Let’s Dive into Explore Scientific 20mm 68 Degree Series Argon-Purged Waterproof Eyepiece
The Explore Scientific 20mm 68 Degree Series Argon-Purged Waterproof Eyepiece promises high-resolution views with a flat field, all while being sealed against the elements. Manufactured by Explore Scientific, this eyepiece aims to deliver a premium viewing experience for both amateur and experienced astronomers, regardless of environmental conditions. I was seeking an eyepiece that could withstand the rigors of outdoor use and provide consistent performance without fogging or internal contamination.
My current eyepieces suffer from fogging in humid conditions, rendering them useless during critical observing sessions. I was tired of constantly disassembling and cleaning them, a process that risks scratching the delicate lens coatings. The promise of an argon-purged and waterproof eyepiece was incredibly appealing, suggesting a solution to my long-standing frustration.
Upon unboxing, the Explore Scientific 20mm 68 Degree Series Argon-Purged Waterproof Eyepiece feels solid and well-constructed. The weight, at 8.7 ounces, feels substantial but not overly heavy, suggesting quality glass and robust construction. The rubber grip provides a comfortable and secure hold, even with gloved hands.
I considered the Tele Vue 20mm Plössl and the Celestron 20mm X-Cel LX before choosing the Explore Scientific 20mm 68 Degree Series Argon-Purged Waterproof Eyepiece. The Tele Vue is a classic, but it lacks waterproofing, a critical feature for my needs. The Celestron is more affordable, but user reviews indicated a narrower field of view and potentially less impressive edge sharpness compared to the Explore Scientific offering.
My first impression was excitement mixed with cautious optimism. The build quality suggests a premium product, and the promise of argon purging and waterproofing addresses my core needs. I was eager to test it under challenging conditions to see if it lives up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Explore Scientific 20mm 68 Degree Series Argon-Purged Waterproof Eyepiece to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Explore Scientific 20mm 68 Degree Series Argon-Purged Waterproof Eyepiece during a recent observing session in the high desert. Temperatures dropped sharply after sunset, and a light mist began to form, creating the perfect conditions to test its waterproof and fog-resistant capabilities. The 20mm focal length provided a comfortable magnification for observing nebulae and star clusters with my 8-inch Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope.
The Explore Scientific eyepiece performed admirably in the challenging conditions. I noticed absolutely no fogging, even as my other eyepieces started to show condensation. The views remained clear and sharp throughout the entire session, even at the edges of the field. The 68-degree apparent field of view offered an immersive observing experience.
No significant issues arose during the first use; however, I needed a few minutes to adjust the diopter setting to achieve optimal focus for my eye. This is a common adjustment with any new eyepiece, and once set, it provided comfortable and clear viewing. I experienced no “kidney beaning” or other distracting optical aberrations.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Explore Scientific 20mm 68 Degree Series Argon-Purged Waterproof Eyepiece has become one of my go-to eyepieces. It has consistently delivered excellent performance across a variety of observing conditions. From humid coastal nights to dry mountain skies, it has proven its reliability.
The eyepiece shows no signs of wear and tear despite being transported to numerous observing sites. The rubber grip remains secure, and the lens coatings are still pristine. The argon purging appears to be holding strong, as I have yet to experience any internal fogging.
Cleaning and maintenance are straightforward. A gentle wipe with a microfiber cloth is usually sufficient to remove any dust or fingerprints. The waterproof design gives me confidence that occasional splashes or spills won’t cause any damage.
Compared to my previous eyepieces, the Explore Scientific 20mm 68 Degree Series Argon-Purged Waterproof Eyepiece offers a noticeably improved viewing experience, particularly in challenging conditions. The wider field of view and edge sharpness are also significant upgrades. It has exceeded my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Explore Scientific 20mm 68 Degree Series Argon-Purged Waterproof Eyepiece
Specifications
- Focal Length: 20mm. This focal length provides a good balance between magnification and field of view, making it suitable for observing a wide range of celestial objects.
- Apparent Field of View: 68 Degrees. This wide field of view provides an immersive observing experience and makes it easier to locate and track objects.
- Eye Relief: 15.3mm. The generous eye relief allows for comfortable viewing, even for eyeglass wearers.
- Barrel Size: 1.25″. This is a standard barrel size, making it compatible with most telescopes.
- Weight: 8.7oz; 247g. The weight indicates a robust construction with quality glass elements.
- Length: 69.6mm. This is a reasonable length, making it easy to handle and store the eyepiece.
- Width: 50.3mm. The width provides a comfortable grip.
- Field Stop Diameter: 22.8mm. This specification contributes to the overall wide field of view.
- Argon-Purged: Argon purging prevents internal fogging and protects the lens elements from contaminants. This is a key feature for maintaining optimal performance in all weather conditions.
- Waterproof: The waterproof design ensures that the eyepiece can withstand moisture and humidity, making it ideal for outdoor use.
These specifications combine to deliver a high-quality viewing experience. The wide field of view, comfortable eye relief, and weather-resistant design make it a versatile and reliable choice for astronomers of all levels. The argon purging and waterproofing are particularly important for ensuring consistent performance in challenging observing environments.
Performance & Functionality
The Explore Scientific 20mm 68 Degree Series Argon-Purged Waterproof Eyepiece performs its job exceptionally well. Its primary function is to provide clear, high-resolution views of celestial objects, and it consistently delivers on this promise. The edge sharpness is particularly impressive, maintaining good focus even at the periphery of the field of view.
The main strength of this eyepiece is its ability to maintain consistent performance in varying weather conditions. The argon purging and waterproofing eliminate the risk of internal fogging, a common issue with many other eyepieces. One potential weakness is the relatively high price point compared to non-purged, non-waterproof eyepieces, though the added protection and performance justify the cost for serious observers.
The eyepiece meets and exceeds my expectations. I was initially drawn to its weather-resistant features, but I have been equally impressed by its optical performance. It has become an indispensable part of my observing kit.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Explore Scientific 20mm 68 Degree Series Argon-Purged Waterproof Eyepiece is excellent. The materials feel durable and well-assembled, and the eyepiece has a substantial weight that inspires confidence. The rubber grip provides a comfortable and secure hold, even when wearing gloves.
The eyepiece is user-friendly and requires minimal setup. Simply insert it into the telescope’s focuser and adjust the diopter to achieve optimal focus. There is no significant learning curve, making it accessible to both beginner and experienced astronomers.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience, the Explore Scientific 20mm 68 Degree Series Argon-Purged Waterproof Eyepiece is built to last. The robust construction and weather-resistant design suggest that it can withstand years of regular use. With proper care, it should remain a reliable part of my observing kit for many years to come.
Maintenance is straightforward and requires minimal effort. A gentle wipe with a microfiber cloth is usually sufficient to remove any dust or fingerprints. The waterproof design allows for occasional cleaning with a damp cloth if necessary, without fear of damaging the internal components.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Explore Scientific 20mm 68 Degree Series Argon-Purged Waterproof Eyepiece does not come with any additional accessories beyond the standard dust caps. However, it is compatible with a wide range of standard 1.25″ filters, allowing for further customization of the viewing experience. Using light pollution filters can significantly enhance contrast when observing from urban areas.
The eyepiece is also compatible with various Barlow lenses, which can effectively increase the magnification without sacrificing eye relief. Combining it with a 2x Barlow lens would effectively turn it into a 10mm eyepiece, providing a higher magnification option for observing smaller objects like planets. This compatibility makes it a versatile and adaptable addition to any astronomer’s collection.
Pros and Cons of Explore Scientific 20mm 68 Degree Series Argon-Purged Waterproof Eyepiece
Pros
- Excellent Image Quality: Delivers sharp, high-resolution views with good edge correction.
- Argon-Purged and Waterproof: Prevents internal fogging and protects against moisture damage.
- Wide 68-Degree Field of View: Provides an immersive and expansive observing experience.
- Comfortable Eye Relief: Allows for comfortable viewing, even for eyeglass wearers.
- Durable Construction: Built to withstand the rigors of outdoor use.
Cons
- Price: More expensive than non-purged, non-waterproof eyepieces.
- Weight: Slightly heavier than some comparable eyepieces.
Who Should Buy Explore Scientific 20mm 68 Degree Series Argon-Purged Waterproof Eyepiece?
The Explore Scientific 20mm 68 Degree Series Argon-Purged Waterproof Eyepiece is perfect for amateur astronomers who demand high-quality views and reliable performance in all weather conditions. It is particularly well-suited for those who frequently observe in humid or damp environments, where fogging can be a significant issue. It is also an excellent choice for anyone who values durability and long-term reliability.
This product may not be ideal for beginners on a tight budget. Less expensive eyepieces can provide a good starting point for learning the basics of astronomy. However, for experienced observers looking to upgrade their equipment, the Explore Scientific eyepiece is a worthwhile investment.
A must-have accessory is a high-quality microfiber cleaning cloth for keeping the lens surfaces clean and free of dust and fingerprints. Also, consider purchasing a sturdy carrying case to protect the eyepiece during transport and storage.
Conclusion on Explore Scientific 20mm 68 Degree Series Argon-Purged Waterproof Eyepiece
The Explore Scientific 20mm 68 Degree Series Argon-Purged Waterproof Eyepiece is a premium eyepiece that delivers exceptional performance and reliability. Its combination of high-quality optics, weather-resistant design, and comfortable viewing experience makes it a standout choice in its class. While the price may be higher than some alternatives, the added benefits of argon purging and waterproofing justify the investment for serious observers.
The value proposition is strong. It provides a tangible improvement in viewing quality, particularly in challenging conditions. The peace of mind knowing that the eyepiece is protected from fogging and moisture damage is also a significant benefit.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Explore Scientific 20mm 68 Degree Series Argon-Purged Waterproof Eyepiece to anyone looking for a high-quality, versatile, and reliable eyepiece. It has become an essential part of my observing kit, and I am confident that it will provide years of enjoyable viewing experiences. Upgrade your view tonight – you won’t regret it!