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Tele Vue Panoptic 24mm 68° Eyepiece - 1.25"
The Tele Vue Panoptic 24mm is engineered to push the 1.25-inch barrel format to its absolute physical limit. By utilizing a 27mm field stop—the largest possible for this diameter—it delivers the widest true field of view available in a standard small-format eyepiece. It is the definitive choice for observers who want to maximize their telescope's framing capability without moving to 2-inch accessories, providing immersive, high-contrast vistas of large celestial structures like the Pleiades (M45) or the Beehive Cluster (M44).
Maximum Field Performance for 1.25" Systems
The 24mm Panoptic provides the same true field of view as a 32mm Plössl, but at 33% higher magnification. This increase in power darkens the sky background, making faint nebulosity and distant galaxies easier to detect against suburban light pollution. Its six-element optical design ensures that the expansive 68° apparent field remains tack-sharp from center to edge, even when used in fast f/5 refractors or Newtonians where lesser wide-angle designs often suffer from astigmatism.
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Edge-to-Edge Sharpness: Optimized lens coatings and blackened edges eliminate internal reflections, maintaining pinpoint star images across the entire field.
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Binoviewer Ideal: The lightweight, slim profile and 15mm eye relief make it the industry standard for binoviewing, offering a natural and comfortable dual-eye perspective.
Handling and Ergonomics
Weighing only 0.5 lbs, the 24mm Panoptic is remarkably compact, ensuring it won't upset the balance of lightweight telescopes or small travel refractors. It features a tapered top that facilitates easy access for observers, and a scalloped rubber grip ring for secure handling in the dark. The fold-down rubber eyeguard effectively blocks stray light and assists in maintaining a stable eye position, which is critical for preventing blackouts during long deep-sky scanning sessions.
Operational Comparison and Efficiency
The 24mm Panoptic is the primary choice for observers looking for a "finder" eyepiece in a 1.25-inch format while maintaining premium performance.
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vs. Tele Vue 32mm Plössl: Both show the same amount of sky, but the 24mm Panoptic offers higher magnification and a wider 68° apparent field, resulting in a significantly more immersive experience.
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vs. Tele Vue 19mm Panoptic: While the 19mm is even more compact, the 24mm captures 26% more true field, making it the better choice for framing extended nebulae or the full lunar disk.
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Will the Tele Vue Panoptic 24mm show more sky than my 32mm Plössl?
Technically, no. Both eyepieces share the same 27mm field stop, which is the limit of the 1.25-inch barrel. However, the 24mm Panoptic provides a more immersive 68-degree view and higher magnification which makes the image appear larger and the sky background darker.
Is the 24mm Panoptic suitable for use in binoviewers?
Yes, it is widely considered the best 1.25-inch eyepiece for binoviewing. Its light weight (8.2 oz) and tapered top allow it to fit comfortably between the eyes without causing balance issues or mechanical interference.
Can I use the Tele Vue Panoptic 24mm with eyeglasses?
With 15mm of eye relief, most eyeglass wearers can see the entire field comfortably by folding down the rubber eyeguard. However, those with very thick lenses may need to remove their glasses for the most immersive view.
Does the 24mm Panoptic work with Dioptrx?
Yes, like most of the Panoptic line, this eyepiece is compatible with Tele Vue Dioptrx astigmatism correctors, allowing you to observe without eyeglasses while maintaining sharp focus.
Will it work in a fast f/4.5 telescope?
Absolutely. The Panoptic series is specifically designed to maintain sharp star images to the very edge of the field in telescopes as fast as f/4, making it a favorite for owners of large, fast Dobsonians.
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| Model # |
EPN-24.0 |
| Focal Length |
24 mm |
| Barrel Size |
1.25" |
| Apparent Field of View |
68° |
| Eye Relief |
15 mm |
| Field Stop Diameter |
27 mm |
| Weight |
8.2 oz (0.51 lb) |
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24mm Panoptic Eyepiece
× 1
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TeleVue 5-Year Limited Warranty
