{"product_id":"orion-optics-uk-vx8l","title":"Orion Optics UK VX8L Optical Tube Assembly","description":"\u003cul class=\"DAV-feature-list\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e200mm Primary Mirror Diameter\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1200mm Focal Length (f\/6)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStandard 1\/6 PV Wavefront Optics\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e8kg Nominal Tube Weight\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCNC 9-Point Mirror Cell with Cooling Fan\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e2\" Focuser with Reduction Gearing\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\u003eVX8L Optical Tube Assembly\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Orion Optics UK VX8L Optical Tube Assembly pairs a 200mm primary mirror with a 1200mm (f\/6) focal length, delivering high-resolution views in a lightweight 8kg package. Every VX8L is built around a primary mirror hand-figured to a guaranteed 1\/6 PV wavefront accuracy, a standard verified by Zygo interferometer testing. The OTA's physical design includes a 1130mm long aluminum tube, a 50mm secondary mirror, and a CNC-machined 9-point mirror cell for exceptional optical 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\u003eGuaranteed 1\/6 PV Wavefront Optics: The Orion Optics UK Standard\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUnlike mass-produced instruments, the VX8L's primary mirror is certified to a minimum 1\/6 PV wavefront accuracy. This figure isn't an estimate; it's a measured value from a Zygo laser interferometer, with the report supplied for your specific optic. This level of precision ensures that the light cone converges more accurately, translating directly into higher contrast on planetary details, tighter star points, and the ability to resolve finer structures in nebulae and galaxies.\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\u003eEngineered for Stability: A 9-Point Cell and 8kg Aluminium Tube\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe 200mm primary mirror rests on a CNC-machined 9-point flotation cell, which distributes the mirror's weight evenly to prevent sagging and induced astigmatism as the telescope moves. An integrated cooling fan accelerates thermal equilibrium, reducing tube currents for steadier views. At a nominal weight of just 8kg, the 1130mm aluminum tube is manageable for a wide range of equatorial mounts, offering significant aperture without requiring a massive support system.\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\u003ePrecision Focusing: A 2\" Focuser with Reduction Gearing\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe VX8L is equipped with a 2\" focuser featuring reduction gearing, allowing for both coarse and fine focus adjustments. This dual-speed control is critical for achieving sharp focus at high magnifications on planetary targets or when using a camera for astrophotography. The larger 2\" barrel accommodates wide-field eyepieces for sweeping views of star fields, and an included adapter steps down to fit standard 1.25\" accessories.\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 Ultra\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhile the standard 1\/6 PV optic delivers superb performance, Orion Optics UK offers optional upgrades for the most demanding observers. The choice depends entirely on your primary observing goals.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e1\/6 PV (Standard):\u003c\/strong\u003e An excellent all-around performer providing sharp, high-contrast images that surpass standard commercial optics. It is more than sufficient for detailed visual observation and most deep-sky imaging.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e1\/8 PV (Professional):\u003c\/strong\u003e This grade offers a noticeable improvement in subtle planetary and lunar detail. The increase in wavefront accuracy results in higher contrast, making it easier to see faint cloud bands on Jupiter or delicate rilles on the Moon.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e1\/10 PV (Ultra):\u003c\/strong\u003e The ultimate in optical precision. This grade is for dedicated planetary imagers and visual observers seeking to extract every last detail the 200mm aperture can resolve. The near-perfect wavefront minimizes light scatter, producing the highest possible contrast and image sharpness.\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 does \"1\/6 PV wavefront\" mean for my views with the VX8L?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e1\/6 PV wavefront\u003c\/strong\u003e refers to the Peak-to-Valley error of the optical surface, measured against a perfect theoretical curve. A smaller fraction indicates a more accurate mirror. This high standard, verified by a Zygo interferometer, ensures that the VX8L produces sharper stars and higher image contrast compared to typical mass-produced telescopes that do not specify a wavefront error guarantee.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eHow does the VX8L's f\/6 focal ratio perform on large targets like the Andromeda Galaxy (M31)?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe 1200mm focal length at f\/6 provides a versatile field of view. With a low-power 2\" eyepiece, you can easily frame large objects like the Andromeda Galaxy (M31) or the Orion Nebula (M42). While not as wide as a short-tube refractor, the f\/6 ratio offers a good balance, providing enough magnification to resolve details in galaxies and nebulae without making the field of view too restrictive.\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 VX8L 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 an upgrade if your primary focus is high-resolution planetary or lunar observing and imaging. While the standard 1\/6 PV optic is excellent, the \u003cstrong\u003e1\/8 PV\u003c\/strong\u003e and \u003cstrong\u003e1\/10 PV\u003c\/strong\u003e upgrades provide a measurable increase in contrast and sharpness. This allows you to resolve finer details like Jupiter's cloud belts, the Cassini Division in Saturn's rings, or subtle lunar rilles more clearly, especially during nights of good seeing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eHow heavy is the VX8L OTA, and what kind of mount do I need?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe VX8L optical tube has a nominal weight of \u003cstrong\u003e8kg\u003c\/strong\u003e. This makes it compatible with mid-range equatorial mounts rated for payloads of approximately 13kg (28 lbs) or more, such as a Sky-Watcher HEQ5 or Celestron AVX. This relatively low weight for a 200mm Newtonian makes it a portable and accessible option for many amateur astronomers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhat are the benefits of the 9-point mirror cell in the VX8L?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003eCNC 9-point mirror cell\u003c\/strong\u003e provides uniform support for the 200mm primary mirror. This prevents the glass from flexing under its own weight as the telescope's orientation changes, which would otherwise introduce optical distortions like astigmatism. This robust support system is critical for maintaining the high-quality images the hand-figured optics are capable of producing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eCan the VX8L resolve fine detail on planets like Jupiter?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAbsolutely. The combination of a 200mm aperture and guaranteed 1\/6 PV optics makes the VX8L an excellent planetary instrument. At its 1200mm focal length, using a quality Barlow lens and eyepiece will allow you to push magnification to see details like Jupiter's Great Red Spot, shadow transits of its moons, and multiple cloud bands, assuming steady atmospheric conditions.\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\u003eOptical Design\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eNewtonian Reflector\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePrimary Mirror Diameter\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e200mm\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\/6\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\u003eOptics Upgrade Options\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e1\/8 PV and 1\/10 PV Ultra\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSecondary Mirror Size\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e50mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFocuser\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e2\" focuser with reduction gearing\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMirror Cell\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eCNC 9 point\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMirror Cooling\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eIntegrated Fan\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 Diameter\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e225mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTube Length\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e1130mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTube Weight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e8kg (nominal)\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":52942643593501,"sku":"OOUK-VX8L","price":1205.93,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Research (1\/8 PV)","offer_id":52942643626269,"sku":"OOUK-VX8L-1-8-PV-OPTICS","price":1287.31,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Ultra (1\/10 PV)","offer_id":52942643659037,"sku":"OOUK-VX8L-1-10-PV-OPTICS","price":1309.5,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0753\/5280\/1565\/files\/OrionOpticsUK-VX8-Optical-Tube-Assembly-1_ce5fff43-7f0e-4534-8efc-d1424a5f8853.jpg?v=1789608540","url":"https:\/\/davidastro.com\/en-us\/products\/orion-optics-uk-vx8l","provider":"David Astro","version":"1.0","type":"link"}