Telescope Omegon AP 80/500 ED Carbon OTA - Only tube with accessories, without mounting, without tripod

Omegon AP 80/500 ED Carbon OTA - apochromatic refractor telescope

Looking for a compact yet powerful apochromatic telescope that handles both visual stargazing and demanding astrophotography? The Omegon AP 80/500 ED Carbon OTA delivers exactly that. It combines top-grade apochromatic doublet optics, a lightweight and thermally stable carbon fiber tube, and precision mechanics that will satisfy even the most demanding observer or astrophotographer. Whether you are an experienced astrophotographer or a passionate visual observer, this telescope will impress you with its performance and build quality.

Premium apochromatic optics

At the heart of the telescope is a two-element apochromatic objective lens with an aperture of 80 mm and a focal length of 500 mm. The lenses are made from a combination of OHARA FPL-53 and S-NBM51 glass - materials with exceptionally low and precisely matched refractive indices and outstanding light transmission. While FPL-53 is a well-known premium ED glass, S-NBM51 is a remarkable choice in its own right: it is commonly used in fluorescence microscopy, where the demands on chromatic aberration correction are particularly strict. The result is an image with very high contrast, pinpoint stars, and virtually no chromatic aberration. All optical surfaces are coated with multi-layer FMC anti-reflection coatings, which maximize light transmission and minimize unwanted reflections.

Carbon fiber tube - light, stable, and ready for the field

The telescope tube is made from carbon fiber, which brings several key advantages:

• The entire OTA weighs just 2.8 kg, making it compatible with smaller and travel mounts.
• Carbon fiber has a very low coefficient of thermal expansion - in practice, even during a significant drop in nighttime temperature, the telescope stays in focus without the need for constant refocusing.
• The dew shield is also made from carbon fiber and can be easily extended when needed - a detail that astrophotographers working with long exposures will particularly appreciate, as condensation could otherwise ruin an entire night session.

Precision Crayford focuser with 1:11 gear ratio

An apochromatic telescope for astrophotography must have a reliable and precise focusing mechanism - and the Omegon AP 80/500 ED does not disappoint. The focuser is a Crayford-style design with a 1:11 reduction gear ratio, allowing very fine and precise focusing - far more accurate than most comparable telescopes. The drawtube can carry accessories weighing up to 10 kg thanks to an additional locking thumbscrew on the handle - even with a heavy CCD camera or imaging setup attached, the drawtube will not shift. The focuser is fitted with a 2″ adapter and can be rotated 360°, which greatly simplifies framing when imaging. An M72 thread on the front of the focuser allows connection of Takahashi-standard accessories and other compatible field reducers or field flatteners.

Protective aluminum carry case included

The package includes an aluminum carry case measuring 56 x 20 x 32 cm, with sturdy metal latches, an ergonomic handle, and custom-fitted compartments for the telescope and accessories. The case provides reliable protection during transport to an observing site and when traveling over longer distances.

Important note - OTA only

The telescope is supplied as an OTA (optical tube assembly) - that is, the optical tube only, without a mount. For visual use or astrophotography, a separate mount must be purchased to attach the optical tube. Thanks to the low weight of 2.8 kg, even smaller and travel-grade mounts are sufficient.

About Omegon ED apochromatic telescopes

Omegon is a brand with a long-standing tradition in astronomical optics, focused on products that combine precise German engineering philosophy with accessibility for the wider astronomical community. Omegon ED apochromatic telescopes are popular among both beginners and experienced astrophotographers who appreciate carefully selected optical glass, reliable mechanics, and thoughtful design details - such as the combination of a carbon fiber tube, a high-performance Crayford focuser, and premium anti-reflection coatings. If you are looking for a telescope that will serve you faithfully across many nights under the stars, the Omegon AP 80/500 ED Carbon OTA is a choice you will not regret.

Key specifications