
Plus, with the accuracy of computerized tracking, you can even use a Dobsonian for some types of astrophotography. But this new technology certainly lowers the learning curve and allows you to view many more objects in a single observing session. While you can still find inexpensive models, today's GoTo computerized Dobsonian telescopes feature fully motorized mechanics to locate and track thousands of celestial objects automatically. Purists might argue that these "fancy" Dobsonian telescopes take some of the fun out of navigating the night sky using nothing but your finderscope and the lazy-susan style mount. Originally conceived as a simple, no-frills telescope, the Dobsonian has, as of late, evolved into a more sophisticated device. Its "rocker box" mount is easy to manipulate and holds the tube like a cannon. For about twice as much as the XT6, you will get all of the same features and accessories but in the 10 model. The XT6 is the 6, the XT8 the 8 and the XT10 the 10 variations of the same design.
DOBSONIAN TELESCOPE SERIES
The mount is really what distinguishes the Dobsonian from a standard Newtonian telescope. Orion has made their XT series of Dobsonian telescopes in a family that includes the XT6, XT8, and Orion SkyQuest XT10 Classic varieties. This means there is a concave mirror at the end of the telescope tube and an eyepiece on the side, toward the front.

Specifically, the Dobsonian telescope is a reflecting telescope with a Newtonian optical design. Of course, Dobsonians truly shine under dark skies in remote observing locations, but when John Dobson first invented this telescope, he used it to provide stunning views of the planets and other objects to families on the streets of urban San Francisco. (I definitely do not want a computerized mount. These telescopes are affectionately known among astronomers as "light buckets" thanks to their bucket-shaped design and their superb ability to concentrate light and deliver it to the eyepiece. of 3 - Dobsonian Telescope Questions - posted in Reflectors: Hi All, I am thinking it may be time to step up from my childhood refractor (I have had a lot of fun with it over the years), and it seems that the general advice is that an 8 Dobsonian is a decent choice. offers a wide selection of Dobsonian telescopes from ultra-portable tabletop designs to monster telescope systems measuring 16" in aperture.ĭobsonian telescopes are known for their large aperture and low magnification, which makes them ideal for observing faint objects in a very wide field of view. More than half a century later, Dobsonian telescopes are still a favorite among experienced stargazers for providing the hands-down best value-per-dollar on the telescope market. In the 1960s, John Dobson's simple new telescope design revolutionized the hobby of amateur astronomy and brought "sidewalk astronomy" to the masses.
