Eyepiece Explore Scientific 11mm 82° 1.25″

Explore Scientific 11mm 82° eyepiece 1.25″

If you are looking for an eyepiece that delivers a truly immersive observing experience, the Explore Scientific 82° series ranks among the finest wide-angle eyepieces available on the market. The 11mm focal length model with an 82° apparent field of view in the standard 1.25″ (31.7mm) barrel is an excellent choice for visual astronomers who refuse to compromise on image quality or observing comfort. The 11mm focal length makes it ideal for medium magnification - perfect for planetary nebulae, globular clusters, and surface detail on planets.

Robust, weatherproof construction

The eyepiece body is machined from metal and meets a waterproof standard - the interior is nitrogen purged during manufacturing. This solution, common in premium optics, effectively prevents condensation on internal optical surfaces and mechanical components, dramatically extending the life of the anti-reflection coatings and glass elements. The inner barrel is also protected against corrosion and mould, so the eyepiece handles the damp nighttime conditions typical of astronomical observing sessions without any issues.

• Standard 31.7mm filter thread at the bottom of the barrel - attaching UHC, OIII or other filters takes seconds
• Fold-down rubber eyecup - especially appreciated by observers who wear glasses
• Nitrogen purging - prevents internal fogging and condensation
• Metal body with corrosion and mould resistant interior

Optical system - 7 elements in 4 groups

The Explore Scientific 82° wide-angle eyepiece uses an optical system consisting of 7 lenses arranged in 4 groups. To correct aberrations, several types of optical glass are deliberately combined - crown glass, flint glass, and lanthanum-doped glass (La). Lanthanum glass, with its high refractive index and low dispersion, plays a key role in suppressing chromatic aberration and ensuring high contrast all the way to the edge of the field. The result is an image that is flat with no noticeable field curvature, sharp and contrasty from centre to edge - even when used with fast objectives at low f-ratios (f/5 and below).

All optical surfaces are treated with EMD (Enhanced Multi-layer Deposition) multi-layer anti-reflection coatings, which maximise light transmission and minimise stray reflections. Internal baffles and lens edges are blackened, further suppressing scattered light and contributing to outstanding image contrast.

Comfortable 15mm eye relief

The eye relief is 15mm - a very comfortable value that allows observing without pressing your eye tightly against the lens. The full field of view remains fully accessible even when wearing glasses. The 15mm eye relief combined with the sweeping 82° apparent field creates the sensation of truly "flying through space" - star clusters spread across the entire field of view and bright nebulae take on a whole new dimension.

All eyepieces in the 82° series are mutually parfocal, meaning that when switching between different focal lengths within the series, refocusing is not necessary - a significant advantage when quickly changing magnification in the field.

Who is this eyepiece for?

The Explore Scientific 82° series appeals to both experienced visual astronomers seeking a reliable and optically precise instrument, and enthusiasts who simply want the best possible view through the eyepiece. The 11mm model is suited to medium magnification on most telescopes - ideally for detailed views of the Moon and planets as well as resolving star clusters or medium-sized nebulae. Thanks to its robust metal construction, nitrogen purging, and high-quality optics, this is an investment that will last for years.

Technical specifications