Orion SkyQuest Classic Dobsonian Series

Orion SkyQuest Classic Dobsonian

The Orion SkyQuest Classic is a great range of entry level Dobsonian telescopes ideal for a beginner to amateur astronomy. The telescopes are priced between $280 and $580 and the range is made up of four models with differing aperatures, from a 4.5 inch version (XT4.5), through 6 (XT6) and 8 inches (XT8) up to the big boy of the range, the 10 inch aperature XT10 Classic Dobsonian SkyQuest.

Each model comes with a sturdy mount and grip knob for easy maneuvering, all are very portable with the XT10 weighing in at 53.4 lbs fully assembled. The two smaller models come with a 1.25 inch rack and pinion focuser whilst the larger versions, XT8 and XT10, sport a 2 inch Crayford focuser.

Orion have also provided the Beginner Barlow kit as an optional extra for the SkyQuest Classic range. The kit adds on $50 to the base cost and includes observing reference material plus a red LED light to read it with.

Orion SkyQuest Telescope Accessories

NightWatch: A Practical Guide to Viewing the Universe
1.25" Orion 13% Transmission Moon Filter
46"x13.5"x18.5" Orion Padded Telescope Case

Orion SkyQuest Telescope Information

  • Details
  • Specs
  • Reviews
  • Compact and lightweight for easy transportation
  • Sturdy Dobsonian Base
  • Ideal for lunar and plnetary viewing
Specifications XT4.5 XT6 XT8 XT10
Price $229.95 $279.95 $329.95 $529.95
User Level Beginner Beginner Intermediate Intermediate
Optical Design Reflector
Optical diameter 114mm 150mm 203mm 254mm
Focal length 900mm 1200mm 1200mm 1200mm
Focal ratio f/7.9 f/8.0 f/5.9 f/4.7
Optics Type Spherical Parabolic Parabolic Parabolic
Glass material Soda-lime plate Soda-lime plate Soda-lime plate BK-7
Eyepieces Sirius Plossl 25.0mm, 10.0mm Sirius Plossl 25.0mm (1.25") Sirius Plossl 25.0mm (1.25") Sirius Plossl 25.0mm (1.25")
Magnification with included eyepieces 36x, 91x 48x 48x 48x
Resolving Power 1.02arc*sec 0.77arc*sec 0.57arc*sec 0.46arc*sec
Highest useful magnification 228x 300x 300x 300x
Limiting stellar magnitude 12.9 13.5 14.2 14.7
Optical quality Diffraction limited
Finder scope 6x26 Correct-image EZ Finder II EZ Finder II EZ Finder II
Focuser 1.25 inch rack-and-pinion 2 inch Crayford
Mirror coatings Aluminum & Silicon Dioxide
Bearing material Teflon and UHMW bearings
Tube material Steel
Tripod material Wood
Length of optical tube 35.0 inch 45.5 inch 46.5 inch 47.8 inch
Weight, fully assembled 17.6 lbs 34.4 lbs 41.0 lbs 53.4 lbs
Warranty One year