{"product_id":"orion-optics-uk-ct10l-optical-tube-assembly","title":"Orion Optics UK CT10L Optical Tube Assembly","description":"\u003cul class=\"DAV-feature-list\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e250mm (10-inch) Aperture\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1575mm Focal Length (f\/6.3)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGuaranteed 1\/10 PV Wavefront Optics\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCarbon Fibre Sandwich Tube Construction\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e12.5kg Optical 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\u003eOrion Optics UK CT10L Optical Tube Assembly\u003c\/h2\u003e\n      \u003cp\u003eThe Orion Optics UK CT10L is an instrument of uncompromising optical quality, built around a 250mm f\/6.3 primary mirror hand-figured to a guaranteed 1\/10 PV wavefront accuracy. Its 1575mm focal length provides the magnification needed for detailed planetary observation, while the carbon fibre tube, measuring 1440mm long, ensures focus remains stable as temperatures change. Weighing just 12.5kg, this OTA delivers research-grade optical performance in a package manageable by mid-range equatorial mounts.\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\u003eGuaranteed 1\/10 PV Wavefront Optics: The Pinnacle of Newtonian Correction\u003c\/h3\u003e\n      \u003cp\u003eThe heart of the CT10L is its 250mm Suprax primary mirror, which is not just diffraction-limited, but corrected to the highest possible standard offered by Orion Optics UK. A 1\/10 PV wavefront figure means the mirror surface deviates from a perfect parabola by an incredibly small margin, resulting in maximum contrast and sharpness. Every CT10L is delivered with its own Zygo laser interferometry report, providing certified proof of its elite optical quality.\u003c\/p\u003e\n      \u003cul\u003e\n        \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eEnhanced Hilux Coatings:\u003c\/strong\u003e Multi-layer dielectric coatings deliver superior reflectivity for brighter images compared to standard aluminum.\u003c\/li\u003e\n        \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e50mm Secondary Mirror:\u003c\/strong\u003e A precisely sized secondary provides full illumination for visual use and smaller imaging sensors without excessive obstruction.\u003c\/li\u003e\n        \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCertified Performance:\u003c\/strong\u003e The included Zygo test report documents the exact wavefront error of your specific mirror, removing all ambiguity about its performance.\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\u003eZero-Expansion Carbon Fibre Tube: A 1440mm Stable Optical Platform\u003c\/h3\u003e\n      \u003cp\u003eTo maintain the precision of its optics, the CT10L employs a sandwich-construction carbon fibre tube. This material exhibits virtually zero thermal expansion, preventing the focal point from shifting during long imaging sessions or nights with dropping temperatures. The 300mm diameter tube is finished with a gloss exterior and a matte black interior to absorb stray light and maximize image contrast.\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\u003eImaging-Ready Mechanics: 9-Point Cell and 2-inch Geared Focuser\u003c\/h3\u003e\n      \u003cp\u003eThe mechanical systems of the CT10L are engineered to support the optical performance. The primary mirror rests on a 9-point flotation cell, CNC machined from aluminum to prevent any print-through or astigmatism from mechanical stress. An integrated fan provides active cooling to help the mirror reach thermal equilibrium quickly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n      \u003cul\u003e\n        \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e2-inch Geared Focuser:\u003c\/strong\u003e A precision-machined 2-inch focuser with reduction gearing allows for smooth, fine adjustments critical for achieving sharp focus at high magnification.\u003c\/li\u003e\n        \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCNC Tube Rings:\u003c\/strong\u003e A pair of solid, black-anodised CNC machined rings weighing 1.5kg provide a secure and stable mounting platform for the 12.5kg tube.\u003c\/li\u003e\n        \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAdjustable Spider:\u003c\/strong\u003e The stainless steel 4-vane spider is fully adjustable, allowing for precise secondary mirror collimation to maintain optical alignment.\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\u003eThe 1\/10 PV Difference: Visualizing Research-Grade Optics\u003c\/h3\u003e\n      \u003cp\u003eWhile a standard 1\/4 PV wavefront optic produces good images, the 1\/10 PV wavefront correction of the CT10L elevates views from good to exceptional. This level of accuracy concentrates more light into the central Airy disk of a star, resulting in visibly higher contrast on planetary details, tighter star points, and the ability to resolve fainter, closer double stars. Under steady seeing conditions, a 1\/10 PV optic delivers an image that is fundamentally sharper and more detailed than what a lesser mirror can physically produce.\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_4-PV.jpg\" alt=\"Saturn viewed through a 1\/4 PV wavefront telescope\"\u003e\n          \u003cp\u003e1\/4 PV (Standard)\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 a 1\/10 PV wavefront telescope\"\u003e\n          \u003cp\u003e1\/10 PV (CT Series)\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 does the CT10L's 1\/10 PV wavefront accuracy mean for viewing Jupiter?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n  \u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003eFor an object like Jupiter, the \u003cstrong\u003e1\/10 PV wavefront\u003c\/strong\u003e accuracy of the Orion Optics CT10L translates directly to higher contrast and finer detail. You will be able to more clearly resolve subtle cloud bands, festoons, and small ovals, as well as fine detail within the Great Red Spot. The superior correction minimizes light scatter, making the planet's moons appear as sharp, distinct disks rather than fuzzy points of light 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 does the carbon fibre tube on the CT10L benefit long-exposure astrophotography?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n  \u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003eThe primary benefit is \u003cstrong\u003efocal stability\u003c\/strong\u003e. Metal tubes expand and contract with temperature changes, causing the focal point to shift and resulting in soft or bloated stars over a long imaging session. The CT10L's carbon fibre sandwich tube has virtually zero thermal expansion, meaning your focus will remain sharp from the beginning of the night to the end without constant adjustments.\u003c\/p\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n  \u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n    \u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eIs the CT10L's f\/6.3 focal ratio suitable for both visual and imaging?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n  \u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003eYes, f\/6.3 is an excellent compromise. For visual observers, it's fast enough to provide bright, wide-field views with low-power eyepieces but slow enough to be very forgiving on eyepiece designs, delivering sharp stars across the field. For imagers, the \u003cstrong\u003e1575mm focal length\u003c\/strong\u003e provides ample image scale for galaxies, planetary nebulae, and planets without requiring extreme 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 is required for the Orion Optics CT10L?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n  \u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003eThe CT10L optical tube weighs \u003cstrong\u003e12.5kg\u003c\/strong\u003e and the rings add another \u003cstrong\u003e1.5kg\u003c\/strong\u003e, for a total of 14kg. For visual use, a mount with a payload capacity of at least 18kg (40 lbs) is recommended. For serious astrophotography, a mount in the 22kg (50 lbs) payload class or higher is essential to handle the tube's 1440mm length and provide the necessary stability for sharp, long exposures.\u003c\/p\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n    \u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWith its 250mm aperture, can the CT10L resolve globular clusters like the Hercules Cluster (M13)?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n  \u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003eAbsolutely. A \u003cstrong\u003e250mm\u003c\/strong\u003e aperture has significant light-gathering and resolving power. On a target like M13, the CT10L will resolve the dense core into a field of thousands of individual pin-point stars. The 1\/10 PV optics ensure these stars are as sharp as the seeing will permit, creating a stunning, three-dimensional visual experience.\u003c\/p\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n  \u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n    \u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhy is a Zygo report included with the CT10L?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n  \u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003eThe Zygo interferometer report is your \u003cstrong\u003ecertificate of optical quality\u003c\/strong\u003e. It is a printout from a high-precision laser measurement device that shows the exact surface accuracy of your specific primary mirror. Including this report demonstrates that the advertised 1\/10 PV wavefront specification is not just a marketing claim but a measured, verifiable fact for the instrument you receive.\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\u003eOptics Grade\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e1\/10 PV Wavefront Standard\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n      \u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAperture\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\u003e1575mm\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\u003ePrimary Mirror Glass\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSuprax\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n      \u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eCoatings\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eEnhanced Hilux\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 Material\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eCarbon Fibre Sandwich\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n      \u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTube Diameter\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e300mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n      \u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTube Length\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e1440mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n      \u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTube Weight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e12.5kg\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n      \u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFocuser\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e2\" with reduction gearing\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n      \u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMirror Cell\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e9-point suspension, CNC machined aluminum\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n      \u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSpider\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e4-vane, stainless steel, fully adjustable\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n      \u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFinder Scope\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e8x50\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n      \u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMounting Rings\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eCNC machined, anodised black\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n      \u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eRings Weight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e1.5kg\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n      \u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eExtension Tubes\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e40mm, screw threaded\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n      \u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBoxed Dimensions\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e172 x 48 x 48 cm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n      \u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBoxed Weight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e20kg\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\"\u003eCT10L 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    \u003cli class=\"DAV-grid-item\"\u003e\n      \u003cdiv\u003e\n        \u003cp class=\"DAV-item-title\"\u003e8x50 Finder Scope\u003c\/p\u003e\n        \u003cp class=\"DAV-item-subtitle\"\u003e× 1\u003c\/p\u003e\n      \u003c\/div\u003e\n    \u003c\/li\u003e\n    \u003cli class=\"DAV-grid-item\"\u003e\n      \u003cdiv\u003e\n        \u003cp class=\"DAV-item-title\"\u003eCNC Machined Tube Rings\u003c\/p\u003e\n        \u003cp class=\"DAV-item-subtitle\"\u003e× 1 Pair\u003c\/p\u003e\n      \u003c\/div\u003e\n    \u003c\/li\u003e\n    \u003cli class=\"DAV-grid-item\"\u003e\n      \u003cdiv\u003e\n        \u003cp class=\"DAV-item-title\"\u003e40mm Extension Tube\u003c\/p\u003e\n        \u003cp class=\"DAV-item-subtitle\"\u003e× 1\u003c\/p\u003e\n      \u003c\/div\u003e\n    \u003c\/li\u003e\n    \u003cli class=\"DAV-grid-item\"\u003e\n      \u003cdiv\u003e\n        \u003cp class=\"DAV-item-title\"\u003eZygo Interferometry Test Report\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\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":52942379614493,"sku":"OOUK-CT10L-OPTICAL-TUBE-ASSEMBLY","price":4516.89,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0753\/5280\/1565\/files\/Orion-Optics-UK-Logo_ad896c08-c553-4fdd-8058-8eccf68d8f26.jpg?v=1789607197","url":"https:\/\/davidastro.com\/fr-us\/products\/orion-optics-uk-ct10l-optical-tube-assembly","provider":"David Astro","version":"1.0","type":"link"}