{"product_id":"orion-optics-uk-ideal-12","title":"Orion Optics UK IDEAL 12 Optical Tube Assembly","description":"\u003cul class=\"DAV-feature-list\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e300mm (12\") Primary Mirror\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1200mm Focal Length\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ef\/4 Focal Ratio\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1\/6 PV Wavefront Standard Optics\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e14kg Tube Weight\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c!-- more --\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"tabs\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"active\"\u003eDescription\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFAQ\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSpecifications\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIn the Box\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWarranty\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"tabs-content\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"active\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section-center\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eIDEAL 12 Optical Tube Assembly\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe IDEAL 12 Optical Tube Assembly combines a 300mm primary mirror with a fast f\/4 focal ratio, delivering a 1200mm focal length ideal for wide-field imaging. Housed in a lightweight 14kg aluminium tube, every optic is certified to a minimum 1\/6 PV wavefront accuracy and supported by a CNC-machined 9-point suspension mirror cell cooled by a 12-volt fan for thermal stability.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e1\/6 PV Wavefront Optics: A 300mm f\/4 System Verified by Zygo\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe heart of the IDEAL 12 is its 300mm parabolic primary mirror, engineered for high-resolution imaging. The fast f\/4 focal ratio provides a wide field of view, perfect for capturing large nebulae and galaxies, while the 1200mm focal length retains ample image scale for smaller targets. Every mirror is hand-finished and guaranteed to a 1\/6 PV wavefront accuracy, with an included Zygo interferometer report to prove its quality.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis level of optical precision ensures sharp, high-contrast images, free from the spherical aberration that can soften details in mass-produced optics. The 75mm secondary mirror results in a 25% central obstruction by diameter, a balanced figure that preserves contrast for planetary viewing while maximizing light collection for deep-sky imaging.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eMechanical Engineering: A 14kg OTA with a 9-Point Cell and Eris Focuser\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBuilt from lightweight aluminium, the IDEAL 12 weighs only 14kg, making it manageable for a wide range of equatorial mounts. The primary mirror is supported by a CNC-machined 9-point suspension cell that distributes the mirror's weight evenly, preventing flexure and preserving collimation. A built-in 12-volt fan accelerates mirror cooling, reducing tube currents and allowing you to start imaging sooner.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor focus control, the IDEAL 12 includes the robust Eris 2\" Rack and Pinion focuser. This in-house design provides a rigid, no-slip platform for heavy cameras, filter wheels, and coma correctors. The smooth lock mechanism secures your eyepiece or camera perfectly on-axis without introducing tilt.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eChoosing Your Optical Grade: 1\/6 PV vs. 1\/8 PV and 1\/10 PV\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhile the standard 1\/6 PV wavefront optic delivers exceptional performance, optional upgrades are available for the most demanding applications. The choice depends entirely on your primary observing targets and tolerance for atmospheric seeing conditions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eStandard (1\/6 PV):\u003c\/strong\u003e This grade provides excellent, sharp views and is more than sufficient for high-quality deep-sky imaging and general visual use. It represents a significant step up from \"diffraction-limited\" optics found in mass-market telescopes.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eProfessional Upgrade (1\/8 PV):\u003c\/strong\u003e For dedicated lunar and planetary imagers, the 1\/8 PV upgrade yields visibly higher contrast on fine details. You'll resolve more subtle banding on Jupiter and finer divisions in Saturn's rings when seeing is steady.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eResearch Upgrade (1\/10 PV):\u003c\/strong\u003e The ultimate in optical precision. A 1\/10 PV wavefront mirror delivers the highest possible contrast and resolution the 300mm aperture can achieve. Images remain sharper and more stable even in less-than-perfect seeing, making it the choice for research-level work or imagers who require the best possible data.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eComparing the Optical Grades\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe images below show the same view of Saturn captured through each available optical grade, under identical conditions -- a visual illustration of how each step up in wavefront accuracy sharpens contrast and fine detail.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-comparison-grid\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-comparison-item\"\u003e\n\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0753\/5280\/1565\/files\/Orion-Optics-UK-Saturn-1_6-PV.jpg\" alt=\"Saturn viewed through 1\/6 PV Professional grade optics\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e1\/6 PV (Professional)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-comparison-item\"\u003e\n\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0753\/5280\/1565\/files\/Orion-Optics-UK-Saturn-1_8-PV.jpg\" alt=\"Saturn viewed through 1\/8 PV Research grade optics\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e1\/8 PV (Research)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-comparison-item\"\u003e\n\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0753\/5280\/1565\/files\/Orion-Optics-UK-Saturn-1_10-PV.jpg\" alt=\"Saturn viewed through 1\/10 PV Ultra grade optics\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e1\/10 PV (Ultra)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhat kind of performance can I expect from the IDEAL 12's standard 1\/6 PV optics?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe standard \u003cstrong\u003e1\/6 PV wavefront\u003c\/strong\u003e optics provide demonstrably sharper and higher-contrast images than typical \"diffraction-limited\" telescopes. You can expect pinpoint stars across a well-corrected field (with an appropriate coma corrector) and the ability to resolve fine detail on planets. Each IDEAL 12 comes with a Zygo test report, guaranteeing this level of optical quality.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhat class of mount is required for the IDEAL 12 OTA at 14kg?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith a tube weight of \u003cstrong\u003e14kg\u003c\/strong\u003e, the IDEAL 12 OTA is best paired with an equatorial mount in the EQ6\/CGEM class or greater for visual use. For serious astrophotography, a mount with a higher payload capacity (e.g., 50 lbs \/ 22 kg or more) is recommended to handle the additional weight of a camera, guide scope, and other accessories.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eCan the Eris 2\" Rack and Pinion focuser on the IDEAL 12 handle a heavy imaging camera and filter wheel?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. The \u003cstrong\u003eEris 2\" Rack and Pinion (R+P) focuser\u003c\/strong\u003e is specifically designed for stability. Unlike Crayford-style focusers that can slip under heavy loads, the R+P mechanism provides a positive, non-slip action capable of supporting a full imaging train without flexure or tilt.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eHow will the IDEAL 12 at f\/4 perform on Jupiter with a Barlow lens?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe IDEAL 12's \u003cstrong\u003e300mm\u003c\/strong\u003e aperture provides immense resolving power for planets. To bring Jupiter to a suitable image scale, you would use a 3x or 5x Barlow lens, effectively changing the focal ratio to f\/12 or f\/20. The \u003cstrong\u003e1\/6 PV\u003c\/strong\u003e optics (or higher) will ensure you can resolve fine details like the Great Red Spot, barges, and subtle cloud belts, provided atmospheric seeing is good.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eIs the IDEAL 12 a good choice for imaging large targets like the Andromeda Galaxy (M31)?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAbsolutely. The \u003cstrong\u003ef\/4 focal ratio\u003c\/strong\u003e and \u003cstrong\u003e1200mm focal length\u003c\/strong\u003e are an excellent combination for large deep-sky objects. Paired with a full-frame sensor and a coma corrector, the IDEAL 12 can frame the entirety of the Andromeda Galaxy (M31) or the North American Nebula (NGC 7000), capturing faint outer details thanks to its large 300mm light-gathering aperture.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhen should I consider upgrading the IDEAL 12 to 1\/8 PV or 1\/10 PV optics?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou should consider the optical upgrades if your primary focus is high-resolution lunar and planetary imaging. While the standard \u003cstrong\u003e1\/6 PV\u003c\/strong\u003e optic is excellent, a \u003cstrong\u003e1\/8 PV\u003c\/strong\u003e or \u003cstrong\u003e1\/10 PV\u003c\/strong\u003e mirror will deliver visibly higher contrast on low-contrast details. This makes a real difference when trying to capture subtle features within Jupiter's zones or faint craterlet chains on the Moon.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"DAV-specifications\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePrimary Mirror Diameter\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e300mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFocal Length\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e1200mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFocal Ratio\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ef\/4\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eStandard Optics Grade\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e1\/6 PV wavefront\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eOptical Upgrades\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eOptional upgrades to 1\/8 PV and 1\/10 PV\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFocuser\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eEris 2\" Rack and Pinion with smooth lock\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMirror Cell\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eCNC 9 point suspension\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMirror\/Tube Cooling\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e12 volt fan\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSecondary Mirror Size\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e75mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTube Weight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e14kg (nominal)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTube Length\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e1160mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTube Diameter\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e326mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTube Material\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAluminium\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTube Finish\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eGalaxy Silver\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"DAV-grid\"\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/davidastro.com\/pages\/orion-optics-uk-warranty-policy\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eOrion Optics UK 1-Year Warranty\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Orion Optics UK","offers":[{"title":"Professional (1\/6 PV)","offer_id":52942602600733,"sku":"OOUK-IDEAL-12","price":2160.49,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Research (1\/8 PV)","offer_id":52942602633501,"sku":"OOUK-IDEAL-12-1-8-PV","price":2293.38,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Ultra (1\/10 PV)","offer_id":52942602666269,"sku":"OOUK-IDEAL-12-1-10-PV","price":2433.12,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0753\/5280\/1565\/files\/OrionOpticsUK-IDEAL-12-Optical-Tube-Assembly-1_01cb187b-a6b3-46cb-82ed-c99bbdbb02d8.jpg?v=1789608258","url":"https:\/\/davidastro.com\/en-us\/products\/orion-optics-uk-ideal-12","provider":"David Astro","version":"1.0","type":"link"}