Let’s Dive into Explore Scientific 40mm 68 Degree Series Argon-Purged Waterproof Eyepiece
The night sky has always been a source of wonder, and the Explore Scientific 40mm 68 Degree Series Argon-Purged Waterproof Eyepiece promises to deliver an immersive viewing experience. This eyepiece, designed by Explore Scientific, boasts a 68-degree apparent field of view, argon-purged waterproofing, and a long 31mm eye relief. It aims to provide high contrast, high resolution, and a flat field, making it a potentially exceptional tool for amateur astronomers and seasoned stargazers alike.
My journey to this eyepiece started with a frustration – the limited field of view on my older eyepieces felt like looking through a keyhole. I yearned for a wider, more engaging view of deep-sky objects like nebulae and galaxies. I also wanted something that could withstand the unpredictable weather conditions of my observing site in the Pacific Northwest.
Upon unboxing the Explore Scientific 40mm 68 Degree Series Argon-Purged Waterproof Eyepiece, I was immediately struck by its substantial weight and solid construction. The fit and finish are excellent, with a smooth, tactile feel to the metal housing. The eye cup is comfortable and adjustable, and the overall impression is one of quality and durability.
Before settling on this, I considered the Tele Vue 41mm Panoptic and the Baader Hyperion 36mm. The Tele Vue is legendary, but significantly more expensive. The Baader was more affordable, but didn’t offer the same level of waterproofing and eye relief.
My first impression was excitement tempered by a bit of apprehension, given the price tag of $519.99. Would it live up to the hype, or would it be another piece of gear collecting dust on the shelf? Only time, and a dark, clear night, would tell.
Real-World Testing: Putting Explore Scientific 40mm 68 Degree Series Argon-Purged Waterproof Eyepiece to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Explore Scientific 40mm 68 Degree Series Argon-Purged Waterproof Eyepiece was at a remote dark sky site in Eastern Oregon. The skies were clear, and the seeing was average. I mounted it on my 8-inch Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope and aimed it at the Andromeda Galaxy (M31).
The difference was immediately apparent – the wider field of view allowed me to see the galaxy’s full extent, including the dimmer outer regions. The stars were sharp across most of the field, and the contrast was excellent, revealing subtle details in the galaxy’s dust lanes. There was minimal distortion at the very edge of the field.
Using it was simple; the long eye relief made it comfortable to observe even with my glasses on. The adjustable eye cup clicked into place securely and blocked out stray light effectively. I noticed no issues with internal reflections or ghosting.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Explore Scientific 40mm 68 Degree Series Argon-Purged Waterproof Eyepiece continues to impress. It has become my go-to eyepiece for wide-field observing of nebulae, star clusters, and galaxies. The argon-purged waterproofing has proven its worth during dewy nights.
There are no signs of wear and tear despite being transported to various observing sites. The coatings remain pristine, and the focus adjustment is still smooth and precise. Cleaning is straightforward, requiring only a gentle wipe with a microfiber cloth.
Compared to my older 32mm Plössl eyepiece, the Explore Scientific offers a vastly superior viewing experience. The wider field, sharper images, and comfortable eye relief make it a joy to use for extended observing sessions. It truly elevates the stargazing experience.
Breaking Down the Features of Explore Scientific 40mm 68 Degree Series Argon-Purged Waterproof Eyepiece
Specifications
The Explore Scientific 40mm 68 Degree Series Argon-Purged Waterproof Eyepiece boasts the following specifications:
- Focal Length: 40mm – Provides a wide field of view, ideal for observing extended objects.
- Apparent Field of View: 68 Degrees – Offers an immersive, “window-like” viewing experience.
- Eye Relief: 31mm – Allows comfortable viewing, even for eyeglass wearers.
- Barrel Size: 2.00″ – Requires a telescope with a 2-inch focuser.
- Field Stop Diameter: 52.2mm – Determines the true field of view when used with a particular telescope.
- Length: 114.2mm – Compact enough for easy storage and transport.
- Width: 80.3mm – A comfortable size for handling.
- Weight: 35.2oz; 998g – Substantial, reflecting its solid construction.
- Argon-Purged: Prevents internal fogging and protects against contaminants.
These specifications translate to a comfortable and high-performing eyepiece that excels at wide-field observing. The long eye relief is a standout feature for eyeglass wearers, and the argon-purged waterproofing ensures clear views in humid conditions. The 2-inch barrel maximizes light transmission, further enhancing the viewing experience.
Performance & Functionality
The Explore Scientific 40mm 68 Degree Series Argon-Purged Waterproof Eyepiece excels in providing wide, bright, and sharp views of the night sky. It delivers excellent contrast, allowing faint details in nebulae and galaxies to become more visible. The flat field design minimizes distortion, ensuring that stars remain sharp across most of the field of view.
A slight softness at the very edge of the field is noticeable in some telescopes. This is a minor drawback considering the overall image quality. The eyepiece meets and even exceeds expectations, offering a truly immersive and enjoyable observing experience.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Explore Scientific 40mm 68 Degree Series Argon-Purged Waterproof Eyepiece is exceptional. The metal housing feels solid and durable, while the rubber grip provides a secure and comfortable hold. The adjustable eye cup is well-designed and effectively blocks out stray light.
It is user-friendly, and the long eye relief makes it easy to find the optimal viewing position. There is no significant learning curve associated with its use. The weight, while substantial, contributes to the feeling of quality and stability.
Durability & Maintenance
The Explore Scientific 40mm 68 Degree Series Argon-Purged Waterproof Eyepiece is built to last. The argon-purged waterproofing protects the internal optics from moisture and contaminants, ensuring years of reliable performance. The robust construction can withstand the rigors of regular use and transportation.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a microfiber cloth and lens cleaning solution. No special tools or procedures are needed. With proper care, this eyepiece should provide a lifetime of enjoyment.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Explore Scientific 40mm 68 Degree Series Argon-Purged Waterproof Eyepiece comes with removable end caps to protect the lens surfaces during storage and transport. While there are no specific customization options offered directly by Explore Scientific, the 2-inch barrel allows the use of standard 2-inch filters.
It is compatible with a wide range of telescopes that accept 2-inch eyepieces. It works well with both refractors and reflectors. Using light pollution filters with this eyepiece can significantly enhance contrast when observing from light-polluted areas.
Pros and Cons of Explore Scientific 40mm 68 Degree Series Argon-Purged Waterproof Eyepiece
Pros
- Wide 68-degree field of view: Provides an immersive and engaging observing experience.
- Long 31mm eye relief: Ensures comfortable viewing, even for eyeglass wearers.
- Argon-purged and waterproof: Protects against internal fogging and contaminants, ensuring clear views in all conditions.
- Excellent contrast and sharpness: Delivers detailed and high-resolution images of deep-sky objects.
- Solid build quality: Ensures durability and longevity.
Cons
- Slight softness at the edge of the field: Minimal distortion can be noticeable in some telescopes.
- Price: Relatively expensive compared to other eyepieces with similar focal lengths.
Who Should Buy Explore Scientific 40mm 68 Degree Series Argon-Purged Waterproof Eyepiece?
The Explore Scientific 40mm 68 Degree Series Argon-Purged Waterproof Eyepiece is perfect for:
- Amateur astronomers seeking a wide-field, immersive observing experience.
- Eyeglass wearers who require long eye relief for comfortable viewing.
- Observers who frequently observe in humid or damp conditions.
- Those looking for a high-quality eyepiece that will last for years.
This product may not be ideal for:
- Beginners on a tight budget.
- Observers who prioritize maximum sharpness across the entire field of view above all else.
A must-have accessory is a high-quality 2-inch light pollution filter. This enhances contrast when observing from urban or suburban areas. Also, a good quality case is recommended for safe storage and transport.
Conclusion on Explore Scientific 40mm 68 Degree Series Argon-Purged Waterproof Eyepiece
The Explore Scientific 40mm 68 Degree Series Argon-Purged Waterproof Eyepiece is a truly exceptional piece of optical equipment. It delivers stunning wide-field views with excellent contrast, sharpness, and comfortable eye relief. The argon-purged waterproofing ensures that it can withstand the rigors of outdoor use, providing clear views in all conditions.
The price is a significant investment, but the performance and build quality justify the cost for serious amateur astronomers. If you are looking to elevate your stargazing experience and immerse yourself in the beauty of the night sky, this eyepiece is a worthwhile addition to your collection.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Explore Scientific 40mm 68 Degree Series Argon-Purged Waterproof Eyepiece. Go ahead and invest in your passion, and prepare to be amazed by the wonders that await!