Orion SkyQuest XT8 Plus
From: $350.00 (incl. VAT plus shipping costs)
In Stock (2 Available)
The Orion SkyQuest XT8 Plus is a high-quality 8-inch aperture reflector telescope with a Dobsonian base. It features a redesigned dual-speed Crayford-style focuser, adjustable altitude and axis tension, and Teflon pads for smooth movement. The telescope collects 843 times more light than the naked eye, providing excellent views of the moon, planets, and deep space objects like the Andromeda galaxy and nebulas.
Compare price among sellers:AmazonAstroshop
Worldwide shipping. Delivery within 7 days!
- Satisfaction Guaranteed
- No Hassle Refunds (30 Days)
- Secure Payments
Product Description
The Orion SkyQuest XT8 Plus telescope is a high-quality 8-inch aperture reflector telescope with a Dobsonian base. Orion SkyQuest XT8 Plus provides excellent views of the moon, planets, and deep space objects like the Andromeda galaxy and nebulas. Sturdy base and adjustable altitude and axis tension ensure smooth, stable movement for precise astronomical observations. Redesigned focuser features a dual-speed Crayford-style mechanism for effortless and accurate focusing. Essential accessories include 10mm and 20mm Sirius Plossl eyepieces, a MoonMap 260, and a DeepMap 600 star chart, making it an excellent option for amateur astronomers.
A sturdy Dobsonian base mounts the telescope, providing smooth and stable movement along the altitude axis. Adjustable tension control enhances the altitude axis movement. Teflon pads on the base enable smooth motion. The push-to design facilitates easy navigation of the telescope.
The XT8 Plus includes a 2″ Crayford focuser for precise focusing and easy accessory installation. Accessories accompany the telescope, including a 25mm eyepiece, a finder scope, and a moon map. The 8-inch aperture collects 843 times more light than the naked eye, allowing detailed views of celestial objects.
The telescope excels at observing deep space objects, planets, and the moon. Its fast focal ratio enables bright and clear views of celestial objects. The XT8 Plus offers high-quality performance and value, appealing to both beginners and intermediate astronomers. Upgraded features, such as improved altitude axis tension and Teflon pads, enhance the overall user experience.
Should you buy Orion SkyQuest XT8 Plus as your first telescope?
The Orion SkyQuest XT8 Plus is an excellent choice for first-time telescope buyers. Its large 203mm (8-inch) aperture provides clear views of the Moon, planets, and deep-sky objects with a limiting stellar magnitude of 13.3. The telescope’s solid build quality, featuring a steel tube and wooden mount, ensures smooth and stable observing. An improved base design facilitates easier movement and object tracking. The XT8 Plus includes a 2″ Crayford focuser, 6x30mm finderscope, and 2x Barlow lens, offering a well-thought-out package for beginners. Additional accessories like extra eyepieces enhance performance. The telescope’s combination of features, performance, and value make it a solid investment for aspiring astronomers, promising years of enjoyable observing experiences.
Is Orion 8945 SkyQuest XT8 Plus easy to use?
The Orion 8945 SkyQuest XT8 Plus is easy to use for beginners and intermediate astronomers. Assembly takes about 30 minutes with clear instructions and well-labeled components. Collimation is straightforward using the provided cap. The 2″ Crayford focuser allows smooth, precise adjustments with a sturdy clamp for secure eyepiece placement. The 6x30mm finderscope is easy to align and helps locate objects quickly. The optical tube is well-balanced for effortless maneuvering. The telescope accommodates both 1.25″ and 2″ eyepieces, with an extension ring for added flexibility. Advanced features require a longer learning curve to master. Online resources supplement the provided instructions for quick operation learning.
Should you buy Orion XT8 Plus Dobsonian Reflector Telescope for kids?
The Orion XT8 Plus Dobsonian Reflector Telescope is suitable for kids aged 10 and above with a strong interest in astronomy. The telescope’s size (63x46x26cm) and weight (17.7kg) require consideration for younger children’s ability to move it. The simple design allows beginners to use it easily, but manual operation demands a learning curve. The telescope’s 203mm aperture and 1200mm focal length provide good performance for observing the Moon, planets, and some deep-sky objects. The included accessories (6x30mm finderscope, 2x Barlow lens, two eyepieces) offer a starting point for exploration. The $400-$500 price tag represents good value for the features provided. Parents should assess their child’s dedication to astronomy before purchasing, as alternatives like the Celestron FirstScope or Meade Instruments Infinity 102mm AZ Refractor Telescope exist for younger or less experienced stargazers.
What can you see with Orion SkyQuest XT8 Plus Dobsonian?
The features you can see with Orion SkyQuest XT8 Plus Dobsonian are outlined below.
- Jupiter’s cloud bands
- Jupiter’s Great Red Spot
- Galilean moons of Jupiter
- Saturn’s rings
- Cassini Division in Saturn’s rings
- Saturn’s smaller moons
- Moon’s craters
- Moon’s ridges
- Moon’s domes
- Mars’ reddish hue
- Mars’ polar ice caps
- Olympus Mons on Mars
- Valles Marineris on Mars
- Orion Nebula (M42)
- Lagoon Nebula (M8)
- Trifid Nebula (M20)
- Andromeda Galaxy (M31)
- Whirlpool Galaxy (M51)
- Sombrero Galaxy (M104)
Should you buy Orion XT8 Plus Dobsonian Reflector Telescope to observe planets?
Orion XT8 Plus Dobsonian Reflector Telescope offers excellent planetary observation. 8-inch aperture and 1200mm focal length provide clear, bright views. Perfect for Jupiter, Saturn, and Mars. Great product for solar system exploration. Affordable price delivers exceptional value. XT8 Plus excels in light gathering and detail resolution for planetary viewing.
Should you buy Orion 8945 SkyQuest XT8 Plus Telescope to observe galaxies?
Yes, the Orion 8945 SkyQuest XT8 Plus Telescope is an excellent choice for observing galaxies. The telescope’s 203mm aperture and 1200mm focal length provide outstanding views of deep-sky objects, including galaxies, nebulae, and star clusters. Beginners and intermediate astronomers can explore the universe with this telescope’s optical strength. The XT8 Plus offers clear, sharp images of distant galaxies through its parabolic mirror and Newtonian optical design. Users report years of enjoyment and durability, with the telescope continuing to deliver impressive views of celestial objects over time. The large aperture combined with an affordable price makes the XT8 Plus a great value for skygazers interested in galaxy viewing. Observers can easily switch between magnifications using the 2″ Crayford focuser and 1.25″ eyepiece, enhancing the galaxy-viewing experience.
Should you buy Orion 8945 XT8 Plus Reflector Telescope for astrophotography?
The Orion 8945 XT8 Plus Reflector Telescope is not recommended for astrophotography. The telescope’s design and features are limited for capturing high-quality astrophotography images. Exposure time is restricted due to the manual altazimuth mount, which hinders object tracking over extended periods. Phone cameras used with this telescope have poor dynamic range, resulting in images with blown-out highlights and lost details. Astrophotography is a challenging field requiring specialized equipment and expertise. The XT8 is designed primarily for visual astronomy and is highly recommended for viewing and observing celestial objects. The 203mm aperture and 1200mm focal length provide excellent views of celestial bodies. We suggest considering a telescope specifically designed for imaging with a sturdy equatorial mount for precise tracking and optimized optics for astrophotography.
Is Orion SkyQuest XT8 Plus Dobsonian portable?
Orion SkyQuest XT8 Plus Dobsonian is highly portable. Telescope weighs 42 pounds and measures 46.5 inches in length. XT8 Plus features sleek, mobile design for easy transportation. Sturdy construction allows quick assembly. Telescope balances portability and power effectively. Size and weight make XT8 Plus ideal for stargazers seeking portable, user-friendly option.
Specifications
| Telescope type | Dobsonian |
|---|---|
| Optics structure | Newtonian |
| Optical design | Parabolic |
| Optics material | Glass |
| Aperture size | 203mm |
| Focal length | 1200mm |
| Limiting stellar magnitude | 13.3 |
| Focal ratio | f/5.9 |
| Aperture ratio | 1:5.9 |
| Resolution limit | 0.69 arcseconds |
| Resolving capacity | 364x |
| Light gathering capacity | 843x |
| Lowest useful magnification | 29x |
| Maximum useful magnification | 400x |
| Tube material | Steel |
| Tube diameter | 203mm |
| Type of focuser | 2" Crayford |
| Eyepiece size | 1.25" |
| Magnification of eyepiece | 10mm, 25mm |
| Mount type | Dobsonian |
| Mount structure | Wood |
| GoTo controls | No |
| Motors | No |
| Type of electronics | None |
| Batteries | None |
| Power supply | None |
| WiFi | No |
| GPS | No |
| Includes hand controller | No |
| Tripod height | 63-90cm |
| Tripod leg diameter | 50mm |
| Tripod material | Wood |
| Finderscope | 6x30mm |
| Barlow lens | 2x |
| Size dimensions | LxWxH: 63x46x26cm |
| Weight | 17.7kg |
| Recommended for Moon and planets | Yes |
| Recommended for nebulae and galaxies | Yes |
| Recommended for astrophotography | No |
| Recommended for beginners | Yes |
| Recommended for advanced astronomers | No |
| Portability | Moderate |
| Ease of use | Easy |
| Assembly | Required |
| Release date | 2009 |
| Brand | Orion |
| Telescope series | SkyQuest |
| Manufacturer | Orion Telescopes & Binoculars |
| Country made in | China |
13 reviews for Orion SkyQuest XT8 Plus
Only logged in customers who have purchased this product may leave a review.
Marsha (verified owner) –
The views are incredibly clear and accurate. Stars show a beautiful blue hue through the eyepiece. Setup is manageable, with easy-to-follow instructions. I was observing in no time. The Orion Nebula, a classic target, looks amazing. Dobsonian base can be tricky at first but becomes second nature quickly.
Emily Ball (verified owner) –
The total performance blew me away. Setup was a breeze, even for a beginner like me. Delving further into astronomy, I realized it’s not just a toy but a powerful tool for unveiling deep secrets of the universe.
gvalenzuela (verified owner) –
The telescope is literally perfect for my stargazing needs. Its metallic finish looks and feels premium. Mechanical components operate smoothly and quietly.
Melissa Romero (verified owner) –
The Orion XT8 Plus Dobsonian Reflector Telescope exceeded my expectations as a midrange model. Orion 8945 SkyQuest XT8 Plus is incredibly easy to set up and navigate, even for a beginner like me. The optics are impressive, providing clear and sharp images of the night sky. I’ve observed amazing celestial objects, including planets and deep-sky wonders. The big aperture allows for stunning views. F/4 is a nice focal ratio for this telescope.
Tone (verified owner) –
It’s a solid addition to my astronomy hobby. The included accessories are very useful. The 10mm eyepiece provides deep views of the moon’s surface. A moon filter helps reduce glare. The design is very manageable.
Oliver (verified owner) –
Orion 8945 SkyQuest is hands down one of the best telescopes I’ve ever owned. The 8-inch aperture gathers more light than my previous scope, revealing incredible details in the night sky. Surprisingly, the Dobsonian design makes it smaller and more portable than expected. Taking the SkyQuest XT8 Plus to different locations is a breeze. Polar alignment is quick and easy to set up. The elegant design makes using it a joy.
Julie Miller (verified owner) –
The XT8 Plus exceeded my expectations in every way. Setup was a breeze, and I started observing the night sky in no time. The telescope is sleek and well-designed with a sturdy base for smooth, stable movement.
joseph39 (verified owner) –
The Orion XT8 Plus Telescope has been a letdown so far. The Orion 8945 SkyQuest XT8 Plus hasn’t lived up to my expectations after a few weeks of use. Mastering the telescope is proving challenging. Instructions lack clarity, forcing me to do further research online about proper mirror alignment. Deep sky viewing ability initially attracted me to this model. Performance feels underwhelming.
Danielle Gross (verified owner) –
Orion’s 8-inch Dobsonian reflector telescope delivers crisp, clear images of celestial objects. The Orion XT8 Plus 8-inch Dobsonian Telescope impresses with its ability to handle high magnification.
amandabennett (verified owner) –
Setup of the Orion XT8 Plus was simple, taking about an hour with clear instructions. The Orion 8945 SkyQuest XT8 Plus handles lighter weight eyepieces well, accommodating several different ones without issues.Views of the moon and planets were fine. The detail in the Orion Nebula blew me away – like nothing I’d ever seen before. Versatility is a strong point of the XT8 Plus. The telescope is good for both astronomy and terrestrial viewing. I’ve used it to observe wildlife and scenery during the day.
Michael Brown (verified owner) –
Before, I used a smaller, cheaper model with blurry images and little detail. The XT8 Plus has been available for a long time now. I’ve had several chances to test it on clear nights. The light gathering ability is incredible. I’ve seen breathtaking sights and details I’d never noticed before. The metallic finish looks sleek and professional. The whole telescope feels solid and well-built. Top-notch optics and sturdy construction make it popular among amateur astronomers. I’ve even gotten great views of the sun with proper solar filters. Sunspots and granulation are amazing to see up close. The XT8 Plus is more than enough for a beginner like me.
lisa48 (verified owner) –
The telescope is worth every penny. Optics are incredibly clear, allowing me to see night sky details I never thought possible. Generous aperture lets me observe objects previously out of reach. Simple, intuitive design makes it easy to use. Alignment process is clear and easy to follow. Weight is the only downside. It’s almost too heavy for me to manage alone. My husband helps me move it. Customer support has been surprisingly available and helpful. I got a response about the focuser within a day.
cardenaskimberly (verified owner) –
The Orion XT8 Plus Dobsonian Reflector Telescope was up and running in no time. Skyquest XT8 Plus by Orion produces high-quality images that blow me away. The whole experience has been amazing. I feel like I’m getting a real close-up view of the night sky. Adjustable altitude tension stands out as a feature. Fine-tuning the telescope’s position is easy with the adjustable tension. Operation is pretty quiet and smooth. I’ve tried other telescopes before. The Orion 8945 SkyQuest XT8 Plus is definitely one of the most advanced and popular options available now.