{"product_id":"orion-optics-uk-vx10","title":"Orion Optics UK VX10 Optical Tube Assembly","description":"\u003cul class=\"DAV-feature-list\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e250mm (10\") Primary Mirror Diameter\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1200mm Nominal Focal Length\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ef\/4.8 Focal Ratio\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStandard 1\/6 PV Wavefront Optics\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e11kg Nominal Tube Weight\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCNC 9-Point Mirror Cell with 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 VX10 Optical Tube Assembly\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Orion Optics UK VX10 Optical Tube Assembly delivers serious deep-sky and planetary capability, built around a hand-figured 250mm primary mirror with a guaranteed 1\/6 PV wavefront accuracy. Its fast f\/4.8 focal ratio and 1200mm focal length provide a wide field of view for imaging nebulae, while the entire aluminium tube weighs a manageable 11kg. Support for the primary is provided by a CNC-machined 9-point cell, ensuring optical stability as you move across the sky.\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 Aperture at a Fast f\/4.8\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith a 250mm (10-inch) primary mirror, the VX10 gathers enough light to resolve faint galaxy arms and dust lanes in nebulae from a dark sky site. The 1200mm focal length and f\/4.8 ratio create a bright image plane and a wide true field of view, allowing you to frame large targets like the Andromeda Galaxy (M31) or the North American Nebula (NGC 7000) with a suitable wide-field eyepiece or camera sensor. The 63mm secondary mirror provides even illumination for many popular imaging sensors, though for astrophotography, a coma corrector is recommended to achieve pinpoint stars across the entire field of this fast optical 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\u003e1\/6 PV Wavefront Accuracy with Zygo-Verified Upgrades\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEvery VX10 includes a primary mirror hand-figured in the UK to a minimum standard of 1\/6 PV wavefront accuracy, a grade many manufacturers consider premium. This precision ensures sharp, high-contrast views, especially noticeable during high-magnification observations of planets and the Moon. Each optic is certified with a Zygo laser interferometer report.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor those seeking the highest possible resolution, the VX10 offers optional upgrades to 1\/8 PV (Research Grade) or 1\/10 PV (Ultra) optics. Moving to a higher grade minimizes the peak-to-valley wavefront error, translating directly to finer detail resolution on challenging targets like Jupiter's cloud bands or Cassini's Division in Saturn's rings under steady seeing conditions.\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\u003eAn 11kg Tube with a 9-Point Mirror Cell\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe VX10's engineering focuses on thermal and mechanical stability without excessive weight. The aluminium tube, measuring 1140mm long and 280mm in diameter, brings the total OTA weight to a nominal 11kg, making it compatible with a wide range of equatorial mounts in the EQ6 class. The primary mirror is supported by a CNC-machined 9-point flotation cell that prevents flexure, and an integrated cooling fan helps the mirror reach ambient temperature quickly for stable, sharp images. A 2\" focuser with reduction gearing is fitted for precise, repeatable focusing, critical for both visual observation and imaging.\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 \"1\/6 PV wavefront\" mean for the Orion Optics UK VX10?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePV wavefront\u003c\/strong\u003e measures the peak-to-valley error of the mirror's surface compared to a perfect parabola. A smaller fraction indicates a more accurate mirror. The VX10's standard \u003cstrong\u003e1\/6 PV\u003c\/strong\u003e is a high-performance specification that ensures sharp, high-contrast images, exceeding the \"diffraction-limited\" standard of 1\/4 PV used by many mass-producers. Every Orion Optics UK mirror is supplied with a Zygo interferometer test report to certify its quality.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eIs it worth upgrading the VX10 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\u003eFor visual observers and imagers focused on planetary detail, the upgrade is significant. While the standard 1\/6 PV optic is excellent, moving to \u003cstrong\u003e1\/8 PV (Research Grade)\u003c\/strong\u003e or \u003cstrong\u003e1\/10 PV (Ultra Grade)\u003c\/strong\u003e provides a noticeable increase in image contrast and the ability to resolve finer details under good seeing conditions. If your primary goal is capturing the subtlest features on Jupiter, Saturn, or Mars, the higher-grade optics will deliver superior results.\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 VX10 OTA?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith a nominal tube weight of \u003cstrong\u003e11kg\u003c\/strong\u003e, the VX10 optical tube requires a sturdy equatorial mount. For visual use, a mount in the EQ5\/CG-5 class might suffice, but for astrophotography, a mount with a higher payload capacity like a Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro, Celestron CGEM II, or similar is strongly recommended to handle the OTA's weight and 1140mm length, ensuring stability and tracking accuracy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eHow does the VX10's f\/4.8 focal ratio affect imaging of the Orion Nebula (M42)?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003ef\/4.8\u003c\/strong\u003e focal ratio is considered fast, which is a major advantage for deep-sky imaging. It allows you to collect a strong signal on faint objects like the Orion Nebula (M42) with shorter sub-exposure times compared to a slower f\/8 or f\/10 system. This reduces demands on your mount's tracking and allows you to capture more data in a single session.\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 VX10 optical grades on Jupiter?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes, assuming good atmospheric seeing. While the standard \u003cstrong\u003e1\/6 PV\u003c\/strong\u003e optic will show Jupiter's main cloud belts and the Great Red Spot clearly, upgrading to \u003cstrong\u003e1\/8 PV\u003c\/strong\u003e or \u003cstrong\u003e1\/10 PV\u003c\/strong\u003e allows the telescope to resolve finer, lower-contrast details. This includes smaller storms, subtle shading differences within the belts, and intricate festoons. The more perfect the mirror's surface, the less light scatters, resulting in a higher-contrast image that holds up better at very high magnifications.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhat is included with the Orion Optics UK VX10 tube assembly?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe VX10 optical tube assembly is fitted with a \u003cstrong\u003e2\" focuser with reduction gearing\u003c\/strong\u003e and a 9-point mirror cell with a cooling fan. Please note that accessories such as eyepieces, a finder scope, and mounting rings are typically sold separately to allow you to configure the telescope to your specific needs.\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\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\/4.8\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 Upgrades\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eOptional 1\/8 PV and 1\/10 PV Ultra\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\u003eTube Weight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e11kg (nominal)\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 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\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\u003e2\" with reduction gearing\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\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":52942644674845,"sku":"OOUK-VX10","price":2245.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Research (1\/8 PV)","offer_id":52942644707613,"sku":"OOUK-VX10-1-8-PV-OPTICS","price":2380.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Ultra (1\/10 PV)","offer_id":52942644740381,"sku":"OOUK-VX10-1-10-PV-OPTICS","price":2483.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0753\/5280\/1565\/files\/OrionOpticsUK-VX10-Optical-Tube-Assembly-1_1ea36d66-29a1-45c5-a0ed-5af5252af4f9.jpg?v=1789608549","url":"https:\/\/davidastro.com\/fr\/products\/orion-optics-uk-vx10","provider":"David Astro","version":"1.0","type":"link"}