{"title":"Sky-Watcher Flextube Dobsonians","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe Sky-Watcher Flextube Dobsonians line, listed by aperture. Part of \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/sky-watcher-telescopes\"\u003eSky-Watcher Telescopes\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"sky-watcher-flextube-300p","title":"Sky-Watcher Flextube 300P","description":"\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAt a Glance\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAperture:\u003c\/strong\u003e 300 mm\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eOptical design:\u003c\/strong\u003e Parabolic Newtonian, borosilicate primary\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTube:\u003c\/strong\u003e Collapsible truss, retains collimation\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMirror coating:\u003c\/strong\u003e Radiant Aluminum Quartz (RAQ), 94% reflectivity\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLight-gathering power:\u003c\/strong\u003e 1840× the human eye\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFocuser:\u003c\/strong\u003e 2-inch Crayford-style with 1.25-inch adapter\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct Overview\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Sky-Watcher Flextube 300P is a 300 mm Dobsonian reflector on a collapsing truss tube. The front and rear cells draw together along the truss rods and lock, which turns a twelve-inch-class instrument into something that fits in a vehicle rather than something that requires planning a vehicle around it. The design brings the optics back to alignment on re-extension, so the collapse is a transport step rather than a teardown.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe optics are a parabolic borosilicate primary coated with Sky-Watcher's Radiant Aluminum Quartz finish at 94% reflectivity, collecting 1840 times the light of the unaided eye. That figure is the reason to own this scope: at this aperture, objects stop being detections and start being observations. The tube sits in a heavy-duty rocker box on Teflon bearings with the patented tension control handle setting altitude friction.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWho It's For\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a good match if visual deep-sky observing is your main interest and you have decided that aperture is what you want your money buying. Twelve inches is enough glass to show structure in objects that read as faint patches in an eight-inch, and enough to make a genuinely dark site worth the drive.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt suits you well if you already own a smaller Dobsonian and know what you would do with more light. It also works for a club or an observing group, where the base and tube can be handled between two people and the view is worth showing to a queue of visitors.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eKey Features \u0026amp; Design\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCollapsible truss tube:\u003c\/strong\u003e a twelve-inch-class instrument that packs down to transportable length, so the aperture is one you can actually take to dark sky instead of one that stays home.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCollimation retained through collapse:\u003c\/strong\u003e the truss rods return the cells to the same relative position, so arriving at a site means unfolding and observing rather than aligning first.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e1840× light grasp:\u003c\/strong\u003e faint extended objects gain surface brightness, which is what turns a smudge into a shape with detail in it.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRadiant Aluminum Quartz coating:\u003c\/strong\u003e 94% reflectivity, and at this aperture the absolute amount of light that percentage represents is substantial.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHeavy-duty rocker box with Teflon bearings:\u003c\/strong\u003e the base is built for the mass it carries, so motion stays smooth rather than becoming a wrestling match as the tube gets bigger.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePatented tension control handle:\u003c\/strong\u003e altitude friction is tunable, which matters more here than on smaller scopes because a heavy 2-inch eyepiece shifts the balance of a tube this size noticeably.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e2-inch Crayford-style focuser with 1.25-inch adapter:\u003c\/strong\u003e both eyepiece formats are supported, and wide-field 2-inch oculars are where this aperture earns its keep.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOptical \/ Mechanical Design\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe primary is parabolic rather than spherical, which at this aperture is not optional — a spherical mirror this large would show obvious aberration well before it reached useful magnification. Borosilicate is the substrate because a mirror of this diameter carries real thermal mass, and a glass that shifts less as it cools holds its figure while it equalises with the night air.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe coating is aluminium vacuum-deposited onto the polished surface, overcoated with hard quartz and further dielectric layers. The quartz is what makes the finish durable: bare aluminium is soft and degrades with humidity and handling, and a mirror this size is one you want to keep for decades rather than recoat.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the base, Teflon pads are used instead of ball bearings. With this much mass in the tube, free-rolling bearings would make fine positioning genuinely difficult — momentum carries a heavy tube past the target. Teflon gives a controlled glide that stops where you stop pushing, and the tension handle sets how much resistance that glide has.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRecommended Uses\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDeep-sky visual observing is what this aperture is built for: globular clusters resolved well into their cores, planetary nebulae showing internal structure, and galaxies presenting arms and dust lanes rather than just a bright centre. Faint Messier and NGC objects that are borderline in smaller scopes become routine targets.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLunar and planetary observing benefits from the resolution when the atmosphere allows it, though seeing conditions become the limiting factor rather than the telescope. Public outreach and star parties are another natural fit — a bright, large image and a mount anyone can push by hand make it an effective scope to share.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCompatibility and Accessory Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe 2-inch Crayford-style focuser takes 2-inch eyepieces directly and 1.25-inch eyepieces through the supplied adapter, so the eyepieces you already own will fit. At this aperture a good wide-field 2-inch eyepiece makes a visible difference, and eyepieces with strong edge correction are worth the money here more than on a slower instrument.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSky-Watcher supplies two 1.25-inch eyepieces, a 1.25-inch eyepiece adapter, a 2-inch eyepiece adapter, dust caps, and an 8x50 finderscope. Narrowband nebula filters in UHC and O-III types pair particularly well with this much aperture on emission targets, since there is enough light to spare for the filter to take some. A collimation tool belongs in the accessory list alongside any Newtonian of this size.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you want help matching eyepieces or filters to this scope, send us what you have and we will work through it with you.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGood to Know Before You Order\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe mount is manual and undriven.\u003c\/strong\u003e No motors, no tracking, no object database. You find targets yourself and re-centre them as they drift, which many observers prefer and which is how the sky gets learned. If computerised pointing and tracking are what you want at this aperture, the Flextube 300P SynScan is the equivalent scope with GoTo added.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIt is not an astrophotography instrument.\u003c\/strong\u003e A Dobsonian rocker box is alt-azimuth, so the field rotates as an object moves across the sky, and long exposures smear regardless of tracking. Short-exposure lunar and planetary video with a small camera is the practical imaging limit.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIt arrives as an optical tube and a separate base, and both are substantial.\u003c\/strong\u003e The two-piece design is what makes a twelve-inch scope manageable at all, and one person can move it in two trips. It is worth thinking about the route from where the scope is stored to where you observe before the first night.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCool-down time scales with aperture.\u003c\/strong\u003e A mirror this size takes longer to reach ambient temperature than a smaller one, and the view improves as it does. Setting the scope outside while you get the rest of your gear ready covers most of it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNewtonians need periodic collimation.\u003c\/strong\u003e The truss design holds alignment through the collapse, so this is an occasional check rather than a nightly task, and the supplied collimation cap handles the routine adjustment.\u003c\/p\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\u003eThe mechanics are simple: release the truss clamps, raise the upper cage until it locks, tighten, and the scope is ready. The base assembles once. What takes planning is the carry rather than the assembly, since the tube and base are both meaningful weights — but neither requires tools or alignment work on the night.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow is this different from the Flextube 250P?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTwo inches more aperture and a proportionally larger increase in light grasp, since gathering power follows mirror area. The 300P shows more on faint objects, and it costs more in money, mass, storage space and cool-down time. If you are choosing between them, the honest question is not which shows more — it is whether the larger one is the one you will actually take out.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDoes it find or follow objects for me?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo. This is the manual version, so you locate targets with the finder and star charts and nudge the tube to keep them centred. The SynScan model in this series adds computerised location and tracking if that is the experience you want.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCan I photograph through it?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLunar and planetary imaging with a short-exposure camera works. Deep-sky imaging does not, because there is no tracking and because alt-azimuth mounting rotates the field during an exposure. If deep-sky imaging is the aim, the answer is an equatorial mount and a different tube, and we are glad to talk that through.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWill my 2-inch eyepieces work?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes, directly. The 1.25-inch adapter is included for the smaller format, so both sizes work out of the box.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs a twelve-inch scope too much telescope to use regularly?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThat depends entirely on your storage and your route to the observing spot, which is exactly what the collapsing tube is designed to ease. Observers with a garage and a short carry use scopes this size constantly. If you are unsure how it would work in your situation, tell us about the space and the trip and we will give you a straight answer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBottom Line\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn short: 300 mm of parabolic Newtonian aperture on a heavy-duty manual Dobsonian base, in a tube that collapses to a length you can transport. It is a visual instrument built around light grasp, it keeps its collimation through the fold, and it works with the eyepieces you already have.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Sky-Watcher","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44013527629935,"sku":"S11740","price":2630.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0686\/0049\/6239\/files\/s11740_dob12_leftfront_1800x1800__12191.jpg?v=1766554636"},{"product_id":"sky-watcher-flextube-250p","title":"Sky-Watcher Flextube 250P","description":"\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAt a Glance\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAperture:\u003c\/strong\u003e 250 mm\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eOptical design:\u003c\/strong\u003e Parabolic Newtonian, borosilicate primary\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTube:\u003c\/strong\u003e Collapsible truss, retains collimation\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMirror coating:\u003c\/strong\u003e Radiant Aluminum Quartz (RAQ), 94% reflectivity\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLight-gathering power:\u003c\/strong\u003e 1235× the human eye\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFocuser:\u003c\/strong\u003e 2-inch Crayford-style with 1.25-inch adapter\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct Overview\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Sky-Watcher Flextube 250P is a 250 mm Dobsonian reflector built around a tube that collapses on truss rods rather than one that stays rigid at full length. The front and rear cells slide together along the rods and lock down, which shortens the assembly enough to fit across a back seat or into a closet, and the design holds collimation through the collapse and re-extension cycle.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOptically it is a straightforward parabolic Newtonian: a borosilicate primary finished with Sky-Watcher's Radiant Aluminum Quartz coating at 94% reflectivity, gathering 1235 times the light of the unaided eye. The tube rides in a Dobsonian rocker box on Teflon bearings, with a patented tension control handle that sets altitude friction so the tube stays where it is pointed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWho It's For\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a good match if you observe visually and want serious aperture that still fits in your vehicle and your storage space. Ten inches of aperture is where a lot of deep-sky observing opens up, and the collapsing tube is what makes that aperture practical for someone without a permanent setup or a large trunk.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt also suits you well if you are stepping up from a smaller reflector and want the extra light grasp without moving to a solid tube you would need help to carry. Anyone whose observing involves a drive to a dark site will get the most out of the collapsing design, since that is precisely the trip it was built for.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eKey Features \u0026amp; Design\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCollapsible truss tube:\u003c\/strong\u003e the scope stores and travels at a fraction of its observing length, so the aperture you can own stops being limited by the space you have to put it.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCollimation held through collapse:\u003c\/strong\u003e the truss rods index the cells back to the same relative position, so setting up at the site is an unfold rather than an alignment session.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRadiant Aluminum Quartz coating:\u003c\/strong\u003e 94% reflectivity puts more of the collected light through to the eyepiece, which shows up on faint extended objects where every percent counts.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTeflon bearings on both axes:\u003c\/strong\u003e motion is smooth and continuous rather than sticky, so tracking an object by hand at higher magnification does not fight you.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePatented tension control handle:\u003c\/strong\u003e altitude friction is adjustable, so the tube holds position as you swap a light eyepiece for a heavy one instead of drifting under the new load.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e2-inch focuser with 1.25-inch adapter:\u003c\/strong\u003e both eyepiece formats work natively, so wide-field 2-inch oculars and standard 1.25-inch eyepieces are both on the table.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOptical \/ Mechanical Design\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe primary is a parabola rather than a sphere, which is what keeps stars as points across the field at this focal ratio instead of smearing them into the soft blur a spherical mirror of the same aperture would produce. The substrate is borosilicate, chosen because it changes dimension less than ordinary glass as the temperature drops through an evening, so the figure holds while the mirror equalises.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSky-Watcher's coating stack is aluminium vacuum-deposited onto the polished surface and then overcoated with hard quartz, with further layers applied on top. The quartz overcoat is the durable part: it protects a soft aluminium layer that would otherwise degrade with handling and humidity, and the finished surface reflects 94%.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMechanically the interesting choice is Teflon rather than ball bearings in the rocker box. Ball races roll freely, which sounds desirable until you are trying to nudge a 250 mm tube a few arc minutes and it coasts past the target. Teflon pads give a consistent low-stiction glide that starts and stops where you put it, and the tension handle tunes how much resistance that glide carries.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRecommended Uses\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDeep-sky visual observing is the core application: globular clusters resolving to individual stars, emission nebulae showing structure rather than just presence, and the brighter galaxies beginning to show arm and dust detail from a genuinely dark site.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLunar and planetary observing works well too, with the aperture supporting high magnification on nights when the atmosphere cooperates. The scope also suits outreach and public observing sessions, where a large bright image and a mount anyone can push around by hand are worth more than computerised pointing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCompatibility and Accessory Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe 2-inch Crayford-style focuser accepts 2-inch eyepieces directly and 1.25-inch eyepieces through the supplied adapter, so essentially any modern eyepiece will fit. At this aperture and focal ratio, wide-field 2-inch eyepieces are where the scope shows its character, and eyepieces with good edge correction will reward the investment more than they would on a slower instrument.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSky-Watcher supplies the scope with two 1.25-inch eyepieces, a 1.25-inch eyepiece adapter, a 2-inch eyepiece adapter, dust caps, and an 8x50 finderscope. Nebula filters such as UHC and O-III types thread into standard eyepiece barrels and pair well with this much aperture on emission targets. A collimation tool is worth having alongside it, as with any Newtonian.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you are unsure whether a particular eyepiece or filter suits this scope, send us the details and we will work it out with you.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGood to Know Before You Order\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe mount is manual and undriven.\u003c\/strong\u003e There is no motor and no tracking on this model. Objects drift through the field at higher magnifications and you re-centre them by hand, which most visual observers find becomes second nature quickly. If you would rather the scope find and follow targets for you, the Flextube 250P SynScan is the same aperture class with GoTo and tracking added.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIt is not an astrophotography instrument.\u003c\/strong\u003e Beyond the absence of tracking, a Dobsonian rocker box is an alt-azimuth mount, so the field of view slowly rotates as an object crosses the sky even when the target is kept centred. That rotation smears long exposures regardless of how well you follow the object. Short-exposure lunar and planetary video work with a small camera is the realistic imaging ceiling here.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIt ships as an optical tube and a separate base.\u003c\/strong\u003e Both parts are manageable individually, and this is what makes the scope a one-person load, but it is a two-trip carry from vehicle to observing spot rather than a single lift.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNewtonians need occasional collimation.\u003c\/strong\u003e The truss design holds alignment through collapse, so this is a periodic check rather than a nightly ritual, and the collimation cap supplied with the scope covers the routine adjustment.\u003c\/p\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. Extending the tube is a matter of releasing the truss clamps, drawing the front cell up to its stop, and locking it again, and the design brings the optics back to the same alignment each time. The base assembles once and stays assembled. Most of the first night goes to learning the sky rather than the hardware.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow is this different from the Classic 250P?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSame aperture, different tube. The Classic 250P is a solid tube, which is simpler and costs less; the Flextube collapses for transport and storage. If the scope will live in one place and you have room for it, the Classic is the value choice. If it has to travel or fit somewhere it does not obviously fit, the collapsing tube is what you are paying for.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDoes collapsing it ruin the collimation?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe truss rods index the cells back to a repeatable position, which is the whole point of the design, so alignment survives the collapse and re-extension. Like any Newtonian it still benefits from an occasional check, but collapsing it is not what knocks it out.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCan I photograph through it?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLunar and planetary work with a short-exposure camera is realistic. Deep-sky imaging is not, because the mount neither tracks nor compensates for the field rotation inherent to an alt-azimuth design. If deep-sky imaging is the goal, an equatorial mount and a shorter, faster tube is the direction to look, and we are happy to talk that through.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWill my 2-inch eyepieces work?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes, directly in the focuser. The 1.25-inch adapter is supplied for the smaller format, so both sizes are covered without buying anything.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat makes it worth stepping up from an 8-inch?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLight grasp scales with mirror area, not diameter, so the jump is larger than the numbers suggest. Objects that read as faint smudges in a smaller scope start showing structure, and targets that were borderline become routine. The collapsing tube is what keeps that step up from also being a step up in storage and transport problems.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBottom Line\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn short: 250 mm of parabolic Newtonian aperture on a smooth manual Dobsonian base, in a tube that folds down to fit where a solid 10-inch will not. It is built for visual observing, it holds its collimation through the fold, and it works with the eyepieces you already own.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Sky-Watcher","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44013527728239,"sku":"S11720","price":1600.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0686\/0049\/6239\/files\/s11720_dob10_leftfront_1800x1800__51431.jpg?v=1766554642"},{"product_id":"sky-watcher-flextube-200p","title":"Sky-Watcher Flextube 200P","description":"\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAt a Glance\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAperture:\u003c\/strong\u003e 200mm (8-inch)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eOptical design:\u003c\/strong\u003e Newtonian reflector, parabolic primary\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTube:\u003c\/strong\u003e Collapsible truss, retains collimation\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMirror coating:\u003c\/strong\u003e Radiant Aluminum Quartz, 94% reflectivity\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFocuser:\u003c\/strong\u003e 2-inch Crayford-style, 1.25-inch adapter supplied\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMount:\u003c\/strong\u003e Manual Dobsonian rocker box, Teflon bearings\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct Overview\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Sky-Watcher Flextube 200P is a 200mm (8-inch) collapsible Dobsonian reflector for visual astronomy. It takes the optics of a conventional 8-inch Dobsonian and puts them in a patented truss-tube assembly that retracts for transport and storage, then extends for observing — and it holds collimation through the cycle, so collapsing it is not a decision you pay for later in setup time.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSky-Watcher publishes its light grasp as 816 times that of the unaided eye.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWho It Is For\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a good match if you:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWant 8-inch aperture but cannot store a full-length tube\u003c\/strong\u003e — the collapsed length is the entire point of this design.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDrive to darker skies\u003c\/strong\u003e and need the telescope to fit a car boot alongside everything else.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eObserve visually\u003c\/strong\u003e across deep-sky and planetary targets and want aperture rather than electronics.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLive somewhere with stairs or a tight hallway\u003c\/strong\u003e between storage and the observing spot.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eKey Features and Design\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCollimation survives the collapse:\u003c\/strong\u003e the truss locates positively on extension, so the telescope is ready to observe rather than ready to re-align — the difference between a design that saves space and one that costs time.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e816x the light grasp of the unaided eye:\u003c\/strong\u003e full 8-inch performance, not a compromise made for portability.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTrue parabolic figure:\u003c\/strong\u003e stars stay tight to the field edge instead of softening under a wide-field eyepiece.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e94% reflectivity from the RAQ coating:\u003c\/strong\u003e paid twice over on a two-mirror system, with a quartz overcoat protecting the aluminium.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCrayford-style focuser action:\u003c\/strong\u003e low backlash, so high-power focus lands where you put it.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePatented tension control handle:\u003c\/strong\u003e balances heavier eyepieces so the tube holds its aim rather than drifting down.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOptical and Mechanical Design\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOptically this is a Newtonian reflector: light travels to the parabolic primary, back to a flat secondary, and out to the focuser on the side of the tube. Working entirely with mirrors means no chromatic aberration at all — no false colour on Jupiter, Venus, or the lunar limb at any magnification.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe difference from a solid-tube Dobsonian is structural. Rather than one rigid tube, the upper cage rides on truss struts that slide down over the mirror box. Sky-Watcher designed the extended position to locate positively, which is why collimation survives the collapse — the mirrors return to the same relative geometry each time. In practice you extend the tube, tighten the clamps, and observe. The rocker box underneath is the same proven arrangement as the Classic range, carrying the load low and wide with no tripod, counterweights, or polar alignment involved.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRecommended Uses\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTravel and dark-sky observing:\u003c\/strong\u003e the design exists for observers who move the telescope regularly.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDeep-sky observing:\u003c\/strong\u003e globular clusters resolving to stars, brighter galaxies, and nebulae with a filter.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePlanetary and lunar observing:\u003c\/strong\u003e 200mm has the resolution to take high magnification on steady nights.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eOutreach nights:\u003c\/strong\u003e transports assembled in two pieces and sets up quickly on site.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCompatibility and Accessory Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe 2-inch Crayford focuser accepts any standard 2-inch eyepiece, and the supplied adapter steps it down to 1.25-inch, so effectively any eyepiece will fit. A wide-field 2-inch eyepiece is the upgrade that most changes what this telescope shows on large clusters and extended nebulae.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFilters thread onto eyepiece barrels in both sizes; a UHC or O-III lifts nebula contrast noticeably from suburban skies. A Cheshire or laser collimator is worth owning — collimation survives collapsing, but every Newtonian benefits from a periodic check. A light shroud over the open truss section is a common addition for observing near streetlights or in dewy conditions. If you would like help choosing eyepieces, filters, or a shroud for this scope, get in touch and we will sort it out with you.\u003c\/p\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\u003eThis is a visual instrument.\u003c\/strong\u003e The alt-azimuth base does not track, so long-exposure deep-sky imaging is outside what it does. Lunar and planetary capture works well.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eThe truss section is open.\u003c\/strong\u003e Unlike a solid tube, stray light and dew can reach the light path from the side. A shroud addresses both and is inexpensive.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCollapsed does not mean small.\u003c\/strong\u003e It is a genuinely more portable 8-inch, but the mirror box and rocker box are still two separate carries.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTargets drift at high power\u003c\/strong\u003e and get nudged back by hand — that is how a Dobsonian works, and it becomes automatic within a session.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eGive the mirror time to cool.\u003c\/strong\u003e Setting it outside while you organise the rest of your gear pays off directly in planetary detail.\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. Extend the truss until it locates, tighten the clamps, drop the tube into the rocker box, and fit an eyepiece. There is no alignment routine, no levelling, and no power required.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDoes collapsing the tube ruin the collimation?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo — the truss system is designed to retain collimation through the collapse and extension cycle. A periodic check with a collimation tool is still sensible, as with any Newtonian.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is it best used for?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVisual deep-sky and planetary observing, particularly if you transport the telescope. At 200mm globulars resolve and brighter galaxies show structure.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCan I use it for astrophotography?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNot for deep-sky imaging, since the mount does not track. Lunar and planetary imaging with a planetary camera is achievable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow is it different from the Classic 200P?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIdentical aperture and the same Crayford-style focuser. The Flextube collapses for transport and storage; the Classic is a solid tube, mechanically simpler and with no open truss section to shroud.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow is it different from the Flextube 200P SynScan?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe SynScan version adds computerised GoTo — motors, a hand controller, and an object database that drives the telescope to targets and tracks them. This version is manual throughout.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBottom Line\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn short: a 200mm parabolic Dobsonian whose truss tube collapses for transport without losing collimation. It gives you full 8-inch light grasp and a Crayford focuser in a package that actually fits in a car and a cupboard, which for most owners means it gets used far more often than a solid tube of the same aperture.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Sky-Watcher","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44013527761007,"sku":"S11700","price":1180.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0686\/0049\/6239\/files\/s11700_dob08_frontleft_1800x1800__78649.jpg?v=1766554649"},{"product_id":"sky-watcher-flextube-200p-synscan","title":"Sky-Watcher Flextube 200P SynScan","description":"\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAt a Glance\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAperture:\u003c\/strong\u003e 203 mm\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFocal length:\u003c\/strong\u003e 1200 mm\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFocal ratio:\u003c\/strong\u003e f\/5.9\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFocuser:\u003c\/strong\u003e 2-inch single-speed Crayford-style with 1.25-inch adapter\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFinder:\u003c\/strong\u003e 9x50 straight-through\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eControl:\u003c\/strong\u003e SynScan GoTo hand controller, built-in Wi-Fi\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct Overview\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Sky-Watcher Flextube 200P SynScan is a 203 mm computerised Dobsonian: a 1200 mm f\/5.9 parabolic Newtonian on a collapsing truss tube, driven by dual-axis servo motors and a SynScan hand controller with a 42,900-object database. It finds targets for you, tracks them once found, and packs down for transport, which is an unusual combination at this price.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe optical tube collapses along its truss rods and locks, transporting as two pieces — tube and rocker box — that reassemble in seconds and hold collimation through the cycle. The primary is borosilicate, parabolic, and coated with Sky-Watcher's Radiant Aluminum Quartz finish at 94% reflectivity, gathering 814 times the light of the unaided eye.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWho It's For\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a good match if you want eight-inch-class aperture without spending your observing time hunting for objects. The GoTo system turns a session into looking at things rather than looking for them, which matters most when your sky is light-polluted enough that star-hopping is genuinely hard.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt also suits you if you observe with others — outreach nights, family, visitors — where being able to put a named object in the eyepiece on request is worth more than the satisfaction of finding it yourself. And it works for observers who travel, since the collapsing tube and two-piece transport were designed around exactly that trip.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eKey Features \u0026amp; Design\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSynScan GoTo with 42,900-object database:\u003c\/strong\u003e the complete Messier, NGC and IC catalogues plus partial SAO and 25 user-defined slots, so the limit on what you observe is your sky rather than your ability to locate it.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFreedom Find dual encoders:\u003c\/strong\u003e you can grab the tube and move it by hand at any point without losing alignment, so the GoTo system and manual sweeping coexist instead of being an either\/or choice.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDual-axis tracking at sidereal, lunar and solar rates:\u003c\/strong\u003e objects stay centred once found, which is what makes high magnification practical and lets a queue of people each get a proper look.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBuilt-in Wi-Fi:\u003c\/strong\u003e the mount can be driven from a phone or tablet as well as the hand controller, so the sky atlas you already use can do the pointing.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eGoTo accuracy to 5 arc minutes:\u003c\/strong\u003e targets land inside the field of a medium-power eyepiece, so a slew ends with the object visible rather than with a hunt around the neighbourhood.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCollapsible truss tube:\u003c\/strong\u003e the scope shortens for transport and storage and returns to collimation on extension, so the aperture is one that travels.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePatented tension control handle:\u003c\/strong\u003e altitude friction is adjustable, keeping the tube balanced as you swap between light and heavy eyepieces.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOptical \/ Mechanical Design\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt 203 mm and 1200 mm focal length the scope works out to f\/5.9, which is a comfortable ratio to build eyepiece collections around. It is slow enough that ordinary eyepieces behave well toward the field edge — noticeably more forgiving than the f\/4.7 instruments further up this range — and fast enough to keep the tube short and the magnifications sensible with common focal lengths.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe drive is DC servo motors reading a motor encoder at 1,620,000 counts per revolution and a main-axis encoder at 11,748 counts per revolution. The main-axis encoder is what Freedom Find depends on: because position is measured at the axis itself rather than inferred from motor turns, the system still knows where the telescope points after you have moved it by hand. Slew speeds run from 1.0x to 1000x, so the same control both crosses the sky and makes fine centring adjustments.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe focuser is a 2-inch single-speed Crayford-style unit with a 1.25-inch adapter. Single-speed means one focus knob ratio rather than a fine-focus reduction gear — at f\/5.9 the depth of focus is forgiving enough that this is workable, though a fine-focus upgrade is a common later addition for planetary observers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRecommended Uses\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGuided visual deep-sky observing is the core use: working through Messier and NGC lists efficiently, comparing objects back to back, and observing from suburban skies where finding faint targets manually is the hardest part of the night.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLunar and planetary observing benefits from the tracking, since the object stays put while you study it rather than drifting out mid-observation. Public outreach is another strong fit — request an object, slew, and let people look while the mount holds it centred. Short-exposure lunar and planetary imaging with a small camera is workable within the limits described below.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCompatibility and Accessory Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe 2-inch focuser accepts 2-inch eyepieces directly and 1.25-inch eyepieces through the supplied adapter. Sky-Watcher includes a 9x50 straight-through finderscope and two 4-element 1.25-inch Plössl eyepieces, 12.5 mm and 20 mm, giving roughly 96x and 60x at this focal length.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe mount runs on 10 to 15 V DC at 1 A through a 2.1 mm centre-positive plug. A regulated supply or a field battery pack in that range is what the system expects, and it is worth sorting out power before the first clear night rather than during it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUHC and O-III nebula filters thread into standard eyepiece barrels and suit this aperture well on emission targets. A collimation tool is a sensible companion purchase, as with any Newtonian. If you want help matching eyepieces, filters or a power solution to this scope, send us your setup and we will work it out with you.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGood to Know Before You Order\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSky-Watcher's bullet list mentions back focus for astrophotography — read that carefully.\u003c\/strong\u003e The collapsing tube does provide enough back focus to reach focus with a camera, and that part is true. What it does not change is the mount: a Dobsonian rocker box is alt-azimuth, so even with tracking holding an object dead centre, the field of view slowly rotates around it. Long exposures smear as a result, and no amount of tracking accuracy fixes it. Short-exposure lunar and planetary video is the realistic imaging ceiling unless you add an equatorial platform underneath the base.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe focuser is single-speed.\u003c\/strong\u003e There is no 10:1 fine-focus reduction on this model. At f\/5.9 that is manageable, and many owners live with it indefinitely, but planetary observers chasing critical focus often upgrade later. It is worth knowing before you order rather than discovering at the eyepiece.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAlignment happens at the start of each session.\u003c\/strong\u003e The GoTo system needs a Brightest-Star or Two-Star alignment before it can point accurately. It takes a few minutes and the hand controller walks you through it, and Freedom Find means that once done, moving the scope by hand will not undo it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIt ships as an optical tube and a separate base.\u003c\/strong\u003e Both are manageable by one person, but it is a two-trip carry from the vehicle rather than a single lift.\u003c\/p\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. The tube extends and locks on its truss rods, drops into the rocker box, and the hand controller runs you through a two-star alignment with prompts. The first night takes longer while you learn the menu system, and after that setup is a few minutes. No tools and no software are needed to get observing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat does Freedom Find actually do for me?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt means the telescope is never in the wrong mode. With most GoTo mounts, shoving the tube by hand destroys the alignment and you start over. Here a separate encoder on each axis reports the true position, so you can push the scope across the sky to look at something, then hand control back to the computer and it still knows where it is.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCan I do astrophotography with it?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLunar and planetary imaging with a short-exposure camera, yes. Deep-sky imaging, no — the alt-azimuth mount rotates the field during an exposure regardless of how well it tracks. An equatorial platform under the base is the usual workaround if you want to push further. If deep-sky imaging is the real goal, an equatorial mount and a different tube is the more direct route, and we are happy to talk that through.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow is this different from the manual Flextube 200P?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSame collapsing-tube concept and the same aperture class; this one adds the computerised drive, the object database, tracking and Wi-Fi control. You are paying for not having to find and follow things yourself. If star-hopping is part of what you enjoy about observing, the manual version costs considerably less and gives the same view.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWill my 2-inch eyepieces work?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes, directly in the focuser, and the supplied 1.25-inch adapter covers the smaller format. Both sizes work without buying anything.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat do I need to power it?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA regulated 10 to 15 V DC supply capable of 1 A, with a 2.1 mm centre-positive plug. A mains adapter works at home and a portable power pack covers field use. Ask us if you want a recommendation that suits how you observe.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBottom Line\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn short: a 203 mm f\/5.9 collapsible Dobsonian with SynScan GoTo, dual-axis tracking, Wi-Fi control and Freedom Find encoders that let you move it by hand without losing alignment. It is built for visual observing, it packs down for the drive to darker sky, and it puts objects in the eyepiece for you.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Sky-Watcher","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44013528219759,"sku":"S11800","price":2260.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0686\/0049\/6239\/files\/s11800_gotodob08_leftfront_1800x1800__87143.jpg?v=1766554772"},{"product_id":"sky-watcher-flextube-250p-synscan","title":"Sky-Watcher Flextube 250P SynScan","description":"\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAt a Glance\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAperture:\u003c\/strong\u003e 254mm (10-inch)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFocal length:\u003c\/strong\u003e 1200mm\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFocal ratio:\u003c\/strong\u003e f\/4.7\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFocuser:\u003c\/strong\u003e 2-inch single-speed Crayford-style, 1.25-inch adapter supplied\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFinder:\u003c\/strong\u003e 9x50 straight-through\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMount:\u003c\/strong\u003e Computerised GoTo Dobsonian, dual-axis tracking, 42,900-object database\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct Overview\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Sky-Watcher Flextube 250P SynScan is a 254mm (10-inch) computerised GoTo Dobsonian with a collapsible truss tube. It runs 1200mm of focal length at f\/4.7 and gathers 1275 times the light of the unaided eye, with a SynScan hand controller and built-in Wi-Fi driving it to any of 42,900 catalogued objects.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe truss retracts for transport and holds collimation through the cycle. The telescope travels as two pieces — optical tube and rocker box — and goes together in seconds without taking the truss apart.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWho It Is For\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a good match if you:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWant 10 inches of aperture with the finding done for you\u003c\/strong\u003e — useful when observing time is short and the target list is long.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eShare the view\u003c\/strong\u003e, where tracking keeps an object centred while people take turns at the eyepiece.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDrive to darker skies\u003c\/strong\u003e and need a 10-inch that fits in a vehicle without dismantling.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eStill like to star-hop\u003c\/strong\u003e — Freedom Find lets you push the tube by hand at any time without losing alignment.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eKey Features and Design\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e254mm parabolic primary at f\/4.7:\u003c\/strong\u003e the fast ratio buys a wide true field for a 10-inch instrument, suiting large nebulae and open clusters.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e1275x the light grasp of the unaided eye:\u003c\/strong\u003e enough aperture to resolve globulars and pull structure out of brighter galaxies.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRadiant Aluminum Quartz coating at 94% reflectivity:\u003c\/strong\u003e more of the collected light actually reaching the eyepiece.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePatented collapsible truss tube:\u003c\/strong\u003e retracts for transport and storage while retaining collimation, and provides back focus for camera use.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSynScan GoTo with built-in Wi-Fi:\u003c\/strong\u003e hand controller plus wireless control across a 42,900-object database.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePatented Freedom Find dual encoders:\u003c\/strong\u003e move the telescope by hand whenever you like with no re-alignment afterwards.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePatented tension control handle:\u003c\/strong\u003e adjusts friction between tube and sideboards to balance heavier eyepieces.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDual-axis tracking:\u003c\/strong\u003e sidereal, lunar, and solar rates on DC servo motors, with pointing accuracy published to 5 arc minutes.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOptical and Mechanical Design\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOptically this is a fast Newtonian — 1200mm over a 254mm parabolic primary gives f\/4.7. The fast ratio buys a wide true field for a 10-inch instrument, which suits large nebulae and open clusters, and keeps the tube short enough that the eyepiece sits at a comfortable height through most of the sky. Two mirrors and no lenses means no chromatic aberration at any magnification.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMechanically, two patents carry the design. The truss system lets the upper cage slide down over the mirror box and return to the same geometry when extended, which is why collimation survives collapsing. Freedom Find places encoders on both axes that read position independently of the motors, so the GoTo system knows where the tube points even after you have moved it by hand. Computerised pointing you can override without penalty is the practical difference between this and a motorised mount that resents being touched.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRecommended Uses\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDeep-sky observing:\u003c\/strong\u003e globular clusters resolved to stars, galaxy groups, and planetary nebulae with structure.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eGuided touring:\u003c\/strong\u003e the controller will run a tour of the best objects above your horizon on the night.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eOutreach and club nights:\u003c\/strong\u003e tracking holds the target while a queue works through the eyepiece.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLunar and planetary imaging:\u003c\/strong\u003e tracking plus available back focus makes planetary camera work practical.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCompatibility and Accessory Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSupplied with a 9x50 straight-through finderscope, 12.5mm and 20mm four-element 1.25-inch Plössl eyepieces, and the SynScan hand controller. The 2-inch focuser accepts any standard 2-inch eyepiece, with the supplied adapter for 1.25-inch. At f\/4.7 a well-corrected wide-field eyepiece earns its price at the edge of the field, and it is the upgrade most owners make first.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePower is 10 to 15 V DC at 1 amp through a 2.1mm centre-positive plug, so a field battery or regulated supply is part of the kit rather than an afterthought. A light shroud over the open truss controls stray light and dew, and a UHC or O-III filter lifts nebula contrast noticeably from suburban skies. If you would like help matching eyepieces, a power solution, or a shroud to this telescope, get in touch and we will work it out with you.\u003c\/p\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 needs power.\u003c\/strong\u003e The GoTo system runs on 10 to 15 V DC, so a suitable field battery is essential kit.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDeep-sky imaging is limited by the mount, not the optics.\u003c\/strong\u003e The collapsible design does provide back focus for a camera and the mount tracks on both axes, but an alt-azimuth mount rotates the field over long exposures. Lunar and planetary capture suits it well; long-exposure deep-sky work does not.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eThe truss section is open,\u003c\/strong\u003e so stray light and dew can reach the light path from the side. A shroud handles both.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTwo substantial pieces.\u003c\/strong\u003e Tube and rocker box carry separately, and a wheeled dolly helps considerably if it is stored indoors.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eGive the mirror time to cool\u003c\/strong\u003e before expecting the best planetary detail.\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\u003eThe physical side is quick — extend the truss, seat the tube in the rocker box, connect power. The GoTo then wants a brightest-star or two-star alignment, which is menu-driven and takes a couple of minutes. Sky-Watcher notes most people are comfortable with the controller within a few sessions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCan I move the telescope by hand?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. Freedom Find dual encoders read position independently, so you can push the tube to a target and the system stays aligned with no re-alignment needed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCan I use it for astrophotography?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLunar and planetary imaging, yes. Long-exposure deep-sky imaging, no — an alt-azimuth mount introduces field rotation however well it tracks.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat comes in the box?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA 9x50 straight-through finderscope, 12.5mm and 20mm 1.25-inch Plössl eyepieces, and the SynScan hand controller. You supply a 10 to 15 V DC power source.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow accurate is the pointing?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSky-Watcher publishes GoTo pointing accuracy of up to 5 arc minutes, which puts targets well inside a low-power eyepiece field.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow is it different from the manual Flextube 250P?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSame aperture and collapsible concept. This version adds DC servo motors, dual-axis tracking, the 42,900-object database, Wi-Fi control, and Freedom Find encoders. The manual version needs no power and costs considerably less.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow is it different from the 300P SynScan?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe 300P steps up to 305mm and 1500mm focal length at the same f\/4.7, gathering 1840x versus 1275x. Both share the identical SynScan electronics. The 250P is the more manageable of the two to move and store.\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 collapsible Dobsonian with computerised GoTo, dual-axis tracking, and encoders that let you push it around by hand without losing alignment. Bring a 12 V supply and let the mirror cool, and it will find and hold 10 inches worth of deep sky all night.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Sky-Watcher","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44013528252527,"sku":"S11810","price":2630.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0686\/0049\/6239\/files\/s11800_gotodob08_rightprofile_1800x1800__14031.jpg?v=1766554778"},{"product_id":"sky-watcher-flextube-300p-synscan","title":"Sky-Watcher Flextube 300P SynScan","description":"\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAt a Glance\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAperture:\u003c\/strong\u003e 305mm (12-inch)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFocal length:\u003c\/strong\u003e 1500mm\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFocal ratio:\u003c\/strong\u003e f\/4.7\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFocuser:\u003c\/strong\u003e 2-inch single-speed Crayford-style, 1.25-inch adapter supplied\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFinder:\u003c\/strong\u003e 9x50 straight-through\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMount:\u003c\/strong\u003e Computerised GoTo Dobsonian, dual-axis tracking, 42,900-object database\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct Overview\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Sky-Watcher Flextube 300P SynScan is a 305mm (12-inch) computerised GoTo Dobsonian with a collapsible truss tube. It pairs serious aperture — 1500mm focal length at f\/4.7, gathering 1840 times the light of the unaided eye — with a SynScan hand controller and built-in Wi-Fi, so the telescope finds and tracks targets for you.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe truss tube retracts for transport and holds collimation through the cycle. It travels as two pieces, optical tube and rocker box, and goes together in seconds without disassembling the truss.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWho It Is For\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a good match if you:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWant large-aperture deep-sky views without hunting for every target\u003c\/strong\u003e — a 42,900-object database does the finding.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eObserve with others\u003c\/strong\u003e, where holding an object centred in the eyepiece while people take turns matters.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTravel to dark sites\u003c\/strong\u003e and need 12 inches of aperture to fit in a vehicle.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLike to star-hop sometimes\u003c\/strong\u003e — Freedom Find lets you grab the tube and move it by hand without losing alignment.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eKey Features and Design\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e305mm parabolic primary at f\/4.7:\u003c\/strong\u003e the fast ratio buys a wide true field for a telescope this size, suiting large nebulae and open clusters.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e1840x the light grasp of the unaided eye:\u003c\/strong\u003e the aperture that puts structure into galaxies rather than just detecting them.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRadiant Aluminum Quartz coating at 94% reflectivity:\u003c\/strong\u003e more light reaching the eyepiece from an already large mirror.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePatented collapsible truss tube:\u003c\/strong\u003e retracts for transport and storage while retaining collimation, and provides back focus for camera use.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSynScan GoTo with built-in Wi-Fi:\u003c\/strong\u003e hand controller plus wireless control, driving to any of 42,900 catalogued objects.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePatented Freedom Find dual encoders:\u003c\/strong\u003e move the telescope by hand at any time and it stays aligned — no re-alignment routine afterwards.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePatented tension control handle:\u003c\/strong\u003e adjusts friction between tube and sideboards to balance heavier eyepieces.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDual-axis tracking:\u003c\/strong\u003e sidereal, lunar, and solar rates on DC servo motors, with pointing accuracy published to 5 arc minutes.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOptical and Mechanical Design\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOptically this is a fast Newtonian: 1500mm of focal length over a 305mm parabolic primary works out to f\/4.7. A fast focal ratio gives a wide true field for a telescope this size, and it keeps the tube short enough that the eyepiece stays at a workable height. Working entirely with mirrors, there is no chromatic aberration at any magnification.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMechanically, two patents do the heavy lifting. The truss system lets the upper cage slide down over the mirror box for transport and return to the same geometry on extension, which is why collimation survives. Freedom Find puts encoders on both axes reading position independently of the motors, so the GoTo system always knows where the tube is pointing even after you have pushed it there by hand. That combination — computerised pointing you can override without penalty — is what separates this from a motorised mount that punishes you for touching it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRecommended Uses\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDeep-sky observing:\u003c\/strong\u003e galaxy groups, planetary nebulae, and globulars resolved across the core.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eGuided touring:\u003c\/strong\u003e the controller will run a tour of the best objects currently above your horizon.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eOutreach and club nights:\u003c\/strong\u003e tracking holds the target centred while a queue of people takes turns.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLunar and planetary imaging:\u003c\/strong\u003e tracking plus available back focus makes planetary camera work practical.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCompatibility and Accessory Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSupplied with a 9x50 straight-through finderscope, 12.5mm and 20mm four-element 1.25-inch Plössl eyepieces, and the SynScan hand controller. The 2-inch focuser takes any standard 2-inch eyepiece, with the supplied adapter for 1.25-inch — a wide-field 2-inch eyepiece is the first upgrade most owners make, and at f\/4.7 a well-corrected design earns its price at the field edge.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePower is 10 to 15 V DC at 1 amp through a 2.1mm centre-positive plug, so a field battery or regulated supply is needed — worth sorting before your first dark-site trip. A light shroud over the open truss controls stray light and dew. A UHC or O-III filter lifts nebula contrast noticeably. If you would like help matching eyepieces, a power solution, or a shroud to this telescope, get in touch and we will work it out with you.\u003c\/p\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 needs power.\u003c\/strong\u003e The GoTo system runs on 10 to 15 V DC. A suitable field battery is essential kit rather than an optional extra.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDeep-sky imaging is limited by the mount, not the optics.\u003c\/strong\u003e The collapsible design does provide back focus for a camera, and dual-axis tracking holds a target, but an alt-azimuth mount rotates the field over long exposures. Lunar and planetary capture is well suited; long-exposure deep-sky work is not what this platform is for.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eThe truss section is open.\u003c\/strong\u003e Stray light and dew can reach the light path from the side, which a shroud addresses.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eThis is a large telescope.\u003c\/strong\u003e Two pieces, both substantial. A wheeled dolly makes a real difference if it lives indoors between sessions.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCool-down matters at 305mm.\u003c\/strong\u003e Setting it outside well before you observe pays off directly in planetary detail.\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\u003eThe physical assembly is quick — extend the truss, seat the tube in the rocker box, connect power. The GoTo then wants a brightest-star or two-star alignment, which takes a couple of minutes and is menu-driven. Sky-Watcher notes that most people are comfortable with the controller within a few sessions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCan I move the telescope by hand?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes, and this is one of its better features. Freedom Find dual encoders track position independently, so you can push the tube to a target and the system stays aligned with no re-alignment needed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCan I use it for astrophotography?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor lunar and planetary imaging, yes. For long-exposure deep-sky imaging, no — an alt-azimuth mount introduces field rotation over long exposures regardless of how well it tracks.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat comes in the box?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA 9x50 straight-through finderscope, 12.5mm and 20mm 1.25-inch Plössl eyepieces, and the SynScan hand controller. You supply a 10 to 15 V DC power source.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow accurate is the pointing?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSky-Watcher publishes GoTo pointing accuracy of up to 5 arc minutes, which places targets comfortably inside a low-power eyepiece field.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow is it different from the manual Flextube 300P?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSame collapsible concept and aperture class. This version adds DC servo motors, dual-axis tracking, the 42,900-object database, Wi-Fi control, and Freedom Find encoders. The manual version needs no power and costs considerably less.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBottom Line\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn short: a 305mm f\/4.7 collapsible Dobsonian with computerised GoTo, dual-axis tracking, and encoders that let you push it around by hand without losing alignment. Bring a 12 V supply and give the mirror time to cool, and it will find and hold 12 inches worth of deep sky for you all night.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Sky-Watcher","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44013528350831,"sku":"S11820","price":3960.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0686\/0049\/6239\/files\/s11800_gotodob08_rightprofile_1800x1800__63394.jpg?v=1766554785"},{"product_id":"sky-watcher-flextube-350p-synscan","title":"Sky-Watcher Flextube 350P SynScan","description":"\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAt a Glance\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAperture:\u003c\/strong\u003e 356mm (14-inch)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFocal length:\u003c\/strong\u003e 1650mm\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFocal ratio:\u003c\/strong\u003e f\/4.6\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFocuser:\u003c\/strong\u003e 2-inch dual-speed Crayford-style, 1.25-inch adapter supplied\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFinder:\u003c\/strong\u003e 9x50 straight-through\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMount:\u003c\/strong\u003e Computerised GoTo Dobsonian, dual-axis tracking, 42,900-object database\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct Overview\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Sky-Watcher Flextube 350P SynScan is a 356mm (14-inch) computerised GoTo Dobsonian with a collapsible truss tube. It runs 1650mm of focal length at f\/4.6 and gathers 2507 times the light of the unaided eye, with a SynScan hand controller and built-in Wi-Fi driving it across 42,900 catalogued objects.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt sits between the 300P and the 400P in the range, and shares the larger scope's dual-speed focuser rather than the single-speed unit fitted to the 250P and 300P. The truss retracts for transport, holds collimation through the cycle, and the telescope travels as two pieces rather than a bundle of struts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWho It Is For\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a good match if you:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWant large-aperture deep-sky performance\u003c\/strong\u003e without stepping up to the size and mass of a 16-inch.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eObserve from a fixed site\u003c\/strong\u003e, or have a level path and a way to wheel it out.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eValue fine focus\u003c\/strong\u003e — at f\/4.6 the dual-speed focuser is doing real work every session.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWant computerised finding on a big Dob\u003c\/strong\u003e while keeping the freedom to push it by hand.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eKey Features and Design\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e2507x the light grasp of the unaided eye:\u003c\/strong\u003e 36% more than the 300P, which shows in faint galaxy detail and dimmer planetary nebulae.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ef\/4.6 over 1650mm:\u003c\/strong\u003e fast enough to hold a usable true field at this aperture rather than being all magnification.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDual-speed Crayford focuser:\u003c\/strong\u003e a fine-focus reduction the 250P and 300P do not have — at f\/4.6 the depth of focus is shallow, and coarse-only focusing costs you sharpness every time.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePatented collapsible truss tube:\u003c\/strong\u003e retracts for transport and storage while retaining collimation, and provides back focus for camera use.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePatented Freedom Find dual encoders:\u003c\/strong\u003e push the tube by hand at any point with no re-alignment afterwards.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSynScan GoTo with built-in Wi-Fi:\u003c\/strong\u003e hand controller and wireless control, with pointing accuracy published to 5 arc minutes.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePatented tension control handle:\u003c\/strong\u003e holds aim at this mass when a heavy eyepiece goes in.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOptical and Mechanical Design\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOptically a fast Newtonian: 1650mm over a 356mm parabolic primary gives f\/4.6. Two mirrors and no lenses means no chromatic aberration at any magnification, and the fast ratio keeps the tube shorter than the aperture would otherwise require.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe focuser is the detail worth understanding here, because it is where this model separates from the two below it. A fast focal ratio produces a shallow depth of focus — the range of drawtube travel over which the image is genuinely sharp is small. A dual-speed focuser adds a reduction gear so the final adjustment can be made in small, controlled increments rather than by nudging a single-speed knob and hoping. On a 14-inch instrument that resolves fine planetary detail, that is the difference between reaching the telescope's potential and getting close to it. Everything else follows the series: truss geometry that returns to position on extension, encoders reading both axes independently of the motors, and a rocker box carrying the mass low on Teflon bearings.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRecommended Uses\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFaint deep-sky observing:\u003c\/strong\u003e galaxy groups, dim planetary nebulae, and structure within brighter galaxies.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eGlobular clusters:\u003c\/strong\u003e resolved across the core under reasonable conditions.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHigh-power planetary work:\u003c\/strong\u003e the resolution to exploit steady seeing, with the focuser to place it precisely.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eOutreach and club nights:\u003c\/strong\u003e tracking holds the object while a queue works through the eyepiece.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCompatibility and Accessory Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSupplied with a 9x50 straight-through finderscope, 12.5mm and 20mm four-element 1.25-inch Plössl eyepieces, and the SynScan hand controller. The 2-inch focuser accepts any standard 2-inch eyepiece, with the supplied adapter for 1.25-inch.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt f\/4.6 eyepiece correction matters — simpler designs soften noticeably at the field edge, and a well-corrected wide-field eyepiece is where the first upgrade money goes. A coma corrector is worth considering at this focal ratio. Power is 10 to 15 V DC at 1 amp through a 2.1mm centre-positive plug, and a light shroud over the open truss is close to essential at this size. If you would like help specifying eyepieces, a coma corrector, power, or transport, get in touch and we will work through it with you.\u003c\/p\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\u003ePlan the logistics first.\u003c\/strong\u003e A 14-inch Dobsonian is two substantial pieces. Storage, the route to your observing spot, and a dolly are worth settling before it arrives.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eIt needs power.\u003c\/strong\u003e The GoTo runs on 10 to 15 V DC, so a capable field battery is part of the kit.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eThe eyepiece sits high near the zenith,\u003c\/strong\u003e so an observing step or ladder is normal practice at this aperture.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDeep-sky imaging is limited by the mount, not the optics.\u003c\/strong\u003e Back focus is available and tracking is dual-axis, but an alt-azimuth mount rotates the field over long exposures. Lunar and planetary capture suits it well.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCool-down is significant.\u003c\/strong\u003e A 356mm mirror needs real time to reach ambient before it delivers its resolution.\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\u003eOperating it is straightforward — extend the truss, seat the tube, connect power, run a two-star alignment. The demanding part is handling rather than operating, since this is a large telescope in two heavy pieces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDoes this model have the dual-speed focuser?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. The 350P and 400P are fitted with a 2-inch dual-speed Crayford-style focuser; the 250P and 300P are single-speed. At f\/4.6 the fine-focus reduction earns its place.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCan I move the telescope by hand?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. Freedom Find dual encoders read position independently, so pushing the tube to a target does not cost you the alignment.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCan I use it for astrophotography?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLunar and planetary imaging, yes. Long-exposure deep-sky imaging, no — field rotation is inherent to an alt-azimuth mount.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat comes in the box?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA 9x50 straight-through finderscope, 12.5mm and 20mm 1.25-inch Plössl eyepieces, and the SynScan hand controller. You supply a 10 to 15 V DC power source.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow does it compare with the 300P and 400P?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe 300P is 305mm at 1840x and single-speed focusing; the 400P is 406mm at 3257x. This sits between them at 356mm and 2507x, sharing the 400P's dual-speed focuser while remaining appreciably easier to move.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBottom Line\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn short: a 356mm f\/4.6 collapsible GoTo Dobsonian with dual-speed focusing and encoders that let you drive it or push it as you prefer. It delivers most of what a 16-inch shows while staying meaningfully more manageable, provided you sort out power, transport, and somewhere to keep it.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Sky-Watcher","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44013528449135,"sku":"S11830","price":5550.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0686\/0049\/6239\/files\/s11800_gotodob08_rightprofile_1800x1800__19590.jpg?v=1766554792"},{"product_id":"sky-watcher-flextube-400p-synscan","title":"Sky-Watcher Flextube 400P SynScan","description":"\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAt a Glance\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAperture:\u003c\/strong\u003e 406mm (16-inch)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFocal length:\u003c\/strong\u003e 1800mm\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFocal ratio:\u003c\/strong\u003e f\/4.4\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFocuser:\u003c\/strong\u003e 2-inch dual-speed Crayford-style, 1.25-inch adapter supplied\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFinder:\u003c\/strong\u003e 9x50 straight-through\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMount:\u003c\/strong\u003e Computerised GoTo Dobsonian, dual-axis tracking, 42,900-object database\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct Overview\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Sky-Watcher Flextube 400P SynScan is a 406mm (16-inch) computerised GoTo Dobsonian with a collapsible truss tube — the largest telescope in the Flextube range and a serious light bucket. It runs 1800mm of focal length at f\/4.4 and gathers 3257 times the light of the unaided eye, with a SynScan hand controller and built-in Wi-Fi driving it across 42,900 catalogued objects.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt this aperture the collapsible truss stops being a convenience and becomes the reason the telescope is ownable at all. It retracts for transport, holds collimation through the cycle, and travels as two pieces rather than a box of struts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWho It Is For\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a good match if you:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWant the faintest targets within reach\u003c\/strong\u003e — 16 inches shows galaxy detail and dim planetary nebulae that smaller apertures only hint at.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHave a permanent or semi-permanent observing site\u003c\/strong\u003e, or a level path and a dolly.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRun outreach or club nights\u003c\/strong\u003e where one telescope has to impress a crowd.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWant computerised finding on a large Dob\u003c\/strong\u003e without giving up the ability to push it by hand.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eKey Features and Design\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e3257x the light grasp of the unaided eye:\u003c\/strong\u003e the aperture where faint galaxies stop being smudges and start showing arms and dust lanes.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ef\/4.4 over 1800mm:\u003c\/strong\u003e fast for this size, giving a usable true field on an instrument that would otherwise be all magnification and no context.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDual-speed Crayford focuser:\u003c\/strong\u003e a fine-focus reduction the smaller SynScan models do not have — at f\/4.4 the depth of focus is shallow, and coarse-only focusing would fight you every session.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePatented collapsible truss tube:\u003c\/strong\u003e retracts for transport and storage while retaining collimation, and provides back focus for camera use.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePatented Freedom Find dual encoders:\u003c\/strong\u003e push the tube by hand at any time with no re-alignment afterwards.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSynScan GoTo with built-in Wi-Fi:\u003c\/strong\u003e hand controller and wireless control, with pointing accuracy published to 5 arc minutes.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePatented tension control handle:\u003c\/strong\u003e essential at this mass for holding aim when a heavy eyepiece goes in.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOptical and Mechanical Design\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOptically a fast Newtonian: 1800mm over a 406mm parabolic primary gives f\/4.4. Two mirrors and no lenses means no chromatic aberration at any magnification, and the fast ratio keeps the tube shorter than the aperture would otherwise demand.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe dual-speed focuser is the mechanical detail that matters most here and the one that distinguishes this model from the 250P and 300P, which are single-speed. A fast focal ratio produces a shallow depth of focus, so the difference between sharp and nearly sharp is a very small movement of the drawtube. A fine-focus reduction turns that from a fiddle into a routine adjustment. Everything else follows the series: truss geometry that returns to the same position on extension so collimation survives, Freedom Find encoders reading both axes independently of the motors, and a rocker box carrying the mass low on Teflon bearings.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRecommended Uses\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFaint deep-sky observing:\u003c\/strong\u003e distant galaxy groups, dim planetary nebulae, and detail within brighter galaxies.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eGlobular clusters:\u003c\/strong\u003e fully resolved across the core under good conditions.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHigh-power planetary work:\u003c\/strong\u003e the resolution to exploit genuinely steady seeing.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eOutreach at scale:\u003c\/strong\u003e tracking holds the object while a long queue works through the eyepiece.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCompatibility and Accessory Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSupplied with a 9x50 straight-through finderscope, 12.5mm and 20mm four-element 1.25-inch Plössl eyepieces, and the SynScan hand controller. The 2-inch focuser accepts any standard 2-inch eyepiece, with the supplied adapter for 1.25-inch.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt f\/4.4 eyepiece choice matters more than on a slower telescope — simpler designs show their limits at the field edge, and a well-corrected wide-field eyepiece is where the money goes first. A coma corrector is worth considering at this focal ratio. Power is 10 to 15 V DC at 1 amp through a 2.1mm centre-positive plug. A light shroud over the open truss is close to essential on an instrument this size. If you would like help specifying eyepieces, a coma corrector, power, or transport for this telescope, get in touch — at this level it is worth getting the supporting kit right the first time.\u003c\/p\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\u003ePlan the logistics before it arrives.\u003c\/strong\u003e This is a 16-inch telescope in two substantial pieces. Storage, the path to your observing spot, and a dolly are worth settling in advance.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eIt needs power.\u003c\/strong\u003e The GoTo runs on 10 to 15 V DC, so a capable field battery is part of the kit.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eThe eyepiece gets high.\u003c\/strong\u003e Near the zenith a 16-inch Dobsonian puts the eyepiece well above standing height, so an observing ladder or step is normal practice rather than a sign something is wrong.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDeep-sky imaging is limited by the mount, not the optics.\u003c\/strong\u003e Back focus is available and tracking is dual-axis, but an alt-azimuth mount rotates the field over long exposures. Lunar and planetary capture suits it; long-exposure deep-sky does not.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCool-down is longest here.\u003c\/strong\u003e A mirror this large needs real time to reach ambient before it delivers its resolution.\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\u003eThe assembly is the same quick routine as the smaller Flextubes — extend the truss, seat the tube, connect power, run a two-star alignment. The demanding part is handling, not operating: this is a large telescope and moving it is the step worth planning.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhy does this model have a dual-speed focuser when the others do not?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt f\/4.4 the depth of focus is shallow enough that a fine-focus reduction stops being a luxury. The 250P and 300P ship single-speed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCan I move the telescope by hand?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. Freedom Find dual encoders read position independently, so pushing the tube to a target does not cost you the alignment.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCan I use it for astrophotography?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLunar and planetary imaging, yes. Long-exposure deep-sky imaging, no — field rotation is inherent to an alt-azimuth mount.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat comes in the box?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA 9x50 straight-through finderscope, 12.5mm and 20mm 1.25-inch Plössl eyepieces, and the SynScan hand controller. You supply a 10 to 15 V DC power source.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow is it different from the 300P SynScan?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e406mm against 305mm, 1800mm against 1500mm, and 3257x against 1840x light grasp — plus the dual-speed focuser. The electronics are identical. The 300P is markedly easier to move and store.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBottom Line\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn short: a 406mm f\/4.4 collapsible GoTo Dobsonian with dual-speed focusing and encoders that let you drive it or push it as you prefer. Sort out storage, transport, power, and a ladder, and it will show you deep sky that nothing smaller in the range can reach.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Sky-Watcher","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44013528481903,"sku":"S11840","price":7230.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0686\/0049\/6239\/files\/s11800_gotodob08_rightprofile_1800x1800__26935.jpg?v=1766554799"}],"url":"https:\/\/ontariotelescope.com\/collections\/skywatcher-flextube.oembed","provider":"Ontario Telescope and Accessories","version":"1.0","type":"link"}