16mm Explore Scientific Eyepiece (68 deg.)

With the introduction of the 68° Series we are pleased to make two important improvements in eyepiece manufacture, the first being 15 layer Enhanced Multi-layer Deposition (EMD™) coatings on all glass-to-air surfaces to gain maximum contrast, and waterproofing the eyepiece with the use of Argon gas purging instead of standard Nitrogen gas. Although Nitrogen is a fine choice that will last for many years, Argon is a larger molecule that maintains its protective properties over a wider range of temperatures, and is even more resistant to diffusion thereby further extending the protective waterproof environment of the eyepiece body. Through computer-optimized design, a careful selection of optical glasses, and enhanced multi-layer deposition coatings, the Explore Scientific 68° Series™ produce long eye-relief and ensure high image-correction, a flat field, and high contrast across the entire image field. An excellent choice for those who make extended visual studies of detail with subtle variations of brightness, and for those who must wear glasses while observing. All 68° Series eyepieces are fully EMD (Enhanced Multi-Layer Deposition) coated and edge-blackened to produce superior contrast.

Using advanced computer design, combinations of low dispersion and high refractive index optical glasses, and durable multilayer deposition coatings, Explore Scientific 68° Series Argon-Purged Waterproof extreme wide field eyepieces are optimized to produce high contrast, high resolution, and superior flat field characteristics. The visual effect of these eyepieces with their long eye-relief and their 68° apparent field is truly a full-immersion experience. The 68° Series eyepieces are parfocal (meaning they focus at near the same point regardless of the focal length you select) and come with a removable and foldable soft silicone rubber eyecup for the comfort of the observer, and as experienced astronomers know, eye comfort is critical when trying to observe at the visual limits of the telescope.

Protection from the Outdoors - By making the eyepiece body Argon-purged, the waterproof eyepiece internal elements will remain as pristine as the day they were assembled.

Argon atoms are larger than that of Nitrogen and therefore they are less likely to leak or diffuse their way through the seals over the life of the eyepiece. The atomic radius of Argon is larger than Nitrogen by 0.13 angstroms and has a larger atomic volume by 11.2 cubic centimeters/molecule. Argon also has superior inertness vs Nitrogen (i.e. forming few or no chemical compounds with other elements) that prevents adverse reactions with eyepiece components and therefore extends the longevity of the internal components, and also prevents chemical reactions with other elemental contaminants that may be introduced through a weakened seal. And, finally because Argon is less conductive of heat than Nitrogen, Argon cools slower thereby buffering the effects of rapid temperature changes of the optics.

The sealed, dry environment is impervious to internal fogging and contaminants such as fungus growing in between the lens elements. Our waterproof eyepiece is easier to clean, and there is no risk of cleaning solution migrating from the top of the lens and seeping around edges to be trapped in between elements. To insure a perfect seal we test every eyepiece in one meter of water for 30 minutes.