Skip to content
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 Cradle for Carbon Fiber 102mm - Discontinued

Explore Scientific Cradle for Carbon Fiber 102mm - Discontinued

by Explore Scientific
SKU ES-TED102CFCRDL
Sold out
$89.99 - $89.99
$89.99
$89.99 - $89.99
$89.99
Price Match Policy!
  • Inside Diameter: 4.65" - 4.82" (118.11mm - 122.43mm)
  • Dovetail Plate Length: 8" (203mm)
  • Construction: Extruded Aluminum with Hinged Rings
  • Accessory Mounting: Slotted Carry Handle with 1/4-20 Threads
  • Mount Compatibility: Vixen-Style Dovetail
Out of stock
Qualifies for FREE Shipping in CONUS on orders over $350.
  • Description
  • FAQ
  • Specifications
  • In the Box
  • Downloads
  • Warranty

  • Explore Scientific Cradle for Carbon Fiber 102mm

    The Explore Scientific Cradle for Carbon Fiber 102mm provides a secure mounting solution with an adjustable inside diameter of 4.65" to 4.82" (118.11mm to 122.43mm). Its 8-inch (203mm) Vixen-style dovetail plate ensures compatibility with a wide range of mounts, while the integrated handle allows for easy transport and accessory mounting.

    Secure Hinged Design: A 118.11mm to 122.43mm Fit

    Built from extruded aluminum, this cradle assembly uses a hinged ring system designed for a precise fit on tubes with an outer diameter between 118.11mm and 122.43mm. Oversized metal thumbscrews allow you to open and close the rings easily, providing a snug grip that protects the carbon fiber tube's surface without requiring tools.

    Integrated Carry Handle with 1/4-20 Mounting

    Topping the ring assembly is a slotted carry handle, making it easy to transport your optical tube when it's off the mount. This handle also serves as a stable platform for mounting accessories like a guidescope or camera, utilizing standard 1/4–20 bolts for a secure connection.

    8-inch Vixen-Style Dovetail for Quick Attachment

    The assembly includes an 8-inch (203mm) Vixen-style dovetail plate, allowing for quick and secure attachment to compatible mounts like the Explore Scientific Twilight series. This standard plate ensures broad compatibility, letting you move your telescope between different setups with minimal effort.

  • Will the Explore Scientific Cradle fit my non-Explore Scientific 102mm refractor?

    It depends entirely on the outer diameter of your telescope tube. This cradle is designed for an inside diameter of 4.65" to 4.82" (118.11mm to 122.43mm). You must measure your OTA's diameter to ensure it falls within this specific range before purchasing.

    What kind of mount do I need for this Explore Scientific Cradle?

    The cradle comes with a standard 8-inch Vixen-style dovetail plate. It is compatible with any mount that accepts a Vixen "V-style" saddle plate, such as the Explore Scientific Twilight mounts and many others from various manufacturers.

    How do I attach a guidescope to the Explore Scientific 102mm Cradle?

    You can mount a guidescope or other accessories directly to the integrated carry handle. The handle is slotted and accepts standard 1/4–20 bolts, providing a secure platform for your additional equipment.

    I want to piggyback my DSLR for wide-field shots of the North American Nebula (NGC 7000). Is this cradle suitable?

    Yes, the integrated handle is perfect for this. You can attach a ball head or a small dovetail clamp to the handle using a 1/4–20 bolt, allowing you to mount your DSLR and lens securely for piggyback astrophotography while your main scope tracks the sky.

    What are the thumbscrews on the Explore Scientific Cradle made of?

    The cradle features oversized metal thumbscrews. This design allows for easy, tool-free operation even when wearing gloves, ensuring you can securely lock or release your telescope OTA quickly in the field.

    I'm using an Explore Scientific 102mm Carbon Fiber telescope. Is this the exact replacement cradle I need?

    Yes, this cradle is specifically designed for the Explore Scientific Carbon Fiber 102mm telescope, fitting its 118.11mm to 122.43mm diameter. It provides the correct fit to protect the carbon fiber tube while ensuring a secure connection to your mount.

  • Length 8" (203mm)
    Inside Diameter 4.65" - 4.82" (118.11mm - 122.43mm)
  • Explore Scientific Warranty