{"product_id":"orion-optics-uk-vx12","title":"Orion Optics UK VX12 Optical Tube Assembly","description":"\u003cul class=\"DAV-feature-list\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e300mm (12\") primary mirror diameter\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1200mm nominal focal length\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFast f\/4 focal ratio\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStandard 1\/6 PV wavefront optical grade\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLightweight 14kg aluminium tube\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCNC-machined 9-point mirror cell with cooling fan\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e2\" focuser with reduction gearing\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 VX12 Optical Tube Assembly\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Orion Optics UK VX12 combines a large 300mm aperture with a fast f\/4 focal ratio, delivering exceptional light-gathering power for deep-sky imaging. Its 1200mm focal length is supported by a primary mirror hand-figured to a 1\/6 PV wavefront standard, ensuring high-contrast views. The entire optical tube weighs a manageable 14kg thanks to its aluminium construction, while the 9-point CNC mirror cell provides rigid, stable support for the primary optics.\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\u003eThe 300mm f\/4 Primary: Hand-Figured 1\/6 PV Optics\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt the heart of the VX12 is a 300mm parabolic primary mirror, engineered for serious imaging. The fast f\/4 focal ratio dramatically reduces exposure times, allowing you to capture faint details in galaxies and nebulae more efficiently. Every VX12 mirror is hand-finished and tested on a Zygo interferometer to guarantee its stated optical quality, with the standard 1\/6 PV wavefront grade delivering sharp, high-contrast images that outperform mass-produced alternatives.\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\u003eVX12 Mechanical Systems: A 14kg OTA with 9-Point Mirror Support\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe VX12 is built for stability without excessive weight. The 1160mm aluminium tube keeps the assembly at a nominal 14kg, making it compatible with a wide range of mid-to-heavy-duty equatorial mounts. Inside, the primary mirror rests on a CNC-machined 9-point flotation cell that distributes its weight evenly, preventing flexure and preserving optical alignment. An integrated cooling fan accelerates thermal equilibrium, reducing tube currents and ensuring your telescope is ready for imaging sooner.\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\u003eDesigned for Imaging: 2\" Focuser and Fast f\/4 Focal Ratio\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEvery component of the VX12 is selected to support astrophotography. The 2\" focuser includes reduction gearing, providing the fine control needed to achieve critical focus with a modern CMOS or CCD camera. The 75mm secondary mirror is sized to provide ample illumination for larger sensors, minimizing vignetting across the field. This combination makes the VX12 a powerful light-gathering instrument for capturing everything from wide-field nebulae to distant galaxy clusters.\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 Optical Grade: 1\/6 PV vs. 1\/10 PV Ultra Optics\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhile the standard 1\/6 PV wavefront optic is an excellent performer, Orion Optics UK offers upgrades for the most demanding applications. A higher-grade mirror concentrates more light into the central Airy disk, resulting in visibly higher contrast, especially on fine planetary detail. This is a direct trade-off between cost and optical perfection.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e1\/6 PV (Professional Grade):\u003c\/strong\u003e The standard option, providing excellent, sharp images for both deep-sky and planetary work. A significant step up from typical commercial optics.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e1\/8 PV (Research Grade):\u003c\/strong\u003e A premium upgrade for those seeking finer detail. You will notice improved contrast on features like Jupiter's cloud bands and the Cassini Division in Saturn's rings.\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, revealing the most subtle details the atmosphere and your seeing conditions will allow.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\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\"\u003eFor planetary imaging of Jupiter with the VX12, is the 1\/10 PV Ultra upgrade worth it?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes, for dedicated planetary imagers, the 1\/10 PV Ultra upgrade makes a noticeable difference. The higher wavefront accuracy increases contrast, which is critical for resolving fine, low-contrast details like small ovals, festoons in Jupiter's cloud belts, and subtle lunar rilles. While the standard 1\/6 PV optic is very capable, the 1\/10 PV ensures you are capturing the maximum possible detail.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eHow does the f\/4 focal ratio of the VX12 affect imaging the Orion Nebula (M42)?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe fast f\/4 ratio is a major advantage for targets like the Orion Nebula (M42). Compared to an f\/8 system, the VX12 gathers light four times faster, meaning you can achieve the same signal-to-noise ratio in a fraction of the time. This allows for shorter individual sub-exposures, which can reduce guiding errors and capture the faint outer nebulosity more effectively.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhat does the standard 1\/6 PV wavefront accuracy of the VX12 mean in practice?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA 1\/6 PV (Peak-to-Valley) wavefront error means the mirror surface deviates from a perfect parabola by no more than one-sixth the wavelength of light. This is a high standard that results in sharp, high-contrast images with tightly focused stars. It significantly exceeds the \"diffraction-limited\" standard (1\/4 PV) used as a benchmark for quality optics.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eIs the VX12's 14kg tube weight suitable for a mid-range equatorial mount?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe nominal 14kg weight of the VX12 OTA is at the upper end for many mid-range mounts when used for imaging. While a mount rated for 20kg (44 lbs) might carry it visually, for astrophotography you must also account for the weight of your camera, guide scope, and other accessories. A mount in the 25-30kg (55-66 lb) payload class is recommended for stable, long-exposure imaging with the VX12.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhy does the Orion Optics UK VX12 include a cooling fan?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe integrated fan on the primary mirror cell is essential for reaching thermal equilibrium. A large 300mm mirror can take a long time to cool to the ambient night air temperature. The fan accelerates this process, which minimizes \"tube currents\"—internal air turbulence that can distort the image and reduce sharpness. Using the fan for 30-60 minutes before observing or imaging ensures the best possible performance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWill I need a coma corrector with the f\/4 VX12 for imaging?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes, for astrophotography with the f\/4 VX12, a coma corrector is essential. All fast Newtonian telescopes naturally exhibit coma, an aberration that makes stars at the edge of the field of view appear elongated. A high-quality coma corrector will ensure sharp, point-like stars across the entire frame, which is critical when using cameras with medium to large sensors.\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\u003e300mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFocal Length\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e1200mm (nominal)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFocal Ratio\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ef\/4\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 Grade Upgrades\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e1\/8 PV and 1\/10 PV Ultra available\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSecondary Mirror Size\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e75mm\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\u003e14kg (nominal)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTube Diameter\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e326mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTube Length\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e1160mm\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\"\u003eVX12 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\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":52942646870301,"sku":"OOUK-VX12","price":2993.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Research (1\/8 PV)","offer_id":52942646903069,"sku":"OOUK-VX12-1-8-PV-OPTICS","price":3179.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Ultra (1\/10 PV)","offer_id":52942646935837,"sku":"OOUK-VX12-1-10-PV-OPTICS","price":3376.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0753\/5280\/1565\/files\/OrionOpticsUK-VX12-Optical-Tube-Assembly-1_0749119e-f132-4b84-8ff2-0e78ded69e31.jpg?v=1789608568","url":"https:\/\/davidastro.com\/products\/orion-optics-uk-vx12","provider":"David Astro","version":"1.0","type":"link"}