Orion Telescope Company: Owner, Location, Quality

Orion is a telescope company that has provided high-quality optics since 1975. In 1975, Orion Telescopes & Binoculars was founded in a garage in Santa Cruz, California by Tim Gieseler.

Orion’s initial models focused on functionality and user-friendliness, setting the stage for the more intricate designs that followed. Over the past 48 years, Orion has grown into one of the largest and most reputable telescope manufacturers.

Orion has established a reputation for their dedication to high-quality and innovative optics. Among its best models are the StarBlast and SkyQuest series, known for their practicality and advanced features. When compared to other telescope brands, Orion stands out for its robust and high-quality designs, especially in their Dobsonian telescope.

Who is the Owner of Orion Telescope Company?

Orion is owned by its employees, meaning the employees share equity in the brand. This ownership model provides a unique company culture where employees are personally invested in the company’s success, contributing to the consistent quality of their telescopes. 

In January 2005, Orion was acquired by Imaginova and began to sell other brands of telescopes. In November 2017, Orion was repurchased by its employees and has remained independent and American-owned ever since. Despite the change of ownership, Orion’s headquarters remain in Santa Cruz, California, where it was founded.

Where is Orion Company Located?

The Orion corporate offices are located at 89 Hangar Way, Watsonville, California 95076. Orion also operates a retail store at this location, with a limited inventory. For a larger selection, customers are able to purchase from a list of many Orion telescope dealers, in over 20 countries.

How is the Orion Telescope Quality?

Orion’s telescope quality is high due to the precision-crafted optics and durable mounts. Their mirrors are precisely crafted from a type of glass called Pyrex, ensuring clear observations and resistance to temperature change. The image quality of Orion telescopes has earned them a strong reputation because of the consistency and clarity of their optics.

A vast majority of Orion telescopes are produced by Synta Technology Corporation, a Taiwan-based company, using manufacturing facilities located in China. Manufacturing overseas ensures a blend of cost-effectiveness and quality that distinguishes their best models.

What are The Best Orion Telescopes?

The best Orion telescopes provide a balance of cost-efficiency and performance. The four most reputable models are listed below.

1. Orion SkyQuest XT8. This Dobsonian reflector is celebrated for its large 8-inch aperture, which allows for bright and detailed observations of deep-sky objects. Its robust base ensures stability while observing.
2. Orion AstroView 90mm Equatorial Refractor. A refractor telescope that is prized for its crisp planetary views, particularly of the Moon and planets. Its equatorial mount facilitates the smooth tracking of celestial bodies.
3. Orion StarBlast 4.5 Astro Reflector. A compact yet powerful telescope, ideal for beginners and children. It offers a wide field of view, making it easier to locate and observe objects in the night sky.
4. Orion Atlas Pro AZ/EQ-G Computerized GoTo Telescope Mount. A versatile mount that function both as an altazimuth and an equatorial mount. Its computerized GoTo system has a vast database, streamlining the process of locating celestial bodies.

These four models consistently receive praise from both novice and experienced astronomers for their distinct features and reliable performance. The blend of technical quality and affordability gives Orion an edge over other telescope brands.

Is Orion Company Better Than Celestron?

No, Orion is not better than Celestron. Celestron, originating in Torrance, California, has been a pivotal player in the telescope industry since 1964. Celestron and Orion have established a similar reputation for their innovative designs and commitment to quality. 

Orion and Celestron share many similarities in quality because their components are both largely sourced from Synta Technology Corporation. However, each company has differences in their offerings. Celestron’s telescopes are a common choice for beginners because they tend to be more cost-effective and include more reviews, making it easier to determine the best model based on specific goals.

However, Orion offers a more versatile selection of telescopes, catering to a broader range of astronomical needs and preferences. The choice between the two is largely subjective and hinges on the observer’s goals, preferences, and budget.