What is the difference between SMA and Plossl eyepieces in terms of performance?
SMA eyepieces provide high quality images at medium to high magnification. At low magnification, the image around the edge of the apparent field tends to be slightly elongated. With an apparent field of 52 degrees and eye relief of 4mm to 14 mm, Celestron SMAs are great for planetary viewing. Since planetary viewing does not require the same sharpness out to the edge as does deep sky viewing, the SMA eyepieces are great low-cost solution for planet lovers. Plossl eyepieces, on the other hand, provide excellent sharp image out to the edge of the apparent field. Most Meade Super Plossl eyepieces have apparent field of view of 52 degrees and exhibit high contrast throughout the field. Plossls are ideal for observing any object but they tend to be slightly more expensive than SMAs. Plossl is the best choice for viewing at lower power. • Can I use my 40 mm Plossl eyepiece for a low magnification eyepiece on my 6″ Newtonian? It is not recommended to use any eyepiece lower than 32mm on telesc
