{"title":"Explore Scientific Dobsonians","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe Explore Scientific Dobsonians line, listed by aperture. Part of \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/explore-scientific-telescopes\"\u003eExplore Scientific Telescopes\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"es-6-inch-tabletop-dobsonian-reflector-telescope","title":"ES 6-inch Tabletop Dobsonian Reflector Telescope","description":"\u003cp\u003eThis Tabletop Dobsonian f\/5 Newtonian Reflector strikes the ideal balance between light-gathering power and portability. It has a 6-inch primary mirror that drinks in light to put deep sky treats like nebulae, star clusters and galaxies within easy reach. The intuitive Dobsonian mount design is compact thanks to its tabletop design, simple for beginners to master and requires minimal set-up, making it a great companion for spontaneous stargazing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLarge 152mm primary mirror has impressive light-gathering capacity, making it ideal for observing planets as well as deep sky beauties like nebulae, galaxies and star clusters\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTabletop Dobsonian mount is pre-assembled for quick set-up and comes with an accessory rack for keeping eyepieces handy\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e760mm focal length delivers a fast focal ratio of f\/5, which means brighter images, a wider field of view and shorter exposure times for astrophotography\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eComes with two Plossl eyepieces (25mm and 10mm) that provide magnification powers of 30x and 76x\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e2-inch rack-and-pinion focuser comes with a 1.25-inch adapter to accommodate a range of eyepieces and accessories\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAdditional accessories include a red dot finder scope for locating objects in the night sky and a smartphone adapter to aid in simple astrophotography\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Explore Scientific","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44014158512239,"sku":"ES-ON15205TT","price":616.95,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0686\/0049\/6239\/files\/ES-ON15205TT_1__91007.jpg?v=1766573300"},{"product_id":"es-8-inch-tabletop-dobsonian-reflector-telescope","title":"Explore Scientific 8-inch 208mm f\/5.9 Dobsonian Reflector Telescope","description":"\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct Overview\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Explore Scientific 8-inch Dobsonian pairs a 208mm Newtonian reflector with an altazimuth Dobsonian base. Explore Scientific publishes a primary mirror diameter of 208mm and a focal length of 1219mm, which works out to f\/5.9 — a fast focal ratio that keeps the tube short for the aperture and keeps low-power fields wide.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe two published weights are separate: the optical tube is 19 lbs 15.5 oz and the base is 18 lbs 11 oz. Together that is a little over 38 lbs, but it moves in two pieces, and the tube alone is what has to be lifted.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe tube carries a 2-inch Crayford focuser, and the base uses a spring tension balance system so the tube stays where it is pointed as eyepieces of different weights go in and out. In the box: a 25mm Plössl eyepiece giving 49x at this focal length, a red-dot finder scope, a smartphone adapter and a dust cover.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWho It's For\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDeep-sky observers:\u003c\/strong\u003e a 208mm primary gathers on the order of 880 times the light of a 7mm dark-adapted pupil, which is the single figure that decides how much of a faint galaxy or nebula is actually there to see.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eObservers who want aperture per dollar:\u003c\/strong\u003e a Dobsonian spends its cost on the mirror rather than on drive electronics, and this is a good match if your priority is what you can see rather than what the mount can automate.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePeople who observe from home or a short drive away:\u003c\/strong\u003e two pieces at roughly 20 lbs each carry easily, and the base sits directly on the ground with no tripod to level.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCasual imagers:\u003c\/strong\u003e the supplied smartphone adapter covers Moon and bright-planet phone photography through the eyepiece.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eKey Features \u0026amp; Design\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e208mm primary mirror:\u003c\/strong\u003e the published aperture, and the figure that sets both light grasp and resolving power.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e1219mm focal length at f\/5.9:\u003c\/strong\u003e fast enough for wide, bright low-power fields, and long enough that a 6mm eyepiece still reaches 203x.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e2-inch Crayford focuser:\u003c\/strong\u003e takes 2-inch eyepieces directly and 1.25-inch eyepieces through an adapter, so the widest true fields the tube can produce are available.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDobsonian base with spring tension balance:\u003c\/strong\u003e the tension system holds the tube against changes in eyepiece weight instead of relying on friction alone.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e25mm Plössl eyepiece included,\u003c\/strong\u003e which Explore Scientific rates at 49x in this telescope.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRed-dot finder scope\u003c\/strong\u003e for zero-magnification aiming, which suits a hand-pointed altazimuth telescope.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSmartphone adapter included\u003c\/strong\u003e for afocal photography through the eyepiece.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePublished weights:\u003c\/strong\u003e optical tube 19 lbs 15.5 oz, base 18 lbs 11 oz.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOptical Design\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA Newtonian reflector uses a concave primary mirror at the closed end of the tube and a small flat secondary near the open end, which turns the converging beam sideways to a focuser on the tube wall. Because the light path folds once, a 1219mm focal length fits inside a tube far shorter than a refractor of the same focal length, and because mirrors reflect all wavelengths identically there is no chromatic aberration in the objective at all — the colour fringing question that follows achromatic refractors simply does not arise here.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe trade is alignment. Two mirrors held at a fixed relationship inside a tube that gets carried, tipped and cooled will drift slightly out of collimation over time, so a Newtonian is checked and nudged back periodically. It is a five-minute job with a collimation cap or laser collimator once the routine is familiar, and it is the normal maintenance of the design rather than a fault. We stock collimation tools and can include one with the telescope.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt f\/5.9 the incoming cone is fast, and fast paraboloidal mirrors show coma — stars towards the edge of a wide field taking on a small comet-like flare while the centre stays sharp. It is most visible in wide-field eyepieces at low power. A coma corrector removes it, and that is the usual upgrade path for observers who use 2-inch wide-field eyepieces heavily.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRecommended Uses\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDeep-sky observing — galaxies, globular clusters, nebulae and the fainter Messier and NGC objects.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLunar and planetary observing at higher magnification on steady nights.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWide-field sweeping of the Milky Way through a 2-inch low-power eyepiece.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSmartphone photography of the Moon and bright planets using the supplied adapter.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eClub nights and public outreach, where quick hand-aiming is worth more than a go-to routine.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCompatibility and Accessory Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eEyepieces:\u003c\/strong\u003e the 2-inch Crayford focuser accepts 2-inch eyepieces directly and 1.25-inch eyepieces through a 2-inch to 1.25-inch adapter. At 1219mm, a 30mm eyepiece gives 41x, the supplied 25mm gives 49x, a 12mm gives 102x and a 6mm gives 203x.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFilters:\u003c\/strong\u003e both barrel sizes take standard threaded filters. Broadband and narrowband nebula filters are the usual first addition on an 8-inch, since aperture and filter work together on low-surface-brightness targets.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eComa corrector:\u003c\/strong\u003e an f\/5.9 paraboloid benefits from one when wide-field 2-inch eyepieces are in use. Ask us and we will match one to the focuser.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFinder upgrade:\u003c\/strong\u003e the supplied red-dot finder is a zero-power aiming device. Many observers add an optical or right-angle finder alongside it for star-hopping; the base pattern is not published by Explore Scientific, so we can check that against a specific finder before you order.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTracking:\u003c\/strong\u003e the Dobsonian base is a manual altazimuth mount. Objects drift with the sky and are nudged back by hand, and a wider apparent-field eyepiece buys more time between nudges at high power.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGood to Know Before You Order\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eIt arrives and moves as two pieces.\u003c\/strong\u003e The tube is 19 lbs 15.5 oz and the base 18 lbs 11 oz, so nothing weighs more than about 20 lbs at a time, and both parts travel in a car boot with the seats up.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eA Newtonian is collimated periodically.\u003c\/strong\u003e This is routine for the design rather than a defect, and a collimation cap or laser makes it a short job before an observing session.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eThe base does not track.\u003c\/strong\u003e Objects drift out of the field and are pushed back by hand, which is quick at low power and more frequent at high power. Wide apparent-field eyepieces lengthen the interval, and we can suggest ones that suit f\/5.9.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eExplore Scientific publishes no shipping weight, limiting magnitude, resolution or secondary mirror figure\u003c\/strong\u003e for this model, so those rows read as not published rather than being estimated. If any of them are decisive for you, we will put the question to our Explore Scientific representative.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs it difficult to set up?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNight to night it is about as simple as telescopes get: the base goes on level ground, the tube goes into the base, the finder and eyepiece push in, and observing starts. There is no tripod to level, no polar alignment and no power. The one skill to pick up is collimation — checking that the mirrors are aligned — which is a short routine with a collimation cap and is done before a session rather than during it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat magnification does it give?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDivide 1219 by the eyepiece focal length. The supplied 25mm gives 49x, a 12mm gives 102x and a 6mm gives 203x. On a steady night an 8-inch will use around 300x to 400x on the Moon and planets; most nights the atmosphere sets the ceiling lower than that.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCan I photograph with it?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe supplied smartphone adapter covers the Moon and the bright planets through the eyepiece, and that works well. Long-exposure deep-sky imaging is a different proposition, because an undriven altazimuth base does not track the sky; that work belongs on an equatorial mount.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWill I need extra eyepieces?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe 25mm at 49x is a good general-purpose starting point. A shorter focal length for lunar and planetary detail is the usual next purchase, and the 2-inch focuser opens up wide-field eyepieces the 1.25-inch size cannot match. Tell us what you want to look at and we will suggest two that complement the 25mm.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBottom Line\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn short: a 208mm f\/5.9 Newtonian at 1219mm focal length on a spring-tension Dobsonian base, with a 2-inch Crayford focuser, a 25mm Plössl at 49x, a red-dot finder, a smartphone adapter and a dust cover included — eight inches of aperture that is ready to observe minutes after it comes out of the car. If you would like a shortlist of eyepieces, a filter or a collimation tool to go with it, tell us what you plan to observe and we will put a sensible set together.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Explore Scientific","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44014158708847,"sku":"ES-ON20859","price":831.95,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0686\/0049\/6239\/files\/ES-ON15476_1_7e8c4284-3705-4b55-9215-0186cb6581e1__37627.jpg?v=1766573307"},{"product_id":"es-6-inch-dobsonian-reflector-telescope","title":"ES 6-inch Dobsonian Reflector Telescope","description":"\u003cp data-start=\"161\" data-end=\"792\"\u003eEmbark on your astronomical journey with the 6-inch Newtonian Telescope—a versatile and powerful instrument that combines a 154mm primary mirror with an intuitive Dobsonian mount to provide astronomers of all skill levels with an outstanding viewing experience. This telescope is equipped to capture incredible detail in the Moon, planets, and a variety of deep-sky objects, including nebulae, star clusters, and galaxies. With a 1170mm focal length and f\/7.6 focal ratio, this Newtonian telescope is perfect for imaging and magnifying distant celestial features, providing stunning clarity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"794\" data-end=\"1351\"\u003eThe Dobsonian mount is designed for ease of use, featuring a spring tension system that helps maintain the telescope’s balance, even when accommodating optional accessories. It also ensures smooth and stable movement during observations. A 2-inch Crayford focuser comes with a 1.25-inch adapter, making it easy to use a wide variety of eyepieces and accessories. Whether you're new to astronomy or an experienced observer, this telescope's straightforward design and powerful features make it an excellent choice for exploring the night sky.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"794\" data-end=\"1351\"\u003eComes with a 26 mm Plossl eyepiece and red-dot finder.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable style=\"border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%;\" border=\"1\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 25%;\"\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"h4\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eExceptional Light-Gathering Power\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"prose\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"metafield-rich_text_field\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"multi-column__item justify-start snap-start\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"v-stack gap-4 text-start\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"prose\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"metafield-rich_text_field\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe 154mm primary mirror offers superior light-gathering ability, making it ideal for capturing bright, crisp images of the planets, Moon, and deep-sky wonders such as nebulae, star clusters, and galaxies.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"multi-column__item justify-start snap-start\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"v-stack gap-4 text-start\"\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 25%;\"\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"h4\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEffortless Operation with Dobsonian Mount\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"prose\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"metafield-rich_text_field\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"multi-column__item justify-start snap-start\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"v-stack gap-4 text-start\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"prose\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"metafield-rich_text_field\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Dobsonian mount is designed for astronomers of all skill levels. It’s easy to use, even for beginners, and its spring tension system keeps the tube perfectly balanced for smooth, stable viewing—no matter which accessories you add.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"multi-column__item justify-start snap-start\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"v-stack gap-4 text-start\"\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 25%;\"\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"h4\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePerfect for High Magnification Imaging\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"prose\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"metafield-rich_text_field\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"multi-column__item justify-start snap-start\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"v-stack gap-4 text-start\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"prose\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"metafield-rich_text_field\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith a 1170mm focal length and a f\/7.6 focal ratio, this telescope excels in providing high magnification for a more detailed view of planetary features, the Moon, and bright star systems. It’s a great tool for anyone interested in imaging and magnifying celestial objects.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"multi-column__item justify-start snap-start\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"v-stack gap-4 text-start\"\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 25%;\"\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"h4\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eComprehensive Accessories for Easy Viewing\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"prose\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"metafield-rich_text_field\"\u003e\n\u003csection id=\"shopify-section-template--19141605720236__multi_column_chHiqc\" class=\"shopify-section shopify-section--multi-column\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"section   section-blends section-full text-custom\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"section-stack\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"multi-column scroll-area bleed md:unbleed\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"multi-column__item justify-start snap-start\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"v-stack gap-4 text-start\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"prose\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"metafield-rich_text_field\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis telescope comes with everything you need to start your stargazing adventures, including a 25mm Plossl eyepiece for 47x magnification, a red-dot finder scope to quickly locate objects, and a dust cover to protect your mirrors from debris during storage and transport.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/section\u003e\n\u003csection id=\"shopify-section-template--19141605720236__17559935703b040d9c\" class=\"shopify-section shopify-section--apps\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"section   section-blends section-full\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"shopify-block-AL25VVFpGR2d6eGlaV__cozy_youtube_videos_gallery_cozy_gallery_block_DtUTXT\" class=\"shopify-block shopify-app-block\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"cozy-video-gallery14894\" class=\"cozy-video-gallery cozy-video-gallery14894-1\"\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/section\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"h2 hyphenate\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct Specifications\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"metafield-rich_text_field\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eItem Number: ES-ON15476\u003cbr\u003ePrimary Mirror Diameter: 154mm\u003cbr\u003eFocal Length: 1170mm\u003cbr\u003eFocal Ratio: f\/7.6\u003cbr\u003eOptical Tube Weight: 11 lbs., 14.3 oz.\u003cbr\u003eBase Weight: 19 lbs., 6 oz.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Explore Scientific","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44014158970991,"sku":"ES-ON15476","price":589.99,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0686\/0049\/6239\/files\/ES-ON15476_1__17190.jpg?v=1766573315"},{"product_id":"es-10-inch-dobsonian-telescope","title":"Explore Scientific 10-Inch f\/4.7 Dobsonian Reflector Telescope","description":"\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct Overview\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Explore Scientific 10-inch Dobsonian is a Newtonian reflector on an alt-azimuth rocker box, built around a 254mm primary mirror at 1200mm focal length, which works out to f\/4.7. Ten inches of aperture collects on the order of 1,300 times the light a dark-adapted eye does, and that light grasp is the whole argument for a Dobsonian: the design spends almost nothing on the mount so that as much as possible goes into the mirror.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eExplore Scientific publishes the tube at 24lbs, 3 oz and the base at 21lbs, 8 oz, which are handled as two separate carries rather than one. The rocker box is designed to stay in balance as accessories are added at the focuser end, so a heavier eyepiece does not send the tube drifting on its own.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe package includes a 25mm Plössl eyepiece, which gives 48x at this focal length, a red-dot finder, a smartphone imaging adapter and a protective dust cover. At f\/4.7 the field is wide and the image is bright, and the same fast focal ratio is why eyepiece quality at the edge shows up quickly here.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWho It's For\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDeep-sky observers:\u003c\/strong\u003e 254mm at f\/4.7 is the classic aperture-per-dollar answer for galaxies, globular clusters and nebulae under a reasonably dark sky.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eObservers who prefer pointing to programming:\u003c\/strong\u003e a Dobsonian moves where you push it. There is no alignment routine and no power to arrange before the first object.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eThis is a good match if\u003c\/strong\u003e you have a garden, a driveway or a dark site within a short drive, and somewhere to store a tube of 24lbs, 3 oz and a base of 21lbs, 8 oz between sessions.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eKey Features \u0026amp; Design\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e254mm primary mirror:\u003c\/strong\u003e the light-gathering figure that governs how faint an object can get before it disappears.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e1200mm focal length at f\/4.7:\u003c\/strong\u003e fast for a ten-inch, which keeps the tube short enough to be a one-person lift and the true field wide.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDobsonian rocker box:\u003c\/strong\u003e altitude and azimuth motion by hand, with the balance holding as accessories are added at the focuser.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e25mm Plössl eyepiece supplied:\u003c\/strong\u003e 48x on this telescope, a useful finding and cluster power.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSmartphone imaging adapter included,\u003c\/strong\u003e for holding a phone camera steady over the eyepiece.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePublished weights:\u003c\/strong\u003e tube 24lbs, 3 oz; base 21lbs, 8 oz — carried separately, then assembled at the observing spot.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOptical Design\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA Newtonian uses a parabolic primary mirror at the bottom of the tube to bring light to a focus, and a flat secondary mirror near the top to fold that cone out through the side wall to the focuser. Because the light is reflected rather than refracted, there is no chromatic aberration at all: colour is recorded as the object presents it, with no violet halo on Sirius or the lunar limb regardless of magnification.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe trade is the secondary mirror and its support vanes, which sit in the light path. That obstruction diffracts a little light out of the star image into the surrounding rings and is the reason four-vane spiders produce the familiar cross-shaped spikes on bright stars. It is a characteristic of the design rather than a defect.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt f\/4.7 the light cone is steep, and two things follow from that. The first is that eyepieces are worked harder at the edge of the field than they are in a slow telescope, so eyepiece choice makes a visible difference here. The second is that collimation matters more: the alignment tolerance of a fast mirror is tighter than that of a slow one. Collimation on a Newtonian is a routine, five-minute adjustment with a laser or a Cheshire, done at the start of a session, and it is the one piece of upkeep this design asks for in exchange for the aperture it delivers. We stock collimation tools and are happy to walk you through the first one.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRecommended Uses\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDeep-sky observing — galaxies, globular clusters, planetary and emission nebulae.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLunar observing, where ten inches of aperture shows the terminator in real relief.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePlanetary observing on steady nights at higher magnifications.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOutreach and club nights, where a Dobsonian can be repointed by hand between visitors.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCompatibility and Accessory Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eEyepieces:\u003c\/strong\u003e the 25mm Plössl supplied gives 48x. Magnification is 1200 divided by the eyepiece focal length, so a 15mm gives 80x, a 9mm gives 133x and a 5.5mm gives 218x.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFast focal ratio and eyepiece choice:\u003c\/strong\u003e at f\/4.7, eyepieces with well-corrected outer fields hold stars tighter at the field edge. The wider Explore Scientific series were designed with fast Newtonians in mind.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFinder:\u003c\/strong\u003e the supplied red-dot finder is a zero-power sight. An optical or right-angle finder is a common addition for observers who star-hop to faint targets.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCollimation tools:\u003c\/strong\u003e a laser collimator or Cheshire eyepiece is the usual companion purchase for any fast Newtonian, and we stock both.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eImaging:\u003c\/strong\u003e the smartphone adapter covers the Moon and bright planets. Explore Scientific does not publish a focuser specification or a backfocus figure for this telescope, so we are not quoting one for camera work — tell us what camera you have and we will look at it with you.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGood to Know Before You Order\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eIt travels as two pieces.\u003c\/strong\u003e Tube at 24lbs, 3 oz and base at 21lbs, 8 oz, which is what makes a ten-inch manageable by one person — each carry on its own is straightforward, and the tube lifts into the rocker box at the observing spot.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eNewtonians want collimation.\u003c\/strong\u003e At f\/4.7 that is a start-of-session habit rather than an occasional job. A laser collimator turns it into a couple of minutes, and we can supply one with the telescope.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eThe mount is alt-azimuth,\u003c\/strong\u003e so objects drift with the sky and are nudged back by hand. That suits visual observing directly; long-exposure deep-sky photography needs an equatorial mount instead.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eA ten-inch open tube needs cool-down time.\u003c\/strong\u003e Thirty to forty-five minutes outside before the sharpest high-power views is normal for a mirror of this size, and setting it out early is the whole remedy.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eExplore Scientific does not publish limiting magnitude, resolution or focuser specifications\u003c\/strong\u003e for this model, so those rows are absent from the table below rather than estimated. If one of them is your deciding figure, ask and we will put the question to our Explore Scientific contact.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs it difficult to set up?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo — it goes together in a couple of minutes with no tools. The base carries out first, the tube lifts into the rocker box, the finder and eyepiece go on, and the telescope is pointing. A quick collimation check at the start of the session is the only optical step, and after the first time it takes about as long as focusing does.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat magnification does it give?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e1200mm divided by the eyepiece focal length. The supplied 25mm gives 48x; a 12mm gives 100x; a 6mm gives 200x. How far up that range a given night supports is set by the atmosphere rather than by the telescope.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDoes it need power or a computer?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo. It is a manual telescope with a red-dot sight, so there is nothing to charge, align or update. A star chart or a phone planetarium app is all the navigation it uses.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCan I photograph with it?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Moon and the bright planets, yes — that is what the supplied smartphone adapter is for. Long-exposure deep-sky imaging is outside what an alt-azimuth Dobsonian does, because the field rotates as the sky moves.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow often does collimation come up?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA quick check each session and a small tweak when it drifts, particularly after the telescope has been moved in a car. The primary mirror adjusts with thumbscrews at the back of the tube.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBottom Line\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn short: a 254mm f\/4.7 Newtonian at 1200mm focal length on a Dobsonian base, supplied with a 25mm Plössl at 48x, a red-dot finder, a smartphone adapter and a dust cover — ten inches of light grasp with nothing between you and the sky but a push. If you would like a collimation tool and a couple of extra eyepieces matched to its f\/4.7 optics, tell us what you plan to observe and we will put a shortlist together.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Explore Scientific","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44014160019567,"sku":"ES-ON25447","price":1246.95,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0686\/0049\/6239\/files\/ES-ON25447_1__45300.jpg?v=1766573378"},{"product_id":"explore-scientific-ruby-red-8-inch-f5-9-solid-tube-dobsonian","title":"Explore Scientific Limited Edition Ruby Red 8-inch f\/5.9 Solid Tube Classic Dobsonian Telescope","description":"\u003ch2\u003eProduct Overview\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe Explore Scientific Limited Edition Ruby Red Dobsonian is an 8-inch solid-tube Newtonian reflector on a classic Dobsonian mount. The 208 mm primary mirror works at 1219 mm and f\/5.9, and the telescope ships with two eyepieces, a 2x Barlow, a red-dot finder, and a smartphone adapter. The ruby red tube is a limited-run finish on Explore Scientific's standard 8-inch Dobsonian platform.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eWho It's For\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eAn 8-inch Dobsonian is the most light-gathering aperture most people can carry in one hand per piece, and it is the classic recommendation for someone who wants to see as much as possible for the money. This suits an observer stepping up from a small refractor who wants globular clusters to resolve into stars and galaxies to show structure, and it suits anyone who prefers pointing a telescope by hand to driving a mount by app.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eKey Features \u0026amp; Design\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e208 mm (8-inch) primary mirror gathering roughly four times the light of a 102 mm refractor\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1219 mm focal length at f\/5.9, fast enough for wide-field views and bright enough for shorter exposures\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSolid optical tube on a classic Dobsonian base with a spring tension system for balance\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eExplore Scientific 70° Series 25 mm eyepiece giving 49x, plus a 10 mm Plössl giving 122x\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e2x Barlow lens doubling both magnifications\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRed-dot finder, smartphone adapter for lunar and planetary snapshots, and a dust cover\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLimited edition ruby red tube finish\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003ch2\u003eOptical and Mechanical Design\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eA Newtonian reflector puts all the aperture into a single parabolic mirror, which is why 8 inches of aperture costs what it does here rather than several times more in an apochromatic refractor. The Dobsonian base is an altitude-azimuth design that you nudge by hand; the spring tension system holds balance as you swap between a light eyepiece and a heavier one. The optical tube weighs 19 lb 15.5 oz and the base 18 lb 11 oz, so the telescope moves in two manageable pieces rather than one awkward one.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eRecommended Uses\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDeep-sky observing — globular clusters, nebulae, and the brighter galaxies\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLunar and planetary detail at 122x and above with the Barlow fitted\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSmartphone imaging of the Moon using the included adapter\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBackyard and driveway observing where setup speed matters more than tracking\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003ch2\u003eCompatibility and Accessory Notes\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe focuser takes 1.25-inch eyepieces as supplied. A 2-inch wide-field eyepiece is the usual first upgrade for this class of telescope and needs a focuser that accepts 2-inch barrels — contact us to confirm fit before ordering one. A collimation tool is worth having: Newtonian mirrors need occasional alignment, and it takes a couple of minutes once you have done it once. We stock collimation tools and a range of 1.25-inch and 2-inch eyepieces.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eGood to Know Before You Order\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe telescope arrives in two parts, tube and base, at 19 lb 15.5 oz and 18 lb 11 oz — worth knowing if it will be carried up stairs. Newtonians can shift out of collimation in transit; aligning the mirrors is a straightforward job and Explore Scientific's support team and ours will both walk you through it. The eyepiece sits about waist height at the zenith, so an observing stool makes long sessions more comfortable. This is a manual telescope with no tracking or GoTo, and the ruby red finish is a limited run.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs it difficult to set up?\u003c\/strong\u003e No. Set the base down, lift the tube into the cradle, and you are observing — a couple of minutes with no alignment procedure and no power needed.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWill it need collimating?\u003c\/strong\u003e Probably on arrival, and occasionally after that. It is a five-minute job with a collimation tool, and we are happy to talk you through your first time.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat can I expect to see?\u003c\/strong\u003e Cassini's Division in Saturn's rings, Jupiter's belts and moons, craters in sharp relief, the Orion Nebula's structure, and globular clusters resolving into individual stars from a reasonably dark site.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCan I photograph with it?\u003c\/strong\u003e The included smartphone adapter handles the Moon and bright planets well. Long-exposure deep-sky imaging needs a tracking mount, which this is not.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eBottom Line\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eEight inches of aperture, two eyepieces and a Barlow in the box, and nothing to learn before your first night out. The ruby red finish makes it a distinctive version of the telescope most often recommended as the best all-round first serious instrument. Give our Bolton team a call if you would like eyepiece suggestions to grow with it.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Explore Scientific","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53955501064303,"sku":"ES-ON20859RR","price":678.95,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0686\/0049\/6239\/files\/ES-ON20859RR_1.jpg?v=1785951887"},{"product_id":"explore-scientific-10-inch-f5-hybrid-truss-tube-dobsonian","title":"Explore Scientific 10-inch f\/5 Hybrid Truss Tube Dobsonian Telescope with Accessories","description":"\u003ch2\u003eProduct Overview\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe Explore Scientific 10-inch Hybrid Truss Tube Dobsonian puts a 254 mm primary mirror on a classic Dobsonian base, using a truss structure for the upper tube so the whole telescope breaks down for transport. Focal length is 1270 mm at f\/5, theoretical limiting magnitude is 14.7, and the telescope arrives with two eyepieces, a red-dot finder, a collimation tool, a moon filter, a star map, and a planisphere.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eWho It's For\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eTen inches of aperture is where faint galaxies start to show spiral structure and where planetary detail holds up at high power on a steady night. The hybrid truss design is what makes that aperture practical: the upper cage lifts away from the mirror box, so instead of one long tube you carry two pieces that fit in most vehicles. This suits an observer who wants serious deep-sky reach and is happy to assemble a telescope on site rather than lift a solid tube in one go.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eKey Features \u0026amp; Design\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e254 mm (10-inch) primary mirror on a 9-point mirror cell support for accurate figure retention\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1270 mm focal length at f\/5, with a theoretical limiting magnitude of 14.7 and 500x maximum magnification\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHybrid truss tube with tool-free assembly — the secondary cage lifts off the mirror box for transport\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSecondary obstruction of just 24%, keeping contrast high on planetary detail\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRigid aluminium construction with large altitude bearings for smooth motion at any magnification\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eComplete accessory kit: two eyepieces, red-dot finder, collimation tool, moon filter, star map, and planisphere\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003ch2\u003eOptical and Mechanical Design\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eLarge mirrors flex under their own weight, which is why the mirror cell here supports the primary at nine points rather than three — it keeps the optical figure true across the whole surface. The 24% secondary obstruction is low for this aperture, and less obstruction means more contrast on fine planetary detail. Theoretical resolution is 0.46 arcseconds with a Rayleigh limit of 0.54 arcseconds. The truss poles are 64 cm long and 20 mm in diameter, the secondary cage measures 38 cm across and 17 cm tall at 6.5 lb, and the mirror box and rocker box stand 42.5 cm. The eyepiece sits 119 cm above the ground when pointed at the zenith.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eRecommended Uses\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFaint deep-sky observing — galaxies, planetary nebulae, and globular clusters resolved to the core\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHigh-power lunar and planetary work, where the low secondary obstruction pays off\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDark-site trips, with the telescope broken down into transportable sections\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStar parties and outreach, where a 10-inch view draws a queue\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003ch2\u003eCompatibility and Accessory Notes\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe supplied accessory kit covers a first night completely, including the collimation tool a truss Dobsonian genuinely needs. Collimation is part of owning this telescope: the truss structure is reassembled each session, so a quick mirror check before observing becomes routine, and the included tool makes it a two-minute job. A 2-inch wide-field eyepiece is the classic upgrade for a 10-inch f\/5 — contact us to confirm focuser fit. A light shroud around the truss section improves contrast under stray light and we stock shrouds for this class of telescope.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eGood to Know Before You Order\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eExplore Scientific publishes 6.5 lb for the secondary cage assembly and approximately 35 lb for the mirror box, noting that mirror weight varies with manufacturing, and they publish no total shipped weight. We are confirming the boxed weight on our own scales before this listing goes live, which is why it is currently unpublished — contact us and we will give you the shipping figure for your address. The eyepiece height of 119 cm at the zenith suits standing observation for most adults, with a stool useful for lower targets.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs it difficult to set up?\u003c\/strong\u003e Assembly is tool-free: place the mirror box, fit the truss poles, lower the secondary cage on. It takes a few minutes and becomes quick with practice. Collimating afterwards is fast with the included tool.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow does a truss compare with a solid tube?\u003c\/strong\u003e Optically they are the same. The truss version transports in smaller pieces and cools to ambient temperature faster; a solid tube blocks stray light better, which a shroud addresses.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat will 10 inches show that 8 will not?\u003c\/strong\u003e Around 55% more light. Fainter galaxies become visible, and the ones you already know start to show structure rather than a smudge.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDoes it track?\u003c\/strong\u003e No — this is a manual Dobsonian, nudged by hand. The large altitude bearings make following an object at high power straightforward.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eBottom Line\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eA 10-inch mirror with a low-obstruction optical design and a full accessory kit, in a form that actually fits in a car. It is the aperture at which deep-sky observing stops being a hunt for smudges. Talk to our Bolton team about shrouds and 2-inch eyepieces to get the most from it.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Explore Scientific","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53955542515823,"sku":"DOB1045C","price":1246.95,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0686\/0049\/6239\/files\/ES_DOB1045C_1_e06a0dea-0611-4338-b438-42898e25029b.jpg?v=1785952018"}],"url":"https:\/\/ontariotelescope.com\/collections\/es-dobsonians.oembed","provider":"Ontario Telescope and Accessories","version":"1.0","type":"link"}