How to a Use Dobsonian Reflector Telescope

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  • Опубліковано 7 лип 2024
  • This video is aimed at new astronomers who need some help on getting started or returning astronomers who may have forgotten how to use a dobsonian telescope. So if you are of the latter, this is going to be a good refresher.
    1. Inspect & Assemble Telescope
    2. Collimate Telescope
    3. Align Finder Scope
    4. Observe Through Finder Scope
    5. Observe Through Eyepiece
    If you are just starting out, I highly advise that you first practice observing larger and brighter objects like the moon because it will be easier to locate.
    Links:
    How to Collimate a Telescope: • Collimate a Telescope ...
    How to Align a Finder Scope: • How to Align a Finders...
    Featured telescope is a Sky-Watcher 12" Collapsible Dobsonian : amzn.to/2B5A2Db
  • Наука та технологія

КОМЕНТАРІ • 238

  • @foxmulder07
    @foxmulder07 6 років тому +7

    Thank you very much for this video! I’m just starting out with a (smaller) Dobsonian. I appreciate the time you took to help out us “newbies”.

  • @tedwilliams3875
    @tedwilliams3875 6 років тому +51

    I was going to comment on this last night and got side tracked. We need more videos like this so beginners can see the working ends of how a telescope like this works. Great Video and very informative. Astronomy is the most amazing thing and with today's technology and the more advanced scopes with larger mirror cells or glass; the heavens are limitless.

    • @toml.8210
      @toml.8210 3 роки тому +1

      I think it would be a god idea to start with a 4-inch or 6-inch Dob telescope, instead of this big thing in the video. This guy is definitely not a beginner.

    • @donaldkasper8346
      @donaldkasper8346 2 роки тому

      @@toml.8210 I put an 8 in Dob OTA on a CG-4 equatorial mount, going to work just fine and you can do real and fine adjustments to track or install a tracking motor. You touch it, the shake is under 1 second. I have my 10 in Dob OTA rigged to put on it and the extra counterweights, tried it indoors, and waiting for a storm to clear out to take it outside. The key for 10 in is your height and weight. For the CG-4, I am going to use a hex wrench to turn up more tension to the two clutches for slewing it around. This is built into the CG-4. You have to be tall to hoist up the 10 in and you install it with one thigh as a brace for the bottom until it is clamped in. A Dob mount is useful for storage, I am not aware of any other good use, and using one for actual observing probably leads to a lot of people giving up astronomy. I have a 5.2 in Newtonian. This is trivial to handle and is on a much lighter equatorial mount.

    • @DavideMazzetti
      @DavideMazzetti 3 місяці тому

      @@toml.8210 He never said he was a beginner - the video is aimed AT beginners.

  • @johnm7788
    @johnm7788 5 років тому +35

    Thank you man. Just got a amazing gift from my dad, a 8" Dobsonian.
    I had idea how to properly work it until now.

    • @toml.8210
      @toml.8210 4 роки тому +5

      It's really simple, after you figure it out. After you assemble and align things, you just aim it, look, and focus, then swap-in a higher ocular.
      Don't forget to let the mirror equalize in temperature slowly and thoroughly.
      Don't forget to get yourself a RED flashlight (there are phone apps) so you can see/adjust things in the dark, unless you set up before sunset, then have a few beers while it gets dark. ;) BTDT

  • @bluestar2253
    @bluestar2253 3 роки тому +6

    This is one of the best beginner's video on Dobsonian telescopes. Thank you!

  • @gregclark228
    @gregclark228 2 роки тому +7

    I've searched for a video just like this. Calm and considerate delivery for a complete beginner. I bought a Skywatcher 200/1200 Dobsonian and I can't wait to unpack it and go through more of your videos. Thank you.

    • @NewAstronomer
      @NewAstronomer  2 роки тому

      Thank you for your comments. Enjoy your new telescope.

    • @dudepi3141
      @dudepi3141 2 роки тому

      @Greg Clark I'm having trouble finding a telescope in stock how did you manage to get one

  • @ShevillMathers
    @ShevillMathers 5 років тому +17

    Pleased to see that you pointed out it is A Newtonian reflector telescope invented by Sir Issac Newton about 400 years ago, sitting on a basic alt/az mount attributed to John Dobson 400 plus years later. So many newcomers are under the impression that John Dobson invented this optical system. Always nice to help get accurate information out there. Good viewing. 🔭🇦🇺

    • @toml.8210
      @toml.8210 4 роки тому

      All Mr. Dobson really did was to find a better bearing system, using Teflon pads in stead of ball bearings, and the stable base box. Ball bearings are terrible for large telescopes.

    • @mickeyd7283
      @mickeyd7283 Рік тому

      Still, I found it to be very interesting and impressive watching Dobson building an entire telescope from scratch. Particularly the way he shaped the mirror by hand.
      I feel he deserves some credit for the part he played in making these amazing instruments somewhat more accessible to us.

  • @mc.vmusic4337
    @mc.vmusic4337 6 років тому +14

    I am very pleased that you came back with videos. Great videos.

    • @NewAstronomer
      @NewAstronomer  6 років тому +2

      I really appreciate your comment. Thank you, Valentin, I'm happy that you like them.

  • @isaacmihaeli3261
    @isaacmihaeli3261 4 роки тому

    Very useful information for people who get back to astronomy, like me. It's very refreshing with all the steps and details.

  • @RickyGoldsmith
    @RickyGoldsmith 3 роки тому

    Loved the simplicity with which you've explained. Thank you so much

  • @robinwoodbury2563
    @robinwoodbury2563 6 років тому

    As always, well thought-out and executed. Thanks!

  • @lesroberts2244
    @lesroberts2244 6 років тому +14

    Thanks very professional

  • @jameshall77
    @jameshall77 6 років тому +7

    Great for beginners thank you

  • @yaage28
    @yaage28 Рік тому

    Thank you so much for this video! Not many out there for complete beginners like me 😊 we appreciate you!

  • @jons2447
    @jons2447 2 роки тому

    Thank you, Michael!

  • @editorrbr2107
    @editorrbr2107 3 роки тому

    This channel is a godsend

  • @gerardmccartney3186
    @gerardmccartney3186 Рік тому

    Excellent video

  • @cadelepski5161
    @cadelepski5161 4 роки тому +1

    Good job. Very clear and useful!

  • @SuperSkerple
    @SuperSkerple Рік тому

    I found the video very helpful. Just got my first Dobsonian and needed an intro! Thanks.

  • @knightclan4
    @knightclan4 3 роки тому

    Excellent teacher mate!

  • @savtheastroguy
    @savtheastroguy 3 роки тому

    I bought a 10 inch dobsonian! It will arrive in about a month and I can't wait! I've had 2 other telescopes before but the first one was a toy with25/300 then I bought a 60/700 and now I bought a 254/1250 wich is a giant step for me

  • @michelazanetti5796
    @michelazanetti5796 9 днів тому

    Thank you for this video, great explanation!

  • @StefanDembowski
    @StefanDembowski 5 років тому

    Thanks, this video is very handy for someone like me thinking of getting into astronomy.

  • @dunringill1747
    @dunringill1747 Рік тому

    Nice and concise.

  • @madsj2007
    @madsj2007 Рік тому

    Very good video! you went over all things i wanted!

  • @amphionification
    @amphionification Рік тому

    Wow, thank you for this. I just got one of these as a gift and this was really helpful.

  • @jamesgray2206
    @jamesgray2206 2 роки тому

    This video is the first one I have watched thank you for explaining things so thoroughly I plan on watching more of your videos sir

  • @probably_not_jim
    @probably_not_jim 2 роки тому

    Thank you so much!! I didn't realize I had to align my finder scope!

  • @Black-Maple
    @Black-Maple 5 років тому +2

    Great video, professionnal, nice to watch.. Really love. Greetings from france.

  • @rmk22sr.2
    @rmk22sr.2 4 роки тому

    Excellent Video Very informative for a beginner like myself thank you

  • @tomthumb2057
    @tomthumb2057 5 років тому

    Excellent! thank you it helped me jump right in and start observing...

    • @toml.8210
      @toml.8210 4 роки тому

      It's too bad most hobby & social clubs are gone. People are too busy watching Netflix or dead guys. That and all the bright lights from shopping malls hurt the hobby.

  • @fredericseverino
    @fredericseverino 4 роки тому +1

    Thank you from Belgium

  • @anthonymannwexford
    @anthonymannwexford 6 років тому

    Great upload. Thank you.

  • @davidferrer678
    @davidferrer678 3 роки тому

    Thanks for the video I know I’m late but I recently purchased one of these, i have not received it since it’s on back order but I’m excited.
    Going to go out to a cousins ranch in the desert, all younger cousins are way to excited to get to see it.

  • @ronm6585
    @ronm6585 2 роки тому

    Thank you.

  • @ximenajimenez4951
    @ximenajimenez4951 2 роки тому

    You are very good on explanation, thank you so much .

  • @mudbutton2
    @mudbutton2 2 роки тому +1

    Thanks. I just got a GSO 10" and this helps a lot!

  • @swaldron5558
    @swaldron5558 3 роки тому

    Thanks for useful information and I will buy one in winter time.

  • @FishHardGetLucky
    @FishHardGetLucky 4 роки тому

    Thanks for making this video! It was helpful!

  • @lawrencejohnson3259
    @lawrencejohnson3259 2 роки тому +1

    Outstanding! Thanks for sharing!!!!🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾

  • @Shiftready
    @Shiftready Рік тому

    Thank you!

  • @basilb.4822
    @basilb.4822 2 роки тому +1

    Very helpful!

  • @DuncanClocks
    @DuncanClocks 3 роки тому

    Thanks just had a present of a telescope like yours your set up advice was great I will let you know

  • @joert8110
    @joert8110 6 років тому +21

    Awesome video man. Thanks and can't wait for the next one.

    • @NewAstronomer
      @NewAstronomer  6 років тому +2

      Thanks, I appreciate the kind words, Rob. Clear skies.

    • @joert8110
      @joert8110 6 років тому

      New Astronomer no probs dudes. Like the use of hot lights. Looks awesome.

    • @NewAstronomer
      @NewAstronomer  6 років тому +1

      I had to look up what 'hot lights' were. Thanks, I picked up a couple of used soft boxes yesterday for this video. :)

    • @joert8110
      @joert8110 6 років тому +2

      New Astronomer let me know if u need help with your videos. Of course I'll help out for free., did weddings photography /video for 6 years. Cheers buddy.

    • @NewAstronomer
      @NewAstronomer  6 років тому

      I will and thanks, Rob!

  • @PavelValkoun92
    @PavelValkoun92 6 років тому

    great explanation, helped a lot, thank you :)

  • @Jimswholiestofcoleus
    @Jimswholiestofcoleus 4 роки тому

    Thank you for your informative videos!!
    I recently bought myself a Skywatcher Flextube 200p - 8" Dobsonian with the Synscan. Got it for a great price on sale $699.
    I have a question about collumating it...if you can help me . I have a good laser collumator and it definitely shows off target.. . it's in need of collumation..... So I'm looking at the Rear of the OTA and there are only three small Phillip's head screws which are very tight.....they appear to be holding on the outer trim ring of the OTA rather than for collumation.
    How do I collumate the Primary mirror on the OTA then ?? Did Skywatcher somehow seal the parabolic Primary mirror requiring collumation at the secondary mirror only??? I DON'T want to start messing with screws as I'm afraid to strip them . Any help is greatly appreciated.

  • @brucehildreth7109
    @brucehildreth7109 3 роки тому

    Thanks! Excellent!

  • @ManishFrenchStudio
    @ManishFrenchStudio 3 роки тому +2

    Superb information video, thank you for sharing 🙏💖🎉🎉🎉🎉

  • @dahappychappy
    @dahappychappy 6 років тому

    This is great!!

  • @Nottsboy24
    @Nottsboy24 6 років тому +1

    Great video and information 👍:)

  • @PaintSlinger99
    @PaintSlinger99 6 років тому

    Great video nice work

  • @LateNightAstronomy
    @LateNightAstronomy 4 роки тому +1

    Great video! Where did you get the light shroud and is that an updated focuser for this model?

  • @Zoomem6mmi
    @Zoomem6mmi 5 років тому +7

    Waiting for mine to arrive now. Thanks for the useful info man :))

  • @SuccessInSightPodcast
    @SuccessInSightPodcast 3 роки тому +1

    Thanks. Great video for the beginner. That would be me!

  • @5argetech56
    @5argetech56 6 років тому +24

    Sir excellent explanation. I did not even consider that observatories use the same type of Mount but only larger. I'm thinking about it now the Dome swivels left and right and the telescope goes up and down. Wow the lightbulb just went off in my head.

    • @toml.8210
      @toml.8210 4 роки тому

      The dome is separate from the telescope, but swivels the same. There are some good videos regarding that.

    • @donaldkasper8346
      @donaldkasper8346 2 роки тому

      They have computer find and track. You don't.

  • @maxittome
    @maxittome 4 роки тому +1

    I have that same telescope and I was hoping you could recommend 2 lenses and some filters? Thanks for posting this video !

  • @michaelsanford8149
    @michaelsanford8149 6 років тому +4

    Excellent!!! Thank you for sharing.

    • @NewAstronomer
      @NewAstronomer  6 років тому

      I'm glad you liked it, Michael. Thanks for watching.

  • @crystallily9437
    @crystallily9437 Рік тому

    Dobsonians are The best scopes!

  • @zdog959
    @zdog959 Місяць тому

    Thanks

  • @sylle999
    @sylle999 5 років тому

    Thank you for this lesson! Getting a skywatcher classic 200p tomorrow can't wait to get started :D !

  • @johnmorrell
    @johnmorrell 7 місяців тому +1

    Good video. btw folks details of how to make the light shroud are on his website. Thanks for the New Astronomer.

    • @NewAstronomer
      @NewAstronomer  6 місяців тому

      Thank for pointing it out. I almost forgot I had it there. Here is the link: newastronomer.com/diy-custom-shroud-for-12-sky-watcher-flextube/

  • @YogeshVermaChannel
    @YogeshVermaChannel 5 років тому

    Very informative. Please make review video of this telescope. How is visual Observation with it from city as well as from dark sky. Details about the objects that can be seen with description of Observations. It will really help in making decisions. Please do share your experience with this telescope in the form of pros and cons.

  • @laurafernandabianchi-bisho5086
    @laurafernandabianchi-bisho5086 4 роки тому

    thanks!

  • @Tony-Tequalla
    @Tony-Tequalla 5 років тому +73

    I cant see anything at night. Oh yeah, need to remove the dust caps. :-))))

    • @toml.8210
      @toml.8210 4 роки тому +1

      Don't forget to first find a place away from the shopping malls (or bright street lights!), and with a good view of the sky.

    • @swaldron5558
      @swaldron5558 3 роки тому

      Tut tut.

    • @teucer4
      @teucer4 3 роки тому +1

      Like he said: it's just the way he does things. I prefer to leave mine on.

    • @highiqkfcicecreammachine1664
      @highiqkfcicecreammachine1664 2 роки тому +1

      Hahaha I know how you feel

    • @damienpv
      @damienpv Рік тому

      I felt like he was putting me on blast. Then I remembered he doesn't know me 🤣🤔🤣 I guess I'm not alone in this lol I tend to get excited and forget some important steps 😅

  • @bloosam
    @bloosam 6 років тому +1

    Thanks for your videos, very useful for the beginner astronomer that I am! Little question, I'm going to get the same telescope as you, and I'd be interested to know where did you buy the protective fabric that's in your telescope? which brand is it? Thank you again and sorry for my poor english ...

  • @bocson84
    @bocson84 4 роки тому +1

    Thank you, i am french :) which telescope protective skirt do you use?

  • @aamir77i1
    @aamir77i1 3 роки тому

    Thanks for the clear explanations!
    I have a question about the black cloth which you wrapped on the telescope.
    What is its purpose? Is it necessary?

  • @YogeshVermaChannel
    @YogeshVermaChannel 6 років тому +4

    Very helpful video ..keep it up🙂

    • @NewAstronomer
      @NewAstronomer  6 років тому

      Thanks for watching and encouragement, Yogesh. Clear skies!

  • @TheMariepi3
    @TheMariepi3 Рік тому +1

    I have changed, for the azimuth turn, the Teflon blocks for small wheels, and it turns infinitely with more smoothness and precision. I also recommend balancing the two halves of the tube, in which it rotates for the elevation of the star, putting a counterweight in the lower part of the tube,

    • @DrayG42
      @DrayG42 9 місяців тому

      What small wheels did you use instead of the teflon ? and how much counterweight in the lower part ?

    • @TheMariepi3
      @TheMariepi3 9 місяців тому

      @@DrayG42 very small white plastic wheels, about 2 or 3 (one inch) centimeters in diameter and 1 centimeter (half an inch) wide, whose axle is supported by a small metal bar that ends at each end in one of the two branches. or arms from a piece of metal similar to an inverted U. They are wheels that do not turn right left but can only go forward and backward. Placed on the periphery of the platform on which the telescope is located so that they occupy one of the 4 points that are formed every 90º in the circle that forms the base of the platform: there only the wheels can go forward and backward, but on the direction in which they are placed, they only allow the platform to rotate around the virtual axis of the telescope block and its base. In the Dobson, it allows the telescope block to be rotated in the azimuth direction with extremely small displacements and with enormous smoothness and with just minimal pressure from my hand. Of course, a motorized Dobson is better

  • @everfreeeeee
    @everfreeeeee 6 років тому

    Hi
    I am a newbie of telescope. Originally i ordered the Orion 9826 StarMax 127mm Equatorial Maksutov-Cassegrain Telescope but after i do some research it seems Orion SkyQuest XT8 PLUS Dobsonian Reflector Telescope is more powerful and can last longer ...am i make a right choice?

  • @AstroHunter5280
    @AstroHunter5280 4 роки тому

    @new astronomer ...how do you slew when tracking the object with a dob? Getting ready to order my first one

  • @racheltgal1
    @racheltgal1 3 роки тому

    thank you nice video i am new to all this Waldoboro Maine USA

  • @coreydallmeyer67
    @coreydallmeyer67 4 роки тому +3

    Thanks for the video . I think I'm about to purchase my 1st scope a dob ,10" skywatcher .. Is this a good 1st telescope? I want to see the great red spot on Jupiter and spirals on galaxys and in between the rings of Saturn,

  • @apachawee7463
    @apachawee7463 4 роки тому

    Hi, What is that black shade like you put in between the Scope?
    Excellent VIDEO BTW.... Thank you .

  • @ruthpanelli3065
    @ruthpanelli3065 2 роки тому +1

    Thank you! Really helpful, and also really quality links to the other videos _/\_

  • @niwar8yearsago31
    @niwar8yearsago31 3 роки тому

    Your awesome

  • @victorpereira2365
    @victorpereira2365 3 роки тому

    I got one like this last week 😎

  • @peteng3277
    @peteng3277 5 років тому

    Can you please tell me if you added at Zenith mirror that is 1.25" in size (the diagonal prism mirror)? I want to add one on so the images are right way up.

  • @hangtite606
    @hangtite606 4 роки тому

    Can you please recommend the best overall eyepieces for a 10" reflector F/5 dobsonian? I was interested in the Orioin Q70 eyepieces, however, I am being told these are not good for this particular telescope. Would you please shed some light on your favorites? I really appreciate your time and I enjoy your videos.

  • @smuppet977
    @smuppet977 6 років тому

    Is the 8 inch sky watcher dob good

  • @ADF_Cable
    @ADF_Cable 2 роки тому

    Great video Thankyou!
    I'm looking at my 1st telescope, will be an 8" trad or 10 or 12" collapsible dob that I'll add tracking to (onstep)
    Is yours a 10 or 12 inch collapsible? If it's the 12, do you think it is "too big/awkward" to setup and pack up nightly?
    Cheers!

  • @alperozturk700
    @alperozturk700 6 років тому

    Which telescopes do you have? Can you make a list of them?

  • @tonij.9138
    @tonij.9138 3 роки тому

    Hi! Great explanation! One question, the dobson telescope of the video, is a 8" or an 10" ?thanks!

  • @Eulogy68
    @Eulogy68 5 років тому

    Im looking to get the 10" synscan goto. Is it worth it and whats your opinion on that? Are things like neblula even visible with something like that?

  • @toml.8210
    @toml.8210 4 роки тому

    Although this is really classic Dobson mount, it looks like it should work. the actual Dobson mount relies on Teflon bearings, a large-diameter Altitude bearing ring, and the weight&balance of the OTA to keep it from moving without having to "lock" the alt bearing. Mine needs only a slight finger pressure to slew the tube.
    It's too bad you can't add digital slewing gear to the tube, to simplify photography.

  • @mircogiomi5981
    @mircogiomi5981 2 роки тому

    Hello! I have the same telescope and I've always had this doubt: have I to remove the white foam (about 5 mm tick) between the fix round base and the mobile round base? I have the feeling that it makes the telescope rotate badly but I have not found written anywhere that needs to be removed. Many thanks in advance!

  • @pkxdsisters7021
    @pkxdsisters7021 3 роки тому

    How do you carry it? By the handles that tighten the ota?

  • @studywithme8055
    @studywithme8055 2 роки тому

    Sir I bought a dobsonian too and wonder what that black piece is made of/how you made it between the extendable parts (I know it is against light and dew). If you can give a precise description it would be really helpful.

  • @djcressman3908
    @djcressman3908 5 років тому

    Thanks for the videos. I just bought a xt8i orion. I'm trying to find the best lenses for it. What do you recommend? Also where do I buy a replacement Spherical Mirror/primary mirror?

    • @toml.8210
      @toml.8210 4 роки тому

      Good luck finding a rplacement mirror; it's not like buying headlamp bubs for a car. You will need to contact the manufacturer or get into an astronomy club. Taking great care for it is the better way to keep it in good condition. Don't let dust get on it (use the caps!) or get fingerprints on it.

  • @aakhandekar
    @aakhandekar Рік тому

    At the time of changing the eyepieces, one often loses sight and/or focus of the object. It becomes tougher with higher end of magnification. How does one avoid that ?

  • @boywithadolphin
    @boywithadolphin 4 роки тому

    Very good video. I am an eclipse chaser and my first was near Winnipeg 26 feb 1979. Did you see it?

  • @brianbrengle9933
    @brianbrengle9933 4 роки тому

    What kind of shroud are u using? Can you post a link for me?

  • @jackpermison3174
    @jackpermison3174 3 роки тому

    What is the light shroud you have on your Skywatcher DOB and where can I find it?

  • @scrumpymanjack
    @scrumpymanjack 4 роки тому

    Subscribed. Thanks. What telescope is that, please? Anyone?

  • @manuelbg8529
    @manuelbg8529 3 роки тому

    Ok, por el video, queria preguntarte como has ajustado y colocado la funda de proteccion a tu telescopio dodson.
    Un saludo
    Ok, from the video, I wanted to ask you how you have adjusted and placed the protective cover on your dodson telescope.
    a greeting

  • @davidbonnin3108
    @davidbonnin3108 3 роки тому

    Hi New Astronomer, did you made yourself the stray light shield on your dobson flextube or did you bought it somewhere?
    Thanks for your answer and sorry for my English, i’m French 😉

  • @cerealcito
    @cerealcito 3 роки тому +4

    Hi Michael, thank you for this video. I noticed your telescope has some kind of light shroud made of black fabric. Was that included with the telescope, or did you add it later? Could you tell me where to buy it? thank you again!

    • @donaldkasper8346
      @donaldkasper8346 2 роки тому

      The tube is 4 feet long. How much shade do you need? Shades are for cassegrains with a lens in the front.

  • @salkhanmurmu1730
    @salkhanmurmu1730 6 років тому

    Which is the best online shopping website for buying telescope at low cost?

  • @glennsmooth
    @glennsmooth 3 роки тому +2

    I’ve had an 8” DOB for few years but the excitement wears off really quick when you find yourself constantly moving the thing around by hand to chase objects. It takes less than a minute for anything in space to move completely across the viewing area so you’re constantly fumbling and fiddling with it. Felt like pushing it off my balcony.

    • @NewAstronomer
      @NewAstronomer  2 роки тому +3

      Yes, there are times when it can get frustrating but I think it's part of the journey and makes me even more passionate about this hobby. Thanks for sharing and clear skies!

  • @Wilhuff_T
    @Wilhuff_T 4 роки тому

    What kind of shroud are you using?? Looks like a round tube.

  • @HollomanUFOLanding
    @HollomanUFOLanding 4 роки тому +1

    Great video, thanks.
    I have a question please. Does anyone know the reason why Skywatcher installs a right angle, 90 degree, finderscope on their non motorised Dobsonians, but install a straight through finderscope on their motorised 'go to' Dobsonians?

    • @ThatOneScienceGuy
      @ThatOneScienceGuy 3 роки тому +1

      I would love to know. I will say that I bought the 10" Go-To Dobsonian and it has been nothing but frustration. I dragged it out thinking I was going to be able to see some stars but I gave up because there is a hell of a lot involved in getting this thing going. The fact that they didn't include an AC/DC power adapter that plugs into a wall instead of the car cigarette lighter is extremely frustrating. I can't drive my car up to my patio deck so now I have to order an adapter so I can plug it into an extension cord. I figured I would just use the telescope manually but looking through the finderscope was pretty much impossible so I just put the telescope away until I can get a power adapter AND a right angle adapter for the finderscope. Very annoying. I wanted to use this telescope tonight but it looks like it's going to be at least a week before I can do so.