Dob Shop

Before you choose a Dob as your first telescope, I want to provide some information based on my experience. First of all, you'll see a lot of articles that tout the Dob as the best possible telescope for a beginner. I don't agree.

Before explaining why I do not like to recommend Dobs to beginners, let's look at the positive side of the Dobsonian design. To be clear, I'm not anti-Dob, I just think a mounted telescope is better if you can afford it.

Telescopes are all about gathering light. The more light you gather, the deeper into space and the more detail you will see. The size of the telescope, the aperture, determines the amount of light gathered. Big telescopes gather more light than small telescopes.

Refractors use a lens to gather and magnify light. Reflectors, Dobs, use a concave mirror to gather light. It is much cheaper to manufacture a large mirror than it is to produce a quality large lens. As any design type of telescope goes up in size, the cost goes up. But the cost for lens based telescope goes up at a greater rate. A 6" refractor is far more expensive than a 6" reflector. With a Dob, you get a lot of view for your investment.

Another plus to the reflector design is that the overall telescope is shorter and lighter. It takes a lot of glass to make a big lens. And, reaching focus with a lens, takes more distance. Think about a maginfying glass. How far from the object must you hold the lens to focus? If you look at some big refractors, you'll see that they get pretty long. A really good quality 6" refractor can be 6 or 7 feet long! And it can weigh 25-50 pounds. A 6" reflector, at f/5 would be about 30" long and weigh only

12-14 pounds. A 10" refractor is impractical to build---except for observatories. A 10" reflector can be easy to handle and cost only about $500.

All telescopes need some sort of stand. In astronomy, we call the telescope stand the "mount". The mount is as important as the telescope. If you have a really nice telescope on a shaky mount, you can't really see anything because of the vibration of the mount. It's like trying to study something really far away using binoculars. You just can't hold steady enough to relax and see detail. A good mount is well-balanced and rock-solid.

This is where the Dob design is both very good and, well, not so good. The mount used in the Dob design is simply a solid wood box that swivels. It is designed so the optical tube can move up and down within this wooden box base. It's a very simple design and therefore very inexpensive to produce. And they work well. But these wooden bases can be very heavy and bulky.

To wrap up the plus side of the Dob design, you can get a bigger telescope for less money. You'll also have a very stable mount. But there are a few drawbacks.

In my opinion, the Dob is not a particularly comfortable telescope to use. With a 6" Dob, the eyepiece averages about 38" from ground level. If you're tall, this isn't a very comfortable viewing position. As you move to larger Dobs, the eyepiece will be in a more comfortable position. That's why I recommend at least an 8" Dob for adults.

But as you move up in size, you encounter the next issue. Weight. That wooden base is heavy---even with the 8" Dob. As you move into the 10" and 12" Dobs, both the optical tube and the base are heavy and bulky to move. This is a big issue from what I have seen. If the telescope is too bulky to set up, it won't be used.

The other issue is tracking. As you learn to observe, you'll want to use high power eyepieces and spend time studying interesting objects. A mount with tracking capability will hold objects in the eyepiece for as long as you wish. You can change eyepieces or add a filter without losing your target. Yes, there are some new tracking platforms for Dobs but they are expensive and do not work very well. I believe it's important to have this valuable option.

Let's summarize. A Dob can be a good choice if you want great views at a low cost and you don't mind setting up a bulky instrument. If you want to try photography, you'll need tracking. If you would like to use the telescope for nature observing, you'll need a refractor because the view is upside down in a reflector.

For Kids? My first choice would be a good refractor (AstroView). But if the budget is tight, a 6" Dob will give wonderful views. Adults? If you don't mind moving a heavy telescope, a Dob will give you great views.

6" Classic Dob

$249 plus $45 shipping (Limited Time)
(2 heavy Boxes)

Orion SkyQuest XT6 Classic Dobsonian

Classic entry-level scope at an amazing price
Crisp images from the craters of the moon to the edge of the galaxy
Big-aperture optics + point-and-view ease of use = out-of-this-world value
When the moon is in the seventh house and Jupiter aligns with Mars, you'll be able to see it all
One-year limited warranty

Ample light grasp...Check. Portable...Check. Stable mount...Check. Quick setup and take-down...Check. Easy to operate...Check. Affordable...Check.

As you run through the checklist of attributes you've heard are important in a good beginner's telescope, you realize that the classic SkyQuest XT6 meets all the criteria - in spades. Astronomy magazine called it "an excellent entry-level telescope for an adult."

It's a telescope that opens up limitless observing possibilities. With its big 150mm diameter parabolic primary mirror the XT6 collects nearly 80% more light than a 4.5" reflector, rendering brighter images and greater detail in deep-sky nebulas and star clusters. And the 1200mm focal length gives the scope ample power to zoom in on subtle planetary and lunar features.

The 45"-long enameled-steel optical tube glides wtih silky smoothness on the cabinet-quality Dobsonian wood base. You just point the scope and view! Orion-engineered CorrecTension springs keep the tube balanced to perfection and allow the whole unit to be carried together by the handle on the base.

The XT6 is outfitted with a 1.25" rack-and-pinion focuser, an EZ Finder II reflex sight, collimation cap, and 25mm Sirius Plössl eyepieces. The mirror is center-marked for precise collimation. The SkyQuest XT6...Check it out, today! One-year limited warranty.

8" Classic Dob

$329 Plus Shipping ($80)

Orion SkyQuest XT8 Classic Dobsonian

203mm aperture and 1200mm focal length allow you to reach deep into space for jaw-dropping images
The ultra-stable Dobsonian base keeps the tube perfectly balanced for point-and-view ease of use
Now includes an upgraded 2" Crayford-style focuser that accepts 1.25" and 2" eyepieces
Includes 25mm Sirius Plossl eyepiece, EZ Finder II reflex sight, collimation cap, and FREE Starry Night astronomy software
Big-aperture optics + point-and-view ease of use = out-of-this-world value

The classic XT8 combines powerful optics with the ultimate in mechanical simplicity and stability. It features a precision 8" (203mm) parabolic primary mirror, center-marked at the factory for precise collimation and mounted in a cast-aluminum support cell that provides maximum ventilation. The mirror pulls in 73% more light than a 6", enough to tease out dust lanes in nebulas, resolve the cores of prominent globular clusters, and reveal subtle structure in elusive galaxies.

You're in total control as you point the scope effortlessly to your target object anywhere in the sky. The 46"-long enameled steel tube glides on its sturdy Dobsonian base. A gentle push or pull on the navigation knob puts you right in the observing pocket.

The CorrecTension spring system applies just the right amount of friction on the altitude bearings to ensure proper tube balance.

The SkyQuest XT8 now features an upgraded 2" Crayford-style focuser that accepts both 1.25" and 2" accessories.

The XT8 comes with a host of great accessories. You get a Sirius Plossl 25mm eyepiece (48x), an EZ Finder II reflex sight, an Orion quick-collimation cap, and a snap-on dust cover.

For the intrepid beginner to the veteran skygazer, the classic SkyQuest XT8 lives up to its billing by Astronomy magazine as a "work of art." Get this masterpiece now at its new lower price! One-year limited warranty.

Step Up to Intelligent Desgn!

This 8" Dob Tells YOU Where to Point!

$529 plus shipping ($85)

SkyQuest XT8 IntelliScope with Object Locator

Locate more than 14,000 fascinating celestial objects with pushbutton ease with optional controller
203mm aperture and 1200mm focal length allow you to reach deep into space for jaw-dropping images
Includes new 2" Crayford focuser, two eyepieces, finder scope, FREE Starry Night astronomy software
The ultra-stable Dobsonian base keeps the tube perfectly balanced for point-and-view ease of use
One-year limited warranty

Building on the XT8's legacy of award-winning design and performance, we've enhanced the world's best-selling 8" Dobsonian with new technology that will change the way you view the heavens. And it's now upgraded with a 2" Crayford-style focuser for smoother, more accurate performance.

The SkyQuest XT8 IntelliScope gives you speedy, push-button access to more than 14,000 fascinating celestial objects on the optional IntelliScope Computerized Object Locator. Looking for the Whirlpool Galaxy? Press the button labeled "Messier" select M51 whoosh! Wow! In seconds, there it is in the eyepiece. Never been able to find that edge-on galaxy, NGC 891? Tap the "NGC" button, select 891 Whoosh! You're there. It's that easy to locate object after object, so many more in an evening than you could ever find before.

The SkyQuest XT8 IntelliScope is the most advanced 8" Dobsonian telescope available. Its 8" (203mm) parabolic primary mirror serves up jaw-dropping images of the planets, nebulas clusters, and galaxies. The enameled steel tube boasts a "navigation knob" for easy slewing, a right-angle finder scope and now a Crayford-style focuser that accepts 2" and 1.25" eyepieces. The focuser provides silky-smooth, backlash-free motion that eliminates image shift, making it easier to achieve the sharpest possible focus.

The tube rides on a streamlined, ultra-stable Dobsonian base, moving smoothly on Teflon and UHMW polyethylene bearing pads. The CorrecTension system keeps the tube perfectly balanced for point-and-view ease of use.

Find out how much fun big-aperture stargazing can be with the Orion SkyQuest XT8 IntelliScope. One-year limited warranty.

Frequently Asked Questions About SkyQuest IntelliScope Telescopes

Q.) Does the IntelliScope system use motors?

A.) No, it's human powered! The user moves the scope manually — which is faster quieter, and eats fewer batteries than motorized systems.

Q.) If it's not motorized, how does the IntelliScope system actually find objects?

A.) When a target object is selected on the Computerized Object Locator, two directional guide arrows (altitude and azimuth) with numbers are displayed on the illuminated LCD screen. The user moves the telescope in the direction of the arrows until both numbers decrease to 0.0. Then the object will be in the eyepiece's field of view.

Q.) Is the IntelliScope Computerized Object Locator compatible with other commercial or home-built telescopes?

A.) No. Critical dimensions and tolerances designed into the IntelliScope base and the encoder-telescope interface would be very difficult to achieve on any other Dobsonian or other telescope system.

Q). Can I use an IntelliScope Dob without the Computerized Object Locator?

A.) Sure! Without the Object Locator the IntelliScope Dobsonian performs like a standard Dobsonian — with a slew of great design and performance features not found on competing Dobsonians.

Q. How many objects are in the IntelliScope database?

A.) There are more than 14,000, enough for a lifetime of observation:

7,840 objects from the NGC catalog
5,386 objects from the IC catalog
110 objects from the Messier catalog
837 single, double, multiple, and variable stars
99 user-defined objects
8 major non-Earth planets

Q.) How do you polar-align or initialize the IntelliScope system prior to using it?

A.) The set-up procedure is a piece of cake. First, you rotate the tube to the vertical position and press Enter. Then, you do a simple two-star alignment, where you point the telescope to one bright star, then another, pressing Enter each time. Done! That's all there is to it. The telescope is now properly oriented with the night sky and ready to find objects. The instruction manual has four seasonal star charts that identify the alignment stars you can choose from.

Q.) What type of encoders does the IntelliScope system use?

A.) The IntelliScope system uses two magnetic, 9,216-step high-resolution digital encoders. The azimuth encoder comes with the telescope, the altitude encoder comes with the Computerized Object Locator.

Q.) How long will the 9-volt battery in the Computerized Object Locator last?

A.) Thirty to 50 hours with typical, intermittent use. Using a dim illumination setting will help conserve battery power.

Q.) Can the IntelliScope tube assembly be easily removed from the base for transporting?

A.) Yes. As is explained in the IntelliScope instruction manual, you need only unthread and remove the large knob on each of the two side panels, then the tube assembly can be lifted off the base.

10" Classic Dob

Big Scope, Small Price $499 plus shipping ($95)

Orion SkyQuest XT10 Classic Dobsonian

254mm aperture and 1200mm focal length for glorious views of the moon, planets, galaxies and nebulas
The ultra-stable Dobsonian base keeps the tube perfectly balanced for point-and-view ease of use
Now includes an upgraded 2" Crayford-style focuser that accepts 1.25" and 2" eyepieces
Includes 25mm Sirius Plossl eyepiece, EZ Finder II reflex sight, collimation cap, and FREE Starry Night astronomy software
Big-aperture optics + point-and-view ease of use = out-of-this-world value

It's no wonder customers heap 5-star ratings on these "gentle giants." For not only do their jumbo-sized optics and uncomplicated design bring a "new level of joy to simple observing," raved Astronomy magazine, but they're also the most affordable quality Dobs on the market. SkyQuest XT Classics aren't just good bang for the buck, they're a supernova of telescope value!

XT Classics give you the deep-space thrills without the deep-pocket frills. We've kept them lean and mean to keep their prices low for tight budgets. But rest assured, they come fully equipped for adventure, whether you're a beginning stargazer or are graduating to a more capable instrument. All Classics feature an expertly figured parabolic mirror housed in an enameled steel optical tube. The tube rides on a stable Dobsonian base that allows easy point-and-view navigation and has a convenient carrying handle. A 2" Crayford focuser (XT6 has 1.25" R%P focuser), EZ Finder II aiming device, 25mm Sirius Plossl eyepiece (1.25"), and quick-collimation cap are all standard equipment.

Setup takes only a minute, leaving the rest of the evening to marvel at the planets, the Moon, and a myriad of deep-sky treasures. Enjoy the fantastic views - and savings! One-year limited warranty.

Included Items:

10" Aperture Optical Tube Assembly

25mm Sirius Plossl eyepiece (1.25")

EZ Finder II reflex sight

Collimation cap

Dust cap

2" Crayford-style focuser

2" - 1.25" eyepiece adapter

Spring coils

Pull loops

Nylon spacers

1/4" washers

Phillips-head screws

Screws with round knob attached

Left panel

Right panel

Front brace

Top base plate

Ground base plate

Base assembly screws

Hex key

Plastic feet

Feet attachment wood screws

Self-adhesive rubber bumper

Large hex-head bolt

3/8" washers

3/8" lock nut

Nylon spacer

T-nut

Handle

Socket-head cap screws

5/16" washers

5/16" nuts

Hex key

Starry Night special edition software

10" Intelliscope Tells YOU Where to Point!

"If you want me to recommend a Dob, this is the one." ---Chris

At Lot of Telescope for $699.00 plus shipping ($95)

SkyQuest XT10 IntelliScope with Object Locator

Locate more than 14,000 celestial objects with pushbutton ease with included controller!
254mm aperture and 1200mm focal length for glorius views of the moon, planets, galaxies and nebulas
Exquisite optics allow you to reach stars as faint as magnitude 15
Includes Crayford-style focuser, two eyepieces, finder scope, and FREE Starry Night software

The SkyQuest XT10 continues its dominance over all other 10" Dobsonians worldwide by virtue of its dazzling optics, a contemporary new design, and most exciting of all, the ability to locate any of more than 14,000 fascinating celestial objects with pushbutton ease! And it's now upgraded with a 2" Crayford-style focuser for smoother, more accurate performance.

With the IntelliScope Computer Controller, locating and viewing even the most elusive deep-sky curiosities becomes a "no brainer." Just select an object to view from the controller's 14,000-object database. High-resolution, 9,216-step digital encoders integrated in the telescope then pinpoint the object and guide the scope right to it. Choose from dozens of additional menu options, including tours of the best deep-sky gems each month and identification of any object in the field of view. Oh, so that's the Cat's Paw Nebula!

The XT10 IntelliScope features exquisite optics: a 10" (254mm) parabolic mirror (1200mm focal length, f/4.7) figured from low-expansion, U.S.-made Pyrex glass for superior thermal stability. It gathers 56% more light than an 8" mirror, reaching stars as faint as magnitude 15. The steel optical tube, now finished in deep bronze metallic enamel, is equipped with a 2" cast aluminum Crayford-style focuser, a navigation knob for easy slewing, a big 9x50 finder scope, and two Sirius Plossl eyepieces.

The Crayford-style focuser is smoother and more accurate than a rack-and-pinion focuser. Roller bearing construction eliminates image shift due to drawtube "rocking". Upgraded metal focusing knobs with rubber grips give you a great feel, and a thumb screw for locking the focus position and adjusting tension give you greater control. The focuser includes an adapter for 1.25" eyepieces.

We've streamlined the rock-stable Dobsonian base and upgraded it with a springless CorrecTension system that ensures even better manual tracking control and tube balance. Bearings molded from ultra-high molecular weight (UHMW) polyethylene and Teflon provide silky smooth motion of the telescope on both axes. A 2"/1.25" eyepiece rack and new, ergonomic carry handle come standard. Smart scope. Smart price. Smart buy. Get the SkyQuest XT10 IntelliScope today! One-year limited warranty.

Frequently Asked Questions About SkyQuest IntelliScope Telescopes

Q.) Does the IntelliScope system use motors?

A.) No, it's human powered! The user moves the scope manually — which is faster quieter, and eats fewer batteries than motorized systems.

Q.) If it's not motorized, how does the IntelliScope system actually find objects?

Q.) Is the IntelliScope Computerized Object Locator compatible with other commercial or home-built telescopes?

A.) No. Critical dimensions and tolerances designed into the IntelliScope base and the encoder-telescope interface would be very difficult to achieve on any other Dobsonian or other telescope system.

Q). Can I use an IntelliScope Dob without the Computerized Object Locator?

A.) Sure! Without the Object Locator the IntelliScope Dobsonian performs like a standard Dobsonian — with a slew of great design and performance features not found on competing Dobsonians.

Q. How many objects are in the IntelliScope database?

A.) There are more than 14,000, enough for a lifetime of observation:

7,840 objects from the NGC catalog
5,386 objects from the IC catalog
110 objects from the Messier catalog
837 single, double, multiple, and variable stars
99 user-defined objects
8 major non-Earth planets

Q.) How do you polar-align or initialize the IntelliScope system prior to using it?

Q.) What type of encoders does the IntelliScope system use?

Q.) How long will the 9-volt battery in the Computerized Object Locator last?

A.) Thirty to 50 hours with typical, intermittent use. Using a dim illumination setting will help conserve battery power.

Q.) Can the IntelliScope tube assembly be easily removed from the base for transporting?

A.) Yes. As is explained in the IntelliScope instruction manual, you need only unthread and remove the large knob on each of the two side panels, then the tube assembly can be lifted off the base.

Included Items:

Optical tube assembly

25mm Sirius Plossl eyepiece (1.25")

10mm Sirius Plossl eyepiece (1.25")

2" - 1.25" eyepiece adapter

IntelliScope object locator hand controller

9x50 finder scope

Finder scope bracket with O-ring

Collimation cap

Eyepiece rack

Dust cap

Eyepiece rack mounting wood screws

Tensioning/Retaining knobs

Tensioning knob nylon washer

Tensioning knob metal washer

Nylon retaining knob spacer

Handle

Handle mounting hex-head screws

Handle mounting screw washers

Crescent wrench

Azimuth encoder board

Encoder connector board

Encoder disk

Left panel

Right panel

Front brace

Top base plate

Ground base plate

Base assembly wood screws

Hex key

Plastic feet

Feet attachment wood screws

Encoder board mounting wood screws

Brass bushing

Azimuth axis hex-head screw

Fender washers

Hex lock nut

Altitude bearing cylinders

Altitude bearing cylinder screws

Vertical stop knob

Flat washers

Altitude encoder assembly

Coil cable

Altitude encoder cable (53")

Azimuth encoder cable (24")

Wire retaining clips

Hook-and-loop strips

Plastic bumper

Wood screws

Nylon washers

9V battery

Starry Night special edition software

All Dobs need to be collimated from time to time and this tool will make that process a snap! This is a "must have" item with every Dob.

Deluxe Laser Collimator

If you have a Dob or a reflector, this is the collimator to get!

Talk to me after you get it and I'll have you collimating in minutes!

$64.95 (plus $5.00 Priority 2-Day Shipping)