Orion SkyQuest XT10 PLUS
From: $499.99 (incl. VAT plus shipping costs)
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The Orion SkyQuest XT10 PLUS is a high-quality reflector telescope with a large 254 mm (10-inch) aperture. It features a Dobsonian-style mount, a parabolic primary mirror, and a 2-inch Crayford-style focuser with dual-speed capability. The telescope achieves magnifications up to 300x, has a limiting stellar magnitude of 14.7, and offers a light gathering capacity of 1178x for observing faint celestial objects.
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Product Description
The Orion SkyQuest XT10 PLUS telescope is a high-quality, versatile, and affordable reflector telescope with a large 254 mm (10-inch) aperture. Dobsonian-style mount provides sturdy support and smooth tracking for deep-space observations. Parabolic primary mirror made of soda-lime glass, mounted in a cast aluminum cell, delivers excellent optics and image quality. 2-inch Crayford-style focuser features dual-speed capability, allowing precise focusing with a 10:1 reduction for high magnification views. Orion SkyQuest XT10 PLUS achieves magnifications up to 300x, making it ideal for both visual astronomy and astrophotography.
A standout feature of the SkyQuest XT10 PLUS is its 2-speed focuser. The dual-speed focuser allows for precise and smooth focusing, enabling users to achieve sharp images of celestial objects. Orion SkyQuest XT10 PLUS includes a sturdy mount with smooth altitude and azimuth controls. The mount provides a stable platform for observing and tracking celestial objects.
SkyQuest XT10 PLUS offers versatility for a wide range of astronomical applications. It is suitable for lunar and planetary observation as well as deep space viewing of nebulae, galaxies, and star clusters. The telescope has a limiting stellar magnitude of 14.7 and a resolution limit of 0.46 arcseconds. Its light gathering capacity is 1178x, making it ideal for observing faint celestial objects.
Should you buy Orion SkyQuest XT10 PLUS as your first telescope?
The Orion SkyQuest XT10 PLUS is an excellent choice for a first telescope. Its 254mm aperture provides good light-gathering capacity and resolving power for deep space objects and moon observation. The telescope offers great value at $500-$600, balancing price and performance. The XT10’s parabolic primary mirror and glass optics deliver good optical quality with minimal distortion. The wooden mount and steel tube provide a stable platform for observing. Users find the XT10 easy to use with its simple control system and 2″ Crayford-style focuser. The telescope’s versatility allows for various observing tasks and experimentation with different accessories. The XT10 excels at deep space object viewing, providing good contrast and detail. Planetary viewing capabilities are limited by the aperture and optical quality. The telescope weighs 22.7kg, making it moderately portable. Assembly and setup are straightforward, with clear instructions provided in the manual.
Is Orion 8945 XT10 PLUS Dobsonian Reflector Telescope easy to use?
Dobsonian telescope design makes Orion 8945 XT10 PLUS easy to use. Amateur astronomers appreciate its simplicity and user-friendly nature. Telescope features smooth altazimuth mount for effortless tracking. Practice enhances proficiency. Everyone learns operation with patience. Sophisticated instrument remains uncomplicated. Accessible stargazing experience appeals to beginners and enthusiasts alike.
Should you buy Orion 8945 SkyQuest XT10 Plus Telescope for kids?
The Orion 8945 SkyQuest XT10 Plus Telescope is recommended for kids serious about astronomy with adult supervision. Easy setup and compact design enable family stargazing sessions. High-quality optics and large 254mm aperture provide stunning views of the moon, planets, and deep space objects. The telescope offers an affordable price point for beginner astronomy, making it an excellent family choice. Accessories like eyepieces and a Barlow lens are required for full capability. Assembly may be necessary, offering an educational experience with adult guidance. The telescope’s weight of 22.7kg necessitates adult assistance for movement. Kids will develop a lifelong passion for stargazing through moon observation, planet viewing, and exploration of nebulae, galaxies, and star clusters.
What can you see with Orion 8945 SkyQuest XT10 Plus Dobsonian Reflector Telescope?
The celestial wonders you can see with Orion 8945 SkyQuest XT10 Plus Dobsonian Reflector Telescope are listed below.
- Moon craters
- Moon mountains
- Jupiter’s cloud bands
- Jupiter’s Great Red Spot
- Jupiter’s four largest moons
- Saturn’s rings
- Saturn’s moons, including Titan and Enceladus
- Mars’ polar ice caps
- Mars’ Valles Marineris canyon system
- Venus’ phases
- Venus’ thick atmosphere
- Orion Nebula (M42)
- Lagoon Nebula (M8)
- Andromeda Galaxy (M31)
- Whirlpool Galaxy (M51)
- Pleiades (M45)
- Double Cluster (NGC 869 and NGC 884)
- Sirius
- Canopus
- Vega
- Distant objects up to a limiting stellar magnitude of 14.7
Should you buy Orion XT10 PLUS SkyQuest Telescope to observe planets?
Yes, you should buy the Orion XT10 PLUS SkyQuest Telescope to observe planets. The telescope’s large 254mm aperture brings excellent detail and clarity to planetary observations. It provides decent views of Jupiter’s cloud bands, Saturn’s rings, and Mars’ polar ice caps. The XT10 PLUS excels at observing the Moon, revealing crisp details and clear resolution. The focal length of 1200mm and f/4.7 focal ratio suit planetary viewing. The telescope specializes in deep-space observation but handles planets versatilely. Additional eyepieces or a Barlow lens may be needed for optimal planetary viewing, as the telescope lacks accessories out of the box. The XT10 PLUS is a time-tested instrument that offers excellent views of planets, the Moon, and star clusters, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced astronomers.
Should you buy Orion 8945 SkyQuest XT10 PLUS to observe galaxies?
Yes, you should buy the Orion 8945 SkyQuest XT10 PLUS to observe galaxies. The telescope’s large 254mm aperture excels at gathering light, allowing observation of faint galaxies and deep space objects. Its light gathering capacity of 1178x reveals fine details in distant galaxies, including spiral arms and central bulges. The XT10 PLUS specializes in deep space observation, providing clear views of nebulas, star clusters, and a wide range of galaxies from nearby Andromeda to the distant Whirlpool Galaxy. The recommended observing magnification of 36x to 500x offers versatility for various celestial targets. The telescope’s parabolic optics and wide field of view make locating and observing galaxies easier, while the 2″ Crayford-style focuser ensures sharp, clear details.
Should you buy Orion 8945 SkyQuest XT10 Plus Dobsonian Reflector Telescope for astrophotography?
The Orion 8945 SkyQuest XT10 Plus Dobsonian Reflector Telescope is not recommended for serious astrophotography. The telescope excels in visual observation of celestial objects and allows for lunar and planetary photography with short exposures. Its large 254mm aperture and 1200mm focal length are suitable for capturing detailed images of the Moon and planets. The telescope’s limitations for deep space astrophotography stem from its Dobsonian mount, lack of GoTo controls, and absence of advanced tracking features. The telescope shines in visual observations of the moon, galaxies, nebulae, planets, and double stars. Serious astrophotographers seeking long-exposure capabilities for deep sky objects should consider alternative options with more specialized mounts and tracking systems.
Is Orion SkyQuest XT10 PLUS Dobsonian Reflector portable?
Orion SkyQuest XT10 PLUS Dobsonian Reflector telescope offers relative portability. XT10 PLUS weighs 55 pounds, lighter than other 10-inch Dobsonians. Collapsible tube design enhances transport and storage ease. Components are designed for easy handling and assembly. Telescope remains substantial, potentially requiring assistance for movement. XT10 PLUS provides a high-quality, light, and relatively easy-to-transport option for users.
Specifications
| Telescope type | Dobsonian |
|---|---|
| Optics structure | Newtonian |
| Optical design | Parabolic |
| Optics material | Glass |
| Aperture size | 254mm |
| Focal length | 1200mm |
| Limiting stellar magnitude | 14.7 |
| Focal ratio | f/4.7 |
| Aperture ratio | 1:4.7 |
| Resolution limit | 0.46 arcseconds |
| Resolving capacity | 0.92 arcseconds |
| Light gathering capacity | 1178x |
| Lowest useful magnification | 36x |
| Maximum useful magnification | 500x |
| Tube material | Steel |
| Tube diameter | 254mm |
| Type of focuser | 2" Crayford-style |
| Eyepiece size | 1.25" |
| Magnification of eyepiece | 10mm |
| Mount type | Dobsonian |
| Mount structure | Wooden |
| 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 | Wooden |
| Finderscope | 6x30mm |
| Barlow lens | 2x |
| Size dimensions | 63x46x26cm |
| Weight | 22.7kg |
| Recommended for Moon and planets | Yes |
| Recommended for nebulae and galaxies | Yes |
| Recommended for astrophotography | Yes |
| Recommended for beginners | Yes |
| Recommended for advanced astronomers | Yes |
| Portability | Moderate |
| Ease of use | Easy |
| Assembly | Required |
| Release date | 2011 |
| Brand | Orion |
| Telescope series | SkyQuest |
| Manufacturer | Orion Telescopes & Binoculars |
| Country made in | China |
8 reviews for Orion SkyQuest XT10 PLUS
Only logged in customers who have purchased this product may leave a review.
Yunnuel (verified owner) –
The Orion 8945 SkyQuest XT10 PLUS Telescope has been an excellent addition to my astronomy hobby. Orion SkyQuest XT10 PLUS Dobsonian Reflector Telescope provides amazing clarity and detail. The standard Dobsonian design is easy to set up and maneuver. Cheaper telescopes gave me bad experiences in the past. The parabolic mirror delivers sharp, clear images of celestial objects. An extra solar filter comes with the telescope, allowing easy observation of sunspots and solar flares.
Michelle Robertson (verified owner) –
Assembly of the Orion SkyQuest XT10 PLUS 10-inch reflector telescope was surprisingly straightforward, taking less than an hour to set up. Optical quality is top-notch, providing crisp and clear views of the night sky. Blue LED light illuminates the reticle, making it easier to use in low-light conditions. Finder scope is smaller than expected but still gets the job done. Optional single-speed focuser is available, but I’m happy with the included dual-speed version. Instruction manual was lacking in detail, but a quick online search provided more information than needed.
Peter (verified owner) –
Orion XT10 PLUS Reflector Telescope’s large aperture stands out as a key feature. Higher magnification and better resolution are possible thanks to the large aperture. Sharp images of deep space objects are now within reach. Galaxies and nebulas reveal intricate details I’ve never seen before. The focuser is smooth and easy to use, even with large hands. Sturdy construction impresses me. Set-up and operation are relatively straightforward. My success likely comes from reading the manual and learning proper usage. The telescope offers a truly new stargazing experience for me. Honesty compels me to mention I’m not affiliated with Orion. My unbiased opinion stems solely from personal experience with this remarkable instrument.
Lauren (verified owner) –
Orion 8945 SkyQuest XT10 PLUS exceeded my expectations in every way. Setting up was a breeze with clear instructions. The telescope feels less intimidating than I initially thought. Smooth and precise focuser makes getting clear night sky views a cinch. Dobson design provides noticeably more stability than my old reflector scope. Views are crisp and clear, allowing me to see deep-sky objects I couldn’t before. Metallic finish gives the telescope a high-quality look and feel. Features like the 2″ Crayford focuser and 28mm DeepView eyepiece make a big difference in view quality.
Ashley Tate (verified owner) –
Orion XT10 PLUS Dobsonian Reflector Telescope falls short in some areas. The focal length is too long for my taste, making navigation tricky in tight spaces. Tried using it in my backyard, but lime trees kept getting in the way. Adjustable altitude tension is a nice touch, though not as smooth as I’d like. Wrestled with it a few times to make it cooperate. Deluxe focuser is an extra feature that makes getting a clear view easier. Only had this telescope for a few weeks. Noticed it’s not as sturdy as I thought. Tripod feels flimsy and might not hold up to regular use. Tried putting it together a few times, but assembly isn’t as easy as expected. May just need more time to get used to it.
wardamy (verified owner) –
The Orion 8945 SkyQuest XT10 PLUS Telescope delivers excellent image quality. Orion SkyQuest XT10 PLUS Dobsonian Reflector Telescope provides crisp, clear views of the moon, planets, and deep-sky objects. High-quality optics really stand out. The 10-inch aperture gives significant light-gathering power, perfect for viewing faint objects.
Madeline Foster (verified owner) –
The Orion 8945 SkyQuest XT10 PLUS Telescope has been a brilliant addition to my stargazing setup. Orion XT10 PLUS Dobsonian Reflector Telescope offers crystal clear image quality, allowing me to see more detail in the night sky than I thought possible. The PLUS features, like the improved focuser and 2″ Crayford-style focuser, are worth the extra cost. They provide more precise control over my viewing experience. The telescope performs beautifully both in my backyard and on trips to darker locations.
smueller (verified owner) –
Upgrading from my previous model, I experienced crystal-clear views of the moon and planets. Setting up took hours of manual study, but my first look through the lens hooked me. The classic Dobsonian design makes navigating the night sky easy. Gazing at stars filled me with wonder. Small size belies powerful performance. Weight and size caught me off guard. Investment is worthwhile for aspiring astronomers.