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Explore FirstLight 8-inch Dobsonian

SKU FL-DOB0806-02
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Original price $599.99 - Original price $697.95
Original price $697.95
$599.99
$599.99 - $669.99
Current price $599.99
Availability:
Out of stock
Availability:
Out of stock

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Explore FirstLight 8-inch Dobsonian - FL-DOB0806-01

No telescope type has changed the hobby quite as much as the Dobsonian. Before the introduction of the Dobsonian by John Dobson, the vast majority of amateur telescopes consisted of small telescopes with primitive mechanics - barely enough to see the polar caps of Mars or the rings of Saturn.

Larger telescopes, such as the Schmidt-Cassegrain were reserved for the wealthy. The ingenious combination of simple yet effective mechanisms with the greatest possible opening gives the Dobsonian telescope a unique triumphant march around the world. Nowhere do you get as much light for your money like a good Dobson.

Now, Explore Scientific has come up with the ultimate universal design. This Dobsonian can be converted into a Newtonian telescope. If you ever wanted to take pictures, simply unscrew the bearings from the tube and place the scope on an EQ mount with the included Vixen style dovetail plate.

The unrivaled stiffness of the included 2.5" HEX focuser makes focusing easy and allows the use of both 1.25" and 2" eyepieces. Including the 2.5" Hex focuser is a quantum leap for this price class of telescope.

A Red Dot viewfinder as well as a 25mm SPL eyepiece are included with the device. If you want to transport the telescope as compactly as possible, the new 10" FirstLight Dobsonian / Newtonian is easy.

The Rockerbox can be dismantled with a few tools, because the parts are assembled with metal quick connectors. Thus, a bulky rocker box quickly becomes a handy flat package of boards. The ideal workhorse for the deep sky observers. Details on planets and deep sky objects will be visible even for inexperienced observers. Bright star clusters are resolved to the core, and the sight of the terminator on the moon is an unforgettable experience.

The scope is ready for use with our optional coma corrector.

Product Features:

  • 8" aperture provides major light-gathering power making this an ideal instrument for deep sky observations.
  • Scope and mount can be transported in pieces and reassembled within minutes.
  • Rockerbox is easy to assemble with few tools and includes accessory tray for eyepieces.
  • 2.5" HEX focuser has helical gearing.
  • Universal design makes it easy for imagers to use the telescope as a traditional Newtonian by removing the bearings from the OTA and attaching the tube to an equatorial mount using the included Vixen-style dovetail plate.
  • Universal design makes it easy for imagers to use the telescope as a traditional Newtonian by removing the bearings from the OTA and attaching the tube to an equatorial mount using the included Vixen-style dovetail plate.
  • Model comes with a 25mm SuperPlössl eyepiece and a red dot viewfinder for locating observing targets.
  • Included adapter helps observers use their smart device to capture and share images.

Upgrade to the Explore FirstLight Ultimate 8-inch Dobsonian Bundle & receive the following additional accessories that will enhance your Stargazing experience:

  • Astro R-Lite Red Flashlight - $19.99 Retail Value
  • Tirion Double-Sided Multi-Latitude Planisphere - $14.99 Retail Value
  • Discovery 2x Barlow Lens - $24.99 Retail Value
  • Explore One Moon Filter - $29.99 Retail Value

     

    Product Specifications:

    Item Number FL-DOB0806–01
    Secondary Obstruction 24%
    Primary Mirror Diameter 203mm
    Focal Length 1218mm
    Focal Ratio f/6
    Primary Tube Weight 25 lbs
    Rocker Box Weight 21 lbs.
    Total Weight 46 lbs

     

    Download Instruction Manual

    Customer Reviews

    Based on 4 reviews
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    D
    Doug
    Awesome

    I received delivery of this very cool telescope a few weeks ago. I love the image quality. I opted for the bundled accessory package, some handy items that add versitility to my experience.

    S
    Sarah
    Great Beginner Scope

    This Scope is a great platform for beginners to work from. Great aperture, simple assembly, and many useful accessories included, which takes the headache out’ve figuring out what is needed when just starting out. Clear Skies!!

    P
    Patrick
    VERY Nice Dobsonian!

    This is the perfect Beginner Dobsonian Scope. It's easy to assemble, maintain, and it looks and performs great! I wouldn't hesitate to recommend this 8" or the 10" model to anyone that's interested in Dobs. Also highly affordable!

    R
    Richard
    My first Dobsonian

    When it comes to gathering light, this telescope delivers. The Red Carpet Telescopes team were great in helping me decide which Scope would best suit my needs/budget.