Southern Gables

Which Telescope is best?

I have 500 dollars and i plan on buying one of these two. This will be my first telescope so im a rookie at this.

*A skyquest XT10 classic dobsonian (479.95)
*A skyquest XT8 intelliScope with object locator (499.95)

1.) Is an object locator worth losing the 10″ to an 8″
2.) would these telescopes come with a stand to hold them? im buying them from telescope.com which I know has a good reputation.
3.) How far from the city should i be to get a better view of the sky? I currently live 10 miles outside the city.
4.) Any thing else a rookie should know?

I do not believe in beginner telescopes. Buy what you’ll use. Here are the 3 P’s for picking a telescope. Price, Performance, and Portability. Price and portability can be show stoppers. Price less so, since you may be able to wait until you have more cash. But a scope that doesn’t fit in your car is stuck where ever it ends up. That leaves performance. For deep space, what you need is as much light gathering as possible. That’s usually a Newtonian reflector.

I have the xt10i – with the object locator. One of my buddies has the xt8i, and we did a comparison using a half dozen objects one night. I was quite impressed with the xt8i. The xt10i was brighter, of course, but it was hard to tell if there was any more detail. The 8″ scope is a little smaller and lighter. It’s a bonus.

But i’ve also borrowed a club scope – a 10 inch with no object locator. I spent an hour failing to find two galaxies. I got the field stars, just no galaxies. Well, my back yard has light pollution on par with the worst on Earth. But with the computer, i can look at ten objects an hour. I’m only limited by how long i look at them, not by finding them. In a single night i discovered that i can not see much in the way of galaxies – just m31, m81, and sometimes m80, from my yard. I can see tons of stars, double stars and clusters. With an oxygen 3 filters, i can see most nebulae.

If you must, buy the xt8i. You’ll be able to use the oxygen 3 filter – which eats alot of light. But you might buy the xt10 IntelliScope without the computer, and buy the computer when you have the cash. But don’t get the SkyQuest classic. It’s not upgradeable to use the computer.

These telescopes come with a Dob mount. They’re very stable. My xt10i settles down to rock solid in a fraction of a second after you stop manhandling it. It is essentially unaffected by wind. If you buy them mail order, as i did, you’ll have to assemble the mount. Be careful, reread the instructions two or three times, don’t force anything, and it will work. The trickiest bit is getting the azimuth encoder tightened enough, but not overtightened.

The Clear Sky Clock is your friend. Find an observatory near you. There’s a light pollution map, and you can find where it’s good and where it’s less good.

Have you checked out a local astronomy club?

Orion SkyQuest XT8 Classic Jupiter Midnight 9/24/2010

Orion SkyQuest XT8i IntelliScope Dobsonian Telescope $599.99 Orion’s SkyQuest XT8i Intelliscope Dobsonian Computerized Telescope combines powerful 203mm-diameter reflector optics with point-and-view simplicity in a nicely portable package. With the included IntelliScope Computerized Object Locator, the amateur stargazer can pinpoint the location of 14,000+ celestial wonders stored in the IntelliScope’s databank. It’s like having your own personal tour guide…

Orion SkyQuest XT8 Classic Dobsonian Reflector Telescope $359.99 Our classic XT8 isn’t just great bang for the buck, it’s a veritable explosion of telescope value. It combines powerful parabolic optics with the ultimate in mechanical stability. The SkyQuest XT8 features an 8″ parabolic primary mirror that will tease out detail in nebulas, resolve stars in globular clusters, and reveal subtle structure in galaxies. The enameled steel optical tube sports a 2″ alu…

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Orion SkyQuest XT4.5 Classic Dobsonian Telescope $209.99 Without spending a fortune you can get a telescope that will not only satisfy the kids, but the kid in you! Our SkyQuest XT4.5 is a quality telescope, with point-and-view simplicity that makes it easy to use and makes stargazing fun! The optical performance is far and away better than flimsy department store models. Its 4.5″ (114mm) mirror, housed in an enameled steel tube, gathers 260% more starl…

Orion XT 6 Classic $269.99 Ships to the U.S. including Alaska, Hawaii, and Puerto Rico. Orion SkyQuest XT6 Classic Dobsonian Telescope Classic entry-level scope at an amazing priceCrisp images from the craters of the moon to the edge of the galaxyBig-aperture optics + point-and-view ease of use = out-of-this-world valueWhen the moon is in the seventh house and Jupiter aligns with Mars, you’ll be able to see it allOne-year…

Orion SkyQuest XT8 Classic Dobsonian Telescope $349.95 Orion SkyQuest XT8 Classic Dobsonian Telescope now at The Space Store.

Orion XT8 Classic Dobsonian Telescope & Beginner Barlow Kit $399.99 The Orion SkyQuest XT8 Classic Dobsonian Telescope combines powerful optics with the ultimate in mechanical simplicity and stability. It features a precision 8-inch (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-inch, 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 telescope effortlessly to your target object anywhere in the sky. The 46-inch-long enameled steel tube glides on its sturdy Dobsonian telescope base. A gentle push or pull on the navigation knob puts you right in the observing pocket. The SkyQuest XT8 Classic features a 2-inch Crayford style focuser that accepts both 1.25-inch and 2-inch accessories. Speaking of accessoires, the XT8 comes with a host of great ones. You get a Sirius Plossl 25mm telescope 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 SkyQuest XT8 Classic Dobsonian Telescope lives up to its billing by Astronomy magazine as a work of art.

Orion SkyQuest XT4.5 Classic Dobsonian Telescope $249.95 The Orion SkyQuest XT4.5 Classic Dobsonian Telescope is now at The Space Store. A great beginner telescope at a great price.

Orion SkyQuest XT6 Classic Dobsonian Telescope $299.95 Orion SkyQuest XT6 Classic Dobsonian Telescope is now at The Space Store. We carry

Orion SkyQuest XT10 Classic Dobsonian Telescope $549.99 Orion(r) SkyQuest(TM) XT Classic Dobsonians 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″ rack and pinion 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.

Orion SkyQuest XX14i IntelliScope Truss Dobsonian Telescope $1899.99 Following on the heels of our critically acclaimed SkyQuest XX12i comes the mighty SkyQuest XX14i IntelliScope Truss Dobsonian. Featuring colossal 14″ diffraction-limited optics and an innovative design optimized from top to bottom for remarkable portability, the XX14i delivers an exciting level of performance and ease of use, at a price that’s thousands less than boutique Dobsonian telescopes. The XX14i turns the night sky into an endless playground of deep-space surprises. With 36% more light grasp than 12″ and 96% more than 10″ aperture optics, the XX14i literally opens up the heavens to new visual adventure. And with the IntelliScope computerized object location system as standard equipment that adventure starts with any object in its 14,000-object database. The XX14i adds a convenient new twist to truss Dob portability by allowing easy disassembly of both the optical tube and the base into smaller, easily manageable pieces that can fit into even a compact car! Size is no longer a barrier to big-telescope ownership! Fully equipped with a dual-speed (11:1) 2″ Crayford focuser, navigation knob, and deluxe accessories, the XX14i is ready to go… wherever you want to take it. So get the telescope that redefines the “big Dob” experience. Order your SkyQuest XX14i IntelliScope Truss Dobsonian today! One-year limited warranty.

Orion SkyQuest XT8i IntelliScope Dobsonian Telescope $599.99 Orion’s SkyQuest XT8i Intelliscope Dobsonian Computerized Telescope combines powerful 203mm-diameter reflector optics with point-and-view simplicity in a nicely portable package. With the included IntelliScope Computerized Object Locator, the amateur stargazer can pinpoint the location of 14,000+ celestial wonders stored in the IntelliScope’s databank. It’s like having your own personal tour guide to the universe! The optical tube houses an 8″ (203mm) parabolic mirror and rides on our state-of-the-art Dobsonian base, equipped with springless CorrecTension friction control for smooth movement and always-perfect tube balance. One-year limited warranty.

Orion SkyQuest XX12i IntelliScope Truss Dobsonian Telescope $1299.99 If the idea of a big-aperture telescope appeals to you, but the portability issue has kept you on the fence, you can hop off it now. We’ve got the perfect solution – Orion’s SkyQuest XX12i IntelliScope Truss Tube Dobsonian Telescope. It’s a deep-sky observer’s dream scope, offering jumbo 12″ optics (f/4.9); a stylish, reduced-weight base outfitted with IntelliScope object location technology; and a sturdy truss tube design that disassembles in about a minute into compact, easily portable components. Finally, a deluxe, large-aperture Dobsonian telescope that fits comfortably in a compact car for transport to your favorite observing site! The eight trusses (four captive pairs) provide more-rigid support than other designs in this category. We’ve also outfitted the XX12i base with nothing but the best materials: EbonyStar laminate and VirginTeflon azimuth bearing surfaces provide silky smooth azimuth motion. Equipped with dual-speed (11:1) 2″ Crayford focuser, large 8″ altitude bearings, a full set of great accessories, a computerized database of 14,000 celestial objects — and a price just north of a grand! — the XX12i is one killer telescope deal. It’s the big Dobsonian you’ve dreamed of owning, and now you can take it with you wherever dark skies beckon! Get the practical, amazingly affordable Orion SkyQuest XX12i Computerized Dobsonian telescope and hit the road to astronomical adventure. One-year limited warranty.

Orion SkyQuest XT10g Computerized GoTo Dobsonian Telescope $1249.99 Orion Dobsonians have always been known for superb optical and mechanical quality, wonderful ease of use, and remarkably affordable prices. One other thing they – and almost all other Dobs on the market – have had in common: you pushed the telescope to your observing target by hand. Until now. Orion is pleased to herald another giant leap in Dobsonian evolution with the introduction of the SkyQuest XTg series of fully motor driven GoTo Dobsonians. Now, pointing a Dob to even the most elusive of NGC curiosities is as easy as pushing a button or two on the XTg Dobsonians’ illuminated hand controller. High-torque servo motors guided by two pairs of high-resolution encoders then slew the telescope right to your object of interest – any of over 42,000 objects in the GoTo controller’s database. No more nudging the telescope tube continuously to keep the object from drifting out of the field of view, either. The XTg automatically tracks the object’s motion, keeping it centered in the eyepiece while you savor the view. What’s more, the closed-loop electronics of the XTg let you move the telescope manually – or endure the accidental bump – without losing orientation for accurate, automated GoTo pointing!

Orion SkyQuest XT8g Computerized GoTo Dobsonian Telescope $999.99 Orion Dobsonians have always been known for superb optical and mechanical quality, wonderful ease of use, and remarkably affordable prices. One other thing they – and almost all other Dobs on the market – have had in common: you pushed the telescope to your observing target by hand. Until now. Orion is pleased to herald another giant leap in Dobsonian evolution with the introduction of the SkyQuest XTg series of fully motorized GoTo Dobsonians. Now, pointing a Dob to even the most elusive of NGC curiosities is as easy as pushing a button or two on the XTg Dobsonians’ illuminated hand controller. High-torque servo motors guided by two pairs of high-resolution encoders then slew the telescope right to your object of interest – any of over 42,000 objects in the GoTo controller’s database. No more nudging the telescope tube continuously to keep the object from drifting out of the field of view, either. The XTg automatically tracks the object’s motion, keeping it centered in the eyepiece while you savor the view. What’s more, the closed-loop electronics of the XTg let you move the telescope manually – or endure the accidental bump – without losing orientation for accurate, automated GoTo pointing!

Orion SkyQuest XT12g GoTo Dobsonian Telescope $1699.99 Orion Dobsonians have always been known for superb optical and mechanical quality, wonderful ease of use, and remarkably affordable prices. One other thing they – and almost all other Dobs on the market – have had in common: you pushed the telescope to your observing target by hand. Until now. Orion is pleased to herald another giant leap in Dobsonian evolution with the introduction of the SkyQuest XTg series of fully motor driven GoTo Dobsonians. Now, pointing a Dob to even the most elusive of NGC curiosities is as easy as pushing a button or two on the XTg Dobsonians’ illuminated hand controller. High-torque servo motors guided by two pairs of high-resolution encoders then slew the telescope right to your object of interest – any of over 42,000 objects in the GoTo controller?s database. No more nudging the telescope tube continuously to keep the object from drifting out of the field of view, either. The XTg automatically tracks the object’s motion, keeping it centered in the eyepiece while you savor the view. What’s more, the closed-loop electronics of the XTg let you move the telescope manually – or endure the accidental bump – without losing orientation for accurate, automated GoTo pointing!

Orion Case for SkyQuest XT4.5 Dobsonian Telescope $69.99 We offer a rugged, soft custom case to fit the SkyQuest XT4.5. It is fully padded on all sides to provide maximum protection of your instrument. Our padded scope cases provide a convenient means for transporting and storing your scope. It’ll stay cleaner and last longer, free of dings and scrapes. They’re made of heavy, water-resistant polyester/nylon material with padding sewn into the inner lining. Full-length zipper allows easy access. Handle straps fit nicely in the hand and most are long enough to sling over a shoulder, too. Comfortable to carry, forgiving of bumps and bruises, and more space-efficient than boxy hard cases, our scope cases are a smart buy for any telescope owner. Get yours today! One-year limited warranty.

Set of Orion SkyQuest XX12 Padded Telescope Cases $239.99 The beauty of a big truss tube Dob is that it can be disassembled into conveniently sized components for easy transport. And transporting the SkyQuest XX12 will be much easier, and the components much better protected, with this set of cases designed just for the XX12. The set includes three cases plus a secondary mirror cover. Each case is made of durable, waterproof, 600-denier polyester/nylon material with a urethane coating and a 100% nylon lining, and double stitched for extra strength. There are separate padded cases for the upper and lower optical tube sections as well as a case for the truss poles. The poles slip into separate compartments to prevent direct contact among them. The truss case attaches to the lower optical tube case with a hook-and-loop fastener so the two can be carried together as one. The lower tube case also has a zippered pocket to hold accessories. All the cases have carrying handles. Lastly, the soft nylon secondary mirror sock is included to keep the mirror free of dust when the scope is idle. Keep your SkyQuest XX12 Truss Tube Dob looking like new and get it to your observing site more easily and securely with this set of custom cases. Made in the U.S.A.

Set of Orion SkyQuest XX14 Padded Telescope Cases $289.99 The beauty of a big truss tube Dob is that it can be disassembled into conveniently sized components for easy transport. And transporting the SkyQuest XX14 will be much easier, and the components much better protected, with this set of cases designed just for the XX14. The set includes three cases plus a secondary mirror cover. Each case is made of durable, waterproof, 600-denier polyester/nylon material with a urethane coating and a 100% nylon lining, and double stitched for extra strength. There are separate padded cases for the upper and lower optical tube sections as well as a case for the truss poles. The poles slip into separate compartments to prevent direct contact among them. The lower tube case also has a zippered pocket to hold accessories. All the cases have carrying handles. Lastly, the soft nylon secondary mirror sock is included to keep the mirror free of dust when the scope is idle. Keep your SkyQuest XX14 Truss Tube Dob looking like new and get it to your observing site more easily and securely with this set of custom cases. Made in the U.S.A.

Orion Light Shroud for SkyQuest XX12 Dobsonian Telescope $79.99 Black shrouds are usually so funereal – but not when you’re talking truss tube Dobs! For the best performance from any truss Dob, a shroud is a must. This one, custom designed for the SkyQuest XX12, is made of a stretchy nylon blend material that fits like a glove over the truss poles of the XX12, fastening with thick elastic bands on both ends. The water-resistant, opaque black fabric blocks stray light from entering the optical path, thus improving image contrast. It’s also breathable, which minimizes unwanted vibration of the scope in breezy conditions. Use of the shroud will lessen the accumulation of dust and dirt on the mirrors during use, and will help prevent dew from forming on them. Made in the U.S.A.

Orion XT10 Classic Dobsonian Telescope & Beginner Barlow Kit $599.99 It’s no wonder customers heap 5-star ratings on this gentle giant. For not only does its jumbo-sized 10-inch optics and uncomplicated design bring a “new level of joy to simple observing,” as raved Astronomy magazine, but it’s also the most affordable quality 10″ Dobsonian on the market. The SkyQuest XT10 Classic Dobsonian telescope isn’t just a good bang for the buck, it’s a supernova of telescope value! Our SkyQuest XT10 Classic Dobsonian gives you the deep-space thrills without the deep-pocket frills. We’ve kept it lean and mean to keep its price low for tight budgets. But rest assured, the XT10 Classic Dob come fully equipped for adventure, whether you’re a beginning stargazer or are graduating to a more capable telescope. The XT10 features 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-inch Crayford focuser, EZ Finder II aiming device, 25mm Sirius Plossl telescope eyepiece (1.25-inch), 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 with the Orion SkyQuest XT10 Classic Dobsonian Telescope – and boost your viewing magnification with the included Beginner Barlow Kit!

Orion XT6 Classic Dobsonian Telescope & Beginner Barlow Kit $349.99 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 Orion SkyQuest XT6 Classic Dobsonian Telescope meets all the criteria – in spades. Astronomy magazine called it “an excellent entry-level Dobsonian telescope for an adult.” It’s a telescope that opens up limitless observing possibilities. With its big 150mm diameter parabolic primary mirror the SkyQuest XT6 Classic Dobsonian Telescope collects nearly 80% more light than a 4.5-inch reflector, rendering brighter images and greater detail in deep-sky nebulas and star clusters. And the 1200mm focal length gives the telescope ample power to zoom in on subtle planetary and lunar features. The 45-inch-long enameled-steel optical tube glides with silky smoothness on the cabinet-quality Dobsonian wood base. You just point the telescope 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-inch rack-and-pinion focuser, an EZ Finder II reflex sight, collimation cap, and a 25mm Sirius Plössl telescope eyepiece. The mirror is center-marked for precise collimation.

Orion SkyQuest XX12i Dobsonian Telescope, Shroud & Case Set $1499.99 If the idea of a big-aperture telescope appeals to you, but the portability issue has kept you on the fence, you can hop off it now. We’ve got the perfect solution – the SkyQuest XX12i IntelliScope Truss Tube Dob. It’s a deep-sky observer’s dream scope, offering jumbo 12″ Pyrex optics (f/4.9); a stylish, reduced-weight base outfitted with IntelliScope object location technology; and a sturdy truss tube design that disassembles in about a minute into compact, easily portable components. Finally, a deluxe, large-aperture Dobsonian that fits comfortably in a compact car for transport to your favorite observing site! The eight trusses (four captive pairs) provide more-rigid support than other designs in this category. We’ve also outfitted the XX12i base with nothing but the best materials: EbonyStar laminate and Virgin Teflon azimuth bearing surfaces provide silky smooth azimuth motion. Equipped with dual-speed (11:1) 2″ Crayford focuser, large 8″ altitude bearings, full set of great accessories, a computerized database of 14,000 celestial objects — and a price just north of a grand! — the XX12i is one killer telescope deal. One-year limited warranty. Package includes a custom designed water-resistant shroud and three waterproof, double-stitched polyester/nylon cases especially designed for the SkyQuest XX12i.