Table of Contents, Unpacking, Parts List

Welcome to an exciting new world of adventure!Your SkyQuest Dobsonian is a high-quality optical instrument designed to bring you dazzling views of the outer reaches of our universe. Easy enough for kids to use, and portable enough for any- one to carry, the SkyQuest will provide fun and entertainment for the entire family.Whether you are brand-new to amateur astronomy or a seasoned stargazer, get ready for many evenings of enjoyment and fascination. Before venturing into the night with your new telescope, we recommend that you read through this instruction manual. Not only does it provide accurate directions for assembly and use, but it also serves as a guide for your first explorations in the sky.

1.Unpacking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

2.Assembly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

3. Using Your Telescope . . . . . . . . . . 7

4.Collimation (Aligning the Mirrors) . . . . . 10

5.Astronomical Observing . . . . . . . . . 12

6.Care and Maintenance . . . . . . . . . 16

7.Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

1.Unpacking

The telescope will arrive in two boxes, one containing the optical tube assembly and accessories, the other containing the unassembled Dobsonian base. Be careful unpacking the boxes. We recommend keeping the original shipping contain- ers. In the event that the telescope needs to be shipped to another location, or returned to Orion for warranty repair, hav- ing the proper shipping containers will help ensure that your telescope will survive the journey intact.

Make sure all the parts in the Parts List below are present. Be sure to check boxes carefully, as some parts are small. If any- thing appears to be missing or broken, immediately call Orion Customer Support (800-676-1343) for assistance.

Warning: Never look directly at the Sun through your telescope or its finder scope— even for an instant—without a professionally made solar filter that completely covers the front of the instrument, or permanent eye damage could result. Young children should use this telescope only with adult supervision.

Parts List

Box #1: Optical Tube Assembly and Accessories

Qty. Description

1Optical tube assembly

1Dust cover

125mm Sirius Plössl eyepiece, 1.25" barrel diameter

1EZ Finder II (with bracket)

1Collimation cap

2Spring coils

2 Pull loops

4Nylon spacers (black)

21/4" washers (black)

2Phillips-head screws (black, length 1-3/4")

2Screws with round knob attached

Box #2: Dobsonian Base

Qty. Description

1Left panel

1Right panel

1Front brace

1Top baseplate

1Ground baseplate

12Base assembly screws (length 2")

1Hex key (size 4mm)

3Plastic feet

3Feet attachment wood screws (length 1")

1Self-adhesive rubber bumper

1Large hex-head bolt (length 3")

23/8" washers

1 3/8" lock nut

1 Nylon spacer (white)

1 T-nut

1Handle

2Socket-head cap screws, 5/16" (black)

25/16" washers (black)

25/16" nuts (black)

1Hex key (6mm)

XT10 CLASSIC, XT8 CLASSIC specifications

The Orion XT10 Classic and XT8 Classic telescopes represent a perfect blend of innovative design and advanced optics, making them excellent choices for amateur astronomers. Both models are part of Orion's popular XT Classic series, known for their user-friendly features and high-quality performance.

The Orion XT10 Classic features a large 10-inch aperture, providing exceptional light-gathering capabilities. This allows users to observe faint celestial objects, such as distant galaxies, nebulae, and star clusters, with remarkable clarity and detail. The telescope's Dobsonian mount ensures smooth and stable movement, making it easy to track objects across the night sky.

The XT8 Classic, with its 8-inch aperture, also offers impressive light-gathering ability, delivering crisp views of various astronomical phenomena. Both models are equipped with a parabolic mirror design, which minimizes optical aberrations and enhances image quality. This design is a significant advancement over traditional spherical mirrors, allowing for sharper and more focused images.

One of the standout features of both Telescopes is their simplicity of use. The intuitive Dobsonian mounting system allows users to easily position the telescope and locate celestial objects without the complexity of motorized tracking systems. This makes them ideal for novices as well as experienced astronomers looking for a portable option.

Both models come with a sturdy, pre-assembled base, ensuring stability during observations. The XT10 Classic and XT8 Classic also include high-quality eyepieces, which enhance viewing experiences. Optional accessories, such as additional eyepieces and filters, can further expand the observational capabilities.

The Orion XT10 Classic offers a focal length of 1200mm, while the XT8 Classic has a focal length of 1200mm as well. This allows both telescopes to excel in a variety of observational scenarios, from lunar observations to deep-sky exploration. Additionally, both telescopes feature a single-focal point, which makes them compatible with numerous aftermarket eyepieces.

In summary, the Orion XT10 Classic and XT8 Classic telescopes are distinguished by their user-friendly design, exceptional optical performance, and robust construction. They are perfect for anyone interested in exploring the wonders of the universe, providing a gateway to breathtaking views of the night sky. Whether you choose the larger XT10 Classic or the more compact XT8 Classic, both models are bound to enhance your astronomical experience.