Sky-Watcher Plossl SWA 8mm 58° Eyepiece 1.25″
Overview
The Sky-Watcher Plossl SWA 8mm eyepiece is a popular accessory among astronomers of all experience levels. It offers a wide 58° apparent field of view with outstanding image sharpness and high contrast across the entire field. Its compact design and universal 1.25″ barrel make it compatible with the vast majority of telescopes available on the market. This eyepiece performs equally well for observing the Moon and planets as it does for sweeping open clusters or nebulae.
Optical Design
The optical system is based on a hybrid Plossl arrangement that combines the advantages of a classic design with modern elements for improved aberration control. The system consists of 5 elements in 3 groups, ensuring excellent light transmission and minimal chromatic distortion. All optical surfaces feature Fully Multi-Coated (FMC) anti-reflection coatings, which maximize light throughput while suppressing unwanted reflections and ghost images. The result is a bright, sharp, and high-contrast image that is especially appreciated by planetary and double-star observers.
Eye Relief and Comfort
The 8.1mm exit pupil is well suited for nighttime observation, when the human eye naturally dilates. The eye relief of 16mm allows comfortable viewing for observers who wear glasses - they will not lose any portion of the field of view and can enjoy the full image without mechanical obstruction.
The Sky-Watcher SWA 8mm is designed with ergonomics in mind for extended observing sessions. The roll-down eyecup allows quick and easy adjustment for use with or without glasses.
Build Quality and Compatibility
The precisely machined metal body with a matte finish eliminates stray light reflections from the surroundings and adds to the overall robustness of the instrument. The maximum outer diameter of 44mm ensures the eyepiece sits firmly and securely in any standard eyepiece adapter. This makes it suitable for both portable travel telescopes and stationary observatory setups.
The 1.25″ barrel diameter conforms to the global standard and guarantees compatibility with the overwhelming majority of focusers and astronomy adapters.
Performance and Applications
The 8mm focal length makes this eyepiece best suited for medium to high magnification, depending on the focal length of your telescope. It is an excellent choice for detailed observation of the lunar surface, Saturn's rings, Jupiter's cloud bands, or resolving stars in globular clusters. This wide-angle 1.25″ eyepiece is particularly appreciated by those seeking a balance between observing comfort and high performance without the need to invest in premium product lines. It can be confidently recommended to both beginning astronomers and experienced observers looking for reliable, affordable equipment.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter |
Value |
| Focal length |
8mm |
| Apparent field of view |
58° |
| Barrel diameter |
1.25″ |
| Eye relief |
16mm |
| Exit pupil |
8.1mm |
| Optical design |
Hybrid Plossl - 5 elements in 3 groups |
| Coatings |
Fully Multi-Coated (FMC) |
| Maximum outer diameter |
44mm |
| Total length |
71mm |
| Weight |
168g |
| Eyecup |
Roll-down rubber eyecup |
About Sky-Watcher
Sky-Watcher is one of the most recognized and respected brands in astronomical optics and telescopes worldwide. Sky-Watcher products are the result of many years of experience in developing optics for amateur and semi-professional astronomers. The brand places strong emphasis on precise manufacturing, reliability, and accessibility for the widest possible range of users. The SWA eyepiece series is a clear example of this philosophy - offering excellent optical performance, solid mechanical construction, and an attractive price point that has earned the trust of astronomers around the globe. Sky-Watcher continuously expands its product range in response to the evolving needs of observers, making it easy to build a complete and well-balanced observing kit from a single trusted source.
