Orion SkyQuest XT12

Product Description

The Orion SkyQuest XT12 telescope is a Dobsonian reflector telescope designed for amateur astronomers seeking impressive views of deep-sky objects. Orion SkyQuest XT12 features a 12-inch (305 mm) aperture and a 1500 mm focal length, providing a solid foundation for observing faint celestial objects. SkyQuest XT12 includes an IntelliScope computerized object locator for finding target objects in the night sky. Orion SkyQuest XT12’s classic Dobsonian design incorporates a truss tube for easy disassembly and transportation. SkyQuest XT12 is equipped with a Crayford-style focuser accepting 2-inch eyepieces, a cooling fan to regulate the primary mirror’s temperature, and a shroud to eliminate stray light.

The SkyQuest XT12 incorporates an aluminum mirror cell with a floating support system. This combination ensures stable movement and clear views of celestial objects. The telescope utilizes a push-to system for manual operation. IntelliScope technology assists in finding targets, though it is not a fully computerized telescope.

The 12-inch aperture of the SkyQuest XT12 excels at capturing deep-sky objects. Its solid construction and smooth focuser contribute to easy navigation and use. The telescope’s large aperture and stable base make it ideal for both beginners and experienced astronomers seeking impressive views of the night sky.

Should you buy Orion SkyQuest XT12 as your first telescope?

Orion SkyQuest XT12 excels as a first telescope for amateur astronomers. Entry-level Dobsonian reflector offers excellent performance, simplicity, and affordability. Great hobby instrument provides significant light-gathering power with 12-inch aperture. Astronomy enthusiasts benefit from high-resolution views of deep-sky objects. Sturdy construction ensures stable tracking. Orion’s popular model balances capabilities and cost for beginners.

Is Orion 8945 XT12 easy to use?

The Orion 8945 XT12 is exceptionally easy to use for astronomers of all skill levels. Its Dobsonian base provides silky-smooth motions in altitude and azimuth, allowing users to effortlessly push or pull the scope to track celestial objects. Setup takes only a few minutes, with minimal assembly required. The telescope weighs 87 lbs (39.5 kg) but remains relatively easy to move thanks to its compact design and sturdy handle. Storage is straightforward, as the telescope can be disassembled and stored in most closets or small spaces. The 2″ Crayford-style focuser offers precise focus control for sharp, clear images.

Should you buy Orion 8945 XT12 for kids?

The Orion 8945 XT12 is an excellent choice for kids interested in astronomy. Kids enjoy the thrill of exploring the universe with this family-friendly telescope. The XT12’s 12-inch aperture and 1500mm focal length provide excellent views of celestial objects, perfect for children beginning to flourish in their stargazing hobby. Limitations exist regarding the telescope’s size and weight, weighing 87 pounds with dimensions of 46.5 x 26.5 x 18.5 inches. Younger children will find it difficult to move the telescope around. A transport case allows families to move a handful of components at a time, making setup and takedown more manageable for kids. The Orion 8945 XT12 remains a solid recommendation for families wanting to introduce their children to astronomy, providing hours of educational stargazing under proper adult supervision.

What can you see with Orion SkyQuest XT12 Telescope?

The celestial wonders you can see with Orion SkyQuest XT12 Telescope are detailed below.

• Saturn’s rings
• Jupiter’s Great Red Spot
• Lunar craters
• Lunar mountains
• Lunar lava flows
• M42 (Orion Nebula)
• M31 (Andromeda Galaxy)
• M13 (Hercules Globular Cluster)
• M57 (Ring Nebula)
• Jupiter’s cloud bands
• Phases of Venus
• Phases of Mars
• M51 (Whirlpool Galaxy)
• M104 (Sombrero Galaxy)
• Milky Way dark lanes
• Milky Way star-forming regions
• M8 (Lagoon Nebula)
• M16 (Eagle Nebula)
• Globular clusters
• Open clusters
• Double stars

Should you buy Orion XT12 Intelliscope Dobsonian to observe planets?

Yes, you should buy the Orion XT12 Intelliscope Dobsonian to observe planets. The 12-inch aperture provides excellent planetary views with significant light-gathering capability. Observers see Saturn’s rings and Jupiter’s moons clearly through this telescope. The parabolic optics ensure sharp, undistorted images of planetary surfaces and features. Automatic sky tracking allows extended observation periods without manual adjustments. The focal ratio of f/4.9 suits a wide range of observations, including deep space objects. The Orion XT12 represents a lifetime investment for planetary viewing with proper maintenance. The large aperture and high-quality optics deliver remarkable planetary clarity. Users observe Jupiter’s cloud bands and Mars’ polar ice caps in detail. The Dobsonian mount enables smooth sky tracking for precise planetary observation.

Should you buy Orion 8945 SkyQuest XT12 to observe galaxies?

The Orion 8945 SkyQuest XT12 is an excellent choice for observing galaxies. Its 12-inch (304.8 mm) aperture provides state-of-the-art clarity and light-gathering capabilities for viewing deep-sky objects. The large aperture allows astronomers to observe faint galaxies even in mediocre skies. XT12 is a recommended beginner scope, offering ease of use and simple assembly. The telescope represents a significant investment but delivers exceptional value for money. Users should consider the XT12’s size and weight for transport and storage. The telescope weighs 87 lbs (39.5 kg) and measures 46.5 x 26.5 x 18.5 inches (118.1 x 67.3 x 47 cm). Proper care ensures a lifetime of galaxy viewing pleasure.

Should you buy Orion XT12 SkyQuest for astrophotography?

The Orion XT12 SkyQuest is not recommended for astrophotography. Dobsonian telescopes, including the XT12 SkyQuest, lack the necessary features and design for effective imaging. The telescope’s 1500mm focal length and f/4.9 focal ratio are unsuitable for capturing high-quality astronomical images. Manual controls, imprecise tracking, and the absence of a sturdy equatorial mount make long-exposure photography challenging. Serious astrophotographers should consider Cassegrain telescopes instead. Cassegrain designs offer longer focal lengths, more stable optics, and advanced features like GoTo controls and electronic focusers. The XT12 SkyQuest excels at visual observations but falls short in imaging capabilities, making it frustrating for astrophotography enthusiasts.

Is Orion XT12 SkyQuest portable?

Orion XT12 SkyQuest telescope offers good portability for its 12-inch aperture. Manageable 55-pound weight allows transport to dark-sky locations by car. 1200mm focal length and f/4.9 ratio contribute to optical performance. Telescope balances aperture and portability effectively, making it attractive for users seeking a powerful yet transportable instrument.