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.

Language

Country

Explore Scientific ReflexSight

SKU ES-REFLECT-01
Original price $59.99 - Original price $59.99
Original price
$59.99
$59.99 - $59.99
Current price $59.99
Price Match Policy!
  • Zero-power reflex sight for intuitive aiming
  • Multi-dot reticle with 4.0°, 2.0°, and 0.5° circles
  • Fits standard mini-Vixen style dovetail bases
  • Integrated 1/4x20 threaded adapter for tripod mounting
  • Powered by 2 common AAA batteries
Backordered
Availability Info
Qualifies for FREE Shipping in CONUS on orders over $350.
  • Description
  • FAQ
  • Specifications
  • In the Box
  • Downloads
  • Warranty
  • Explore Scientific ReflexSight

    The Explore Scientific ReflexSight projects a multi-dot reticle with 4.0, 2.0, and 0.5 degree circles against the night sky for intuitive, two-eyed star hopping. Its base fits standard mini-Vixen style dovetails and includes a 1/4x20 thread for versatile mounting options. Powered by two common AAA batteries, its improved, widely dimmable red reticle ensures faint guide stars are never overwhelmed by the finder's illumination.

    A 3-Circle Reticle (4°, 2°, and 0.5°) for Pinpoint Star Hopping

    The ReflexSight uses a time-tested reticle pattern that projects three concentric circles measuring 4.0, 2.0, and 0.5 degrees. This pattern allows you to accurately frame celestial objects and gauge angular distances for star hopping. The reticle itself is a "multi-dot" design, meaning the circles are composed of individual points of light, preventing the reticle from completely obscuring stars that fall directly on the circles.

    A large, knurled knob provides continuous brightness adjustment with a wide dimming range. This is a critical improvement, allowing you to lower the illumination enough to see faint stars through the reticle, a common challenge with lesser red dot finders.

    Mini-Vixen and 1/4x20 Mounting for Broad Compatibility

    Designed for maximum versatility, the ReflexSight attaches directly to any telescope equipped with a common mini-Vixen-style dovetail viewfinder base. For additional uses, a 1/4x20 threaded adapter is built directly into the base, allowing you to mount the finder on a photo tripod or a piggyback camera adapter for wide-field aiming.

    It is important to note this finder's primary limitation: it is not compatible with the older Explore Scientific/Meade-style inverted T-slot finder bases. For telescopes with non-standard bases, the Explore Scientific Hybrid Finder Scope Base can be used to adapt the ReflexSight.

    Field-Ready Design: 2-AAA Power and Glove-Friendly Controls

    The ReflexSight is engineered for practical use in the field. It operates on two lightweight and commonly available AAA batteries, and its low power draw ensures long operating times. The battery compartment is easily accessible for quick changes in the dark.

    Both the brightness control and the three rear-facing parallax adjustment knobs are oversized, knurled, and smooth, allowing for easy operation even while wearing gloves on a cold night. A definitive click indicates the full-off position, preventing accidental battery drain during storage.

    ReflexSight vs. Telrad: Compact Form vs. Classic Design

    The ReflexSight directly competes with the classic Telrad finder, even adopting its standard 4°, 2°, and 0.5° reticle pattern. The choice between them comes down to form factor, mounting, and power.

    • Mounting: The Telrad requires its own dedicated base plate to be attached to a telescope, while the ReflexSight mounts directly to the more common mini-Vixen finder shoe found on many modern telescopes.
    • Size & Profile: The ReflexSight has a smaller, more compact body, which can be advantageous on smaller telescopes where space and weight are concerns.
    • Power: The ReflexSight uses two AAA batteries. The Telrad uses two larger AA batteries. While both are common, the choice may align better with other accessories you own.
  • Will the Explore Scientific ReflexSight fit my telescope?

    The ReflexSight fits directly onto any telescope with a standard mini-Vixen-style dovetail viewfinder base. It will NOT fit older Explore Scientific or Meade telescopes that use an inverted T-shaped finder base. If your telescope does not have a compatible base, you can install one like the Explore Scientific Hybrid Finder Scope Base.

    How do I use the 4°, 2°, and 0.5° circles on the ReflexSight reticle?

    These circles represent specific angular sizes in the sky, which you can use to navigate. For example, the pointer stars of the Big Dipper are about 5° apart, so the 4° circle helps you gauge that distance. The 0.5° circle is roughly the size of the full Moon, making it perfect for centering planets or smaller deep-sky objects precisely in your eyepiece's field of view.

    How does the ReflexSight help find faint objects like the Andromeda Galaxy (M31)?

    M31 is over 3° wide, so the 4° circle on the ReflexSight is perfect for framing it. By keeping both eyes open, you can see the bright stars of the Cassiopeia constellation with one eye and the red reticle with the other. This allows you to easily "hop" from a known star like Mirach (Beta Andromedae) to M31, using the finder's circles to know exactly where to point your telescope.

    What is the main advantage of the ReflexSight over a Telrad?

    The primary advantage is its mounting system. The ReflexSight's integrated mini-Vixen foot allows it to attach to many telescopes without needing to add a separate, dedicated base. Its more compact and lightweight design is also a significant benefit for smaller grab-and-go telescopes.

    What kind of battery life can I expect from the ReflexSight's AAA batteries?

    While a specific hour count isn't provided, the ReflexSight uses a low-power-draw LED for its reticle. The product description notes this provides a long continuous operating time from two standard AAA batteries. For maximum life, always turn the brightness knob to the "click" off position when not in use.

    Is the ReflexSight a good choice for a small, wide-field refractor like an 80mm f/6?

    Yes, it's an excellent choice. A small refractor is often used for sweeping wide star fields, and the ReflexSight's zero-magnification, both-eyes-open approach is ideal for this. Its light weight and compact size will not upset the balance of a smaller optical tube, making it a perfect match for a grab-and-go setup.

  • GTIN 8118030340132
    Finder Type Zero-Power Reflex Sight
    Reticle Projected Red Multi-Dot with 4.0°, 2.0°, and 0.5° Circles
    Illumination Continuously Adjustable Red LED
    Mounting Mini-Vixen Style Dovetail Foot, Integrated 1/4x20 Thread
    Power Source 2x AAA Batteries (not included)
    Controls Knurled, glove-friendly knobs for brightness and alignment
    • Explore Scientific ReflexSight

      × 1

  • Explore Scientific Warranty