{"product_id":"ioptron-6113","title":"iOptron Photron™ 10-inch Ritchey-Chrétien Telescope (RC10) 3'' Focuser","description":"\u003cul class=\"DAV-feature-list\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e250mm (10-inch) Ritchey-Chrétien Optical Design\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e2000mm Focal Length at f\/8\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e0.46 arc second Resolving Power\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e3-inch Dual Speed Focuser\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e35 lb Steel Tube with Three Cooling Fans\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDual Losmandy-style Dovetail Bars\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\u003ePhotron™ 10-inch Ritchey-Chrétien Telescope (RC10) 3'' Focuser\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Photron™ RC10 combines a large 250mm aperture with a 2000mm focal length in a native f\/8 Ritchey-Chrétien optical design, delivering a coma-free imaging field ideal for modern sensors. This astrograph achieves a theoretical resolving power of 0.46 arc seconds, enabling you to capture fine details in distant galaxies and planetary nebulae. The robust imaging platform is built around a heavy-duty 3-inch dual-speed focuser and a 35 lb steel optical tube equipped with three primary mirror cooling fans for rapid thermal stabilization.\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\u003e10-inch f\/8 Ritchey-Chrétien Optics: 0.46 Arc Second Resolution\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Ritchey-Chrétien configuration uses hyperbolic primary and secondary mirrors to eliminate coma, an optical aberration that distorts stars at the edge of the field in other reflector designs. With a 250mm clear aperture and 2000mm focal length, the Photron RC10 provides the image scale necessary for resolving small targets like the Whirlpool Galaxy (M51) or the Ring Nebula (M57). The system's 0.46 arc second resolution and 14.7 limiting magnitude give you the power to pull in faint details from your backyard observatory.\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\u003e3-inch Dual-Speed Focuser: Support for Heavy Imaging Payloads\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA key feature of the RC10 is its massive 3-inch dual-speed focuser, a significant upgrade for serious imagers. This large-format focuser minimizes vignetting on full-frame and larger sensors and provides the rigidity to carry heavy camera packages, filter wheels, and off-axis guiders without flexure. The fine-focus knob is critical for achieving sharp stars at the 2000mm focal length. To accommodate a wide range of cameras and accessories, the telescope includes two 1-inch and one 2-inch extension tubes to correctly set the back focus distance.\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\u003e35 lb Steel Tube Construction with Active Cooling\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Photron RC10 is built with a steel tube, which provides excellent rigidity and thermal stability, though it contributes to a total OTA weight of 35 lbs. To combat thermal currents inside the closed tube, three built-in fans are mounted behind the primary mirror to accelerate cooling to ambient temperature, reducing tube seeing and ensuring the sharpest possible images. The OTA is equipped with two Losmandy-style dovetail bars—one for mounting to your equatorial mount and a second on top for attaching guide scopes, computers, or other accessories.\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\u003ePhotron RC10 vs. Other 10\" RCs: Focuser and Tube Material\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen comparing the Photron RC10 to other 10-inch Ritchey-Chrétien telescopes, such as those from GSO or Astro-Tech, the primary differences lie in the focuser and tube material.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCompetitor Advantage:\u003c\/strong\u003e Many competing 10\" RCs are available with carbon fiber tubes. Carbon fiber is lighter than steel and has a lower coefficient of thermal expansion, which can reduce the need for focus adjustments during temperature drops.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePhotron RC10 Advantage:\u003c\/strong\u003e The included 3-inch focuser on the Photron is a significant upgrade over the 2-inch focusers commonly found on standard models. For imagers using large sensors or heavy equipment, the larger, more robust focuser of the RC10 is a decisive benefit that prevents both vignetting and mechanical flex.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\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 Photron RC10 require?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Photron RC10 has an optical tube weight of \u003cstrong\u003e35 lbs\u003c\/strong\u003e. For astrophotography, you should add the weight of your camera, guide scope, and all accessories, which can easily bring the total payload to 40-45 lbs. A mount with a payload capacity of at least 50-60 lbs, such as an iOptron CEM60\/70 or Celestron CGX, is recommended for stable, long-exposure imaging.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eIs the Photron RC10 good for imaging small galaxies like the Sombrero Galaxy (M104)?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes, absolutely. The \u003cstrong\u003e2000mm focal length\u003c\/strong\u003e provides the ideal image scale for capturing details in smaller deep-sky objects like M104 or planetary nebulae like the Dumbbell Nebula (M27). The coma-free field ensures that stars across the frame remain sharp, highlighting the structure of your target.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eDoes the Photron RC10 need a field flattener or reducer?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhile the Ritchey-Chrétien design is inherently free of coma, it does have natural field curvature. For cameras with smaller sensors (APS-C or smaller), this may not be noticeable. However, for full-frame or larger sensors, a dedicated field flattener is recommended to achieve perfectly sharp stars across the entire image. Reducers are also available to shorten the focal ratio for wider-field imaging.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eCan I use the Photron RC10 for visual observing?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou can, but it is not its primary design purpose. RCs are optimized for photographic use. The large \u003cstrong\u003e110mm secondary mirror\u003c\/strong\u003e creates a significant central obstruction, which reduces image contrast compared to a Newtonian or refractor of similar aperture. While planets and bright objects will be sharp, it will not deliver the same high-contrast views as a dedicated visual telescope.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhy are there three extension tubes included with the Photron RC10?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRitchey-Chrétien telescopes have a long back focus distance to accommodate various imaging accessories. The included \u003cstrong\u003e1-inch (x2) and 2-inch (x1) extension tubes\u003c\/strong\u003e are used to bridge the gap between the focuser and your camera's sensor. The combination you use will depend on your specific imaging train, whether you're using a DSLR, a cooled CMOS camera, an off-axis guider, or a filter wheel.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eHow difficult is it to collimate the Photron RC10?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCollmating an RC is more involved than a Newtonian or SCT because both the primary and secondary mirrors are adjustable and hyperbolic. It requires patience and precision, and typically involves using a Cheshire eyepiece and a high-quality laser collimator. However, once collimated, a well-built RC like the Photron RC10 tends to hold its alignment very well.\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\u003eRitchey-Chretien\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eClear Aperture\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e250mm (10\")\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFocal Length\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e2000mm\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\u003eResolving Power\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e0.46 arc seconds\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eLimiting Magnitude\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e14.7\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eHighest Useful Magnification\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e295X\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSecondary Mirror Diameter\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e110mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFocuser\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e3\" dual speed focuser\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFocuser Drawtube Size\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e3.3”\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePrimary Mirror Cooling\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eThree built-in fans (battery holder included)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTube Material\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSteel\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTube Length\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e28.4”\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTube Weight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e35 lbs\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMounting Dovetail (Bottom)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eLosmandy-style\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAccessory Dovetail (Top)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eLosmandy-style\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFinderscope Base\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eInstalled\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eShipping Weight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e48 lbs\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eShipping Dimensions\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e34.5\" x 17\" x 16.75\"\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\"\u003ePhotron 10\" f\/8 Ritchey-Chrétien OTA\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\"\u003e2\" 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\"\u003e1\" Extension Tube\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-subtitle\"\u003e× 2\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\"\u003e2\" to 1.25\" Compression Ring Adapter\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=\"#\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ePhotron Manufacturer's Warranty\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"iOptron","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52917293351197,"sku":"IOP-6113","price":4043.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0753\/5280\/1565\/files\/iOptron-Photron-10-inch-Ritchey-Chr-tien-Telescope-RC10-3-Focuser-1_a6043c6d-be43-498f-baa2-bcaa743362b9.jpg?v=1789142084","url":"https:\/\/davidastro.com\/products\/ioptron-6113","provider":"David Astro","version":"1.0","type":"link"}