, due to weather, and it was worth the wait. The data I was able to capture was very easy to process, with background gradient being very smooth, and noise reduction was very easy, despite a smaller than usual amount of data. So far I am extremely pleased with this scope. The sales staff at Stellarvue was outstanding. I received my scope actually under the estimated time for shipment. Thank you very much Stellarvue!!
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SVX102T
The 102 triplet lives up to its advanced billing. A beautiful instrument with no flaws I can detect. I have used it visually, and it performs very well. But my main use is in astrophotography and it really shines in that area. With the SFFR.74 reducer, the telescope becomes an f/5.2, 518 mm astrograph. Sharpness and field flatness are very good edge to edge. This is not an inexpensive instrument, but it is great value for the money.
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SVX102T
Tonight I had first light with my new SVX102T. I intentionally picked a cold night (23 F) to try to provoke pinched optics. The Star Test was picture perfect, no evidence of pinched optics, astigmatism, or false color in the diffraction rings inside or outside of focus. Based on the Star Test, this scope appears to be very well corrected. I am fortunate enough to own three Astro-Physics triplets (92, 130, and 140 mm) and the Star Test of the SVX102T was indistinguishable from my AP scopes. That is the highest possible compliment for the SVX102T. As expected, the mechanics of the FT focuser were excellent. There is no “slop” when sliding the dew shield. Even the telescope rings are well-machined.
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Superb Telescope
I’ve looked through many telescopes in the last 20 years. From SCT’s, Dob’s, MCT’s and refractors. This scope has not only provided stunning views, but exceeded my expectations in every aspect.
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SVX102T
I've wanted a good 4" refractor to add to my collection of scopes for years. (Earlier this year, I tried a Sky-Watcher Esprit 100, but wasn't happy with the uneven star spikes around bright stars.) Since there were so many positive reviews for Stellarvue scopes and I was impressed with their quality control process, I decided they would be a better bet. This is the first image from my newly arrived Stellarvue SVX102T. I'm pleased to report this scope produced great results out of the box. The overall image sharpness and star field quality exceeds expectations. The SFFR.74 reducer produces better stars at the corners than any field flattener/reducer I own. This is especially important for larger APS-C or full frame sensors. The stock focuser is rock solid, with no slippage or sag that I can detect. While Stellarvue offers a Feather Touch focuser as an upgrade option, I don't feel the need for one in my case. The overall build quality and finish is excellent. Stellarvue includes a highly detailed optical test report for each scope, which indicates their pride in craftsmanship. (The Strehl ratio for my scope is 0.993!) This is not your average mass produced scope! Two thumbs up for the Stellarvue SVX102T! I highly recommend it.
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Highly Recommend
I am very happy with my purchase of this telescope. I have owned multiple telescopes over the years, SCT, Newtonians, and Refractors, but this one is truly special. While I primarily use it for imaging, its visual views were surprising. There was no color fringing, and when focus was reached stars were pin points. M13 looked like a round box of the smallest diamond chips you can imagine. The build quality of this scope is markedly better than all others I have seen, and most do a good job, but this one is better. Everything fits together superbly, and anything designed to move is buttery smooth. The mounting rings are high quality and well designed for holding the scope with good separation and for adding stuff to the top. Vic and his team were great to work with. Vic helped me pick various options for the scope itself, including accessories, and in some cases talked me out of spending additional money when it did not make sense. I highly suggest buying both the flattener and reducer at the same time, as they will build them to match your scope optically. You can’t beat that. While 4 inches is not a light bucket, it is a great size and focal length to do the imaging I want to do, since it will still do pretty wide fields for most objects. That said, this size scope will still do justice to many galaxies. Super high quality, built in the USA, and great customer service. You can’t go wrong with this one.
