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TeleVue Plössl 32mm 50° Eyepiece - 1.25"
The TeleVue Plössl 32mm is widely considered the standard for low-power, wide-field observation in the 1.25-inch format. By utilizing the maximum 27mm field stop allowable by the barrel diameter, it provides the widest true field of view possible before transitioning to 2-inch accessories. Unlike longer focal length alternatives, the 32mm maintains a generous 50° apparent field, offering a more immersive experience without sacrificing sky coverage.
Engineered to Al Nagler’s rigorous standards, this eyepiece is optimized for edge-to-edge sharpness and high contrast. It serves as the primary "finder" eyepiece for many observers, delivering bright, diffraction-limited images that reveal fine details in extended deep-sky objects.
Maximizing the 1.25" True Field
In visual astronomy, the true field of view is governed by the field stop diameter. The TeleVue 32mm Plössl features a 27mm field stop, which is the mechanical limit of the 1.25" barrel. While a 40mm Plössl shares this same field stop, the 32mm model is often preferred because it achieves the same true field of sky at a higher magnification. This results in a darker sky background and increased contrast, making it easier to resolve faint stars and subtle nebulosity.
For owners of Schmidt-Cassegrains (SCT) or Maksutov-Cassegrains, the 32mm Plössl is a vital component. It provides a balanced exit pupil that maximizes image brightness while maintaining enough magnification to identify small galaxies and planetary nebulae.
Advanced Optical Construction
TeleVue Plössls are not generic mass-market optics. They utilize high-index glass and full multi-coatings to ensure exceptional light throughput and minimal internal reflections. The four-element design is a benchmark for purity, offering a neutral color rendition that is essential for critical planetary and lunar observation.
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Stray Light Control: The lens edges are blackened and the internal barrel features anti-reflection threads to eliminate "ghosting" and flare when bright objects like the Moon are just outside the field of view.
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Parfocal Design: The 32mm is parfocal with shorter focal length TeleVue Plössls (8mm through 25mm), allowing you to swap eyepieces during an observation session with minimal refocusing required.
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Diffraction-Limited Performance: Even in "fast" telescopes with focal ratios as low as f/5, the 32mm Plössl maintains tight star points across the majority of the field, a feat many budget Plössls cannot match.
Ergonomics and Binoviewer Optimization
With 22mm of eye relief, the 32mm Plössl is highly accessible for all observers. The physical profile is slim and lightweight (6.2 oz), making it a top-tier choice for binoviewer applications where weight and interpupillary distance are critical factors.
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Dioptrx Compatibility: This eyepiece is fully compatible with the Dioptrx astigmatism corrector. By attaching a Dioptrx lens, observers with astigmatism can experience the full optical potential of their telescope without the limitations of wearing eyeglasses.
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Rubber Eyeguard: The fold-down rubber eyeguard helps block peripheral light and provides a comfortable rest for the eye, aiding in the prevention of "kidney-beaning" or blackouts by ensuring proper eye positioning.
Strategic Comparison: 32mm vs. 40mm
Observers often debate between the 32mm and 40mm Plössl. While both show the same true field of view:
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The 32mm Advantage: Higher magnification leads to a darker sky background, which improves the visibility of deep-sky objects by increasing the contrast between the object and the sky. The 50° apparent field also feels less "claustrophobic" than the 43° field of the 40mm.
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The 40mm Advantage: Useful primarily for very slow telescopes (f/12 to f/15) where a larger exit pupil is required to maintain image brightness, or for specific night vision and afocal imaging applications.
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Does the 32mm Plössl show the same field of view as the 40mm?
Yes. Both eyepieces utilize the maximum 27mm field stop allowable in a 1.25" barrel. Consequently, they show the exact same amount of sky. The 32mm is generally preferred because it provides higher magnification and a wider 50° apparent field, which results in a more natural and high-contrast viewing experience.
Is the 32mm Plössl a good choice for an f/10 SCT?
It is one of the best 1.25" choices for an f/10 Schmidt-Cassegrain. It produces a 3.2mm exit pupil, which is ideal for deep-sky observation, providing enough brightness for nebulae while maintaining a dark enough background to see faint stars clearly.
How do I prevent "blackouts" or "kidney-beaning" with this eyepiece?
Because the 32mm has a generous 22mm of eye relief, "blackouts" can occur if your eye is positioned too close to the lens. To fix this, ensure the rubber eyeguard is folded up and use it as a physical guide to keep your eye at the correct distance. If you wear glasses, you can fold the guard down to see the entire field comfortably.
Why should I buy a TeleVue Plössl instead of a cheaper brand?
Generic Plössls often use lower-grade glass and simplified coatings that result in internal reflections and soft edges. TeleVue uses high-index glass and precision multi-coatings to ensure that the image remains sharp and high-contrast across the entire field, even in faster telescopes (f/5 or f/6) where cheaper designs typically fail.
Is this eyepiece suitable for use in a binoviewer?
Yes, the 32mm Plössl is a favorite for binoviewing. Its narrow body allows for easy interpupillary adjustment, and its light weight prevents balance issues on the telescope. Using a pair of 32mm Plössls provides a stunning, high-contrast "3D" effect on lunar and deep-sky targets.
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| Model # |
EPL-32.0 |
| Focal Length |
32 mm |
| Barrel Size |
1.25" |
| Apparent Field of View |
50° |
| Eye Relief |
22 mm |
| Field Stop Diameter |
27 mm |
| Weight |
6.2 oz (176 g) |
| Optical Length |
2.8" (71 mm) |
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