{"product_id":"orion-optics-uk-vx10l","title":"Orion Optics UK VX10L Optical Tube Assembly","description":"\u003cul class=\"DAV-feature-list\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e250mm (10-inch) primary mirror for exceptional light-gathering\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1600mm focal length at f\/6.3, ideal for both planetary and deep-sky observation\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStandard hand-figured optics with a 1\/6 PV wavefront accuracy\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLightweight 12kg aluminium tube for easier mounting and transport\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCNC-machined 9-point mirror cell with integrated 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 VX10L Optical Tube Assembly\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Orion Optics UK VX10L delivers high-resolution performance through its 250mm primary mirror and 1600mm (f\/6.3) focal length. Every VX10L is built around hand-figured optics certified to a minimum 1\/6 PV wavefront accuracy, supported by a 9-point CNC-machined mirror cell for consistent optical alignment. The entire assembly weighs a manageable 12kg, thanks to its 1550mm aluminium tube, making it compatible with a wide range of equatorial 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\u003e250mm f\/6.3 Optics: The Foundation for High-Resolution Views\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith a 250mm (10-inch) aperture, the VX10L gathers enough light to resolve faint galaxies and bring out fine detail in nebulae like the Orion Nebula (M42). The 1600mm focal length and f\/6.3 focal ratio provide a versatile balance, offering enough image scale for high-magnification views of Jupiter's cloud bands and Saturn's rings, while remaining wide enough for framing larger deep-sky targets.\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 to 1\/10 PV: Choosing Your Level of Optical Precision\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOrion Optics UK hand-figures every mirror to a verified peak-to-valley (PV) wavefront accuracy, measured with a Zygo laser interferometer. The standard VX10L includes 1\/6 PV optics, a grade that already surpasses mass-produced alternatives and delivers sharp, high-contrast images. For the most demanding applications, optional upgrades to 1\/8 PV or 1\/10 PV Ultra are available.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e1\/6 PV (Professional Grade):\u003c\/strong\u003e The standard offering, providing excellent views for all astronomical subjects with noticeably higher contrast than typical commercial newtonians.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e1\/8 PV (Research Grade):\u003c\/strong\u003e A significant step up, this grade minimizes wavefront error to a level where planetary and lunar details become crisper and more stable, especially during moments of good seeing.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e1\/10 PV (Ultra Grade):\u003c\/strong\u003e The highest level of correction available. This grade ensures the optical system is performing at the theoretical limit, extracting the maximum possible detail and contrast from any target.\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: 12kg Tube and 9-Point CNC Mirror Cell\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe VX10L's mechanical design ensures its optics perform consistently. The primary mirror rests on a 9-point flotation cell, precision-machined from CNC aluminum to distribute the mirror's weight evenly and prevent surface distortion. An integrated cooling fan helps the 250mm mirror reach thermal equilibrium with the ambient air quickly, reducing tube currents and sharpening the image.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDespite its 1550mm length, the aluminium tube keeps the total weight to just 12kg, placing it within the capacity of many mid-range equatorial mounts. Focusing is managed by a 2\" focuser with reduction gearing, allowing for fine, precise adjustments critical for high-magnification visual work and astrophotography.\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 visible difference between the 1\/6 PV and 1\/10 PV optics on the VX10L?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhile the \u003cstrong\u003e1\/6 PV\u003c\/strong\u003e optics provide excellent, sharp views, upgrading to \u003cstrong\u003e1\/10 PV Ultra\u003c\/strong\u003e optics on the Orion Optics UK VX10L yields a noticeable increase in contrast and fine detail, particularly on high-magnification targets like planets and the Moon. You'll observe subtler cloud bands on Jupiter, finer detail in Saturn's rings, and sharper resolution on close double stars. Each mirror grade comes with a Zygo interferometer test report verifying its accuracy.\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 Orion Optics UK VX10L?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe VX10L OTA weighs \u003cstrong\u003e12kg\u003c\/strong\u003e. For visual use, a mount with a payload capacity of at least 15-18kg (e.g., Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro) is recommended to ensure stability. For long-exposure astrophotography, a mount with a higher capacity of 20kg or more would be ideal 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\"\u003eHow does the VX10L's f\/6.3 focal ratio affect astrophotography?\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 middle ground. It's fast enough to capture significant data on deep-sky objects in a reasonable amount of time without requiring the extreme precision of faster f\/4 systems. It also provides a \u003cstrong\u003e1600mm\u003c\/strong\u003e focal length, which gives good image scale for smaller galaxies and planetary nebulae without needing aggressive barlows or powermates.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eIs the VX10L with standard 1\/6 PV optics good enough for resolving the Cassini Division on Saturn?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes, absolutely. The \u003cstrong\u003e250mm\u003c\/strong\u003e aperture of the VX10L provides more than enough resolving power to see the Cassini Division. The standard \u003cstrong\u003e1\/6 PV\u003c\/strong\u003e optics will deliver a sharp enough image to clearly define the gap in Saturn's rings, provided atmospheric seeing conditions are favorable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhy is the cooling fan on the VX10L's mirror cell important?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe fan helps the large \u003cstrong\u003e250mm\u003c\/strong\u003e primary mirror cool down to the ambient nighttime temperature more quickly. This minimizes \"tube currents\"—thermals rising from a warm mirror—which distort the view and soften the image. Using the fan for 20-30 minutes before observing ensures you get the sharpest possible views from the telescope.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eCan I see detail in the spiral arms of the Whirlpool Galaxy (M51) with the Orion Optics UK VX10L?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. Under dark skies, the \u003cstrong\u003e250mm\u003c\/strong\u003e aperture of the VX10L is capable of resolving the spiral structure of brighter galaxies like M51. The high-contrast optics, especially the \u003cstrong\u003e1\/8 PV\u003c\/strong\u003e or \u003cstrong\u003e1\/10 PV\u003c\/strong\u003e upgrades, will make this structure more apparent, revealing the bridge of stars connecting M51 to its companion galaxy, NGC 5195.\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\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\u003eStandard Optical Grade\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e1\/6 PV Wavefront\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eOptional Optical Upgrades\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e1\/8 PV and 1\/10 PV Ultra\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSecondary Mirror Diameter\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e50mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFocuser\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e2\" with reduction gearing\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\u003eMirror Cooling\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eIntegrated Fan\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTube Material\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAluminium\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTube 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\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":52942645788957,"sku":"OOUK-VX10L","price":1603.56,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Research (1\/8 PV)","offer_id":52942645821725,"sku":"OOUK-VX10L-1-8-PV-OPTICS","price":1699.73,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Ultra (1\/10 PV)","offer_id":52942645854493,"sku":"OOUK-VX10L-1-10-PV-OPTICS","price":1773.71,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0753\/5280\/1565\/files\/OrionOpticsUK-VX10-Optical-Tube-Assembly-1_e975d474-4065-4dc6-b476-1f246dc63a7c.jpg?v=1789608559","url":"https:\/\/davidastro.com\/fr-us\/products\/orion-optics-uk-vx10l","provider":"David Astro","version":"1.0","type":"link"}