The ZWO FF80 APO is a highly refined 80mm f/7.5 quadruplet apochromatic refractor, built from the ground up to deliver uncompromising optical performance for both astrophotography and visual observation. With a dedicated flat-field design, this telescope ensures a sharp, distortion-free image across the entire field of view—eliminating the need for an external field flattener. Whether you're capturing deep-sky objects in stunning detail or enjoying crisp, high-contrast views of the Moon and planets, the FF80 APO provides an imaging and viewing experience that rivals much larger, more expensive telescopes.
Optical Superiority – True Flat-Field Performance
At the core of the FF80 APO is a precisely engineered four-element optical system, utilizing high-quality extra-low dispersion (ED) glass. Unlike traditional doublets or triplets that require additional field flatteners for astrophotography, this quadruplet design is inherently corrected for field curvature, providing sharp, pinpoint stars from the center of the frame to the very edges. This makes the FF80 APO a dream telescope for astrophotographers who want optimal performance without the hassle of extra optical components.
The 80mm aperture gathers ample light for deep-sky imaging while maintaining a portable and travel-friendly design. Its 600mm focal length and f/7.5 focal ratio offer a perfect balance between capturing wide-field nebulae and resolving finer details in galaxies and star clusters. When paired with modern CMOS cameras, this telescope delivers breathtakingly sharp images with minimal chromatic aberration or optical distortion.
3" Rack-and-Pinion Focuser – Built for Precision and Stability
ZWO has equipped the FF80 APO with a robust 3-inch dual-speed rack-and-pinion focuser, designed to provide smooth and precise focusing, even with heavy imaging payloads. The coarse and fine adjustments allow for critical focus control, essential for long-exposure astrophotography. Unlike standard Crayford focusers, the rack-and-pinion design ensures superior rigidity and eliminates focus shift or slippage, even when using large-format cameras, filter wheels, or off-axis guiders.
This focuser also features threaded connections, making it easy to attach cameras and accessories while reducing flexure and tilt in your imaging train. Whether you're using a full-frame or APS-C sensor, the focuser's stability ensures that your stars remain pinpoint sharp across the entire field.
Optimized for Astrophotography – Ready Out of the Box
One of the standout features of the FF80 APO is its true flat-field optical system. Many refractors require additional field flatteners to achieve edge-to-edge sharpness, but the built-in field correction of the FF80 APO simplifies the imaging process, eliminating the need for extra optical elements and spacing adjustments.
The telescope’s 44mm image circle ensures full compatibility with large camera sensors, making it an excellent choice for deep-sky imaging with full-frame and APS-C sensors alike. The result? A crisp, uniform image across your entire frame, with no noticeable curvature or coma.
The FF80 APO also includes a set of threaded adapters and extension rings, allowing seamless integration with ZWO ASI cameras and other popular imaging setups. This level of precision engineering ensures that astrophotographers can achieve optimal performance without the trial-and-error often required with external flatteners.
Portable Yet Powerful – A Versatile Astrograph for Any Setup
Despite its sophisticated optical design, the FF80 APO remains lightweight and compact, making it an ideal travel companion for astrophotographers on the move. The telescope’s CNC-machined aluminum tube provides excellent durability while keeping the weight manageable for portable mounts.
The included tube rings, dovetail plate, and carrying handle ensure secure mounting to a wide range of equatorial mounts, whether you’re setting up in a backyard observatory or taking your rig to a dark-sky site. The telescope’s slim profile and solid construction make it an excellent choice for those looking for a high-quality, go-anywhere imaging refractor.
Key Features
- 80mm f/7.5 quadruplet apochromatic refractor with a dedicated flat-field design
- True flat-field optics—no external field flattener required for astrophotography
- 600mm focal length—ideal for deep-sky imaging and visual observation
- Extra-low dispersion (ED) glass for superior color correction and contrast
- 3-inch dual-speed rack-and-pinion focuser for precise, backlash-free focusing
- 44mm image circle—compatible with APS-C and full-frame camera sensors
- Threaded adapters and extension rings included for seamless imaging setup
- Lightweight, travel-friendly design with CNC-machined tube construction
Who Will Love the FF80 APO?
The ZWO FF80 APO is the perfect telescope for:
- Astrophotographers who want an ultra-sharp, flat-field refractor without the hassle of additional field flatteners
- Deep-sky imagers using APS-C or full-frame cameras looking for edge-to-edge clarity
- Visual observers seeking high-contrast, color-accurate planetary and deep-sky views
- Traveling astronomers who need a compact yet powerful telescope for portable setups
- Beginners and advanced users alike looking for a premium-quality imaging refractor at an excellent value
Final Thoughts
With the FF80 APO, ZWO has created a true astrophotography powerhouse that combines premium optics, robust mechanics, and a hassle-free imaging experience. The quadruplet design with built-in field flattening ensures that every frame you capture is razor-sharp from corner to corner, while the precision-engineered 3-inch focuser provides the control and stability needed for demanding imaging setups.
