dobsonian telescope
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Orion Three-Fan Cooling System for Convex-Back Dobsonians
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DescriptionThis time-saving cooling system features three fans which have been custom designed to fit the Orion XX14g GoTo Dobsonian primary mirror cell. All three small fans work in tandem to help reduce the amount of time needed for the telescope to reach thermal equilibrium with the ambient air temperature of your observing location. You'll enjoy peak performance from your XX14g GoTo Dobsonian without having to wait as long for the air inside the telescope to cool down to the same temperature as your stargazing site. Consisting of three 12-volt DC, 0.12A fans which are wired in parallel, the Orion Three-Fan Cooling System for Convex-Back Dobsonians features a single 35" long power cable splitter for convenient use. Each fan boasts 33.4 CFM (cubic foot per minute) air flow to help significantly accelerate cooling of your Dobsonian telescope's optics. The fans operate quietly without vibrating, and they mount easily in threaded holes on the the XX14g primary mirror cell with included hardware. For best results, run the Orion Three-Fan Cooling System prior to using the reflector telescope. You can also use the cooling fans intermittently between observations to compensate for any ambient temperature changes that may occur. Power is supplied using the included battery holder which accepts 8 D-cell batteries (batteries not included). Since the Three-Fan Cooling System current draw is a low 0.36 amps, a full battery holder with 8 D-cells will provide over 24 hours of use. Features
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How to Use a Telescope - Comprehensive Telescope Kits
For the budding stargazer, the most important instrument in his inventory should be a telescope. Once this debate is resolved, the next question is where to source this all important instrument from. You can work from scratch, buy all the raw material required, and build your own telescope, or you can take the easier and more practical way out and buy yourself a telescope kit which contains every last thing you will need to make you telescope and then just assemble the supplies together. It is the telescope kit that is the recommended option for a beginner. Ideally, only professional should attempt to build a telescope out of practically nothing. Telescope kits not only come with everything you need to build a good telescope, they also contain a descriptive instruction manual that will lead you through each step of the telescope construction process.
The commonly available kits have the elements and the guides for making a Dobsonian telescope. This telescope uses a secondary mirror in addition to a primary mirror. The other optical constituents of this telescope are a finder scope, an eye piece, a focuser, and the mirror support system. The housing compartment for all these elements is not included as part of the kit.
Using such kits to construct your own telescope is graced with numerous advantages. Most of these advantageous highlights are meant for beginners, who can save both time and money with this option. A complete kit allows the builder to save the time that would otherwise be spent searching high and low for the correct components. The average price of a telescope kit is $200 to $300. They can be purchased at hobby centers everywhere, and if you find a discount, the better bargains you will get.
For teachers who need a demonstration to incite the interest of youngsters and get them hooked onto an interesting hobby such as this, telescope kits are a good teaching aid. It is possible to use such a kit for classes in school and demonstrate the whole process to the students. There is no age restriction for this ho9bby, making it a good hobby for anyone interested in it.
Telescope kits generally are aimed at beginners, amateurs just starting out on their telescope love affair, or at students of the astronomy who intend to pursue a profession in the field someday. To build a telescope using such a kit, you do not need a degree in astronomy or even the experience of an expert. Absolutely any novice is capable of constructing a decent instrument with the instructions given. Manuals that come with the kits, are step-by-step guides, and even have diagrams that explain the methods detailed. Affordably price, and attractively marketed, these kits can pack a pretty powerful telescope and are a lure for any beginner.
It takes only 2-3 days to have an operational, fully functional telescope in your hands after you get your kit. The total work-hours required for it are hardly 15 or 20 from your time. You can work for an hour a day or work a marathon stretch over two days to complete your project. A lazy weekend is the best time to get started. There is never the complication that arises from missing a crucial element during purchase, because these kits always have everything. If you find something damaged, you can have it replaced at the store you bought the kit from. However, it is best to run through the content of the kit and check for quality at the time you make the purchase.
If you are a beginner, do not think too much about basic construction from sourced raw material. If you are a professional, however, you have the options open to you.
About the Author
Uncover more interesting facts about telescopes as well as getting free hubble space telescope pictures when you visit http://www.howdotelescopeswork.com, the free portal dedicated to telescope making and usage.
I am considering making my own 6 or 8 inch dobsonian telescope. What's a good focal ratio for general views
Use whatever you can get: it doesn't make *that* much of a difference. 6 inch f/8 and 8 inch f/6 are stock items, and result in a reasonable tube length.
If you are planning to grind your own mirror, you should not have to ask here.
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 New Orion SkyQuest XT8 Classic Dobsonian Telescope  US $349.99
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 ODYSSEY 8 F 45 COULTER OPTICAL DOBSONIAN TELESCOPE US $325.00
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 New Orion SkyQuest XT6 Classic Dobsonian Telescope US $299.99
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 Bushnell ARES DOB 6in Dobsonian Telescope Base for 786100 US $59.95
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 Meade 12 LightBridge f 5 Truss Tube Dobsonian Telescope US $899.00
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 Sky Watcher 12 Inch Dobsonian Telescope S11740 US $995.00
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 Celestron SkyWatcher 12 Truss Tube Dobsonian Telescope US $995.00
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 8 Inch Deep Space Hunter Dobsonian Telescope Hardin Optical Co DSH 8 New Sealed US $500.00
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Orion Three-Fan Cooling System for Convex-Back Dobsonians
List Price: |
DescriptionThis time-saving cooling system features three fans which have been custom designed to fit the Orion XX14g GoTo Dobsonian primary mirror cell. All three small fans work in tandem to help reduce the amount of time needed for the telescope to reach thermal equilibrium with the ambient air temperature of your observing location. You'll enjoy peak performance from your XX14g GoTo Dobsonian without having to wait as long for the air inside the telescope to cool down to the same temperature as your stargazing site. Consisting of three 12-volt DC, 0.12A fans which are wired in parallel, the Orion Three-Fan Cooling System for Convex-Back Dobsonians features a single 35" long power cable splitter for convenient use. Each fan boasts 33.4 CFM (cubic foot per minute) air flow to help significantly accelerate cooling of your Dobsonian telescope's optics. The fans operate quietly without vibrating, and they mount easily in threaded holes on the the XX14g primary mirror cell with included hardware. For best results, run the Orion Three-Fan Cooling System prior to using the reflector telescope. You can also use the cooling fans intermittently between observations to compensate for any ambient temperature changes that may occur. Power is supplied using the included battery holder which accepts 8 D-cell batteries (batteries not included). Since the Three-Fan Cooling System current draw is a low 0.36 amps, a full battery holder with 8 D-cells will provide over 24 hours of use. Features
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Celestron 21024 FirstScope Telescope
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DescriptionIn 1609, world-renowned Italian scientist, Galileo Galilei, introduced an elementary telescope to the growing astronomy community, which sparked interest into the mysterious night sky for centuries to come. Four centuries later, in celebration of the International Year of Astronomy 2009, Celestron offers the portable FirstScope Telescope. The FirstScope pays tribute to Galileo Galilei and many of history's most notable astronomers and scientists by displaying their names around the optical tube. Honoring the contributions of these men and women, who brought us one step closer to understanding the universe around us. The FirstScope is a wonderful keepsake for anyone interested in astronomy. This quality Dobsonian style telescope features a 76mm aperture reflector optical tube. FirstScope is an ideal entry-level astronomical telescope. It is very easy to observe with; you simply navigate the night sky by moving the tube in the direction of the desired object, making the viewing experience a snap! The compact design makes it easy enough to take with you on your next outdoor adventure. FirstScope is also stylish enough to be a decorative fixture on your bookshelf or desk. Features
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Orion SkyQuest XT8 Classic Dobsonian Telescope
Sale Price: $349.99 |
DescriptionA powerful and capable telescope, the Orion SkyQuest XT8 Classic Dobsonian is one of our most popular reflectors due to its elegant combination of precision optics, mechanical simplicity, and rock-solid stability. You and your whole family will appreciate the bright, clear views of the night sky provided by the XT8 Classic. The Moon and planets of our solar system like Jupiter, Saturn, and Mars shine brightly in the SkyQuest XT8 Classic, allowing you to inspect them in detail. The XT8's 8-inch aperture is also large enough to gather a significant amount of light from more distant celestial objects for great views of sparkling star clusters, cloudy nebulas, and faraway galaxies. The XT8 Classic Dob is a tremendous value considering the high quality views it provides on such a wide variety of celestial objects. The point-and-view simplicity of the Dobsonian design is not as complicated as an equatorial (EQ) mount and tripod, so with a little practice, your whole family can scan the heavens just like experienced hobbyists. For any astronomer seeking serious adventure, the XT8 Classic Dob has it all! Features
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Telrad Finder Sight
Sale Price: $39.95 |
DescriptionThe easiest way to aim a telescope. The view seen through the window of the Telrad is continuous with the sky around it, not magnified or upside down. Three rings are lighted and appear to lie among the stars. The small ring outlines the Moon-sized area seen in the telescope. The large outer ring outlines the area seen in a standard Finderscope. To point your telescope, just look through the Telrad and move the telescope until the rings are centered on the object. The Telrad is 8 inches long. Weighs 11 ounces and mounts on any telescope without drilling any holes. It unlocks from its base for separate storage. Requires 2 AA batteries (not included). Features
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Orion SkyQuest XT10i IntelliScope Dobsonian Telescope
Sale Price: $729.99 |
DescriptionThis remarkable scope combines powerful 254mm-diameter reflector optics with point-and-view simplicity in one nicely portable package. And with included Computerized Object Locator, even the first-time 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 10" (254mm) 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. Features
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Orion StarBlast 4.5 Astro Telescope
Sale Price: $199.99 |
DescriptionOrion StarBlast 4.5 Astro Reflector TelescopeLaunch a lifetime of stargazing with this compact, ready-to-use telescopeTop-notch optics show you the moon, the planets, the stars and moreScope comes fully assembled so you can go from box to backyard in minutesHigh-quality optics, point-and-view ease of use, remarkable portability, all for less than $200Your ticket to space-tourism without the zero-G nauseaMaybe it's because many of us started out with those frustrating little department store refractors, but at Orion we strive to offer quality telescopes for beginners that are easy to use and will inspire their natural inclination to explore.The Orion StarBlast is one such telescope. Pint-sized in stature, it's a real reflecting telescope that's super-simple to use and yet manufactured with the kind of quality you'd expect in more expensive models.The Orion StarBlast is a point-and-view telescope that swivels smoothly on its sturdy, low-profile base. No complicated setup is required. In fact, it comes pre-assembled and ready for action right out of the box! Just carry it outdoors by its built-in handle, place it on the ground or on a picnic bench, and let the fun begin!Inside the StarBlast's 18"-long steel tube are real, quality telescope optics, including a 114mm (4.5") parabolic mirror. With the two Explorer II telescope eyepieces, upcoming skywatchers will see spectacular views of the Moon's craters, the planets, star clusters, and lots of other exotic space stuff. Aiming the Orion StarBlast is easy with the EZ Finder II "red dot" finder scope. The package also includes an eyepiece rack and a snap-on dust cap.The Orion StarBlast will not only give beginners hour after hour of fun, but will also nurture their interest in the night sky. One-year limited warranty. This item cannot be shipped internationally due to its size and weight. Features
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Orion SkyQuest XT8i IntelliScope Dobsonian Telescope
Sale Price: $549.99 |
DescriptionOrion'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. Features
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GPS Receiver for Orion GoTo Telescope Mounts
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DescriptionThis GPS receiver downloads precise location and time/date information to the GoTo computer on Atlas EQ-G, Sirius EQ-G, and SkyView Pro GoTo hand controllers, so you don't have to. It uses satellite global positioning data to make inputting accurate geographical location and time a breeze. It eliminates the need to manually enter location details, adding an element of convenience and time-saving to your evenings of viewing and imaging. It is especially useful if you take your GoTo telescope to a variety of locations. Just plug the GPS Receiver into the accessory port on your GoTo hand controller. Includes a USB PC interface and software. Note: Requires version 3.x of the GoTo hand controller. Requires version 3.10 of the GoTo hand controller. Not compatible with earlier versions. Features
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The Complete Guide to Building Your Own 8-inch Telescope
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DescriptionI've written a book on how to build a telescope just like the one I did so anyone can do it. Every step and every piece is covered in great detail so you can actually build a powerful telescope much more powerful than the one's typically found in department stores. The optics are larger with greater light-gathering power and resolution, enabling you to observe fainter stars, nebulae, and galaxies, and to see finer detail on planets. The high magnifications advertised with department store telescopes are actually useable with this telescope. The eyepieces are larger with a bigger window for the eye to look into, not something you must squint and strain to see anything. The mounting is very rigid and stable, not like the flimsy tripods that move and vibrate to the point you have to move your head around trying to keep up with the bouncing image. The simple design makes the instrument able to be set up in seconds anywhere you bring it. If you follow the instructions in the order given it's almost impossible to fail. The large optics gather 500 times more light than the unaided eye, permitting stunning views of the universe. Amaze your family and friends with the achievement of making a powerful telescope that will yield a lifetime of beautiful views of the heavens. This would make a great parent-child project that would prove very rewarding. Be prepared for sighting celestial objects like you've never seen them before with this truly powerful 8-inch reflecting telescope. I've written a book on how to build a telescope just like the one I did so anyone can do it. Every step and every piece is covered in great detail so you can actually build a powerful telescope much more powerful than the one's typically found in department stores. The optics are larger with greater light-gathering power and resolution, enabling you to observe fainter stars, nebulae, and galaxies, and to see finer detail on planets. The high magnifications advertised with department store telescopes are actually useable with this telescope. The eyepieces are larger with a bigger window for the eye to look into, not something you must squint and strain to see anything. The mounting is very rigid and stable, not like the flimsy tripods that move and vibrate to the point you have to move your head around trying to keep up with the bouncing image. The simple design makes the instrument able to be set up in seconds anywhere you bring it. If you follow the instructions in the order given it's almost impossible to fail. The large optics gather 500 times more light than the unaided eye, permitting stunning views of the universe. Amaze your family and friends with the achievement of making a powerful telescope that will yield a lifetime of beautiful views of the heavens. This would make a great parent-child project that would prove very rewarding. Be prepared for sighting celestial objects like you've never seen them before with this truly powerful 8-inch reflecting telescope. |
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Choosing and Using a Dobsonian Telescope (Patrick Moore's Practical Astronomy Series)
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DescriptionIn the 1960's, American amateur astronomer, John Dobson, designed a revolutionary kind of astronomical telescope featuring a lightweight large-aperture reflecting system on a simple mounting, using the then-revolutionary material called teflon. The design combines simplicity and portability with large-aperture prowess. Thirty years later Dobsonians remain supreme for visually observing faint deep-sky objects and are one of the best-selling large telescopes in the USA and Europe. This popularity is reflected in the recent increase of companies now heavily marketing Dobsonians, in particular, Meade (the "Lightbridge" range), Orion USA (XT Intelliscope series), and Skywatcher (Skyliner and Flextube models). This book is the ultimate guide to buying and using commercial Dobsonians, both 'Econo' and 'Primo' models, with in-depth accounts for the various models (plus accessories) on the market and descriptions of the many innovations that amateurs have made to optimize their telescopes' performance. |
