TEC APO180 f/7 Fluorite Apochromatic Telescope

The TEC APO180FL F/7 is a 180 mm apochromatic refractor designed for both visual observation and astrophotography. With a 1260 mm focal length and f/7 focal ratio, it provides substantial aperture and image scale while retaining the compact optical-tube design that TEC describes as its largest portable refractor.

The objective is an oil-spaced apochromatic triplet with a central calcium-fluorite (CaF₂) element. TEC states that the optical design provides colour correction optimised for visual use and imaging. Multi-layer coatings are applied to all objective surfaces to maximise light transmission.

The objective is housed in an aluminium cell, while the optical assembly sits in a lightweight aluminium tube with an anti-reflective interior treatment and sharp-edged internal baffles. TEC states that no collimation adjustment is required after the telescope leaves the factory.

Focusing is handled by the Starlight Instruments FTF3545 Feather Touch focuser, designed in collaboration with TEC. It provides coarse and fine focusing through a 9:1 planetary reduction assembly and incorporates a rotating mechanism for positioning the focuser. The focuser uses a 2-inch locking metal collet designed to hold eyepieces and imaging equipment with high precision and concentricity.

For astrophotography, TEC offers an optional focal reducer-corrector. The 0.9× reducer changes the focal ratio from f/7 to f/6.2 and provides 115 mm of back focus, creating a faster imaging configuration.

The APO180FL uses a 192 mm diameter aluminium optical tube with a retractable dew shield. TEC specifies a retracted tube length of 1130 mm and an extended length of 1346 mm. With the focuser fully extended, a further 114 mm is added, giving a specified working length of 1425 mm.

TEC specifies a tube weight of 16.5 kg and an OTA weight of 18.2 kg including rings, plate and handle. The telescope is supplied with the large 3.5-inch Feather Touch focuser, while tube rings, dovetail plates and finder equipment are available as accessories.

The APO180FL F/7 is therefore a high-aperture apochromatic refractor intended for observers and imagers who want a substantial 180 mm optical system capable of both detailed visual observation and astrophotography.