The Dobsonian mount consists of a sturdy, yet lightweight base that allows the telescope to rotate about both axes, providing a complete range of motion. The telescope itself is mounted on a Teflon bearing system that allows it to glide smoothly and effortlessly across the night sky.
The beauty of the Dobsonian design is in its simplicity. There are no complex gears or computers required to operate it, making it the perfect choice for beginners and experienced astronomers alike.
There are a number of different Dobsonian telescopes on the market, but we’ve compiled a list of what we believe are the best 12 options available:
1. Orion SkyQuest XX14i IntelliScope Truss Tube Dobsonian Telescope
2. Meade Instruments 209006 Infinity 102mm AZ Refractor Telescope
3. Celestron NexStar 8SE Schmidt-Cassegrain Telescope
4. Orion 8945 SkyQuest XT8 Classic Dobsonian Telescope
5. Sky-Watcher Evolution 6″ED APO Refractor Telescope
6. Zhumell Z8 Deluxe Dobsonian Reflector Telescope
7. Celestron 31507 AstroMaster 130EQMD PowerSeeker Telescope Kit 8. Orion 10034 GoScope II 70mm Refractor Travel Telescope Kit
9. Meade LightBridge 16″ Truss Tube Dobsonian Telescope
10. Celestron 22082 PowerSeeker 80EQ Telescope Kit (White) 11. Orion 10943 SpaceProbe 3 EQ Reflector Telescope 12.
Our Top Picks For Best 12 Dobsonian
Best 12 Dobsonian Guidance
Zhumell – 12-inch Dobsonian Reflector Telescope – Large Aperture for Crisp, Bright Images – Solid Base Construction with Handle for Easy Transport – Ideal Astronomical Telescope
Telescopes are one of the coolest things ever. There is something so amazing about being able to see things that are so far away and so much detail. The Zhumell Z12 is a great telescope for anyone who wants to get into astronomy or just wants to have a really good view of the night sky. The telescope has high-quality optics that allow for crisp, bright images. The Dobsonian base is sturdy and will last for years. The integrated carry handle makes it easy to transport. The 12″ primary mirror gives you a great view of planets, galaxies, nebulae, and more. The built-in cooling fan helps cool the primary mirror quickly so you can get the clearest view possible. The kit comes with a 2″ 30mm eyepiece for wide-field views, a 125″ 9mm eyepiece for higher magnification, a 2″ focuser with 125″ adapter, a 8×50 right angle finderscope, a 125″ Moon filter, a collimator cap, and more.
Common Questions on Zhumell – 12-inch Dobsonian Reflector Telescope – Large Aperture for Crisp, Bright Images – Solid Base Construction with Handle for Easy Transport – Ideal Astronomical Telescope
• What are the key features of the Zhumell 12-inch Dobsonian Reflector Telescope?The Zhumell 12-inch Dobsonian Reflector Telescope features a large aperture for crisp, bright images, solid base construction with handle for easy transport, and is ideal for astronomical observing.
• How large is the aperture on the Zhumell 12-inch Dobsonian Reflector Telescope?
The aperture on the Zhumell 12-inch Dobsonian Reflector Telescope is 12-inches.
• What is the ideal astronomical use for the Zhumell 12-inch Dobsonian Reflector Telescope?
The Zhumell 12-inch Dobsonian Reflector Telescope is ideal for astronomical observing.
Why We Like This
• SUPERIOR OPTICS: The Zhumell Z12 features high quality, coated glass optics that gathers a substantial amount of light and produces crisp, bright images.• STURDY DOBSONIAN BASE: The durable Dobsonian base will stand up to years of use from public star parties to camping trips and beyond Use the integrated carry handle for easy transport.• 12” PRIMARY MIRROR: Our Newtonian reflector telescope is equipped with a large, 12 inch primary mirror for stunning views of planets, galaxies, nebulae, and more.• BUILT IN COOLING FAN: Cool the primary mirror to the ambient outdoor temperature faster so you can enjoy the sharpest views sooner.• ACCESSORIES INCLUDED: This telescope kit comes complete with a 2” 30mm eyepiece for wide field views, a 125” 9mm eyepiece for higher magnification, a 2” focuser with 125” adapter so you can use a variety of astronomical eyepieces, a 8×50 right angle finderscope, a 125” Moon filter, a collimator cap, and more.
Sky-Watcher Flextube 300 Dobsonian 12-inch Collapsible Large Aperture Telescope – Portable, Easy to Use, Perfect for Beginners, White/Black (S11740)
The Sky-Watcher Flextube 300 Dobsonian is a great choice for anyone looking for a powerful, yet portable telescope. This 12-inch Dobsonian features a unique collapsible design that makes it easy to transport, while still providing excellent views of the night sky. The 94% reflective mirrors provide bright and clear views, while the steel needle bearings ensure smooth movements. This telescope also comes with all the accessories you need to get started, including two eyepieces, a finder scope, and a focuser.
Common Questions on Sky-Watcher Flextube 300 Dobsonian 12-inch Collapsible Large Aperture Telescope – Portable, Easy to Use, Perfect for Beginners, White/Black (S11740)
• What is the aperture of the Sky-Watcher Flextube 300 Dobsonian 12-inch Collapsible Large Aperture Telescope?The telescope has a 12-inch aperture.
• What is the focal length of the telescope?
The telescope has a focal length of 1500 mm.
• How long is the telescope?
The telescope is 41 inches long.
• How much does the telescope weigh?
The telescope weighs 30 pounds.
Why We Like This
• Large aperture for bright, bold views• Innovative collapsible design for portability• Proprietary tension control handles for accurate movement• 94% reflective mirrors for exceptional views• Steel needle bearings for smooth movement
Additional Product Information
Color | White/Black |
Height | 21 Inches |
Length | 41 Inches |
Weight | 35 Pounds |
Explore Scientific 12in/305mm Truss Tube Dobsonian Telescope, DOB1245-00
A Dobsonian telescope is an altazimuth-mounted Newtonian reflector designed to give the observer the most light possible for a given aperture. The Dobsonian’s simple design belies its excellent optomechanical performance. At the heart of every Dobsonian is a primary mirror. The Explore Scientific 12″ 305mm Truss Tube Dobsonian Telescope uses a1525mm focal length, f/5 primary mirror. The 305mm primary has a relatively short focal length, which gives this Dobsonian a very wide field of view. Coupled with its large aperture, the 12″ Dobsonian is an excellent choice for deep-sky observing.
The Dobsonian mount is a simple altazimuth design that is easy to use and very portable. The Dobsonian’s unique truss-tube design makes it easy to set up and take down, and its compact size makes it easy to transport. The Dobsonian mount also provides for smooth, easy movements in all directions, making it easy to keep your target in the eyepiece.
The Explore Scientific 12″ 305mm Truss Tube Dobsonian Telescope comes with a 1 year limited warranty and a lifetime unlimited warranty (with registration).
Common Questions on Explore Scientific 12in/305mm Truss Tube Dobsonian Telescope, DOB1245-00
• How large is the telescope?The telescope is 12in/305mm.
• How much does the telescope weigh?
The telescope weighs 55lbs.
• What is the focal length of the telescope?
The focal length of the telescope is 1245mm.
• How many eyepieces does the telescope come with?
The telescope comes with two eyepieces.
Why We Like This
• Large aperture for great light gathering power• Short focal length for wide field views• Excellent optics for astronomical observing• Dobsonian mount for easy setup and use• 1 year limited warranty with registration
Additional Product Information
Color | Black |
Height | 18 Inches |
Length | 40 Inches |
Weight | 85 Pounds |
Orion 15207 Scope Cloak 12-Inch to 16-Inch Dobsonians
Common Questions on Orion 15207 Scope Cloak 12-Inch to 16-Inch Dobsonians
• What is the magnification of the Orion 15207 Scope Cloak 12-Inch to 16-Inch Dobsonians?The magnification of the Orion 15207 Scope Cloak 12-Inch to 16-Inch Dobsonians is 120x.
• What is the angular resolution of the Orion 15207 Scope Cloak 12-Inch to 16-Inch Dobsonians?
The angular resolution of the Orion 15207 Scope Cloak 12-Inch to 16-Inch Dobsonians is 1.33 arcseconds.
• What is the focal length of the Orion 15207 Scope Cloak 12-Inch to 16-Inch Dobsonians?
The focal length of the Orion 15207 Scope Cloak 12-Inch to 16-Inch Dobsonians is 1200mm.
• What is the focal ratio of the Orion 15207 Scope Cloak 12-Inch to 16-Inch Dobsonians?
The focal ratio of the Orion 15207 Scope Cloak 12-Inch to 16-Inch Dobsonians is f/8.
• What is the weight of the Orion 15207 Scope Cloak 12-Inch to 16-
Why We Like This
Glass Solar Filter 12.50” (ST1250G) Glass Solar Filter Fits: Celestron: C11 SCT, StarHopper 10″ Dobsonian; Meade 10” Lightbridge Dobsonian; Orion: SkyQuest XT10, Atlas 10;
If you want to view the sun with your own eyes, using a solar filter is the safest way to do it. GlassSolarFilter’s Glass Solar Filter 12.50” (ST1250G) is a great option for those with Celestron C11 SCT, StarHopper 10 Dobsonian, Meade 10 Lightbridge Dobsonian, or Orion SkyQuest XT10/Atlas 10 telescopes. This filter has an outside diameter (OD) of 12 1/8” to 12 3/8” (308mm-314mm), making it a great fit for these models.
Not only will you be able to see sun spots and solar eclipses with this filter, but you’ll also be able to safely view the total solar eclipse taking place in the USA on April 8, 2024. With over 15 years of experience, GlassSolarFilter is a company you can trust when it comes to making high-quality solar filters.
Common Questions on Glass Solar Filter 12.50” (ST1250G) Glass Solar Filter Fits: Celestron: C11 SCT, StarHopper 10″ Dobsonian; Meade 10” Lightbridge Dobsonian; Orion: SkyQuest XT10, Atlas 10;
• What is the aperture size of the Glass Solar Filter 12.50” (ST1250G)?The aperture size of the Glass Solar Filter 12.50” (ST1250G) is 12.50”.
• What is the focal length of the Glass Solar Filter 12.50” (ST1250G)?
The focal length of the Glass Solar Filter 12.50” (ST1250G) is unknown.
• Does the Glass Solar Filter 12.50” (ST1250G) include a eyepiece?
No, the Glass Solar Filter 12.50” (ST1250G) does not include a eyepiece.
• What is the weight of the Glass Solar Filter 12.50” (ST1250G)?
The weight of the Glass Solar Filter 12.50” (ST1250G) is unknown.
• What is the warranty period of the Glass Solar Filter 12.50” (ST1250G)?
The warranty period of the Glass Solar Filter 12.50” (ST1250G) is one year.
Why We Like This
• Aids in Viewing the Sun with Your Own Eyes• Features Sun Spots, Solar Eclipses, and More• Fits Celestron, Meade, and Orion Models• Great for Eclipse Viewing• 15 Years of Safe Solar Filter Development
Benefits of 12 Dobsonian
Assuming you would like an article discussing the benefits of a Dobsonian telescope:
A Dobsonian telescope is a Newtonian reflector on an altazimuth mount, which makes it ideal for amateur astronomers who want to observe deep-sky objects such as nebulae, galaxies, and star clusters. The design was pioneered by John Dobson in 1965, and has since become one of the most popular types of telescopes among amateurs.
Dobsonian telescopes are very easy to set up and use, which makes them great for beginners. They are also relatively inexpensive compared to other types of telescopes. Another advantage is that Dobsonians have a large aperture (the diameter of the primary mirror), which allows them to gather more light than smaller telescopes. This results in sharper images and brighter deep-sky objects.
Buying Guide for Best 12 Dobsonian
There are a few things to consider when purchasing a dobsonian telescope. First, decide what size telescope you would like. The most popular sizes are 12″, 10″, and 8″. Second, think about how much money you want to spend. Dobsonian telescopes can range in price from around $200 to over $2000. Third, consider the accessories you might want with your telescope such as eyepieces, filters, focusers, etc. Finally, find a reputable dealer who can help you make your purchase.
Here is a list of the best 12″ Dobsonian telescopes:
1. Orion SkyQuest XX12i IntelliScope Dobsonian Telescope
2. Sky-Watcher Heritage 100P Flextube Dobsonian Telescope
3. Zhumell Z12 Deluxe Dobsonian Reflector Telescope
4. Meade Instruments Infinity Series 12-Inch Aperture Schmidt-Cassegrain Telescope
5. Celestron NexStar 8 SE Schmidt-Cassegrain Celestial Telescope
Frequently Asked Question
What is the best Dobsonian telescope for beginners?
The best Dobsonian telescope for beginners is the Orion SkyQuest XT6 Classic Dobsonian Telescope. It is a great all-around telescope that is easy to use and set up.
What is the best Dobsonian telescope for amateur astronomers?
The best Dobsonian telescope for amateur astronomers is the Orion SkyQuest XX14i IntelliScope. It is a powerful telescope with a large aperture that is great for viewing faint objects in the night sky. The IntelliScope feature makes it easy to find and track objects in the sky, and the included eyepieces provide great views of the planets and stars.
What is the best Dobsonian telescope for planetary observing?
There is no definitive answer to this question as it depends on a number of factors, including budget, observing conditions, and personal preferences. Some of the best Dobsonian telescopes for planetary observing include the Meade 16-inch LightBridge, the Orion SkyQuest XX16g, and the Sky-Watcher Heritage 130p.
What is the best Dobsonian telescope for deep-sky observing?
The best Dobsonian telescope for deep-sky observing is the Celestron 14-inch Dobsonian Telescope. It has a large aperture and a long focal length, making it ideal for observing distant objects.
Conclusion
There are a lot of good things about the Orion SkyQuest XT12i IntelliScope Dobsonian Telescope. The large aperture lets in a lot of light, making for great views of celestial objects. The two-element optics produce images that are clear and sharp. And the computerized object location system makes it easy to find and track whatever you want to look at. All of these factors make the Orion SkyQuest XT12i IntelliScope Dobsonian Telescope a great choice for anyone who wants to get serious about astronomy.