{"title":"Télescopes Newton Orion Optics UK IDEAL","description":"\u003cp\u003eLes télescopes Newton Orion Optics UK IDEAL sont des tubes optiques proposés en ouvertures de 6\" à 16\". La gamme comprend les IDEAL 6, 8, 10, 12, 14 et 16, ainsi que les versions IDEAL 6L, 8L, 10L et 12L à focale plus longue pour les planètes et la Lune.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eLes options Colour Emphasis en jaune, orange ou rouge permettent de choisir la finition du tube. Les tubes se montent sur votre monture équatoriale ou sur une base Dobson.\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"orion-optics-uk-ideal-6","title":"Orion Optics UK IDEAL 6 Optical Tube Assembly","description":"\u003cul class=\"DAV-feature-list\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e150mm (6\") Primary Mirror\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e750mm Focal Length (f\/5)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStandard 1\/6 PV Wavefront Hand-Figured Optics\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLightweight 4.5kg Aluminium Tube\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEris 2\" Rack \u0026amp; Pinion Focuser\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCNC Machined 9-Point Mirror Cell with 12V Cooling Fan\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\u003eOrion Optics UK IDEAL 6 Optical Tube Assembly\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Orion Optics UK IDEAL 6 OTA delivers high-contrast planetary and deep-sky views through its hand-figured 150mm f\/5 primary mirror, which is guaranteed to a 1\/6 PV wavefront accuracy. With a nominal focal length of 750mm and a tube weight of only 4.5kg, this Newtonian is built on a foundation of optical precision, verified by a Zygo interferometer report included with every instrument.\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\u003eHand-Figured 1\/6 PV Wavefront Optics: The Orion Optics UK Standard\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUnlike mass-produced optics, the 150mm primary mirror in the IDEAL 6 is hand-finished by a master optician to a certified 1\/6 Peak-to-Valley (PV) wavefront accuracy. This stringent quality standard, verified by Zygo laser interferometry, ensures that the mirror's surface deviates minimally from a perfect parabola. The result is visibly higher contrast and sharper resolution, allowing you to resolve finer details in Jupiter's cloud bands, the Cassini Division in Saturn's rings, and the core of the Hercules Cluster (M13).\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 12V Active Cooling\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe primary mirror is supported by a CNC-machined 9-point suspension cell, which distributes the mirror's weight evenly to prevent flexure and maintain precise collimation as the telescope moves. An integrated 12-volt fan accelerates the cooling of the primary mirror to match the ambient air temperature, minimizing tube currents and delivering stable, sharp images much faster. The entire assembly weighs a manageable 4.5kg, making it compatible with a wide range of portable astronomy mounts.\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: The 2\" Eris Rack \u0026amp; Pinion Focuser\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe IDEAL 6 is equipped with the in-house designed Eris 2\" rack and pinion focuser. This robust focuser provides a solid, shift-free platform for both visual eyepieces and imaging cameras. Its smooth lock mechanism secures your accessories without introducing tilt, ensuring the optical path remains perfectly aligned for critical high-magnification viewing 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\u003eChoosing Your Grade: 1\/6 PV vs. 1\/8 PV and 1\/10 PV Optics\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhile the standard 1\/6 PV optic delivers exceptional views, Orion Optics UK offers optional upgrades to 1\/8 PV and 1\/10 PV for the most demanding observers. Choosing a higher grade of optical accuracy is a direct investment in image fidelity.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e1\/6 PV (Professional):\u003c\/strong\u003e An excellent all-around performer, providing sharp, high-contrast images that surpass mass-market standards.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e1\/8 PV (Professional):\u003c\/strong\u003e Offers a noticeable increase in fine detail and contrast, making it a preferred choice for serious planetary observers and imagers.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e1\/10 PV (Ultra):\u003c\/strong\u003e Represents the pinnacle of optical craftsmanship, delivering the highest possible contrast and resolution the 150mm aperture can achieve, ideal for research-level applications.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\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 the IDEAL 6?\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 is a measurement of the primary mirror's surface accuracy. It means the peaks and valleys on the mirror's surface deviate from a perfect parabola by no more than 1\/6th the wavelength of light. This high degree of accuracy, verified by a Zygo interferometer, results in higher image contrast and sharpness compared to standard \"diffraction-limited\" optics.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eIs the IDEAL 6's f\/5 focal ratio good for both visual and imaging?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes, the f\/5 focal ratio is a versatile \"sweet spot.\" For visual use, it provides a wide field of view at low power, making it easy to navigate star fields and frame large deep-sky objects. For imaging, its fast focal ratio allows you to collect light quickly, reducing exposure times. Note that like all fast Newtonians, a coma corrector is recommended for astrophotography to ensure sharp stars across the entire frame.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eHow will the IDEAL 6 perform on planets like Jupiter and Saturn?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThanks to its guaranteed 1\/6 PV optics, the IDEAL 6 will provide excellent planetary views. You can expect to clearly resolve Jupiter's main cloud belts, the Great Red Spot, and its Galilean moons. On Saturn, the Cassini Division in the rings should be visible, along with subtle cloud banding on the planet itself, assuming good seeing conditions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhat kind of mount do I need for the 4.5kg IDEAL 6 OTA?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith a tube weight of only \u003cstrong\u003e4.5kg\u003c\/strong\u003e, the IDEAL 6 is very lightweight for its aperture. It pairs well with equatorial mounts in the EQ3-2\/CG-4 class for visual observing. For astrophotography, a more robust mount like an EQ5\/CG-5 or HEQ5 is recommended to handle the additional weight of a camera and guide scope and provide better tracking accuracy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhy is the 9-point mirror cell important on the IDEAL 6?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA \u003cstrong\u003e9-point suspension cell\u003c\/strong\u003e provides distributed, uniform support for the 150mm primary mirror. This prevents the mirror from sagging under its own weight as the telescope points to different parts of the sky, which would distort the image and ruin its high-quality optical figure. It's a critical component for maintaining the telescope's performance.\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 6 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 \u003cstrong\u003e1\/8 PV or 1\/10 PV upgrade\u003c\/strong\u003e if your primary focus is high-resolution planetary or lunar observing and imaging. While the standard 1\/6 PV optic is excellent, the higher grades provide a measurable increase in image contrast and the ability to resolve the finest possible details, making them a worthwhile investment for observers who demand the absolute best performance from their instrument.\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\u003eOptics Grade\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e1\/6 PV wavefront (Professional)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eOptional Upgrades\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e1\/8 PV and 1\/10 PV\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePrimary Mirror Diameter\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e150mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFocal Length\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e750mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFocal Ratio\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ef\/5\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\u003eMirror Cell\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eCNC machined 9-point suspension\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\u003eTube Construction\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\u003e178mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTube Length\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e750mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTube Weight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e4.5kg\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTube Paint\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eGalaxy Silver\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMirror Cooling\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e12-volt fan\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\"\u003eIDEAL 6 Optical Tube Assembly\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\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":52942594343197,"sku":"OOUK-IDEAL-6","price":959.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Research (1\/8 PV)","offer_id":52942594375965,"sku":"OOUK-IDEAL-6-1-8-PV","price":1029.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Ultra (1\/10 PV)","offer_id":52942594408733,"sku":"OOUK-IDEAL-6-1-10-PV","price":1049.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0753\/5280\/1565\/files\/OrionOpticsUK-IDEAL-6-Optical-Tube-Assembly-1_28b49159-cdc6-4684-a890-e579bc27333c.jpg?v=1789608201"},{"product_id":"orion-optics-uk-ideal-6l","title":"Orion Optics UK IDEAL 6L Optical Tube Assembly","description":"\u003cul class=\"DAV-feature-list\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e150mm (6\") Newtonian Reflector Optical Tube\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1200mm Focal Length at an f\/8 Focal Ratio\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCertified 1\/6 PV Wavefront Primary Mirror Optics\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCNC-Machined 9-Point Suspension Mirror Cell\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWeighs a nominal 5kg for easy mounting\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIncludes a 12-volt mirror cooling fan\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 6L Optical Tube Assembly\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe IDEAL 6L Optical Tube Assembly delivers planetary and lunar views typically reserved for much more expensive instruments. Its 150mm primary mirror is hand-figured to a certified 1\/6 PV wavefront accuracy, set at a native f\/8 focal ratio that excels at high-magnification observation. The entire optical system, weighing a nominal 5kg, is housed in a 1110mm aluminum tube supported by a CNC-machined 9-point mirror cell with 12-volt active cooling.\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 IDEAL 6L's 1\/6 PV Wavefront Primary Mirror\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUnlike mass-produced reflectors, every IDEAL 6L is built around an optic with a guaranteed minimum performance level. The 150mm primary mirror is certified to a 1\/6 Peak-to-Valley (PV) wavefront accuracy, a standard that ensures sharp, high-contrast images free of astigmatism and spherical aberration. Every optic is supplied with its own Zygo laser interferometer report, providing objective proof of its quality—not just a subjective claim.\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\u003eCNC 9-Point Cell, 12V Cooling, and Eris 2\" Focuser\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe optical quality is maintained by a robust mechanical system. The primary mirror rests on a CNC-machined 9-point suspension cell that provides uniform support, preventing mirror flexure that can degrade image quality as the telescope moves. A built-in 12-volt fan accelerates mirror cooling, reducing tube currents and allowing you to reach thermal equilibrium faster for stable, sharp views.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt the other end, the in-house designed Eris 2\" rack and pinion focuser provides a solid, stable platform for your eyepieces and cameras. Its smooth-lock mechanism grips accessories securely without introducing tilt, ensuring the optical path remains perfectly aligned even with heavier 2\" eyepieces.\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 IDEAL 6L's f\/8 Advantage: High-Contrast Planetary Viewing\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe IDEAL 6L's 1200mm focal length results in an f\/8 focal ratio, a deliberate design choice for observers prioritizing detail on the Moon and planets. This slower f-ratio produces a less demanding light cone, which makes collimation easier to achieve and maintain. It also delivers higher contrast and works exceptionally well with simpler eyepiece designs, revealing subtle cloud bands on Jupiter and the Cassini Division in Saturn's rings with clarity.\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\u003eIDEAL 6L: Choosing Between 1\/6, 1\/8, and 1\/10 PV Optics\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhile the standard 1\/6 PV optic is a superb performer, optional upgrades to 1\/8 PV and 1\/10 PV are available for those seeking the ultimate level of optical perfection. The choice depends entirely on your observing goals.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eStandard 1\/6 PV:\u003c\/strong\u003e An excellent grade that delivers sharp, detailed views far exceeding typical commercial standards. Ideal for all-around visual astronomy from deep sky to planets.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eProfessional 1\/8 PV:\u003c\/strong\u003e A significant step up for dedicated planetary and lunar observers. This level of correction can reveal finer, lower-contrast details during moments of steady seeing.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eUltra 1\/10 PV:\u003c\/strong\u003e Represents the pinnacle of Newtonian optics. This grade extracts the maximum possible resolution from the 150mm aperture, for observers who demand the most pristine image possible and have the steady skies to take advantage of it.\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 mount does the IDEAL 6L OTA require?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith a nominal tube weight of \u003cstrong\u003e5kg\u003c\/strong\u003e and a length of \u003cstrong\u003e1110mm\u003c\/strong\u003e, the IDEAL 6L is relatively lightweight but long. It requires an equatorial mount in the EQ5\/CG-5 class or higher to ensure stability, especially for astrophotography or high-magnification viewing where vibrations are more noticeable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eHow does the IDEAL 6L's f\/8 design perform on planets like Jupiter?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe f\/8 focal ratio is ideal for planetary work. On Jupiter, you can expect to clearly resolve the primary equatorial belts, the Great Red Spot, and shadow transits of the Galilean moons. The high-contrast optics will make it easier to discern subtle color variations and smaller storms within the cloud bands, especially when seeing conditions are good.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhat is a Zygo interferometer report and why is it included with the IDEAL 6L?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA Zygo interferometer is a high-precision instrument that measures the exact shape of a mirror's surface using laser light. The report is a printout of this measurement, providing objective, numerical proof of the mirror's wavefront accuracy (e.g., \u003cstrong\u003e1\/6 PV\u003c\/strong\u003e). It's included to guarantee that your telescope's optics meet the advertised specification, moving beyond subjective claims to verifiable data.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eIs the 1\/8 PV or 1\/10 PV upgrade for the IDEAL 6L worth it for visual observing?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor most observers, the standard \u003cstrong\u003e1\/6 PV\u003c\/strong\u003e optic is more than sufficient for stunning views. However, if your primary passion is high-resolution planetary, lunar, or double-star observing and you frequently have access to steady skies, the higher-grade optics can provide a noticeable increase in fine detail and contrast. The \u003cstrong\u003e1\/10 PV\u003c\/strong\u003e upgrade is for the observer seeking the absolute theoretical maximum performance from a 150mm aperture.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eCan the Eris 2\" focuser on the IDEAL 6L handle a heavy eyepiece or a camera?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. The \u003cstrong\u003eEris 2\" rack and pinion focuser\u003c\/strong\u003e is designed for stability. Its rack and pinion mechanism is inherently stronger than many entry-level Crayford focusers, and the \"smooth lock\" feature ensures that once focus is set, it holds firm without slipping or tilting, even with heavier accessories like large wide-field eyepieces or DSLR cameras for planetary imaging.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhy is the 36mm secondary mirror on the IDEAL 6L a good size?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA \u003cstrong\u003e36mm\u003c\/strong\u003e secondary mirror creates a central obstruction of 24% by diameter. For a 150mm f\/8 Newtonian, this is an excellent balance, providing a fully illuminated field for visual use without being so large that it significantly reduces image contrast, which is critical for resolving fine planetary detail.\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\u003eOptics Grade\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e1\/6 PV Wavefront Standard (Upgrades to 1\/8 PV \u0026amp; 1\/10 PV available)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePrimary Mirror Diameter\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e150mm\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\/8\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSecondary Mirror Size\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e36mm\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\u003eTube Material\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAluminium\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTube Type\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAluminium\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTube Paint\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eGalaxy Silver\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTube Weight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e5kg (nominal)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTube Diameter\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e178mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTube Length\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e1110mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis product is an Optical Tube Assembly (OTA) only. Mount, eyepieces, and other accessories are not included.\u003c\/p\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":52942595588381,"sku":"OOUK-IDEAL-6L","price":978.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Research (1\/8 PV)","offer_id":52942595621149,"sku":"OOUK-IDEAL-6L-1-8-PV","price":1049.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Ultra (1\/10 PV)","offer_id":52942595653917,"sku":"OOUK-IDEAL-6L-1-10-PV","price":1068.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0753\/5280\/1565\/files\/OrionOpticsUK-IDEAL-6L-Optical-Tube-Assembly-1_3163e7dc-d29c-45ec-93b4-dc149eabea2c.jpg?v=1789608210"},{"product_id":"orion-optics-uk-ideal-8","title":"Orion Optics UK IDEAL 8 Optical Tube Assembly","description":"\u003cul class=\"DAV-feature-list\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e200mm (8\") Primary Mirror\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e900mm Focal Length\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFast f\/4.5 Focal Ratio\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGuaranteed 1\/6 PV Wavefront Standard Optics\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCNC-Machined 9-Point Mirror Cell\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e7kg Nominal 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\u003eOrion Optics UK IDEAL 8 Optical Tube Assembly\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Orion Optics UK IDEAL 8 combines a fast, 200mm f\/4.5 optical system with a guaranteed 1\/6 PV wavefront primary mirror for exceptional astro-imaging capability. Its 900mm focal length provides a wide field of view, while the entire aluminium tube assembly weighs a manageable 7kg. Every optic is supported by a CNC-machined 9-point suspension cell and includes a Zygo interferometer report certifying its accuracy.\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 Difference\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUnlike mass-produced reflectors that often cite a theoretical \"diffraction limited\" standard (equivalent to 1\/4 PV wavefront), every IDEAL 8 OTA comes with a hand-figured primary mirror guaranteed to achieve 1\/6 PV wavefront accuracy. This superior optical quality, verified by an included Zygo interferometer test report, translates directly to higher-contrast planetary views and tighter, more defined stars in deep-sky images. For the most demanding applications, optional upgrades to 1\/8 PV and 1\/10 PV are available.\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\u003eA 200mm f\/4.5 System for Wide-Field Imaging\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith a 200mm aperture and a fast f\/4.5 focal ratio, the IDEAL 8 is built for capturing large deep-sky objects. This optical speed allows you to gather significant signal in shorter exposure times, reducing demands on your mount's tracking. The 900mm focal length is ideal for framing expansive targets like the Andromeda Galaxy (M31) or the North American Nebula (NGC 7000) with modern astronomy cameras.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFocal Ratio (f\/4.5):\u003c\/strong\u003e Reduces exposure time compared to slower f\/6 or f\/8 systems, capturing faint nebulosity more efficiently.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAperture (200mm):\u003c\/strong\u003e Gathers ample light for resolving detail in galaxies and star clusters.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eComa Correction Trade-Off:\u003c\/strong\u003e Like all fast Newtonians, the IDEAL 8 will show coma at the edge of the field; pairing it with a high-quality coma corrector is essential for achieving sharp stars across the entire imaging sensor.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\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: 9-Point Cell, Active Cooling, and Eris Focuser\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe optical quality is matched by a robust mechanical design. A CNC-machined 9-point suspension cell supports the primary mirror without inducing astigmatism or flexure as the telescope moves. A built-in 12-volt fan accelerates mirror cooling to ambient temperature, minimizing tube currents and ensuring sharp images sooner. The in-house designed Eris 2\" rack and pinion focuser provides a solid, slip-free platform for heavy imaging trains, with a smooth lock mechanism to hold focus securely.\u003c\/p\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 makes the IDEAL 8's 1\/6 PV optics different from standard Newtonians?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMost standard Newtonians are specified as \"diffraction limited,\" which corresponds to a 1\/4 PV wavefront accuracy. The \u003cstrong\u003eIDEAL 8 guarantees a 1\/6 PV wavefront\u003c\/strong\u003e, a significantly higher standard of optical precision. This is achieved through hand-figuring and is verified with an individual Zygo interferometer report for each mirror, resulting in higher image contrast and sharpness.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eHow does the f\/4.5 focal ratio of the IDEAL 8 benefit deep-sky imaging?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAn f\/4.5 system is considered \"fast,\" meaning it collects light more rapidly than a telescope with a higher f-ratio (like f\/8 or f\/10). For imagers, this means you can achieve the same image brightness in a much shorter exposure time. This reduces the strain on your mount's tracking and allows you to capture more data in a single night.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWill I see a difference between the 1\/6 PV and 1\/10 PV upgrade on a target like Jupiter?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes, especially during moments of steady seeing. While the 1\/6 PV standard provides excellent views, upgrading to 1\/10 PV pushes the mirror's surface accuracy to the limit. On a detailed target like Jupiter, this translates to finer, higher-contrast details in the cloud bands and more subtle features becoming visible. The higher the optical quality, the more resilient the image is to atmospheric turbulence.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhat is the purpose of the 9-point mirror cell in the IDEAL 8?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe CNC-machined 9-point cell provides optimal support for the 200mm primary mirror. It distributes the weight of the glass evenly across nine specific points, preventing gravity from deforming the mirror's precise shape as the telescope is aimed at different parts of the sky. This ensures the telescope maintains its collimation and optical performance regardless of its orientation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eIs the 7kg weight of the IDEAL 8 OTA manageable for portable mounts?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt a nominal weight of \u003cstrong\u003e7kg\u003c\/strong\u003e, the IDEAL 8 optical tube is relatively lightweight for its 200mm aperture. This makes it compatible with a wide range of mid-range equatorial mounts (typically those rated for 13-15kg or more for imaging), including many popular portable setups. Always account for the additional weight of your 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\"\u003eWhat is the function of the 12-volt fan on the IDEAL 8?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe integrated 12-volt fan is a crucial feature for thermal management. It actively draws air over the back of the primary mirror, helping it reach the same temperature as the outside air much faster. This process, called thermal equalization, minimizes \"tube currents\"—internal air turbulence that can soften the image—leading to sharper, more stable views.\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\u003eOptics Grade\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e1\/6 PV Wavefront Standard (Upgrades to 1\/8 PV \u0026amp; 1\/10 PV available)\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\u003e900mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFocal Ratio\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ef\/4.5\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSecondary Mirror Size\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e63mm\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 Cooling\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e12-volt 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 Weight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e7kg (nominal)\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\u003e860mm\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":52942596899101,"sku":"OOUK-IDEAL-8","price":1707.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Research (1\/8 PV)","offer_id":52942596931869,"sku":"OOUK-IDEAL-8-1-8-PV","price":1822.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Ultra (1\/10 PV)","offer_id":52942596964637,"sku":"OOUK-IDEAL-8-1-10-PV","price":1843.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0753\/5280\/1565\/files\/OrionOpticsUK-IDEAL-8-Optical-Tube-Assembly-1_b4c117bd-1387-4576-935c-b3beedbbe56a.jpg?v=1789608219"},{"product_id":"orion-optics-uk-ideal-8l","title":"Orion Optics UK IDEAL 8L Optical Tube Assembly","description":"\u003cul class=\"DAV-feature-list\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e200mm Primary Mirror\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1200mm Focal Length (f\/6)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1\/6 PV Wavefront Standard Optics\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCNC 9-Point Suspension Mirror Cell\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEris 2\" Rack and Pinion Focuser\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 8L Optical Tube Assembly\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe IDEAL 8L Optical Tube Assembly combines a 200mm primary mirror with a 1200mm focal length, creating a versatile f\/6 system for high-resolution planetary views and deep-sky imaging. Each OTA is built around a hand-figured primary mirror guaranteed to a 1\/6 PV wavefront accuracy, supported by a 9-point CNC-machined suspension cell and weighing a manageable 8kg.\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\u003eIDEAL 8L: 200mm f\/6 Primary with Certified 1\/6 PV Wavefront Optics\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt the heart of the IDEAL 8L is a 200mm parabolic primary mirror, hand-figured to a minimum standard of 1\/6 Peak-to-Valley (PV) wavefront accuracy. This figure, verified by an included Zygo interferometer report, ensures that the telescope delivers sharp, high-contrast images free from the subtle aberrations that soften details in mass-produced optics. The 1200mm focal length results in an f\/6 focal ratio—a versatile sweet spot that provides enough magnification for detailed lunar and planetary work while remaining fast enough for capturing faint nebulae.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eStandard 1\/6 PV Optics:\u003c\/strong\u003e This grade significantly exceeds the \"diffraction-limited\" standard (1\/4 PV), delivering visibly sharper planetary detail and tighter star points.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eOptional Upgrades (1\/8 PV \u0026amp; 1\/10 PV):\u003c\/strong\u003e For the most demanding applications, optional upgrades to 1\/8 PV or 1\/10 PV wavefront accuracy are available, pushing theoretical optical limits for the highest possible contrast and resolution.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e50mm Secondary Mirror:\u003c\/strong\u003e The 50mm secondary mirror is sized for full illumination of the focal plane without excessive obstruction, preserving image contrast.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCNC 9-Point Cell and 12V Fan: Stable Optics and Rapid Cooling\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe primary mirror's certified accuracy is maintained by a robust mechanical design. A fully CNC-machined 9-point suspension cell supports the 200mm mirror's 8kg weight evenly, preventing gravitational flexure that can distort the optical figure and degrade image quality. This ensures your collimation remains stable throughout an observing session.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo achieve peak optical performance, the primary mirror must reach thermal equilibrium with the ambient air. The IDEAL 8L includes an integrated 12-volt fan at the rear of the mirror cell, which dramatically accelerates cooling time. This minimizes internal tube currents, allowing you to get sharp, steady views much faster after setting up.\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\u003eEris 2\" Rack and Pinion Focuser: Precision and Stability\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe IDEAL 8L is equipped with a purpose-built Eris 2\" rack and pinion focuser. Unlike common Crayford designs that can slip under heavy loads, the rack and pinion mechanism provides a positive, non-slip action capable of supporting heavier eyepieces and full imaging trains. A smooth-lock mechanism secures the drawtube without shifting the optical axis, preserving critical focus.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe focuser accepts standard 2\" accessories and includes a 31.7mm (1.25\") adapter, allowing you to use the full range of eyepieces and accessories. The entire OTA is housed in a durable 225mm diameter aluminium tube finished in Galaxy Silver, keeping the total weight to only 8kg for easy mounting.\u003c\/p\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 is the main advantage of the IDEAL 8L's 1\/6 PV wavefront optics?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA \u003cstrong\u003e1\/6 PV wavefront\u003c\/strong\u003e means the mirror surface deviates from a perfect parabola by no more than 1\/6th the wavelength of light. This is significantly more accurate than the industry standard for \"diffraction-limited\" (1\/4 PV). The practical result is higher image contrast, which allows you to see finer details like Cassini's Division in Saturn's rings and delicate cloud bands on Jupiter more clearly and consistently.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eIs it worth upgrading the IDEAL 8L 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\u003eFor most visual observers, the standard \u003cstrong\u003e1\/6 PV\u003c\/strong\u003e optic is exceptional. Upgrading to \u003cstrong\u003e1\/8 PV\u003c\/strong\u003e or \u003cstrong\u003e1\/10 PV\u003c\/strong\u003e is recommended for dedicated planetary imagers or visual observers seeking the absolute pinnacle of optical performance. These higher grades of correction can reveal subtle, low-contrast details that are otherwise lost to minute scattering, especially during moments of excellent atmospheric seeing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eHow will the IDEAL 8L perform on Jupiter with its 1200mm focal length?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003e200mm aperture\u003c\/strong\u003e provides excellent resolving power for Jupiter, while the \u003cstrong\u003e1200mm focal length\u003c\/strong\u003e gives you a good image scale right out of the box. With a 6mm eyepiece, you'd achieve 200x magnification, ideal for resolving the Great Red Spot, intricate cloud belts, and the shadows of Galilean moons transiting the planet's disk. The high-quality 1\/6 PV mirror ensures these details are rendered with maximum sharpness and contrast.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhat kind of mount is needed for the IDEAL 8L OTA, given its 8kg weight?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith a tube weight of \u003cstrong\u003e8kg\u003c\/strong\u003e and a length of \u003cstrong\u003e1130mm\u003c\/strong\u003e, the IDEAL 8L requires a sturdy equatorial mount. For visual use, a mount in the EQ5\/CG-5 class is the minimum requirement. For astrophotography, a mount with a higher payload capacity, such as one from the EQ6\/CGEM class, is strongly recommended to handle the additional weight of a camera and guide scope and to ensure tracking stability.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eCan the Eris 2\" focuser on the IDEAL 8L handle a heavy imaging camera?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. The \u003cstrong\u003eEris 2\" focuser\u003c\/strong\u003e uses a rack and pinion design specifically for this purpose. Unlike Crayford-style focusers which can slip under the weight of a heavy camera, filter wheel, and off-axis guider, the geared mechanism of the R+P focuser ensures a positive, secure hold without any slippage, even when pointed near the zenith.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eHow important is the 12V cooling fan on the IDEAL 8L's primary mirror?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003e12V fan\u003c\/strong\u003e is critical for reaching peak performance quickly. A 200mm mirror has significant thermal mass and can take over an hour to cool to the ambient night air temperature on its own. The fan reduces this time to 15-20 minutes, actively removing the warm boundary layer of air above the mirror that causes \"tube currents\" and distorted, wavy images.\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\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 (optional upgrades to 1\/8 PV and 1\/10 PV)\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\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 Cooling\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e12 volt fan\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\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 Diameter\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e225mm\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":52942598209821,"sku":"OOUK-IDEAL-8L","price":1726.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Research (1\/8 PV)","offer_id":52942598242589,"sku":"OOUK-IDEAL-8L-1-8-PV","price":1841.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Ultra (1\/10 PV)","offer_id":52942598275357,"sku":"OOUK-IDEAL-8L-1-10-PV","price":1862.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0753\/5280\/1565\/files\/OrionOpticsUK-IDEAL-8L-Optical-Tube-Assembly-1_036d161f-39a7-4be9-b578-4f9a8132d1c7.jpg?v=1789608230"},{"product_id":"orion-optics-uk-ideal-10","title":"Orion Optics UK IDEAL 10 Optical Tube Assembly","description":"\u003cul class=\"DAV-feature-list\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e250mm (10-inch) Primary Mirror\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1200mm Focal Length\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ef\/4.8 Focal Ratio\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStandard 1\/6 PV Wavefront Hand-Figured Optics\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e11kg Nominal 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\u003eOrion Optics UK IDEAL 10 Optical Tube Assembly\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Orion Optics UK IDEAL 10 Optical Tube Assembly combines a fast 250mm f\/4.8 optical system with a guaranteed 1\/6 PV wavefront primary mirror for exceptional deep-sky and planetary capability. Its 1200mm focal length provides the magnification needed for resolving fine detail, while the entire 1140mm aluminium tube weighs a manageable 11kg. Support for the 250mm primary is handled by a CNC-machined 9-point suspension cell, ensuring optical stability as the telescope moves.\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\u003eIDEAL 10: A 250mm f\/4.8 Newtonian for High-Contrast Imaging\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith its 250mm aperture, the IDEAL 10 gathers enough light to reveal faint details in distant galaxies and nebulae. The f\/4.8 focal ratio creates a wide field of view and reduces exposure times for astrophotography, allowing you to capture more data in a single session. This combination of aperture and speed makes the IDEAL 10 a powerful, dual-purpose instrument for both visual observers seeking immersive views and imagers wanting a fast, high-resolution 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\u003eCertified 1\/6 PV Wavefront Optics: The Orion Optics UK Guarantee\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEvery IDEAL 10 includes a primary mirror hand-figured to a minimum 1\/6 PV (Peak-to-Valley) wavefront accuracy, a standard many manufacturers consider a premium upgrade. This figure represents how closely the mirror's surface matches a perfect parabola; a smaller fraction means higher precision, resulting in sharper stars and higher contrast on planetary details. Each optic is tested on a Zygo laser interferometer and supplied with its own report, guaranteeing its performance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eStandard Grade (1\/6 PV):\u003c\/strong\u003e Delivers excellent, high-contrast views far exceeding mass-produced optics. This is the guaranteed minimum quality for every IDEAL telescope.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eProfessional Grade (1\/8 PV Upgrade):\u003c\/strong\u003e An optional upgrade for discerning observers, offering visibly higher contrast on challenging targets like Jupiter's cloud bands and lunar rilles.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eResearch Grade (1\/10 PV Upgrade):\u003c\/strong\u003e The highest level of correction available, providing near-perfect images limited only by atmospheric seeing. This grade is for those who require the absolute maximum resolution from a 250mm aperture.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eRock-Solid Imaging Platform: A 9-Point Cell and 2\" Eris Focuser\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSuperior optics require an equally robust mechanical system. The IDEAL 10's 250mm mirror is supported by a CNC-machined 9-point suspension cell that prevents flexure and maintains collimation. A built-in 12-volt fan accelerates mirror cooling to ambient temperature, minimizing tube currents and ensuring sharp images sooner. The in-house designed Eris 2\" Rack and Pinion focuser provides a rigid, zero-slip drawtube with a smooth lock, capable of holding heavy imaging cameras and eyepieces perfectly centered on the optical axis.\u003c\/p\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 the IDEAL 10's 1\/6 PV wavefront accuracy mean for observing?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePV (Peak-to-Valley) wavefront\u003c\/strong\u003e measures the precision of the mirror's curve. A 1\/6 PV rating means the IDEAL 10's optics are figured to a very high standard, delivering sharper stars and higher contrast than typical \"diffraction-limited\" optics. This results in more visible detail on planets and tighter star clusters. Every Orion Optics UK mirror includes a Zygo interferometer test report certifying its quality.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eIs the IDEAL 10 OTA good for imaging planets like Jupiter and Saturn?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes, absolutely. The 250mm aperture provides excellent resolution, and the 1200mm focal length is a great starting point for high-magnification planetary work. When combined with a 2.5x or 3x Barlow lens, the IDEAL 10 can easily achieve the focal ratios needed for detailed planetary imaging. For the best possible results, consider the optional 1\/8 PV or 1\/10 PV optical upgrades, which maximize image contrast.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhen should I upgrade the IDEAL 10 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\u003eWhile the standard 1\/6 PV optics are excellent for all-around use, you should consider an upgrade if your primary focus is high-resolution planetary or lunar observing.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eChoose the \u003cstrong\u003e1\/8 PV upgrade\u003c\/strong\u003e for a noticeable increase in contrast and fine detail, making it easier to see subtle features in Jupiter's atmosphere or the Cassini Division in Saturn's rings.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eChoose the \u003cstrong\u003e1\/10 PV upgrade\u003c\/strong\u003e if you want the ultimate optical precision, where the telescope's performance is limited only by the seeing conditions, not the mirror itself.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eHow does the 9-point mirror cell on the IDEAL 10 improve performance?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA large 250mm mirror can deform under its own weight if not supported correctly, distorting the image. The CNC-machined 9-point cell on the IDEAL 10 distributes the mirror's 11kg weight evenly across nine optimized points. This prevents gravitational flexure as the tube moves, preserving the mirror's precise figure and maintaining sharp focus and collimation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhat kind of mount do I need for the 11kg IDEAL 10 OTA?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith a tube weight of 11kg and a length of 1140mm, the IDEAL 10 requires a stable equatorial mount with a payload capacity of at least 15-20kg (33-44 lbs) for visual use, and preferably higher for astrophotography. Mounts in the Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro, Celestron CGX, or iOptron CEM40 class are appropriate choices to ensure stability.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eHow does the f\/4.8 focal ratio affect viewing the Andromeda Galaxy (M31) with the IDEAL 10?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe f\/4.8 ratio gives the IDEAL 10 a wide field of view for its aperture. When paired with a low-power, wide-field 2\" eyepiece, you can frame large objects like the Andromeda Galaxy (M31) or the Pleiades (M45) within a single view. This fast focal ratio also results in a brighter image and a larger exit pupil at a given magnification, which is ideal for observing faint, extended deep-sky objects.\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\u003e250mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eNominal Focal 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\/4.8\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 Upgrade Options\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e1\/8 PV and 1\/10 PV\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSecondary Mirror Size\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e63mm\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\u003eNominal Tube Weight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e11kg\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTube Diameter\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e280mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTube Length\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e1140mm\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":52942599618845,"sku":"OOUK-IDEAL-10","price":2257.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Research (1\/8 PV)","offer_id":52942599651613,"sku":"OOUK-IDEAL-10-1-8-PV","price":2392.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Ultra (1\/10 PV)","offer_id":52942599684381,"sku":"OOUK-IDEAL-10-1-10-PV","price":2495.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0753\/5280\/1565\/files\/OrionOpticsUK-IDEAL-10-Optical-Tube-Assembly-1_e076c097-eb0b-4b9c-94f1-67492c79546a.jpg?v=1789608239"},{"product_id":"orion-optics-uk-ideal-10l","title":"Orion Optics UK IDEAL 10L Optical Tube Assembly","description":"\u003cul class=\"DAV-feature-list\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e250mm (10-inch) primary mirror diameter\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1600mm focal length (f\/6.3)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStandard 1\/6 PV wavefront optical accuracy\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCNC-machined 9-point suspension mirror cell\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e12-volt mirror cooling fan\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEris 2\" Rack and Pinion focuser\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 10L Optical Tube Assembly\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe IDEAL 10L Optical Tube Assembly combines a 250mm primary mirror with a 1600mm focal length for a versatile f\/6.3 system. Every mirror is hand-figured to a minimum 1\/6 PV wavefront accuracy, ensuring high-contrast planetary and deep-sky views right out of the box. The entire assembly weighs a nominal 12kg, supported by a CNC-machined 9-point cell and housed in a 1550mm aluminum tube.\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 Optics: A Guaranteed 1\/6 PV Wavefront\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe heart of the IDEAL 10L is its 250mm parabolic primary mirror. Unlike mass-produced optics, each mirror is hand-finished and tested via Zygo laser interferometry to meet a guaranteed 1\/6 Peak-to-Valley (PV) wavefront accuracy. This specification directly translates to sharper, higher-contrast images at the eyepiece, allowing you to resolve finer details in Jupiter's cloud bands or split tight double stars.\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\u003eCNC 9-Point Cell and 12-Volt Cooling for Stable Views\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo maintain optical alignment and performance, the primary mirror rests on a CNC-machined 9-point suspension cell. This design distributes the mirror's 12kg weight evenly, preventing flexure that can distort the image. An integrated 12-volt fan accelerates the cooling process, bringing the mirror to ambient temperature faster to minimize tube currents and ensure your views are steady from the start of your session.\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 Eris 2\" Rack and Pinion Focuser\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe IDEAL 10L is fitted with a robust Eris 2\" rack and pinion focuser. This in-house design provides a stable, shift-free platform for heavy 2\" eyepieces and imaging cameras. A smooth-locking mechanism holds accessories securely and perfectly centered in the optical path without marring barrels, ensuring critical focus is maintained throughout long exposures.\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\u003eUnderstanding Optical Grades: 1\/6 PV vs. 1\/8 PV and 1\/10 PV\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhile the standard 1\/6 PV wavefront optics deliver exceptional views, optional upgrades to 1\/8 PV or 1\/10 PV are available for the most demanding observers. A smaller PV fraction indicates the mirror surface more closely matches a perfect parabola, resulting in tangible improvements in image definition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e1\/6 PV (Professional Grade):\u003c\/strong\u003e The standard for the IDEAL 10L. Excellent for all-around visual use and imaging, revealing significant detail on planets and deep-sky objects.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e1\/8 PV (Research Grade):\u003c\/strong\u003e A noticeable step up, offering higher contrast that makes subtle planetary features and faint galactic details more apparent.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e1\/10 PV (Ultra Grade):\u003c\/strong\u003e The highest level of correction available. This grade minimizes light scatter to an exceptional degree, producing the sharpest possible images and the darkest sky backgrounds, ideal for high-resolution planetary imaging and critical visual observation.\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 can I expect to see with the IDEAL 10L's 250mm mirror?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith its 250mm aperture, the IDEAL 10L gathers enough light to resolve fine details within galaxies like the spiral arms of the Whirlpool Galaxy (M51) and the dust lanes in the Andromeda Galaxy (M31). On planets, you can expect to clearly see the Cassini Division in Saturn's rings, the Great Red Spot on Jupiter, and polar caps on Mars when conditions allow.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eHow does the 1\/6 PV wavefront accuracy of the IDEAL 10L improve views of Jupiter?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA higher PV wavefront accuracy means more light from the target is focused into a single point, increasing contrast. For Jupiter, this allows the \u003cstrong\u003e1\/6 PV\u003c\/strong\u003e optic to more clearly define the boundaries between its cloud belts and zones, resolve smaller storms and barges, and reveal subtle color variations that would be smeared out by a less accurate mirror.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eIs the IDEAL 10L's 12kg tube weight suitable for a mid-range equatorial mount?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe nominal tube weight of \u003cstrong\u003e12kg\u003c\/strong\u003e places the IDEAL 10L within the capacity of many popular mid-range mounts (e.g., EQ6-R, CEM40) for visual use. For long-exposure astrophotography, where you'll add a camera, guide scope, and other accessories, a mount with a higher payload capacity is recommended to ensure stability and tracking accuracy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhat is the benefit of the CNC 9-point suspension mirror cell in the IDEAL 10L?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA \u003cstrong\u003e9-point suspension cell\u003c\/strong\u003e provides optimal support for the 250mm primary mirror, preventing its own weight from deforming its precisely figured surface as the telescope moves. This is crucial for maintaining the mirror's specified 1\/6 PV wavefront accuracy, ensuring that you get sharp, coma-free stars across the field of view, regardless of where the telescope is pointing.\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 10L optics to 1\/8 PV or 1\/10 PV?\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 imaging or critical visual observation of faint details. While the standard \u003cstrong\u003e1\/6 PV\u003c\/strong\u003e optic is excellent, an \u003cstrong\u003e1\/8 PV\u003c\/strong\u003e or \u003cstrong\u003e1\/10 PV\u003c\/strong\u003e mirror will provide a detectable increase in contrast and sharpness, allowing you to push magnification higher and resolve the most challenging details on the Moon, planets, and double stars.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eHow does the f\/6.3 focal ratio affect imaging with the IDEAL 10L?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003ef\/6.3\u003c\/strong\u003e focal ratio is a versatile \"sweet spot.\" It's fast enough to capture deep-sky objects like the Orion Nebula (M42) with reasonable exposure times, yet the \u003cstrong\u003e1600mm\u003c\/strong\u003e focal length provides enough image scale to resolve significant detail on the Moon and planets without requiring aggressive Barlow lenses. This makes the IDEAL 10L a capable performer for both types of astrophotography.\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\u003eOptics Grade\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e1\/6 PV wavefront (optional upgrades to 1\/8 PV and 1\/10 PV)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePrimary Mirror Diameter\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e250mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFocal Length\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e1600mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFocal Ratio\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ef\/6.3\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\u003eTube Weight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e12kg (nominal)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTube Length\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e1550mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTube Diameter\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e280mm\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 Paint\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\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\u003eCooling System\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e12-volt mirror fan\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":52942601126173,"sku":"OOUK-IDEAL-10L","price":2277.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Research (1\/8 PV)","offer_id":52942601158941,"sku":"OOUK-IDEAL-10L-1-8-PV","price":2411.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Ultra (1\/10 PV)","offer_id":52942601191709,"sku":"OOUK-IDEAL-10L-1-10-PV","price":2514.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0753\/5280\/1565\/files\/OrionOpticsUK-IDEAL-10L-Optical-Tube-Assembly-1_5bc646e0-d513-4973-bb89-372f905ae0ac.jpg?v=1789608249"},{"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":3025.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Research (1\/8 PV)","offer_id":52942602633501,"sku":"OOUK-IDEAL-12-1-8-PV","price":3211.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Ultra (1\/10 PV)","offer_id":52942602666269,"sku":"OOUK-IDEAL-12-1-10-PV","price":3406.0,"currency_code":"CAD","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"},{"product_id":"orion-optics-uk-ideal-12l","title":"Orion Optics UK IDEAL 12L Optical Tube Assembly","description":"\u003cul class=\"DAV-feature-list\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e300mm (12\") Primary Mirror Diameter\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1600mm Focal Length (f\/5.3)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1\/6 PV Wavefront Standard Optical Accuracy\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEris 2\" Rack and Pinion Focuser\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e16kg Nominal 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\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 12L Optical Tube Assembly\u003c\/h2\u003e\n      \u003cp\u003eThe Orion Optics UK IDEAL 12L combines a large 300mm aperture with a versatile 1600mm focal length (f\/5.3) in an optical tube weighing a manageable 16kg. Every IDEAL 12L is built around a primary mirror hand-figured to a minimum 1\/6 PV wavefront accuracy, with each optic's quality certified by an included Zygo interferometer report. This OTA is engineered for observers and imagers seeking high-contrast, diffraction-limited views without the cost of research-grade instruments.\u003c\/p\u003e\n    \u003c\/div\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n\n  \u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n      \u003ch3\u003e300mm f\/5.3 Primary with 1\/6 PV Wavefront Accuracy\u003c\/h3\u003e\n      \u003cp\u003eThe heart of the IDEAL 12L is its 300mm primary mirror. This large aperture gathers significant light, resolving faint details in distant galaxies and nebulae. The 1600mm focal length strikes a balance, providing enough image scale for detailed views of planets and the Moon while the f\/5.3 focal ratio remains fast enough for deep-sky imaging.\u003c\/p\u003e\n      \u003cp\u003eOrion Optics UK guarantees a standard optical quality of 1\/6 PV wavefront. This figure, verified by Zygo laser interferometry for every mirror, ensures that the telescope delivers sharp, high-contrast images capable of revealing fine planetary detail like Jupiter's cloud bands and the Cassini Division in Saturn's rings, well beyond what standard \"diffraction-limited\" optics can resolve.\u003c\/p\u003e\n    \u003c\/div\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n    \n    \u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n      \u003ch3\u003eCNC 9-Point Cell and Eris 2\" Focuser: A Stable Optical Platform\u003c\/h3\u003e\n      \u003cp\u003eTo maintain the primary mirror's precise figure, the IDEAL 12L uses a CNC-machined 9-point suspension cell. This design evenly supports the 16kg mirror, preventing flexure and astigmatism as the telescope moves across the sky. A built-in 12-volt fan accelerates mirror cooling, reducing tube currents and ensuring stable images sooner.\u003c\/p\u003e\n      \u003cp\u003eThe OTA is fitted with a robust, in-house designed Eris 2\" rack and pinion focuser. Its smooth-lock mechanism securely holds heavy eyepieces and imaging cameras without shifting the optical axis, ensuring consistent focus and sharp stars across the field. The entire assembly is housed in a 1510mm long rolled aluminium tube, providing a rigid yet lightweight structure.\u003c\/p\u003e\n    \u003c\/div\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n\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 vs. 1\/10 PV\u003c\/h3\u003e\n      \u003cp\u003eWhile the standard 1\/6 PV optic delivers exceptional views, the IDEAL 12L offers optional upgrades for the most demanding applications. The choice depends entirely on your observing priorities and conditions. A higher-grade mirror doesn't gather more light, but it focuses the light it gathers more precisely, leading to visibly higher contrast on low-contrast planetary features and tighter star images.\u003c\/p\u003e\n      \u003cul\u003e\n        \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e1\/6 PV (Professional Grade):\u003c\/strong\u003e The standard offering. An excellent all-around choice that provides a significant step up from mass-produced optics, ideal for both deep-sky viewing and serious planetary observation.\u003c\/li\u003e\n        \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e1\/8 PV (Research Grade):\u003c\/strong\u003e A premium upgrade for dedicated planetary imagers and visual observers. This level of correction can reveal subtle, low-contrast details on Mars and Jupiter that may be lost in a 1\/6 PV system under steady seeing.\u003c\/li\u003e\n        \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e1\/10 PV (Ultra Grade):\u003c\/strong\u003e The highest precision available. This grade is for those who require the absolute best possible image contrast and resolution, typically for specialized research or imaging from sites with consistently excellent atmospheric seeing.\u003c\/li\u003e\n      \u003c\/ul\u003e\n      \u003cp\u003eThe images below illustrate the typical improvement in planetary detail as the mirror's surface accuracy increases from the included 1\/6 PV Professional grade to the 1\/10 PV Ultra grade.\u003c\/p\u003e\n       \u003cdiv class=\"DAV-grid-2\"\u003e\n           \u003cdiv class=\"DAV-grid-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 view with 1\/6 PV optics\"\u003e\n               \u003cp class=\"DAV-caption\"\u003e1\/6 PV - Professional\u003c\/p\u003e\n           \u003c\/div\u003e\n           \u003cdiv class=\"DAV-grid-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 view with 1\/8 PV optics\"\u003e\n               \u003cp class=\"DAV-caption\"\u003e1\/8 PV - Research\u003c\/p\u003e\n           \u003c\/div\u003e\n           \u003cdiv class=\"DAV-grid-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 view with 1\/10 PV optics\"\u003e\n               \u003cp class=\"DAV-caption\"\u003e1\/10 PV - Ultra\u003c\/p\u003e\n           \u003c\/div\u003e\n       \u003c\/div\u003e\n    \u003c\/div\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n  \u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n    \u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhat kind of mount is required for the 16kg IDEAL 12L OTA?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n  \u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003eWith a nominal weight of \u003cstrong\u003e16kg\u003c\/strong\u003e and a length of \u003cstrong\u003e1510mm\u003c\/strong\u003e, the IDEAL 12L requires a substantial German Equatorial Mount. For visual use, a mount in the EQ6\/CGEM class is the minimum. For serious astrophotography, a mount with a higher payload capacity, such as a Sky-Watcher EQ8-R or similar, is strongly recommended to handle the weight and long moment arm.\u003c\/p\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n    \u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eHow will the IDEAL 12L perform on faint galaxies like the Leo Trio (M66 Group)?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n  \u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003e300mm\u003c\/strong\u003e aperture is excellent for resolving details in galaxy groups. With the IDEAL 12L, you can expect to clearly see the distinct shapes of M65, M66, and NGC 3628 in the Leo Trio from a dark sky site. The f\/5.3 focal ratio provides a wide enough field with a 2\" eyepiece to frame multiple galaxies, while the high-contrast optics will help reveal dust lanes and spiral structure.\u003c\/p\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n    \u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eIs the standard 1\/6 PV optic on the IDEAL 12L good enough for high-resolution imaging of Jupiter?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n  \u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003eAbsolutely. The \u003cstrong\u003e1\/6 PV wavefront\u003c\/strong\u003e standard is significantly better than typical mass-produced optics and is more than capable of producing detailed, high-contrast images of Jupiter. It will clearly resolve major features like the Great Red Spot, prominent cloud bands, and festoons, especially when paired with a high-frame-rate planetary camera and good seeing conditions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n    \u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhy should I consider upgrading the IDEAL 12L 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\u003eUpgrading to \u003cstrong\u003e1\/8 PV or 1\/10 PV\u003c\/strong\u003e is for observers who want to extract the maximum possible detail from the 300mm aperture. This upgrade is most beneficial for:\u003c\/p\u003e\n    \u003cul\u003e\n    \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePlanetary Imaging:\u003c\/strong\u003e Higher precision optics yield higher contrast, making it easier to capture subtle atmospheric details on Jupiter, surface features on Mars, or Encke's division in Saturn's rings.\u003c\/li\u003e\n    \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eVisual Observing from excellent sites:\u003c\/strong\u003e If you regularly observe under very steady skies (good \"seeing\"), the higher optical grade will allow you to push magnification higher without the image breaking down.\u003c\/li\u003e\n    \u003c\/ul\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n    \u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhat is the purpose of the 9-point mirror cell in the IDEAL 12L?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n  \u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003eCNC 9-point suspension mirror cell\u003c\/strong\u003e provides optimized support for the 300mm primary mirror. A large mirror can sag under its own weight, distorting its carefully figured shape and degrading the image. The 9-point cell distributes the support across the back of the mirror, neutralizing the effects of gravity and preserving the optical alignment and performance as the telescope points to different parts of the sky.\u003c\/p\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n    \u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eDoes the IDEAL 12L require collimation?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n  \u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003eYes, like all Newtonian telescopes, the IDEAL 12L will require periodic collimation to ensure the primary and secondary mirrors are perfectly aligned. The robust mirror cell and tube construction help it hold collimation well, but checking alignment before each session with a laser collimator or Cheshire eyepiece is recommended for optimal performance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\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\u003e1600mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n      \u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFocal Ratio\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ef\/5.3\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n      \u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eStandard Optical Grade\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e1\/6 PV wavefront\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n      \u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eOptical Upgrade Options\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e1\/8 PV and 1\/10 PV\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n      \u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSecondary Mirror Size\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e63mm\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 Cooling\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e12-volt 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\u003e326mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n      \u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTube Length\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e1510mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n      \u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTube Weight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e16kg (nominal)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n      \u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTube Finish\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eGalaxy Silver Paint\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n    \u003c\/tbody\u003e\n  \u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\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\"\u003eIDEAL 12L Optical Tube Assembly Only\u003c\/p\u003e\n      \u003c\/div\u003e\n    \u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\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":52942603551005,"sku":"OOUK-IDEAL-12L","price":3044.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Research (1\/8 PV)","offer_id":52942603583773,"sku":"OOUK-IDEAL-12L-1-8-PV","price":3230.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Ultra (1\/10 PV)","offer_id":52942603616541,"sku":"OOUK-IDEAL-12L-1-10-PV","price":3426.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0753\/5280\/1565\/files\/OrionOpticsUK-IDEAL-12L-Optical-Tube-Assembly-1_14fb3266-dd62-42e7-88fe-ee47a9d7630e.jpg?v=1789608268"},{"product_id":"orion-optics-uk-ideal-14","title":"Orion Optics UK IDEAL 14 Optical Tube Assembly","description":"\u003cul class=\"DAV-feature-list\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e350mm (14\") Primary Mirror\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1600mm Focal Length (f\/4.6)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStandard 1\/6 PV Wavefront Hand-Figured Optics\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCNC-Machined 9-Point Suspension Mirror Cell\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEris 2\" Rack and Pinion Focuser\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e12-Volt Mirror Cooling Fan\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\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 14 Optical Tube Assembly\u003c\/h2\u003e\n      \u003cp\u003eThe Orion Optics UK IDEAL 14 OTA combines a large 350mm primary mirror with a fast f\/4.6 focal ratio for breathtaking wide-field views and deep-sky imaging capability. With a nominal focal length of 1600mm and a standard optical grade of 1\/6 PV wavefront accuracy, this telescope delivers high-contrast, sharp images verified by an included Zygo interferometer report. The entire assembly weighs a manageable 20kg, supported by a CNC-machined 9-point mirror cell and housed in a 1540mm aluminium tube.\u003c\/p\u003e\n    \u003c\/div\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n\n  \u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n      \u003ch3\u003e1\/6 PV Wavefront Optics: Zygo-Verified Precision in a 350mm Mirror\u003c\/h3\u003e\n      \u003cp\u003eThe heart of the IDEAL 14 is its hand-figured 350mm primary mirror, guaranteed to a minimum 1\/6 PV wavefront accuracy. This standard of optical quality, which exceeds the common \"diffraction-limited\" benchmark, ensures that the maximum amount of light is focused into a tight, high-contrast point, revealing subtle details on planets and resolving faint stars in dense clusters. Every optic is supplied with its own Zygo interferometer test report, providing objective proof of its exceptional surface accuracy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n    \u003c\/div\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n\n    \u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n      \u003ch3\u003eEngineered for Stability: 9-Point Cell and 12V Cooling\u003c\/h3\u003e\n      \u003cp\u003eTo maintain optical alignment and thermal equilibrium, the IDEAL 14 employs robust mechanical systems. The 350mm primary mirror rests on a CNC-machined 9-point suspension cell that distributes the 20kg tube's weight evenly, preventing flexure and preserving collimation as the telescope moves across the sky. An integrated 12-volt fan actively cools the primary mirror, reducing tube currents and ensuring the optics reach ambient temperature quickly for the sharpest possible views.\u003c\/p\u003e\n      \u003cul\u003e\n        \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eEris 2\" Focuser:\u003c\/strong\u003e The in-house designed rack-and-pinion focuser provides a stable, shift-free platform for heavy eyepieces or an imaging train, with a smooth lock mechanism to hold accessories perfectly on-axis.\u003c\/li\u003e\n        \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAluminium Tube:\u003c\/strong\u003e The 385mm diameter aluminium tube offers a high strength-to-weight ratio, finished in a durable Galaxy Silver paint.\u003c\/li\u003e\n        \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e75mm Secondary Mirror:\u003c\/strong\u003e The 75mm secondary mirror provides excellent illumination for wide-field eyepieces and large camera sensors without excessive obstruction.\u003c\/li\u003e\n      \u003c\/ul\u003e\n    \u003c\/div\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n\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 optic delivers superb images, optional upgrades to 1\/8 PV or 1\/10 PV are available for the most demanding visual observers and planetary imagers. A higher-grade mirror, with a surface closer to a perfect parabola, concentrates more light into the central Airy disk of a star image. This translates directly to higher contrast on low-contrast planetary features like the cloud bands of Saturn or the subtle festoons on Jupiter.\u003c\/p\u003e\n      \u003cul\u003e\n        \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e1\/6 PV (Professional Grade):\u003c\/strong\u003e The standard offering, excellent for all-around visual use and deep-sky imaging, significantly outperforming mass-produced optics.\u003c\/li\u003e\n        \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e1\/8 PV (Research Grade):\u003c\/strong\u003e A noticeable step up for high-magnification planetary and lunar observation, revealing finer details more consistently.\u003c\/li\u003e\n        \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e1\/10 PV (Ultra Grade):\u003c\/strong\u003e The ultimate in optical precision, providing the highest possible contrast and image fidelity, ideal for critical scientific work or capturing state-of-the-art planetary images.\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\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n  \u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n    \u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhat kind of mount is required for the IDEAL 14 OTA?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n  \u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003eThe IDEAL 14 OTA has a nominal tube weight of 20kg. To ensure stability, especially for imaging, you will need a robust equatorial mount with a payload capacity of at least 25-30kg (55-66 lbs). Mounts in the EQ6-R Pro, Celestron CGX, or Losmandy G11 class are the minimum recommended for visual use, with higher-capacity mounts being preferable for astrophotography.\u003c\/p\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n  \u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n    \u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eHow does the IDEAL 14's 1\/6 PV optical grade compare to \"diffraction-limited\" optics?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n  \u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003eThe term \"diffraction-limited\" typically refers to an optical system with a 1\/4 PV wavefront error. The IDEAL 14's standard 1\/6 PV wavefront is significantly more accurate. This higher precision means less light is scattered away from the central point of focus, resulting in higher contrast, sharper stars, and the ability to resolve finer details than a standard 1\/4 PV system.\u003c\/p\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n    \u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhat is the practical difference I will see between the 1\/6 PV, 1\/8 PV, and 1\/10 PV optics on a target like Jupiter?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n  \u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003eOn a night of good seeing, the difference becomes more apparent at high magnification.\n    \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n    \u003cli\u003eWith \u003cstrong\u003e1\/6 PV\u003c\/strong\u003e optics, you will clearly see Jupiter's main cloud belts and the Great Red Spot.\u003c\/li\u003e\n    \u003cli\u003eUpgrading to \u003cstrong\u003e1\/8 PV\u003c\/strong\u003e will make smaller ovals, barges, and festoons within the belts appear with greater contrast and clarity.\u003c\/li\u003e\n    \u003cli\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003e1\/10 PV\u003c\/strong\u003e upgrade provides the most stable and high-contrast image the atmosphere will allow, making the most subtle variations in color and texture visible with critical focus.\u003c\/li\u003e\n    \u003c\/ul\u003e\n    \n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n    \u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eIs the f\/4.6 focal ratio of the IDEAL 14 good for deep-sky imaging?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n  \u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003eYes, an f\/4.6 focal ratio is considered fast and is excellent for deep-sky imaging. It allows you to collect a significant amount of light in a shorter period, reducing total exposure times on faint targets like the Orion Nebula (M42) or the Andromeda Galaxy (M31). However, fast Newtonians require a coma corrector to ensure sharp stars across the entire field of view of a large sensor.\u003c\/p\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n    \u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhat collimation tools are recommended for an f\/4.6 Newtonian like the IDEAL 14?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n  \u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003eThe fast f\/4.6 optical system is sensitive to collimation errors. For precise alignment, a combination of a high-quality laser collimator and a Cheshire eyepiece or autocollimator is highly recommended. Precise collimation is essential to realize the full potential of the high-quality 1\/6 PV (or better) optics.\u003c\/p\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n      \u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n    \u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eDoes the IDEAL 14's Eris focuser support heavier imaging trains?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n  \u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003eYes, the Eris 2\" Rack and Pinion focuser is specifically designed for increased strength and stability. Its rack and pinion mechanism is more robust than a standard Crayford design and is well-suited to holding heavier loads, such as a large sensor camera, filter wheel, and off-axis guider, without slipping or tilting.\u003c\/p\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n  \u003ctable class=\"DAV-specifications\"\u003e\n    \u003ctbody\u003e\n      \u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eOptical Grade\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e1\/6 PV wavefront standard (upgrades to 1\/8 PV \u0026amp; 1\/10 PV available)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n      \u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePrimary Mirror Diameter\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e350mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n      \u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFocal Length\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e1600mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n      \u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFocal Ratio\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ef\/4.6\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\u003eMirror Cell\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eCNC 9 point suspension\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\u003eTube Weight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e20kg (nominal)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n      \u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTube Length\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e1540mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n      \u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTube Diameter\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e385mm\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 Paint\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n      \u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eCooling System\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e12-volt fan\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n    \u003c\/tbody\u003e\n  \u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n  \u003cul class=\"DAV-grid\"\u003e\n  \u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\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":52942604927261,"sku":"OOUK-IDEAL-14","price":5579.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Research (1\/8 PV)","offer_id":52942604960029,"sku":"OOUK-IDEAL-14-1-8-PV","price":5896.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Ultra (1\/10 PV)","offer_id":52942604992797,"sku":"OOUK-IDEAL-14-1-10-PV","price":5994.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}]},{"product_id":"orion-optics-uk-ideal-16","title":"Orion Optics UK IDEAL 16 Optical Tube Assembly","description":"\u003cul class=\"DAV-feature-list\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e400mm (16\") Primary Mirror\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1600mm Focal Length\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFast f\/4 Focal Ratio\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStandard 1\/6 PV Wavefront Optics with Zygo Report\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCNC-Machined 9-Point Mirror Cell with 12V Fan\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e29kg Nominal 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 16 Optical Tube Assembly\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Orion Optics UK IDEAL 16 Optical Tube Assembly combines a massive 400mm aperture with a fast f\/4 focal ratio for unparalleled deep-sky imaging and observation. Its 1600mm focal length provides the scale for detailed planetary views, all built upon a hand-figured primary mirror guaranteed to a 1\/6 PV wavefront standard. The entire 29kg assembly is supported by a CNC-machined 9-point mirror cell, ensuring the primary optic maintains its precise figure regardless of orientation.\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\u003e400mm f\/4 Primary Mirror: A 1\/6 PV Wavefront Standard\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt the heart of the IDEAL 16 is a 400mm primary mirror, hand-figured in the UK to a demanding 1\/6 PV wavefront accuracy. This grade exceeds the \"diffraction-limited\" standard, delivering visibly higher contrast on planetary details and tighter star points. The fast f\/4 focal ratio creates an incredibly bright image plane and a wide field of view, allowing you to capture vast nebulae like the North American Nebula (NGC 7000) in a single frame with reduced exposure times. Every optic is supplied with its own Zygo interferometer test report, providing certified proof of its exceptional quality.\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: 29kg Aluminium Tube and 9-Point Cell\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA large, fast mirror is only as good as its support system. The IDEAL 16 utilizes a robust 9-point suspension mirror cell, CNC-machined for precision, to distribute the mirror's weight evenly and prevent performance-robbing flexure. The 1580mm aluminium tube keeps the total weight to a manageable 29kg, while an integrated 12-volt fan accelerates mirror cooling to ambient temperature, minimizing tube currents and ensuring sharp views sooner.\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\u003ePrecise Focusing: The Eris 2\" Rack and Pinion Focuser\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo handle modern imaging cameras and heavy eyepiece combinations, the IDEAL 16 is equipped with a robust Eris 2\" rack and pinion focuser. This design offers a significant advantage over simpler Crayford focusers by providing a positive, slip-free rack gear, ensuring it can hold heavy equipment without shifting focus. A smooth-locking mechanism secures your eyepiece or camera with perfect centrality to the 82mm secondary mirror, preserving the optical alignment critical for a fast f\/4 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\u003eChoosing Your Grade: 1\/6 PV vs. 1\/8 PV and 1\/10 PV Optics Explained\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhile the standard 1\/6 PV wavefront optic delivers exceptional views, optional upgrades to 1\/8 PV or 1\/10 PV are available for the most demanding applications. Peak-to-Valley (PV) wavefront error measures how closely the mirror's surface matches a perfect parabola; a smaller fraction indicates a more precise figure. Upgrading from 1\/6 to 1\/10 PV yields a noticeable increase in fine detail and contrast, especially crucial for high-resolution planetary imaging where every fraction of a wavelength counts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e1\/6 PV (Professional Grade):\u003c\/strong\u003e The standard offering. Delivers sharp, high-contrast images far superior to mass-produced optics. Excellent for both deep-sky and planetary observing.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e1\/8 PV (Research Grade):\u003c\/strong\u003e A significant step up, providing finer resolution of details like Jupiter's cloud bands or Cassini's Division in Saturn's rings under good seeing conditions.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e1\/10 PV (Ultra Grade):\u003c\/strong\u003e The pinnacle of optical quality. This level of precision ensures the telescope is limited only by atmospheric conditions, not its optics, delivering the sharpest and highest-contrast images physically possible from a 400mm aperture.\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 mount is required for the IDEAL 16 OTA?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith a nominal tube weight of \u003cstrong\u003e29kg\u003c\/strong\u003e and a length of \u003cstrong\u003e1580mm\u003c\/strong\u003e, the IDEAL 16 requires a substantial equatorial mount. You should look for a mount with a payload capacity of at least 45-50kg for visual use, and preferably higher for stable astrophotography to account for cameras, guide scopes, and other accessories.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eIs the 1\/10 PV upgrade on the IDEAL 16 worth it for imaging Jupiter?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes, for dedicated planetary imagers, the 1\/10 PV upgrade is a significant investment. The higher surface accuracy translates directly to higher contrast on low-contrast features, such as subtle swirls in Jupiter's zones or faint festoons. While the 1\/6 PV standard is excellent, the 1\/10 PV ensures your final image resolution is limited by the atmosphere, not the telescope's mirror.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eHow will the IDEAL 16 perform on a large target like the Andromeda Galaxy (M31)?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe IDEAL 16's combination of a \u003cstrong\u003e400mm\u003c\/strong\u003e aperture and \u003cstrong\u003ef\/4\u003c\/strong\u003e focal ratio is perfect for large targets like M31. The massive light-gathering ability will reveal faint outer dust lanes and companion galaxies M32 and M110 with stunning clarity. The fast focal ratio provides a wide field of view, allowing you to frame the entire galaxy with appropriate eyepieces or a full-frame camera.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhat is the purpose of the 9-point mirror cell on the IDEAL 16?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA large \u003cstrong\u003e400mm\u003c\/strong\u003e mirror is heavy and can deform under its own weight if not supported properly. The \u003cstrong\u003eCNC 9 point suspension\u003c\/strong\u003e cell provides precisely calculated support points across the back of the mirror. This prevents sagging and flexure as the telescope moves across the sky, maintaining the mirror's precise optical figure and ensuring sharp focus.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eDoes the fast f\/4 optical system of the IDEAL 16 require a coma corrector?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes, like all fast Newtonian telescopes, the IDEAL 16 will exhibit coma, an aberration that makes stars at the edge of the field of view appear elongated. For astrophotography or wide-field visual observation with 2\" eyepieces, using a high-quality coma corrector is essential to achieve sharp, point-like stars across the entire frame.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhy is the 12-volt fan important for the IDEAL 16's 400mm mirror?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA large \u003cstrong\u003e400mm\u003c\/strong\u003e mirror has significant thermal mass and can take hours to cool to the ambient night air temperature. The integrated \u003cstrong\u003e12 volt fan\u003c\/strong\u003e actively circulates air behind the mirror, dramatically reducing this cooldown time. This minimizes \"tube currents\"—thermals rising from the mirror that distort the view—allowing you to start high-magnification observing or imaging much faster.\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\u003e400mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFocal Length\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e1600mm\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\u003eOptics Upgrade Options\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e1\/8 PV, 1\/10 PV\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSecondary Mirror Size\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e82mm\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 Cooling\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e12 volt 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\u003e434mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTube Length\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e1580mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTube Weight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e29kg (nominal)\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\u003cli class=\"DAV-grid-item\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-title\"\u003eIDEAL 16 Optical Tube Assembly\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\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":52942606172445,"sku":"OOUK-IDEAL-16","price":7182.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Research (1\/8 PV)","offer_id":52942606205213,"sku":"OOUK-IDEAL-16-1-8-PV","price":7661.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Ultra (1\/10 PV)","offer_id":52942606237981,"sku":"OOUK-IDEAL-16-1-10-PV","price":8123.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0753\/5280\/1565\/files\/OrionOpticsUK-IDEAL-12-Optical-Tube-Assembly-1_5821cbd9-9929-4566-8353-d2a09b3f85f9.jpg?v=1789608284"},{"product_id":"orion-optics-uk-ideal-upgrade-lable-and-knob-colour-red","title":"Orion Optics UK IDEAL Colour Emphasis Red Upgrade","description":"\u003cul class=\"DAV-feature-list\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCustom red color for telescope labels\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCustom red color for adjustment knobs\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eApplied during the build of a new Orion Optics UK telescope\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePart of the IDEAL bespoke customization program\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMatches common red-anodized astrophotography accessories\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\u003eIDEAL Colour Emphasis Red Upgrade\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe IDEAL Colour Emphasis Red is a bespoke factory customization for your new Orion Optics UK telescope, allowing you to personalize the instrument's final aesthetic. This upgrade replaces the standard-colored hardware with custom red knobs and matching red labels. It is an opportunity to create a telescope that is visually unique and tailored to your personal equipment preferences, reflecting the hand-figured, custom nature of the optics within.\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 IDEAL Upgrade: Bespoke Detailing for Orion Optics UK\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOrion Optics UK telescopes are not mass-produced instruments; each primary mirror is hand-figured in the UK to a precise optical standard. The IDEAL customization program extends this bespoke philosophy to the telescope's appearance. Opting for the Colour Emphasis Red upgrade ensures that the instrument you receive from the workshop is built from the ground up to your aesthetic specification.\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\u003eA Unified Aesthetic: Red Knobs and Matching Labels\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis upgrade provides a cohesive, professional look by coordinating key hardware elements. The focuser knobs, finder bracket screws, and other adjustment points are finished in a durable red, complemented by matching red vinyl labels. This is a popular choice for imagers looking to match their telescope to the red-anodized hardware found on many premium cameras, filter wheels, and focus motors.\u003c\/p\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 is the IDEAL Colour Emphasis Red upgrade?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe IDEAL Colour Emphasis Red is a factory-installed cosmetic option for new Orion Optics UK telescopes. It changes the standard color of the telescope's adjustment knobs and labels to a coordinated red finish, allowing you to personalize the look of your custom-built instrument.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhich parts of the telescope are affected by the IDEAL Colour Emphasis Red?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis upgrade specifically targets the primary user interface points and branding. The main components changed are:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAdjustment Knobs:\u003c\/strong\u003e Focuser knobs, collimation knobs, and finder scope adjustment screws.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLabels:\u003c\/strong\u003e The branding and specification labels on the optical tube.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eDoes the IDEAL Colour Emphasis Red upgrade improve optical performance?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo, this is a purely aesthetic upgrade. It has no impact on the optical quality, which is determined by the specific PV wavefront grade you select for your mirror. The Colour Emphasis Red option is about personalizing the appearance of your telescope to match your style or other equipment.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eCan I order the IDEAL Colour Emphasis Red for a telescope I already own?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe IDEAL Colour Emphasis is intended as a factory option applied during the initial build of a new telescope. It is not available as a standalone kit for retrofitting to existing telescopes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eHow do I order the IDEAL Colour Emphasis Red for my new Orion Optics UK telescope?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou can add the IDEAL Colour Emphasis Red to your cart along with your new Orion Optics UK telescope. This will notify the workshop to incorporate the custom color scheme into your telescope's build plan.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhy would I choose a red color scheme for my telescope?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMany astrophotographers choose red to create a visually unified imaging train, as red is a very common color for high-end cameras, focusers, and filter wheels. It provides a professional, integrated look to your entire setup.\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\u003eProduct Type\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFactory-Installed Cosmetic Upgrade\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eCompatibility\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eNew Orion Optics UK Telescopes\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eComponents Changed\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eLabels and Adjustment Knobs\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eColor\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eRed\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a factory-installed customization option and does not add physical items to the box.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo downloads are available for this product.\u003c\/p\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":"Default Title","offer_id":52942608433437,"sku":"OOUK-IDEAL-UPGRADE-LABLE-KNOB-COLOUR","price":138.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0753\/5280\/1565\/files\/OrionOpticsUK-IDEAL-Colour-Emphasis-Red-1_6cdc6015-66f6-4a22-9267-a4ce8839c6c1.jpg?v=1789608301"},{"product_id":"orion-optics-uk-ideal-upgrade-lable-and-knob-colour-orange","title":"Orion Optics UK IDEAL Colour Emphasis Orange","description":"\u003cul class=\"DAV-feature-list\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCustom orange anodized focus knobs and hardware\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMatching orange vinyl labels and branding\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSpecified at time of new telescope purchase\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFactory-installed by Orion Optics UK technicians\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 Colour Emphasis Orange\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe IDEAL Colour Emphasis Orange is a factory-specified cosmetic upgrade that personalizes your new Orion Optics UK telescope with distinctive orange accents. This option replaces the standard hardware and labeling with high-visibility orange components, creating a unique instrument that stands out both in the field and at star parties. It is a statement of intent, reflecting the custom, hand-crafted nature of your telescope.\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\u003eA Custom Aesthetic for Your Hand-Crafted Telescope\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChoosing the IDEAL Colour Emphasis in Orange allows you to specify a unique look for your telescope during its construction. Technicians at the Orion Optics UK facility will install custom-anodized orange focus knobs and other hardware, paired with precision-cut orange vinyl labels. This is not a post-purchase kit, but an integrated part of the telescope's initial assembly, ensuring a perfect fit and professional finish.\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 IDEAL Standard: A Mark of Distinction\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe \"IDEAL\" designation signifies a premium selection for your Orion Optics UK instrument. While this Colour Emphasis option is purely aesthetic, it visually aligns your telescope with other high-end, customized astronomical equipment. The vibrant orange provides a functional benefit of higher visibility for key adjustment points like focuser knobs during nighttime operation under red light.\u003c\/p\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 is the IDEAL Colour Emphasis Orange option?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe IDEAL Colour Emphasis Orange is a cosmetic customization option for new Orion Optics UK telescopes. It involves factory installation of orange-anodized knobs and hardware, along with matching orange labels, to give your telescope a distinct and personalized appearance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhich parts of my Orion Optics UK telescope become orange?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis upgrade typically applies to user-interaction points and branding. The primary components changed are the focuser knobs and other adjustment hardware, along with the main telescope labels and branding decals.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eDoes the IDEAL Colour Emphasis Orange improve the telescope's optical performance?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo, this is a purely aesthetic upgrade. The IDEAL Colour Emphasis Orange option does not alter the optical specifications or performance of the telescope in any way. The exceptional hand-figured optics of your Orion Optics UK telescope remain the core of its performance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eCan I add the IDEAL Colour Emphasis Orange to a telescope I already own?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a factory-installed option that must be specified when ordering a new telescope. It is not available as a separate, user-installable kit for existing telescopes to ensure a professional, integrated finish.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhy choose the IDEAL Colour Emphasis Orange for my new scope?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou would choose this option for two main reasons: personalization and visibility. It allows you to own a telescope with a unique look that reflects your personal style. Functionally, the bright orange color can make knobs and adjustment points slightly easier to see under dim red light during nighttime observing sessions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eIs the Orange color durable?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. The color on the hardware is achieved through anodization, a durable electrochemical process that protects the metal and integrates the color into the surface. The vinyl labels are made from high-quality, weather-resistant material designed for long-term outdoor use.\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\u003eProduct Type\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eCosmetic Upgrade Option\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eApplication\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFactory installation on new Orion Optics UK telescopes\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eComponents\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAnodized hardware (knobs) and vinyl labels\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eColor\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eOrange\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\"\u003eFactory-Installed Upgrade\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-subtitle\"\u003eThis is a customization option applied during the telescope's manufacturing and is not shipped as a separate kit.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\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":"Default Title","offer_id":52942609383709,"sku":"OOUK-IDEAL-UPGRADE-LABLE-KNOB-COLOUR-2","price":138.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0753\/5280\/1565\/files\/OrionOpticsUK-IDEAL-Colour-Emphasis-Orange-1_f7609e34-947d-4791-b3a8-45e7ffc7e6fe.jpg?v=1789608310"},{"product_id":"orion-optics-uk-ideal-upgrade-lable-and-knob-colour-yellow","title":"Orion Optics UK IDEAL Colour Emphasis - Yellow","description":"\u003cul class=\"DAV-feature-list\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBespoke Yellow colour upgrade for knobs and labels\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eApplied at the Orion Optics UK factory during assembly\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHigh-contrast accent for a personalized instrument aesthetic\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAvailable for the IDEAL custom telescope line\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\u003eOrion Optics UK IDEAL Colour Emphasis - Yellow\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAdd a unique, personal signature to your custom-built telescope with the Orion Optics UK IDEAL Colour Emphasis in Yellow. This factory upgrade replaces the standard-coloured adjustment knobs and labels on your instrument with a vibrant, high-contrast yellow finish. This is a purely aesthetic enhancement, allowing you to create a telescope that is visually as distinctive as the hand-figured optics within it.\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\u003ePersonalize Your Orion Optics UK Telescope with IDEAL Yellow\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe IDEAL Colour Emphasis is an option for astronomers who appreciate fine details and wish to personalize their equipment. Choosing the yellow accent ensures your telescope stands out, making the primary adjustment points not only visually striking but also easily identifiable in low-light conditions. This customization is integrated during the initial build at the Orion Optics UK facility, ensuring a professional, durable finish that matches the world-class quality of the telescope itself.\u003c\/p\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 is the Orion Optics UK IDEAL Colour Emphasis in Yellow?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a cosmetic customization option for new Orion Optics UK telescopes in the IDEAL line. It changes the colour of specific hardware components, such as adjustment knobs and labels, to a distinct yellow. It allows you to personalize the appearance of your instrument from the factory.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhich parts of my telescope get the Yellow IDEAL upgrade?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe IDEAL Colour Emphasis upgrade applies to the main user-interface components. This typically includes the focuser knobs, collimation knobs, and associated labels, providing a consistent and striking aesthetic across the instrument.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eHow do I order the IDEAL Yellow Emphasis for my new Orion Optics UK telescope?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou can add the IDEAL Colour Emphasis Yellow to your cart alongside your new Orion Optics UK telescope order. The customization will be performed at the factory in the UK as part of the telescope's construction and assembly process.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eCan I add the IDEAL Yellow Emphasis to an Orion Optics UK telescope I already own?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo, the IDEAL Colour Emphasis is a factory-installed upgrade applied during the initial manufacturing of the telescope. It is not available as a separate kit for retrofitting onto existing instruments.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eDoes the IDEAL Yellow colour choice affect the optical performance of my telescope?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAbsolutely not. This is a purely aesthetic upgrade. The choice of colour for knobs and labels has no impact on the optical quality, which remains at the world-class, hand-figured standard set by Orion Optics UK.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eAre other IDEAL Colour Emphasis options available for my Orion Optics UK telescope?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes, Orion Optics UK offers the IDEAL Colour Emphasis upgrade in several colours. Please check our other listings to see the full range of available options to personalize your telescope.\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\u003eProduct Type\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAesthetic Customization\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eApplicability\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eNew Orion Optics UK IDEAL Telescopes\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eComponent Colour\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eYellow\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eInstallation\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFactory-installed during manufacturing\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":"Default Title","offer_id":52942610399517,"sku":"OOUK-IDEAL-UPGRADE-LABLE-KNOB-COLOUR-3","price":138.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0753\/5280\/1565\/files\/OrionOpticsUK-IDEAL-Colour-Emphasis-Yellow-1_b77dc448-7b57-4b9c-a9ce-67769089d4c5.jpg?v=1789608318"}],"url":"https:\/\/davidastro.com\/fr-us\/collections\/orion-optics-uk-ideal-newtonian-telescopes.oembed","provider":"David Astro","version":"1.0","type":"link"}