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IMPORTANT: Our store is located in Canada. All orders that include products manufactured outside of Canada or USA will be subject to tariffs and duties, regardless of the order value. US customers are responsible for all applicable duties and tariffs, and those will be billed by the carrier, except for the Lacerta upgrade kit, for which we collect them at checkout.
IMPORTANT: Our store is located in Canada. All orders that include products manufactured outside of Canada or USA will be subject to tariffs and duties, regardless of the order value. US customers are responsible for all applicable duties and tariffs, and those will be billed by the carrier, except for the Lacerta upgrade kit, for which we collect them at checkout.
Explore Scientific 2" AR Series Focuser - Discontinued

Explore Scientific 2" AR Series Focuser - Discontinued

by Explore Scientific
SKU ES-FOCDAR-00
Sold out
$199.99 - $199.99
$199.99
$199.99 - $199.99
$199.99
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  • 2" Focuser Drawtube
  • Dual-Speed Coarse and Micro-Focusing Knobs
  • Supports 1.25" Accessories with Optional Adapter
  • Adjustable Drawtube Tension Control
  • Large, Knurled Knobs for Easy Grip
  • Locking Set Screws for Secure Accessory Attachment
Out of stock
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  • Description
  • FAQ
  • Specifications
  • In the Box
  • Warranty

  • Explore Scientific 2" AR Series Focuser

    The Explore Scientific 2" AR Series Focuser provides robust, dual-speed control for imaging and visual systems using both 2" and 1.25" accessories. Designed for heavy payloads, this 2" focuser incorporates adjustable tension and oversized knobs to maintain critical focus without slipping, even with a full camera train attached.

    2" Dual-Speed Mechanism for Critical Sharpness

    Achieving perfect focus, especially for imaging, requires both large-scale adjustments and minute corrections. This focuser's dual-speed mechanism gives you both: a large knob for rapid, coarse focusing when changing eyepieces, and a smaller micro-focusing knob for the final, critical tweaks needed to produce sharp, pinpoint stars.

    Heavy Payload Support for 2" and 1.25" Accessories

    Modern imaging setups with cameras, filter wheels, and off-axis guiders can introduce significant weight and sag. The AR Series focuser addresses this with an adjustable tension control, allowing you to increase the drawtube's holding power to match your payload. Multiple set screws ensure that your 2" or 1.25" accessories are locked securely in place, preventing tilt that can ruin an image.

    • Tension Adjustment: A dedicated control lets you lock the drawtube or add friction, preventing the focuser from slipping under the weight of heavy equipment.
    • Ergonomic Knobs: The focus knobs are large and knurled, making them easy to grip and turn with precision, even when wearing gloves on a cold night.
    • Accessory Security: Set screws provide a firm grip on eyepieces and adapters, ensuring the entire optical train remains rigid and perfectly aligned.

  • What is the benefit of a dual-speed focuser like the Explore Scientific 2" AR Series?

    A dual-speed focuser offers two levels of control. The coarse focus knob allows for large, rapid adjustments, which is useful when switching between eyepieces of different focal lengths. The micro-focus knob provides very fine, precise adjustments, which is essential for achieving critical focus for high-magnification planetary viewing or astrophotography.

    Can I use my 1.25" eyepieces with the Explore Scientific AR Series Focuser?

    Yes. The Explore Scientific 2" AR Series Focuser is designed to accept a standard 2" to 1.25" eyepiece adapter. With an adapter, you can securely use any of your 1.25" eyepieces, filters, or accessories.

    How does the tension adjustment on the AR Series Focuser help with astrophotography?

    When you attach a heavy astrophotography camera, filter wheel, and other accessories, the weight can cause the focuser drawtube to slip, losing focus over the course of an exposure. The tension adjustment on the AR Series Focuser lets you increase the friction on the drawtube, effectively increasing its carrying capacity and locking it in place to prevent any unwanted movement during an imaging session.

    Is the Explore Scientific 2" AR Focuser suitable for a heavy camera on a Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope?

    Absolutely. Schmidt-Cassegrain telescopes (SCTs) are often used for imaging, and this focuser is an excellent upgrade over most stock focusers. Its ability to handle heavy payloads via the tension control and secure locking screws makes it ideal for supporting a full imaging train on an SCT without introducing focus shift or tilt.

    Why are the large, knurled knobs on the AR Series Focuser important?

    The ergonomic design is a practical feature for real-world observing conditions. Large, knurled knobs are much easier to operate when your hands are cold or when you are wearing gloves. This ensures you can still make precise focus adjustments without fumbling in the dark.

    How do the set screws on the Explore Scientific 2" Focuser improve stability?

    Unlike focusers that use a single thumbscrew and a compression ring, this focuser uses multiple set screws for a more direct and rigid connection. This design minimizes the possibility of your eyepiece or camera tilting within the drawtube, which is critical for maintaining sharp focus across the entire field of view, especially for imaging.

  • GTIN 812257013883

  • This product includes the focuser assembly only. Additional accessories such as eyepiece adapters must be sourced separately.

  • Explore Scientific Warranty