Explore Scientific 10x60 Helical Finderscope-Guider 1.25″ T2
The Explore Scientific 10x60 Helical Finderscope-Guider is a versatile, high-quality optical instrument combining the functions of a precision finder telescope and a compact autoguiding unit for astrophotography. With a 60 mm aperture, 250 mm focal length, and 10x magnification, it delivers a bright, sharp, and wide 6.0-degree field of view - making it easy to locate and center astronomical objects in the night sky. Whether used as a finderscope, a guide scope for long-exposure imaging, or a compact travel telescope, this instrument offers outstanding performance across all use cases.
Optical Performance
The image quality of this finderscope significantly exceeds that of comparable 10x60 models. The view is bright, high-contrast, and sharp all the way to the edges of the field. Key optical features include:
- Wide 6.0-degree true field of view for easy star-hopping and object centering
- Crosshair reticle with 0.85-degree graduation marks for estimating angular distances
- Open center crosshair for precise centering of extended objects
- Full multi-coating (FMC) on all optical surfaces for maximum light transmission and weather resistance
- Independent focusing of both the objective and the reticle crosshair to suit individual observers
- Detachable eyepiece-reticle unit with adjustable red LED illumination for comfortable use in low-light conditions
Autoguiding with the Explore Scientific 10x60 Guide Scope
One of the primary applications of this instrument is as an autoguiding scope for astrophotography. The guider mounts into the existing finder shoe of your imaging telescope and works in parallel with the main optics. A guide camera monitors a reference star and corrects for mechanical imperfections in the mount in real time - ensuring pinpoint stars even in long exposures without any trailing.
Guide Camera Connection
- Standard 1.25″ (31.7 mm) barrel connection
- T2 thread (M42x0.75 mm) for direct camera attachment
- Camera secured by a brass compression ring and three locking screws
- Backfocus distance: approximately 22 mm behind the T2 thread - important to consider when selecting a guide camera
Helical Focuser
Precise focusing of the guide star is achieved via a large knurled helical focuser wheel with a laser-engraved millimeter scale (0-28 mm), allowing easy and repeatable focus position reproduction between sessions.
Use as a Compact Travel Telescope
In addition to its role as a finderscope and guide scope, this instrument can also be used as a compact travel telescope. With optional eyepieces, magnification can range from 9x to 50x. Compatible eyepieces include any standard 1.25″ (31.7 mm) barrel eyepiece with focal lengths between 5 mm and 26 mm.
Especially recommended are Explore Scientific eyepieces from the following series:
- 52-degree series (Art. 02195xx)
- 62-degree LER series (Art. 02196xx)
Please note: this instrument provides a direct, straight-through view only - no mirror or prism diagonal can be used.
Specifications
| Parameter |
Value |
| Magnification |
10x |
| Objective aperture |
60 mm |
| Focal length |
250 mm |
| True field of view |
6.0 degrees |
| Reticle graduation |
0.85 degrees per division |
| Eyepiece/camera connection |
1.25″ (31.7 mm) barrel |
| Camera thread |
T2 (M42x0.75 mm) |
| Backfocus (behind T2) |
approx. 22 mm |
| Focuser travel |
0-28 mm (helical, graduated scale) |
| Optical coatings |
FMC (full multi-coating) |
| Body material |
Aluminum |
| Finder shoe compatibility |
Explore Scientific, Bresser Messier, and other standard shoes |
| Replacement shoe hole spacing |
31.7 mm (longitudinal and transverse) |
| Replacement shoe mounting screws |
4x M5 |
Mounting and Bracket
The complete finder bracket is machined from aluminum, providing a solid and stable foundation for the instrument. The finder shoe is compatible with many popular telescope types, including Explore Scientific and Bresser Messier models. If the existing shoe on your telescope is not compatible, a replacement shoe is included in the package and can be attached to the optical tube using four M5 screws (hole spacing: 31.7 mm in both axes).
Six large knurled adjustment screws allow precise alignment of the finder even when wearing gloves. All adjustment and locking screws feature plastic-tipped ends to protect the body of the finderscope and its bracket from scratches.
About Binorum
Binorum is a brand created by astronomers for astronomers, dedicated to providing night sky observers with quality equipment and a comprehensive range of astronomical accessories in one place. Every product is backed by expert knowledge and practical field experience, resulting in instruments and accessories genuinely adapted to the needs of both amateur and advanced astronomers. Binorum emphasizes precise craftsmanship, reliability, and long product life. The extensive catalog includes eyepieces, filters, adapters, mounts, and many other accessories - everything you need for visual observation or astrophotography, all in one place.
