{"product_id":"lunt-ls80mt-h-alpha-solar-telescope-standard-kit","title":"Lunt LS80MT H-Alpha Solar Telescope - Standard Kit","description":"\u003cul class=\"DAV-feature-list\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAperture: 80mm ED Doublet\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFocal Length: 560mm\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFocal Ratio: F\/7\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBandpass: ≤0.45 Ångström (Single-Stack)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTuning: Internal Pressure Tuner (Doppler True Tuning)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBlocking Filter: 12mm (B1200)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFocuser: Dual-Speed Rack \u0026amp; Pinion\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUse: Day and Night Modular Design\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\u003eDownloads\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\u003eThe Sun in High Definition: The Lunt LS80MT H-Alpha Solar Telescope\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Lunt LS80MT H-Alpha Solar Telescope is a multi-purpose refractor designed to deliver high-resolution views of the Sun's chromosphere and serve as a high-quality astronomical telescope for nighttime viewing. Its 80mm aperture and advanced pressure-tuned etalon system provide the resolving power and contrast necessary to observe the intricate, ever-changing details of solar prominences, filaments, and surface granulation. This standard kit provides the essential components for detailed solar observation and 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\u003eAperture and Resolution: The 80mm ED Objective\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt the heart of the LS80MT is an 80mm F\/7 ED doublet objective lens. The use of FPL51 extra-low dispersion glass minimizes chromatic aberration, resulting in a sharp, high-contrast image. This level of optical correction is critical not only for resolving fine structures in the Sun's chromosphere but also for providing color-pure views of planets and deep-sky objects when the telescope is converted for nighttime use.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe 80mm aperture represents a significant step up in resolving power from smaller 60mm instruments. This increase allows you to resolve finer details within solar filaments and see more complex structures in large prominence groups. Under steady seeing conditions, the image remains bright and detailed, even when pushing magnification to observe the texture of active regions.\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\u003eDoppler True Tuning: The Pressure-Tuned Etalon\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLunt's internal, solid-etalon filter is the core of its solar performance, delivering a narrow bandpass of ≤0.45 Ångströms. Unlike tilt-tuned systems that can introduce uniformity issues, Lunt’s Doppler True Tuning (DTT) system uses air pressure to change the refractive index in the etalon cavity. This method tunes the filter's bandpass evenly across the entire field of view, ensuring maximum contrast and detail from edge to edge.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis precise tuning allows you to shift the bandpass slightly off the central H-alpha line. For an observer, this means you can track the velocity of plasma moving towards or away from you, enhancing the visibility of doppler-shifted events like solar flares. The pressure system maintains its tuning without mechanical stress, providing consistent, drift-free performance through long observing sessions.\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\u003eThe B1200 Blocking Filter for Visual and Imaging\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis Standard Kit includes the B1200 blocking filter, housed within a 1.25\" star diagonal. The 12mm diameter of this filter provides a generous, fully illuminated field of view for visual observation with most eyepieces. It ensures that the entire solar disk appears bright and evenly lit, without any dimming at the edges.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor imagers using smaller-chip solar cameras, the B1200 provides an optimal balance, illuminating the sensor fully while keeping the optical path efficient. While larger blocking filters are available for full-frame sensors, the B1200 is a versatile choice for those who prioritize visual astronomy or are starting with planetary-style cameras.\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\u003eStable and Precise Dual-Speed Focuser\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe LS80MT is equipped with a robust dual-speed rack and pinion focuser. This design is more rigid than a Crayford-style focuser, making it better suited to handling the weight of cameras and binoviewers without slipping or tilting. The coarse focus knob gets you into the general vicinity quickly, while the 10:1 fine-focus knob allows for the critical, minute adjustments needed to snap solar surface detail into perfect sharpness.\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\u003eModular Design for Day and Night Astronomy\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA key feature of the MT (Modular Telescope) series is its ability to convert from a dedicated H-alpha solar telescope to a conventional nighttime refractor. By unscrewing the H-alpha module and installing the optional nighttime conversion kit (sold separately), the LS80MT becomes a high-performance 80mm ED apo refractor. This versatility makes it an excellent choice for observers who want one high-quality instrument for all their astronomical pursuits, from solar observing to planetary imaging and wide-field astrophotography.\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\u003eObserving with the LS80MT\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith a medium-power eyepiece, the full solar disk is framed with a deep black background. After tuning the etalon, the chromosphere resolves from a flat, orange ball into a textured surface with bright plage and dark, snaking filaments. Prominences erupting from the limb are not just simple spikes of light; the 80mm aperture and narrow bandpass reveal delicate loops, feathery structures, and detached clouds of hydrogen plasma.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe true advantage of the pressure tuner becomes apparent as you slightly de-tune the etalon. A filament that was a dark, static line can suddenly show internal motion and brightness changes, revealing the dynamic, three-dimensional nature of the Sun. This is an instrument that rewards patient observation, allowing you to witness solar weather in real-time.\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\u003eSystem Context and Trade-Offs\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe LS80MT Standard Kit is an ideal balance of aperture, performance, and portability. While it offers significantly more resolution than a 60mm scope, it is lighter and requires a less substantial mount than the larger LS100MT. The primary trade-off in the Standard Kit is the B1200 blocking filter; while excellent for visual use, imagers with larger sensors might eventually consider upgrading to the B1800 for a wider, fully illuminated imaging circle.\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\u003eLunt LS80MT vs. Other Lunt Telescopes\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChoosing the right solar telescope involves balancing aperture, features, and budget. Here is how the LS80MT Standard Kit fits into the Lunt family:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003evs. LS60MT:\u003c\/strong\u003e The LS80MT provides almost 80% more light-gathering area than the LS60MT. This translates directly to a brighter image and the ability to resolve finer details at higher magnifications. If your primary goal is high-resolution views of surface detail and complex prominences, the 80mm aperture is a significant advantage.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003evs. LS100MT:\u003c\/strong\u003e The LS100MT is a step up in resolving power, capable of revealing even finer granulation and filamentary detail under excellent seeing conditions. However, the LS80MT is considerably more portable, cools down faster, and can be supported by lighter, more affordable mounts, making it a more practical choice for many observers.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003evs. LS80MT Enhanced\/Premium Kits:\u003c\/strong\u003e The primary difference is the blocking filter and included accessories. The Enhanced Kit upgrades to a B1800 blocking filter for a larger imaging field, while the Premium PLUS kit adds an internal double-stack module for the highest possible contrast on surface detail. The Standard Kit is the perfect entry point, with a clear upgrade path for the future.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\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 mount do I need for the Lunt LS80MT?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe LS80MT weighs approximately 11.6 lbs. A stable alt-azimuth mount like the Sky-Watcher AZ-EQ5 or a small equatorial mount in the Celestron AVX or iOptron GEM28 class is recommended for a solid, vibration-free experience, especially for imaging.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eIs the LS80MT good for imaging the Sun?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes, the LS80MT is an excellent imaging platform. The included B1200 blocking filter is well-suited for high-speed planetary-style cameras. For users with larger sensors who want to capture the full solar disk in one frame, upgrading to a larger blocking filter like the B1800 is recommended.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhat is the advantage of pressure tuning over tilt tuning?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePressure tuning adjusts the etalon's bandpass uniformly across the entire field of view, preventing off-axis hot spots and delivering higher contrast from edge to edge. It also avoids applying mechanical stress to the etalon, ensuring long-term stability and performance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eCan I upgrade this telescope to a double-stack system later?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. The LS80MT is designed to accept an internal double-stack module (SFPT) which can be purchased later. This upgrade narrows the bandpass to \u0026lt;0.28Å, significantly increasing contrast on the Sun's surface for more detailed views of filaments and active regions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eDo I need anything else to start observing the Sun?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Standard Kit includes the telescope, blocking filter diagonal, a 19mm eyepiece, and a finder. You will need to provide a suitable astronomical mount to place the telescope on. Everything required for safe solar viewing is included in the box.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eHow do I convert the LS80MT for nighttime use?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo use the LS80MT at night, you must purchase the optional nighttime conversion kit. This involves unscrewing the red H-alpha module and replacing it with the focuser assembly. The process is straightforward and does not require special tools.\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 Type\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eModular H-Alpha Solar \u0026amp; Nighttime Refractor\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAperture\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e80mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eObjective\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAir-spaced ED Doublet, FPL51\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFocal Length\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e560mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFocal Ratio\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eF\/7\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eEtalon\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eInternal Solid Etalon\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBandpass\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e≤0.45 Ångström\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTuning\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eInternal Pressure Tuner (Doppler True Tuning)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBlocking Filter\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eB1200 in 1.25\" Star Diagonal\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFocuser\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eDual-Speed Rack \u0026amp; Pinion\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMounting\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTube Rings with 8\" Vixen-style Dovetail\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eWeight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e11.6 lbs (5.26 kg)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eStorage\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAluminum Hard Case with Custom Foam\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\u003cli class=\"DAV-grid-item\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-title\"\u003eLS80MT 80mm H-alpha Telescope\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-subtitle\"\u003e× 1\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"DAV-grid-item\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-title\"\u003eB1200 Blocking Filter in 1.25\" Diagonal\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-subtitle\"\u003e× 1\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"DAV-grid-item\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-title\"\u003eDual-Speed Rack \u0026amp; Pinion Focuser\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-subtitle\"\u003e× 1\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"DAV-grid-item\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-title\"\u003e19mm Eyepiece\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-subtitle\"\u003e× 1\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"DAV-grid-item\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-title\"\u003eRed Dot Sun Finder\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-subtitle\"\u003e× 1\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"DAV-grid-item\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-title\"\u003eTube Rings\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-subtitle\"\u003e× 1 Pair\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"DAV-grid-item\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-title\"\u003e8\" Vixen-style Dovetail Bar\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-subtitle\"\u003e× 1\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"DAV-grid-item\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-title\"\u003eHard Carrying Case\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-subtitle\"\u003e× 1\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"DAV-grid\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"DAV-grid-item\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0753\/5280\/1565\/files\/Lunt-LS80MT-Solar-Telescope-Manual.pdf?v=1777432307\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003csvg class=\"DAV-img-box\" viewbox=\"0 0 512 512\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"\u003e\u003cpath d=\"M0 64C0 28.7 28.7 0 64 0L224 0l0 128c0 17.7 14.3 32 32 32l128 0 0 144-208 0c-35.3 0-64 28.7-64 64l0 144-48 0c-35.3 0-64-28.7-64-64L0 64zm384 64l-128 0L256 0 384 128zM176 352l32 0c30.9 0 56 25.1 56 56s-25.1 56-56 56l-16 0 0 32c0 8.8-7.2 16-16 16s-16-7.2-16-16l0-48 0-80c0-8.8 7.2-16 16-16zm32 80c13.3 0 24-10.7 24-24s-10.7-24-24-24l-16 0 0 48 16 0zm96-80l32 0c26.5 0 48 21.5 48 48l0 64c0 26.5-21.5 48-48 48l-32 0c-8.8 0-16-7.2-16-16l0-128c0-8.8 7.2-16 16-16zm32 128c8.8 0 16-7.2 16-16l0-64c0-8.8-7.2-16-16-16l-16 0 0 96 16 0zm80-112c0-8.8 7.2-16 16-16l48 0c8.8 0 16 7.2 16 16s-7.2 16-16 16l-32 0 0 32 32 0c8.8 0 16 7.2 16 16s-7.2 16-16 16l-32 0 0 48c0 8.8-7.2 16-16 16s-16-7.2-16-16l0-64 0-64z\" fill=\"#0047a7\"\u003e\u003c\/path\u003e\u003c\/svg\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-title\"\u003eDownload Manual\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/davidastro.com\/pages\/lunt-solar-system-warranty\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eLunt Solar Systems 5-Year Warranty\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Lunt Solar Systems","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51230514544925,"sku":"LSS-LS80MT-Standard","price":3295.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0753\/5280\/1565\/files\/LuntLS80MTSolarTelescopeStandardKit.jpg?v=1777668010","url":"https:\/\/davidastro.com\/fr-eu\/products\/lunt-ls80mt-h-alpha-solar-telescope-standard-kit","provider":"David Astro","version":"1.0","type":"link"}