{"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","url":"https:\/\/davidastro.com\/fr\/products\/orion-optics-uk-ideal-6","provider":"David Astro","version":"1.0","type":"link"}