Cloud Break Optics

APO250VT F/8.8

APO250VT F/8.8 - Main image
$40880 $56000 In stock

Category: Refractor Telescope

The TEC APO250VT F/8.8 is the largest refractor that TEC offers.  Considered an observatory class instrument, a permanent mounting solution is recommended for this telescope.  The views through this instrument are unmatched.  If you are looking for the very best in apochromatic refractors, look no further than Telescope Engineering Company.

Telescope Engineering Company (TEC) began in 1994 as a distributor/subcontractor of optics and optical materials. Initially, their primary products were zero-expansion Sitall blanks from LZOS, large mirrors and optical systems from LOMO, and optics for Maksutov telescopes made in Kiev, Ukraine.

In the late 90's, TEC decided to start its own production line of optics and telescopes. TEC began by producing a line of Maksutov telescopes ranging from 6" to 10" diameter and continued to work on special optics for professional observatories. At the turn of the century, TEC began working on a new product: apochromatic refractors. In 2002 they started regular production of smaller refractors, beginning with the APO140 F7 ED. Later on, TEC added larger models including the APO160, APO180 and APO200. Apochromatic refractors make up the majority of TEC's ongoing present and near future production.

The TEC APO250VT is a world-class instrument.  TEC telescopes are known for their precision machining and impeccable optics, and the APO250VT is no different.  If you have a dark-sky observatory, this telescope is what you want to have under the dome.

Please note:  If this item shows "out of stock," please give us a call to reserve your order.  TEC produces telescopes in limited production runs, so we recommend getting your name on the list as soon as possible.  TEC requires only a small deposit to hold your spot, which is refundable.

Clear aperture

250 mm

Focal length

2200 mm

Focal ratio

8.8

Resolution (theoretical)

0.5 arc sec

Tube diameter

254 mm

Tube length (dew shield retracted)

2000 mm

Tube weight

110 lb / 50 kg

Before you pay

Check the method and total at checkout.

When it ships

Allow for processing time as well as the journey to you.

Standard Shipping: Handling (business days) 0–1; Transit (business days) 7–15.

Express Shipping: Handling (business days) 0–1; Transit (business days) 7–15.

View policy
If you need a refund

Keep your order number and contact the store to start.

Please contact us for the refund processing timeframe before returning an item.

View policy
Delivery costs

Review the cost for your destination and chosen service.

Standard Shipping · United States: $0.00

Express Shipping · United States: $3.99

View policy
Returning an item

Check the return conditions before sending anything back.

United States · Return window (days after delivery): 30. Return method: By mail. Return postage: Seller pays.

View policy

Customer Reviews (4.6 / 5 · 5 reviews)

Benjamin ★★★★★

The sheer mass of this thing surprised me—it really needs a solid pier, but the views of Jupiter's bands through the 8.8-inch objective were breathtakingly sharp.

David ★★★★★

Even with my permanent pier setup, I was amazed at how easy it was to get pinpoint stars across the entire field of view. The sheer aperture and focal ratio really deliver that observatory-class performance I was hoping for.

Alexander ★★★★★

I set this up on a permanent pier in my backyard observatory, and the views through that massive 8.8 inch objective are just stunning. Even at high power, the moon's craters are razor-sharp with no false color. It's a beast to move around, but the image quality is absolutely worth it.