Choosing Your 12″ Dobsonian Telescope…Plus Our Top 3 Review for 2023
Thinking about taking the plunge and getting yourself a 12″Dobsonian telescope? Excellent choice! With a telescope this size, you’re crossing from beginner into optical territory where celestial objects become clearer than ever before. But as you might have noticed, there are multiple options out there, each with their own sets of features, pros, and cons. How do you navigate this sea of choices to find the right one for you? Here are some key factors to consider when choosing a 12″ Dobsonian telescope.
*12″ Dobsonian Telescopes reviewed in this post:
- Sky-Watcher Flextube 300 SynScan 12″ Dobsonian
- Celestron Starsense Explorer 12″ Dobsonian
- Explore Scientific f/5 Truss Tube 12″ Dobsonian Telescope
How to Choose the Best 12″ Dobsonian Telescope For Your Needs
Aperture and Optics
A 12-inch aperture allows you to collect more light, offering brighter, clearer views of celestial objects, from planets to distant galaxies. But it’s essential to understand that not all 12-inch apertures are the same. The quality of the optics can make a significant difference in your stargazing experience.
1) Quality of Glass and Coatings
The primary and secondary mirrors in your telescope should be made of high-quality glass. Lower quality glass can introduce optical aberrations that can distort your views. Additionally, the coatings on the mirrors matter a lot. Quality coatings improve light reflectivity, thereby allowing you to see fainter objects more clearly.
Some telescopes come with enhanced coatings that offer reflectivity above 95%, providing noticeably brighter and sharper images.
2) Parabolic vs. Spherical Mirrors
Most quality 12-inch Dobsonians come with parabolic primary mirrors, which are designed to eliminate spherical aberration. This means that light rays coming in at different angles converge at a single focal point, producing a sharper image. Some less expensive models might use spherical mirrors, which can be acceptable for smaller apertures but can produce noticeable distortions in larger ones like a 12-inch. Always opt for a parabolic mirror if you can.
3) Optical Design
The most common design for a Dobsonian is a Newtonian reflector, but variations do exist, such as those with modified optics for specific purposes. A classic Newtonian is excellent for most applications, but you might also encounter “truss-tube” designs, which offer the same quality optics but with the benefit of easier portability. These designs break down into smaller pieces, making them easier to transport—something you might want to consider if you plan to travel with your telescope.
4) Collimation and Alignment
A telescope is only as good as its alignment, often referred to as collimation. Proper collimation ensures that the mirrors are perfectly aligned to produce the best possible image. Some telescopes offer “easy collimation” features, including knobs or screws that are accessible and easy to adjust, even for beginners.
If you’re new to collimation, you might want to opt for a model that makes this process as straightforward as possible.
While the 12-inch aperture is the headline feature you’re interested in, pay close attention to the quality of the optics, the design, and the features that make use and maintenance easier.
Mounting and Tracking Considerations for Your 12-Inch Dobsonian Telescope
When we talk about Dobsonian telescopes, the focus often lands on their optical prowess—largely due to their generous apertures. However, the mounting system plays a pivotal role in how effectively you can use that optical power. Let’s explore what you should consider when evaluating the mounting and tracking features of a 12-inch Dobsonian telescope.
1) Altitude-Azimuth Simplicity
One of the quintessential features of a Dobsonian telescope is its altitude-azimuth (up and down, left and right) mounting system. This design is praised for its ease of use and intuitive motion. It’s perfect for beginners or anyone who wants to get up and running quickly.
One of the quintessential features of a Dobsonian telescope is its altitude-azimuth (up and down, left and right) mounting system. This design is praised for its ease of use and intuitive motion. It’s perfect for beginners or anyone who wants to get up and running quickly. Simply put, you move the telescope to point it at what you want to see. But not all altitude-azimuth mounts are the same; the quality of the bearings, the smoothness of the motion, and even the presence of tension adjustments can affect your experience.
2) Motorized vs. Manual Tracking
Traditional Dobsonians are manually operated—you move the telescope by hand to track celestial objects as they move across the sky. This is fine for most visual observing, but if you’re interested in dipping your toes into astrophotography, manual tracking can be limiting.
Some modern 12-inch Dobsonians come with optional “GoTo” computerized systems or tracking motors that can automatically find and follow celestial objects. While this feature can be costly, it can also be incredibly handy if you want to take long-exposure photos or simply enjoy hands-free observing.
3) Equatorial Platforms
Another accessory that you might consider is an equatorial platform. These platforms sit under your Dobsonian and provide an equatorial motion, compensating for the Earth’s rotation. They are particularly useful for tracking objects over extended periods or for astrophotography. However, they can be expensive and may require additional power sources.
4) Sturdiness and Vibration
A 12-inch telescope is a sizable piece of equipment, and its mount needs to be robust enough to carry that weight without wobbling. Vibration and instability can severely degrade the quality of the views and can be particularly frustrating when trying to focus on small or faint objects. Look for telescopes with sturdy bases and robust construction. Some even come with dampening features to reduce vibrations.
5) Ease of Assembly
Setting up and breaking down your telescope might not be a concern if you’re observing from your backyard. But if you’re planning to take your telescope to remote dark-sky locations, you’ll want a mounting system that’s easy to assemble and disassemble. Some truss-tube Dobsonians are designed for easier portability, often featuring quick-release mechanisms and collapsible designs.
To sum up, you want to be as discerning about your mount and tracking options as you are about your telescope’s optics to ensure a fulfilling stargazing experience.
Focuser and Eyepieces
The focuser and eyepieces can have a significant impact on your viewing experience. A good quality Crayford-style focuser is often a nice feature to have, as it will provide smooth focusing. Also, consider whether the telescope comes with a variety of eyepieces or if you’ll need to invest in additional ones to get the most out of your telescope.
Accessories and Upgrades
What else comes with the telescope? Some come bundled with a finderscope, specialized eyepieces, or even built-in WiFi and apps for easy tracking of celestial objects. Think about what you need and what sort of astronomy equpment you might want to upgrade in the future.
Price and Warranty
Last but certainly not least, consider the price. A 12-inch Dobsonian is an investment, and prices can vary widely. Make sure you’re getting good value for what you’re paying. And don’t forget to check the warranty and return policy, just in case you run into issues after your purchase.
User Reviews and Expert Opinions
Before making your final decision, take the time to read user reviews and watch videos from people who have used the telescope you’re considering. You’ll often find valuable insights that aren’t apparent from product listings.
Choosing the right 12-inch Dobsonian telescope can be a thrilling yet daunting task. Keep these factors in mind, and you’ll be well on your way to owning a telescope that will provide you with years of celestial exploration. Happy stargazing!
12-Inch Dobsonian Telescope Review: Here’s Our Top 3
Navigating the world of 12-inch Dobsonian telescopes can be really fun but also daunting, given the range of options available. In the following section, we dig into detailed reviews of some standout models in this category, providing insights to help you make your most informed decision.
Sky-Watcher Flextube 300 SynScan 12“ Dobsonian Telescope
Sky-Watcher has long been recognized in the astronomical community for producing quality telescopes, and the Flextube 300 SynScan is no exception. This 12″ Dobsonian telescope combines traditional Dobsonian ease-of-use with modern, advanced features, aiming to cater to both beginner and seasoned observers. Here’s a comprehensive look at what this model brings to the table.
Key Features
- Aperture: 12 inches (300mm) – Provides bright and sharp views of celestial objects.
- Design: Collapsible truss-tube – Makes for easier transportation and storage.
- GoTo System: SynScan hand controller with 42,900+ object database – Offers automatic tracking and finding of celestial objects.
- Optics: Parabolic primary mirror – Ensures sharp images without optical aberrations.
- Mount: Altitude-Azimuth with tension clutches – Provides stability and easy manual movement.
- Power: Requires 12V power supply or batteries – Ideal for field use.
Performance and Use
The Flextube 300’s 12-inch aperture is undoubtedly its most impressive feature. This large size captures a significant amount of light, allowing for detailed observations of the moon, planets, and even deep-sky objects like nebulae and galaxies. The parabolic primary mirror ensures that images are crisp, with minimal chromatic aberration.
The collapsible truss-tube design is a significant advantage for those who are short on space or frequently travel to dark-sky locations. It allows the telescope to have a more compact form factor without compromising the optical quality.
One of the standout features of this model is the SynScan GoTo system. For those unfamiliar with the night sky or simply wanting to find objects with ease, the SynScan system is invaluable. With its database of over 42,900 celestial objects, you can simply select what you want to observe, and the telescope will automatically align itself.
This is especially handy for observing events where multiple objects are of interest in a short span, like a meteor shower or a planetary conjunction.
However, there is a learning curve associated with the GoTo system. New users might need a few sessions to get completely comfortable with its intricacies. The power requirement is another thing to consider; if you’re planning to observe in a location without power, ensure you have a reliable battery pack.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Large Aperture: Offers bright and detailed views of a variety of celestial objects.
- Collapsible Design: Makes transport and storage easier.
- SynScan GoTo System: Automatic tracking and locating of thousands of objects simplifies the stargazing experience.
- Quality Optics: Parabolic mirror ensures sharp images.
Cons:
- Learning Curve: The SynScan system, while powerful, requires some getting used to.
The Sky-Watcher Flextube 300 SynScan 12″ Dobsonian Telescope is a formidable tool for both novice and expert astronomers. It effectively bridges the gap between traditional Dobsonian simplicity and advanced automated features. While there are some minor hurdles to overcome for new users, the rewards in terms of observational capability are more than worth it. This telescope is a worthy investment for anyone serious about delving deep into the wonders of the night sky.
Celestron Starsense Explorer 12″ Dobsonian Telescope
The Celestron brand is no stranger to the world of astronomy, boasting a legacy of producing some of the finest telescopes for both beginners and seasoned stargazers. Their Starsense Explorer 12″ Dobsonian Telescope is a testament to their commitment to innovation, seamlessly merging traditional Dobsonian design with modern smartphone integration. Let’s dive into its features and performance.
Key Features
- Aperture: 12 inches – A sizable aperture that promises bright and detailed images.
- Design: Classic Dobsonian – Offering stability and ease of use.
- Starsense Technology: Smartphone integration for star mapping and guided exploration.
- Optics: High-quality mirrors with star-bright XLT coatings – Improves light transmission and image clarity.
- Mount: Altitude-Azimuth Dobsonian mount – Simple and effective for manual adjustments.
- Accessories: Comes with two eyepieces (25mm and 10mm) – Provides varied magnification options.
Performance and Use
The first thing you’ll notice with the Celestron Starsense Explorer 12″ is its robust size. The 12-inch aperture ensures you’re getting bright and detailed images, whether you’re observing lunar craters, the bands of Jupiter, or the rings of Saturn. The star-bright XLT coatings on the optics enhance this further, guaranteeing clear and vibrant observations.
However, what sets this telescope apart is the Starsense Technology. By integrating your smartphone with the Starsense app, you get real-time star maps and guided explorations. It’s a game-changer for beginners who might feel overwhelmed by the vastness of the night sky. The app directs you where to move the telescope to find your desired celestial object, making the exploration process intuitive and engaging.
The telescope’s classic Dobsonian design ensures stability. It’s easy to move the telescope around, making manual tracking of objects relatively smooth. The two eyepieces included add versatility to your viewing, allowing you to switch between wider views and more detailed magnifications.
A point to note, though, is that the smartphone integration, while innovative, does rely on the quality and accuracy of your phone’s sensors. Some users might find discrepancies in alignment or need to recalibrate more often to get the best experience.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Generous Aperture: The 12-inch size captures ample light for vivid and detailed views.
- Starsense Technology: Smartphone integration makes navigating the night sky intuitive, especially for beginners.
- High-Quality Optics: Star-bright XLT coatings ensure clear and bright images.
- Versatility: Two eyepieces provide a range of magnification options.
Cons:
- Bulkiness: As with most 12-inch Dobsonians, portability can be a challenge due to its size.
The Celestron Starsense Explorer 12″ Dobsonian Telescope is a significant step forward in making astronomy accessible and enjoyable for all. The fusion of a sizable aperture with smartphone-integrated guidance is a refreshing approach to stargazing. While there are some minor concerns regarding dependency on smartphone performance, the overall package is undeniably compelling. For those seeking a blend of traditional observation with modern convenience, this telescope is an excellent choice.
Explore Scientific f/5 Truss Tube 12″ Dobsonian Telescope
Explore Scientific, while not as old a brand as some of its competitors, has steadily been gaining respect in the world of amateur astronomy. Their commitment to delivering quality optics at competitive prices shines through in their f/5 Truss Tube 12″ Dobsonian Telescope. Designed for both novice and adept observers, this model seamlessly balances portability with powerful performance.
Key Features
- Aperture: 12 inches – Offering brilliant light capture for detailed observations.
- Optical Design: f/5 focal ratio – A relatively fast telescope ideal for wide-field, deep-sky viewing.
- Design: Truss tube – Reduces the overall weight and makes transport and storage simpler.
- Optics: High-reflectivity coatings – Enhances light gathering for brighter images.
- Mount: Rocker-box Dobsonian mount – Offers smooth and stable movements.
- Accessories: 2-inch two-speed focuser and cooling fan – Improves usability and image clarity.
Performance and Use
At the heart of the Explore Scientific f/5 Truss Tube 12″ Dobsonian is its generous aperture, designed to pull in vast amounts of light. This allows users to delve deep into galaxies, nebulae, and star clusters, revealing intricate details that smaller scopes might miss. The f/5 focal ratio further accentuates its prowess for wide-field, deep-sky observations, making it a favored choice for stargazers interested in the expanse of the Milky Way or other distant objects.
The truss tube design is a masterstroke in balancing the substantial size of a 12-inch telescope with the need for portability. While it’s still a sizeable piece of equipment, the truss tube significantly reduces the telescope’s weight and bulkiness, making it more feasible for regular transport to dark-sky sites.
Explore Scientific’s dedication to quality optics is evident. The high-reflectivity coatings on the mirrors ensure that images remain bright and crisp. The addition of a cooling fan aids in reducing thermal discrepancies within the tube, ensuring that the optics perform optimally during extended observation sessions.
While many aspects of the telescope are commendable, the learning curve associated with assembling and collimating truss tube Dobsonians might pose a challenge for complete beginners.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Powerful Aperture: The 12-inch size ensures detailed and vibrant celestial views.
- Truss Tube Design: Offers a good balance of portability and performance.
- Quality Optics: High-reflectivity coatings and cooling fan enhance viewing experience.
- Smooth Movement: Rocker-box mount makes tracking celestial objects easy and steady.
Cons:
- Assembly Learning Curve: Truss tube design might be initially challenging for beginners to set up and collimate.
The Explore Scientific f/5 Truss Tube 12″ Dobsonian Telescope solidifies its position as a formidable tool for stargazers who wish to deep dive into the universe’s wonders without sacrificing too much on portability. Its blend of a powerful aperture with the convenience of a truss tube design makes it stand out in its category. While there might be a slight learning curve initially, the celestial rewards it offers are undeniably worth the effort. This telescope is a shining example of Explore Scientific’s commitment to bringing the cosmos closer to enthusiasts everywhere.
Choosing Your 12″ Dobsonian Telescope: Conclusion
The 12″ Dobsonian Telescope offers an unparalleled gateway into the cosmos, balancing power and user-friendly designs with affordability. As you’ve seen in our comprehensive reviews, there’s a model tailored for every level of enthusiast. Armed with this insight, you’re now poised to make an informed choice that will enhance your celestial explorations for years to come.
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