Orion SkyQuest XT12i

Product Description

The Orion SkyQuest XT12i telescope is a big, high-quality reflector telescope that advances astronomy to a new level. Orion SkyQuest XT12i features a 12-inch (304.8 mm) aperture and 1,524 mm focal length, providing impressive views of celestial objects. Intelliscope technology assists in finding and tracking celestial objects, making it easier to locate fascinating targets. Orion SkyQuest XT12i offers a user-friendly and fun way to explore the night sky, suitable for both beginners and experienced astronomers. Orion SkyQuest XT12i’s sturdy truss tube design provides a solid and stable base for the optics, while the Dobsonian-style mount allows for smooth movement and clever push-to navigation.

The SkyQuest XT12i includes a computerized IntelliScope system for locating celestial objects. Digital setting circles provide accurate positioning and guidance. The push-to system enables users to manually move the telescope while receiving digital readouts. Users enter object coordinates, and the telescope guides them to the correct location.

The telescope’s optics offer a 1500mm focal length and an f/4.9 focal ratio. These specifications make it ideal for observing nebulae, galaxies, and star clusters. The XT12i’s user-friendly design makes it accessible to astronomers of all skill levels. A 2″ Crayford-style focuser and included 1.25″ eyepieces provide comfortable and precise viewing experiences.

Should you buy Orion SkyQuest XT12i as your first telescope?

The Orion SkyQuest XT12i is not recommended as a first telescope for beginners. We advise starting with a smaller, more portable telescope or refractor to learn astronomy basics. The XT12i measures 63″ x 25″ x 25″, weighs 87 lbs, and requires significant storage space. Its size limits portability and transportation options. The telescope’s advanced features, including a computerized Altazimuth mount and IntelliScope Object Locator, present a steep learning curve for novices. The XT12i’s 12-inch (304.8 mm) aperture is best utilized in areas with minimal light pollution. Beginners should consider more affordable options, as the XT12i represents a significant financial investment. Experienced astronomers suggest upgrading to larger telescopes like the XT12i after gaining experience and confidence with smaller instruments.

Is Orion Dobsonian XT12i easy to use?

The Orion Dobsonian XT12i is exceptionally easy to use for astronomers of all skill levels. Its simple Dobsonian mount design provides intuitive navigation, while the IntelliScope Object Locator system enables effortless finding and tracking of celestial objects. Assembly is straightforward with clear instructions. The telescope’s movement is smooth and effortless for sky tracking. Operation is clear with illuminated buttons for easy navigation in the dark. The display is easy to read and provides essential observing information. A stable base supports the tube, which sits securely on the mount. The 2″ Crayford-style focuser allows precise adjustments. Users can enter catalog numbers or select objects from a list for automatic telescope slewing, eliminating the need for complicated star charts.

Should you buy Orion 8945 SkyQuest XT12i for kids?

The Orion 8945 SkyQuest XT12i is not recommended for most kids. Parents should consider size, weight, and skill level before buying this telescope. The XT12i measures 63″ x 25″ x 25″ and weighs 87 lbs, making it challenging for children under 12 to handle. The telescope requires significant storage space and is difficult to transport. Its 12-inch aperture provides excellent views but comes with a steep learning curve. The XT12i costs around $1,500, a substantial investment for a child’s hobby. The telescope’s build quality is high, featuring a steel tube and wooden mount. Children need basic astronomy knowledge and adult supervision to operate the XT12i effectively. Parents should evaluate more affordable, entry-level alternatives like the Orion GoScope III or Celestron FirstScope for younger children or beginners.

What can you see with Orion 12-Inch SkyQuest?

The celestial wonders you can see with Orion 12-Inch SkyQuest are listed below.

• Ring Nebula
• Dumbbell Nebula
• Bode’s Galaxy
• Cigar Galaxy
• Sombrero Galaxy
• Whirlpool Galaxy
• Pinwheel Galaxy
• Pleiades Cluster
• Orion Nebula
• Jupiter
• Saturn
• Mars
• Milky Way
• Messier Objects
• Globular Clusters
• Open Clusters
• Double Star Systems
• Planetary Nebulae
• Lunar Craters
• Lunar Mountains
• Lunar Lava Flows

Should you buy Orion 8945 Intelliscope to observe planets?

Yes, you should buy the Orion 8945 Intelliscope to observe planets. The Orion 8945 SkyQuest Intelliscope excels in planet observation with its large 12-inch (304.8 mm) aperture. The telescope provides clear views of celestial objects in our solar system. Its light gathering capacity of 2127x enables detailed views of planetary surfaces. The Intelliscope technology enhances planet observation capabilities with computerized Altazimuth mount and DC servo motors. The resolution limit of 0.46 arcseconds reveals fine details on planets like Jupiter’s cloud bands and Mars’ polar ice caps. Astronomers recommend the Orion 8945 for exploring the night sky and observing the Moon and planets.

Should you buy Orion Dobsonian XT12i to observe galaxies?

Yes, you should buy the Orion Dobsonian XT12i to observe galaxies. The XT12i’s large 12-inch (304.8 mm) aperture excels at gathering light for viewing deep-sky objects. Its good build quality and stable base ensure smooth movement and minimal vibrations during high-power viewing. The IntelliScope technology assists in finding galactic targets easily, benefiting both beginners and experienced astronomers. The telescope delivers impressive galaxy views with clarity and precision. Portability is a concern due to the XT12i’s 87 lb (39.5 kg) weight and 63″ x 25″ x 25″ (160 cm x 63 cm x 63 cm) dimensions. The benefits of large aperture and excellent performance outweigh portability issues for dedicated galaxy observers.

Should you buy Orion Dobsonian XT12i for astrophotography?

The Orion Dobsonian XT12i is not recommended for astrophotography. The telescope is designed for visual astronomy and excels in viewing deep-sky objects with its large 12-inch (304.8 mm) aperture. Astrophotography requires a tracking mount for long exposures, which the XT12i’s altazimuth mount lacks. The push-to Dobsonian design and computerized object locator are optimized for visual observation, not imaging. Serious astrophotographers should consider telescopes with equatorial tracking mounts and autoguiding capabilities. The XT12i’s limitations in precise tracking and manual adjustments hinder high-quality image capture. Better options exist for dedicated astrophotography, while the XT12i remains an excellent choice for visual astronomy enthusiasts.

Is Orion 8945 portable?

Orion 8945 is portable. Orion 8945 weighs 35 pounds (15.9 kg) and measures 43.5 inches (110.5 cm) in length. Orion 8945 comes with a sturdy carrying case for transport. Orion 8945 fits in car trunks with careful maneuvering. Orion 8945 requires some effort to transport and set up.