Orion SkyQuest XX12i

Product Description

The Orion SkyQuest XX12i telescope is a powerful and affordable Dobsonian reflector telescope with a massive 12-inch aperture. Orion SkyQuest XX12i features a sturdy truss tube design that compresses for easy transport while providing superior rigidity and stability compared to traditional Dobsonians. SkyQuest XX12i includes an Intelliscope object locator system with two high-resolution encoders for incredibly accurate pointing and tracking. Orion SkyQuest XX12i offers smooth altitude and azimuth motion, allowing effortless tracking of celestial objects across the night sky. SkyQuest XX12i excels at deep-sky observing and astro-imaging, enabling users to capture breathtaking images and observe incredible detail in the cosmos.

The SkyQuest XX12i has an f/4.9 focal ratio and a 1500mm focal length. These specifications provide powerful optics for observing a wide range of celestial objects. The telescope’s design allows for smooth motion on both altitude and azimuth axes. Adjustable altitude tension and azimuth controls ensure easy tracking of objects, even at high magnifications.

The Orion SkyQuest XX12i serves as an ideal “light bucket” for deep-sky observers. Its large aperture collects significant amounts of light, making it excellent for viewing faint nebulae, galaxies, and star clusters. The telescope’s powerful optics deliver crisp and clear images of celestial objects. Smooth motion and precise tracking enhance the user experience when exploring the night sky.

The SkyQuest XX12i offers a balance of performance and portability. Its truss-tube design allows for easy disassembly and reassembly, facilitating transportation to different observing locations. The telescope weighs 240 lbs (109kg), remaining manageable for most users. The Orion SkyQuest XX12i is available at an affordable price point, making it an attractive option for serious astronomers seeking powerful optics without a high cost.

Should you buy Orion SkyQuest XX12i as your first telescope?

The Orion SkyQuest XX12i is not recommended as a first telescope for most beginners. Experienced astronomers benefit more from its advanced features and impressive views. The telescope requires a large investment of $1,599.99. Beginners face a steep learning curve to operate it effectively. The push-to technology aids in object location but adds complexity. Alternatives in the same price range may offer better value for novices. The XX12i’s large size and weight (75 lbs) limit portability. Storage space requirements are significant, needing at least a 5×5 foot area. Transportation needs careful planning due to its bulky nature. Light pollution affects performance, requiring dark sky locations for optimal use. The telescope excels at deep-space observations but lacks specific features to combat light pollution. High-quality construction ensures durability but increases cost. Buyers must carefully weigh these pros and cons against their viewing goals and budget constraints.

Is Orion XX12i IntelliScope Dobsonian Reflector Telescope easy to use?

Orion XX12i IntelliScope Dobsonian Reflector Telescope offers exceptional ease of use. IntelliScope system works flawlessly for locating celestial objects. Simple push-button controls enable effortless navigation. Telescope movements are extremely stable and smooth. Users make precise adjustments without difficulty. Scope provides great night sky views. Beginners find it user-friendly and accessible.

Should you buy Orion 8945 SkyQuest XX12i for kids?

The Orion 8945 SkyQuest XX12i is not recommended for children. We advise against purchasing this telescope for kids due to its size, weight, and complexity. The 12-inch (305mm) aperture telescope weighs 240 lbs (109kg), making it difficult for children to handle and maneuver. Assembly requires technical expertise, which young users may find challenging. The telescope’s advanced features and computerized altazimuth mount are likely to overwhelm children. Alternatives like the Orion StarBlast series are better suited for kids. The StarBlast offers a more portable, user-friendly option specifically designed for beginners and children. It provides a fun and accessible introduction to astronomy without the frustration associated with managing a large, complex instrument.

What can you see with Orion SkyQuest XX12i IntelliScope?

The features of what you can see with Orion SkyQuest XX12i IntelliScope are outlined below.

• Distant galaxies
• Nebulae
• Star clusters
• Pluto
• Planets
• Sweeping star fields

Should you buy Orion XX12i Truss Tube Dobsonian Reflector Telescope to observe planets?

Yes, the Orion XX12i Truss Tube Dobsonian Reflector Telescope is an excellent choice for observing planets. The telescope’s large 12-inch (305mm) aperture gathers significant light, revealing impressive planetary details. Its Dobsonian design provides a stable base for smooth tracking of celestial objects. The IntelliScope technology assists in locating and following planets with push-to capability and a 42,000+ object database. The telescope’s high-quality mirrors deliver sharp, clear views of planets and deep sky objects. The truss tube construction allows for disassembly and transport, though the 240 lb (109kg) weight limits portability. The Orion XX12i represents a significant investment, but its performance justifies the price for serious astronomers interested in planetary observation.

Should you buy Orion 8945 IntelliScope XX12i Truss Dobsonian to observe galaxies?

The Orion 8945 IntelliScope XX12i Truss Dobsonian is an excellent choice for observing galaxies. Its 12″ aperture provides impressive light-gathering capabilities, allowing users to see faint and distant galaxies with clarity and detail. The telescope’s f/4.9 focal ratio and 1500mm focal length offer a good balance between magnification and image brightness. The IntelliScope computerized object location system enables quick and accurate targeting of galaxies from a database of 42,000+ objects. Dobsonians are well-suited for deep sky observing, and the XX12i’s powerful optics and advanced technology make it ideal for exploring the universe. The SkyQuest XX12i’s Newtonian optical design and parabolic primary mirror deliver sharp, clear images of galaxies and other deep sky objects.

Should you buy Orion XX12i Truss Tube Dobsonian Reflector Telescope for astrophotography?

The Orion XX12i Truss Tube Dobsonian Reflector Telescope is not recommended for astrophotography. Dobsonian telescopes lack the necessary tracking mounts for long exposure imaging. The XX12i’s computerized Altazimuth mount with GoTo controls is designed for visual observing and object locating, not for tracking celestial objects over extended periods. Deep sky astrophotography requires long exposure times to capture breathtaking color and detail invisible to the human eye. Astrophotographers should consider alternatives with robust equatorial or fork mounts that offer more accurate tracking. The XX12i excels at visual observing with its large 12-inch aperture and push-to technology, but its limitations make it unsuitable for serious astrophotography pursuits.

Is Orion XX12i IntelliScope Dobsonian Reflector Telescope portable?

Orion XX12i IntelliScope Dobsonian Reflector Telescope is not extremely portable. Telescope weighs 55 pounds and stands over 5 feet tall. Truss tube design allows for easier disassembly. Telescope remains transportable and handy for backyard astronomy. Users easily set up and take down the telescope. Light-gathering capabilities offer high-quality deep-space observation despite limited portability.