Explore Scientific 10” Dobsonian Tutorial for The Explorations Academy

We run over all the setup tips and tricks that we know of for the Explore Scientific 10” Traditional Dobsonian Telescope. If you know of more or something we messed up on let us know!
If this video made you consider buying a telescope or eyepiece, we will receive a commission (at no extra cost to you!) on anything you purchase through these links:
High Point Scientific: www.highpointscientific.com/?...
Orion Telescopes: www.pntra.com/t/S0BMQ0pFQEVHS...
00:00 Assembly
01:05 Lifting the Telescope
02:15 Dust Cap Removal
03:00 Newton's Contribution
04:00 The Focuser & Spider Vanes (I don't know where I got Spider Arms from)
05:52 Collimation
10:30 Viewfinder Alignment
13:40 Baader Hyperion 10mm
14:50 x2 Barlow Lens + 32mm
16:05 Moon Filter
17:20 Balancing
19:10 Wrap Up
Me and Tony Z put this video together to help the Explorations Academy staff know how we set it up for their students. Thanks for watching!
It has been noted that you also need to Collimate your Collimator! Be sure your Collimator is working properly before attempting to align your mirrors. Here is a good video I found for how to do that: • Telescope Tips: Collim...
If you want to collimate by eye (no lasers), check out AstroBaby's guide here: www.astro-baby.com/astrobaby/...
Also, here is a great eyepiece tutorial: • Eyepiece Upgrade Guide...
If you wish to support our outreach program, we accept donations here:
www.spacetimewithrobert.space...
All donations/commission earnings go towards purchasing/refurbishing telescopes for local education programs in our county (Whatcom). Since 2018 we have donated three 10" Dobsonians (including this one) and one 102mm Refractor. (Updated 7/16/2023)
Thank you again to everyone that has donated!!
Be sure to check out the live streams as well! We try to upload about twice a month (weather permitting).
Finally, if you have any questions feel free to comment or send me a message. I love helping trouble-shoot telescope problems!
Clear skies everyone!

[@johnbarry5036]

Collimatiom has never been explained to me better than this.

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

I am honored! The video that taught me how to collimate was: kzbin.info/www/bejne/bnicaYWKhZudmLs They also deal with having to rotate the secondary mirror, before making any adjustments! I actually had to do this once after my 114mm took a 3 foot fall onto asphalt. I hope you have clear skies wherever you are and thank you again :)

[@DirkDirk1983]

It's not really accurate to allign the primary mirror with a laser. Using a laser to allign the secondary mirror can only be done with an alligned laser. The one you use from Meade usually doesn't come alligned out of the box

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

​@@DirkDirk1983 Hello! I have heard this about the laser collimators and it has me wanting to buy a visual collimator. Do you have any recommendations for how to check the accuracy for a faulty laser? So far I have found some diagrams but they all involve a jig. For me, I look for 4 points on bright stars to indicate good collimation. Let me know if you think this is a bad indicator. If I can not get 4 points on a bright star then I know something is off. With this double-checking in practice, (looking for 4 points and using a collimator) I have yet to provide a displeasing view that could not be brought to focus. I seem to be getting lucky with my collimators for the two I have owned seem to be reliable in this way even after months of use. At around 6:55 I actually switch to the Apertura collimator since my Meade collimator was out of batteries, but I am sure the argument applies to both. Thanks for pointing this stuff out!

[@DirkDirk1983]

@@spacetimewithrobert4438 Cool. Cool. Don't want to sound like a nagging b*tch Btw. A star test is always a good way to check your colimation. I always use a laser for the secondary. Now I use one from Farpoint. 2", Very accurate but not cheap. Before I used the one you used but from Omegon( i think they all come from te same factory) To allign the laser i Just turn it in the focusser ( focusser clamp Just clamps it enough to turn it) Then a imaginary circle will apear on your primary, then i turn it as much as the laser hits the top of the imaginary circle. Then adjust it down to the center of that imaginary circle. Give it a couple of tries and it's almost as good as the one from Farpoint. The one from Farpoint is heavy, fits in the 2" socket and is Just awesome to use. The beam of the laser is nice and small, and it comes with triangle primary mirror markings. For alligning the primary you really need to use a cheshire. I use a 12"f5 newton and if i compare collimating the primary with a laser and with a cheshire, the difference is a lot. I must apologize for my english. I'm using an old Phone now and it has only a check in my own language (Dutch) Love to watch your vids. There is a big gap of needing information now a days, between the pro's and the ones that Just started.

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

@@DirkDirk1983 Thank you, thank you, THANK YOU!!! I have been looking for a visual collimator and the Chesire looks perfect!! Your tip for highlighting the adjustments needed on the laser collimator by looking for an imaginary circle outlined on the primary is GENIUS!!! I will try this out ASAP! Thank you again for this information. I have a 12" as well and if Farpoint is your recommendation then you got it! Also, your English is wonderful and I likewise apologize for not knowing Dutch and for implying in any way that you were nagging! I will try to watch out for that more! Thank you very much once again and Clear Skies to you!!

[@surlynick81]

This is the best explanation of the function of a Dobsonian telescope that I have found to date! The combination of enthusiasm and knowledge on the subject made for a very enjoyable and informative video. Please continue to make similar content as you are able, you have something special.

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

Thank you so much for the inspirational comment! I will definitely try to make the next video just as fun. Let me know if there is anything else I can go over in more detail. Thanks again and clear skies!!

[@MsRamsland]

after looking through a bunch of videos this guy kills it with explaining how to set up a scope!

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

Hello d Ramsland, Thank you so much! I am currently working hard on a new video covering the Apertura AD10 and then another video covering the newest version of the ES10. Let me know if there's anything you wish I had explained further and I'll try to add it in! Clear skies! - Robert

[@mediocrefunkybeat]

Your enthusiasm is utterly infectious and you are a wonderful communicator. Dobsonians are great - a place my Dad is a member of has a 20" on a motorised mount that is just fantastic. They're so straightforward and even a beginner like me understands how it all works! Thank you.

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

Hey thank you so much!!! I totally agree, dobsonians are an awesome introduction to the field. The biggest I’ve looked through was this 10”. I can’t even imagine the views through a 20”! Congratulations!!!! & thanks again 🙂

[@paulmurphy5489]

Robert, I Collimated my 10" First Light for the first time yesterday, using this video as a guide. Took a little while, but I got it perfect! It was clear and cold (mid 40s) in Beaumont Tx last night, and Beaumont, around 90 miles East of Houston, is light polluted as heck! But, I took the scope out for her maiden flight! I haven't named her yet, but I loved that you do that, and would like to continue your tradition. Saturn was behind a tree, and Andromeda was over a very light polluted part of sky, but Orion was in perfect position! I found the Orion nebula, but thought at first my lense had some fog on it! Then when I realized that was gasses and clouds around the stars in the nebula, I was very excited! I ran and got my wife, and shared the view with her, and she was excited! I am using magnets as counterweight, they seem to be working fine. I owe you a debt of gratitude! Because of you, sharing your wealth of knowledge, especially about using dob based, Newt reflectors, I decided to finally try astronomy! I have always been interested, always wanted to, but was too intimidated to start! I cannot thank you enough! I'm sorry this is so long. I'm just excited, and it's causing me to be a bit loquacious! Yall have a wonderful, blessed and prosperous day!

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

Thanks so much, Paul! Congratulations on your first light!! I had been practicing with my scope for weeks before I finally saw Orion. Well done!! I hope your used a long-focal length eyepiece because It's pretty large! My dad saw it at low power earlier this year through his 12" and he was blown away. If you ever get into astrophotography here is an image I took recently with our 10" (no tracking!): instagram.com/p/Clvg9zCuMFQ/ Also, here are some other fun objects you could try to hunt down this season based on current difficulty: Planets - Jupiter, Mars, Saturn, Uranaus, Neptune Double Stars - Polaris, Almach, Achird Clusters - Pleiades, Perseus Double Cluster, M36, M38, M44 Galaxies - Andromeda, M81, M82, M33 Nebulae - M1 I used a free program called Stellarium to simulate the night sky around your area and cherry picked what I would want to look at. If you get this program and learn how to use it, you can make lists like these each time you go out! Sometimes I waste time not knowing what to look for. Making a list before hand helps me get the most out of my scope. I'm glad your telescope is working and you were able to get it collimated! It sounds like you're going through the "Why haven't I bought one of these years ago???" phase and I can definitely relate!! Of course, if you have any questions I will be here and don't worry about lengthy responses, you should see my emails! As Phil Plait said: getting astronomer's to talk is the easy part. I look forward to hearing more about your journey through the cosmos and what you name your scope! Thanks again and enjoy the day!!

[@PellegrinoPool]

after so much confusion and not being able to understand collimation you showed me how to do it one two three and that's it now I know how. Thank you I appreciate how simple you made it

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

I’m so glad you found it helpful thank you so much!! Clear skies to you!!

[@billiondollardan]

I like this dude. I just ordered an 8" dobsonian and I'm watching tons of videos about telescopes. This is a really fun one

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

Hey Dan, Thank you very much! I’m glad you’ve enjoyed the video and CONGRATULATIONS on your new telescope!!! I just ordered a new telescope also as a birthday present to myself and I know the excitement!! It’s still two days from arriving and I am bouncing off the walls waiting to use it. I hope your 8” arrives in great condition AND you have clear skies to test it out with. I’ll be here if you need any help at all and thanks again! - Robert

[@customsp645]

Thanks for donating that! I remember being a kid and looking through scopes

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

It was a big team effort and currently we're in the process of donating our 4th! Thank you and clear skies ❤

[@brandtdetering8486]

Thank you so much for a clear and concise walkthrough of Dobsonian collimation! That was the best description I've seen yet, and it makes space all the more accessible.

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

Hello Brandt, Thank you very much for the compliment! If you ever need to know more about collimation then here is a tutorial I found extremely useful: www.astro-baby.com/astrobaby/help/collimation-guide-newtonian-reflector/ Also, if you have any more questions, I'll be here! Clear skies! - Robert

[@jasongrosser9910]

Excellent explanation and demonstration! Thanks!

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

Thank you so much!!

[@alejandrokrieger2418]

So clear!!! Thank you!!!

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

Heck yeah thank you so much!! Clear skies to you!

[@nelsonf5508]

Best collimation video I’ve seen yet thank you bro

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

Thank you so much! Recently I have found out that there is a lot more to “perfect collimation” but for a quick alignment on new scopes this method should be fine! However, if your telescope has taken a fall or you have removed/replaced any mirror components, do check out AstroBaby’s guide here: www.astro-baby.com/astrobaby/en/help/collimation-guide-newtonian-reflector/ I purchased a Cheshire collimator and following that guide is very rewarding! Let me know if you need help with anything and clear skies!

[@woody5109]

Simple, brilliant

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

Thank you! If you have any questions I'll be here! Clear skies ❤

[@dcstips7007]

EXCELLENT tutorial! Thank you!

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

Thank YOU!!! ❤️❤️❤️

[@alanhill5337]

Excellent. Thank you

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

Thank you!! & clear skies to you!

[@laclassedegregoryporet1155]

Toujours un grand plaisir de regarder vos vidéos. Surtout continuez à partager vos connaissances. Bonjour de France ! Always a great pleasure to see your videos. Thank you very much Robert.

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

Merci beaucoup!!! @astro_art_contrast is my favorite astronomer from France. If you have Instagram I recommend their page! I'll try and make more videos in the future and thank you again :) Clear skies!

[@sreenisatish]

Loved the detailed video.

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

Sreenivas Satish thank you so much!

[@thomasmiloro5771]

Awesome tutorial man! Sometimes people talk so boring or in unnecessary length but u hit that sweet spot and got me keen to go scoping.

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

Hey, thank you so much!! I wish you the clearest of skies & best of luck!

[@kbeast98]

Wow I love the signatures, what a great idea

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

Hah thank you I hope others do the same with their dobs. Our current outreach scope is all black with multicolored metallic signatures. It looks amazing in the moonlight!

[@InspiredByYouTub]

Planning to buy a 10" Dobsonian. Thanks for the video!

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

Congratulations on deciding! Thank you and clear skies ❤️

[@bigguy5155]

Im thinking of getting an 8 inch and have watched many videos and this is the best tell you what you need to know video i have seen thank you, will watch more of your videos

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

Get it! You'll have a blast! And I'll try to work on getting more videos :) Let me know if you want any help and clear skies!

[@DylanLukeLosasso]

incredible info and walk through! your very charismatic and enjoyable to watch as well. thanks for sharing

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

Thank you! I am glad you found the video helpful. If you get stuck on anything feel free to report back and we'll figure it out! Clear skies and keep looking up!

[@WarrenPostma]

Best Telescope Setup Vid on the Tubes of You.

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

Whoa!! Thank you so much!!! ❤️ I’ll try and keep it up!

[@Mark-ww9sb]

Thanks. A very interesting and informative demonstration.

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

Thank you very much, Mark and Clear skies to you!

[@runeveryday1069]

Very nice presentation.

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

Thank you very much! Let me know if you need any more info ❤️

[@ronm6585]

Thank you.

[@andrewkendall8744]

Great explanation. Really enjoyed the presentation.

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

Oh awesome! I'm really glad you liked it, and thank you so much! Clear skies :)

[@danyaalkhan3224]

I was confused that there was a mirror until he explained. He gave a lot of information and I understand a lot now

[@carlstevens4981]

I've got to say, this man is a great person. I've asked a question and the help and advice has been extremely helpful. He's taken the time to reply and they are very detailed replies. He probably thinks I'm a pest now. 😂 Absolutely appreciated 👍

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

Hey Carl, Thank you very much! When I use my telescopes I see a lot of inhospitable and desolate worlds. To me, this highlights that we are all in this together and how important it is for us to help one another whenever possible. It’s been very rewarding to be able to assist you in this hobby! I hope you get to enjoy the same sights I have over the years! Clear skies, - Robert

[@EscVeloc1ty]

Thanks! I’m definitely gonna get it now!

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

Heck yeah let me know if you run into any issues and Clear Skies!

[@randeepsingh6382]

Nice video mate, very thorough!

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

Randeep Singh thank you so much! 🙂👍

[@LarsAndersenFrihed]

Excellent introduction

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

Thank you very much & clear skies!!

[@lrblouie]

Very helpful!!! Thank you so much!

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

Thank you!! Clear skies ❤️

[@Driver-ly9wb]

Great video. Very informative!

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

Thank you very much!!

[@Dusty11408]

Well done sir!

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

Thank you very much, Dusty! Clear skies to you!!

[@TomFaulkenberry]

wow, this is great, Robert! Best tutorial on the Dobsonian that I've seen. It is just like having a knowledgeable friend showing you how to use it...so great!

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

Hey Tom, thank you so much!! I’m glad you found the video useful and I will try to make more. If there’s anything you felt I left out let me know & clear skies to you!

[@TomFaulkenberry]

@@spacetimewithrobert4438 Thanks Robert...looking forward to more videos. Right now, just trying to decide between ordering the 8" or 10". Your video just about has me convinced to go ahead with the 10 :)

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

@@TomFaulkenberry I haven’t looked through the 8” so I couldn’t give a fair comparison! I chose 10 because it was the most my car could fit! I have a 12” and it’s yet to see light due to ergonomic issues. I am very curious to know which you decide and how it works out for you!

[@ethorii]

Thanks for posting. I'm finishing up a 15" Dob. You taught me a couple things about eyepieces.

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

Heck yeah I’m glad you found it useful! Clear skies ❤️

[@danthecorkman]

Learnt a lot,thank you!

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

Heck yeah thank you so much! Clear skies to you!!

[@bobbailey7235]

Hello Robert, there are those who teach well and those who try to teach. Without a doubt you are the former. I am stunned and utterly thrilled with having found your video. It was exactly what anyone would love to watch. You are in the top 1% of teachers. I will subscribe to your channel and watch anything you produce that teaches me as you have just done with this video. The statement -Look no further -was created for perfection like that you showed here. Please stay safe and healthy and that means avoid the crowds who wish to gather around you to learn-that is until the virus is under control.

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

Holy tamale, thank you so much for your kind words! My parents had me watch lots of Carl Sagan, Mr. Rogers, Bob Ross, Alex Filippenko, Michio Kaku, and more. I also enjoy learning from Molly Bentley, Chris Impey, Janna Levin, Phil Plait, Seth Shostak, Neil deGrasse Tyson, Carolyn Porco, and Charles Liu. All of them are excellent science communicators, and without their influence, I don't think this video would even exist! So credit must go to them as well :) I have been staying safe, received my first dose of the vaccine, and hope to return to the public in the Summer. In the meantime, we have been performing Live streams on our Instagram page. Here is a link: instagram.com/space_time_with_robert/channel/ I hope you are staying safe as well, Mr. Bailey. Clear skies and thanks again :)

[@louisbanaszak1082]

You relate guitars to telescopes? You are the hero I didn't know I needed! This video has so much information. Totally watching more of your videos.

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

Hello Louis, Thank you so much! They are both amazingly simplistic precision instruments that function best when operated with long hair ❤️ I’m kidding, Satriani would probably shred at this hobby, hah! Clear skies! - Robert

[@ryanf6157]

So incredibly helpful for someone interested in the hobby! I had no idea there was so much work to set it up but it totally makes sense how you tune it. Amazing piece of technology!

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

Heck yeah, I am glad you found it useful! It may seem like a lot of work stretched out here, but I promise it can all be done in under a minute! In fact, that might be a fun video. Telescope setup speed-runs :) I'm bet they're out there. However, if the work seems a little daunting, I have to recommend a Refractor or even a Catadioptric telescope. A refractor usually has their lens cemented in place, and collimated at the factory. I own one and it has provided perfect views for over 2 years now and has suffered plenty of abuse. However, they can get expensive! I just bought my Grandpa an Orion GoScope 80mm Refractor for looking at the Moon. I wanted to provide him with the simplest and least maintenance-requiring setup. Time will tell! The Catadioptric telescopes can also be expensive but require much less maintenance (at least my two have so far) than a Newtonian like this one. Welcome to Space, thank you VERY much and clear skies!!

[@ryanf6157]

@@spacetimewithrobert4438 I think this video should be mandatory to anyone buying their first entry level dobsonian telescope! In fact someone actually recommended this video on reddit which is how I found it. I like the little tinkering and adjusting in hobbies such as this. When you get it right, it is so satisfying! I love all the signatures on it too! Hopefully you get to 1000 very soon.

[@koofdome]

Such a chill dude. Great video vibes and energy man! You taught me a lot in this video I just got my AD8 and I cannot wait. Of course it rains everyday for a week once I get mine……

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

Oh why thank you so much!! This was recorded without coffee, so typically I am bouncing off the walls lol. And yes, you found the hidden coupon with every piece of astro gear! CLOUDS!!!! Rain, snow, haze and smoke all love a good purchase, especially if it's your first. Now, if you ever have a chance to go to a star party... I highly recommend it! They are so much fun. Congratulations on your AD8 and feel free to join us any clear Sunday at Sunset, Taylor Dock! We'll try to go live tonight to share some of the fun we have around 8PM Pacific. Lastly, if you have any questions about your AD8 or telescope stuff in general please feel free to ask! Hope it's all cleared up for you by now and if not I'll see if my club and I can all blow really hard in your direction! :) Space!

[@koofdome]

@@spacetimewithrobert4438 It was clear 3 days ago and for the first time I saw the Orion Nebula. The tiny little smudge of gas made me tear it was unbelievable. I joined an Astro club near me as well that I had no idea was extremely active with over 200 members. And they had a guest speaker from FermiLab the other week! Absolutely insane. I love this hobby and I love the channel.

[@xentariz]

Thanks buddy, youve teached me the basics that I needed the most to get started with my 10" dobson!

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

Heck yeah!!! Let me know if you have any questions and clear skies to you!

[@keeplookingup911]

Nice walkthrough on dobs 👍👍👍

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

Keep Looking Up thank you so much!! Awesome channel name! ❤️

[@nordmende73]

Thank you very much!

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

You’re welcome! Clear skies!

[@charlespeters9626]

Great video; thanks for sharing your experience. I am a newby and have taken the refractor route. Thanks for providing a great reference and dispelling fears cocerning the collimating procedure.

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

Welcome to space! What refractor did you choose and why? Is it what you hoped for? I almost went the refactor route before my first 10”. It was collimation, among size and maintenance that deterred me and I’m glad to hear you’re not spooked by the process! I chose a refractor for my Grandpa for those reasons. Also, please me know if you post any photos so I can follow along! Thank you! ❤️

[@omar823]

Great video man! You explain very well and simple how to collimate and use the viewfinder. This is a great telescope with great accesories! Greetings from Argentina, keep continue doing videos!!

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

Hey thank you very much 🙂

[@manishbhoola]

Awesome video

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

Thank you very much, Manish! Clear skies ❤️

[@petset77]

Very nice, down to earth presentation. (...great to remind people to not peep on others.) Thanks.

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

Hey thank you so much, Steve! I hope you enjoyed the Lunar Eclipse last night. Clear skies!

[@ricardomoreno2670]

Hi, You’re amazing explaining everything about this telescope, I can wait to use the one I order

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

Hey Ricardo, thank you so much!

[@TwstedTV]

I agree.... it doesnt feel rushed. it feels well thought out and well explained. :)

[@jctedsap]

Love your video. I am just about 3 hours away in the Yakima Valley. I have a 12 inch Dob. Been trying to find some of the old members of the Yakima Astronomical Society. It disbanded almost 20 years ago. It was fun while it lasted. Hopefully can find some more locally into astronomy. Keep up the great work sharing the hobby.

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

Thank you so much and congratulations on your 12 inch Dob! I'm sorry to hear your city is lacking an Astronomy Club. I say start a new one! Our local club (the Whatcom Association for Celestial Observers) heads out to Table Mountain once a year to do a star party. I've never been, but it may be something to look into! They also do monthly star parties up here but like you said, it's 3 hours away. If you're ever in my area on a weekend and it's clear out, send me a message and we'll go stargazing! Maybe I can get your signature on the scope. Thanks again and clear skies!

[@GarnettLeary]

I love your presentation. Well done

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

Garnett Leary, thank you so much & clear skies to you!

[@AbdurAstro]

Great video Robert. Dobs are truly excellent scopes.

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

Thank you! And I agree I think they are awesome for beginners and pros alike. Clear skies to you!!

[@AbdurAstro]

@@spacetimewithrobert4438 Clear skies to you too my friend.

[@paulmurphy5489]

After watching this review, I bought this telescope today! So much excellent information! It comes with a red dot view finder, but I definitely like the spotting scope with right angle lense.

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

Hello Paul, Thank you! I am glad you found the video useful! The red dot could be all you need once you get it aligned. The 8x50 Right Angle Correct Image (RACI) is definitely helpful but I still have to look down the length of the tube to aim it initially. If I know how to star-hop to a galaxy by eye, using a RACI sometimes feels redundant for me. What's awesome about the ES 10" is it comes with two finder shoes, allowing you to keep your red dot mounted if you decide to purchase a RACI or some other spotter. Using the two together is a wonderful setup. Currently I am using a Telrad and an 8x50 RACI and it's been a dream. Also, great choice! The Apertura AD10/Orion Skyline do offer more bells and whistles but the quality of the ES10 and it's versatility (along with it's current price) make it the best bang for your buck in my opinion. It's likely going to be the next scope we get once I donate our AD10. We used a Skywatcher 10" asfor over a year as well and the ES10 was my favorite dob out of the three. Wishing you many clear skies and if you have any questions I'll be here! Congratulations on your new dob!!!

[@paulmurphy5489]

@@spacetimewithrobert4438 Again, I'm following your example! I bought the exact 10mm Hyperion modular eyepiece you are using around 13 minutes into the video. I see it can be 1.25 or 2 inches, depending on the adapter. Does it matter, which one to use to get the best view? Also, i see this you can screw additional lenses directly onto these eyepieces, to change their power without using a Barlow lense. Could you shed and light on this? I'm doing research right now, the scope, and everything I am getting to use with it will be opened on Christmas morning, after Santa leaves it under the tree! I live in Beaumont tx, about 90 miles East of Houston, so I have to go 20 or 30 miles North to escape light pollution, but I am very excited to start looking at the stars!

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

@@paulmurphy5489 Hello Paul, The 1.25" adapter has a slightly more cropped view, but is more magnified if I remember correctly. Both views are stunning! However, I would actually get the Baader Hyperion Zoom lens if you can afford it and cancel that order. The zoom lens goes from 8-24mm and to my eye is sharper at it's 10mm setting than the Hyperion 10mm Prime lens. I see less color-fringing around brighter objects using the Zoom lens. Currently it the only eyepiece I use other than a 2" 30mm Kellner. Here is a discussion online about it: www.cloudynights.com/topic/718701-baader-hyperion-mkiv-zoom-8-24mm/ There's also someone in the comments here that swears by it. Awesome all-in one eyepiece. If you are skeptical about the zoom functionality you can test the waters by trying out an Orion 7-21mm Zoom lens. It's much cheaper and is also an excellent eyepiece. Here is a discussion on that eyepiece: www.cloudynights.com/topic/713122-i-don%E2%80%99t-know-what-to-title-this-eyepiece-thread/ For barlows yes, you can unscrew the lens cell from the body and screw it directly onto an eyepiece as if it were a filter. This often reduces the magnification multiplier of the barlow due to the shorter distance between the eyepiece and the barlow lens. For instance, an x2 barlow lens used without it's barrel might perform more like an x1.75. Sorry for any confusing jargon and let me know what I could explain further!

[@Uncleowner]

Thanks a lot, very useful. Cheers!

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

Thanks, Alex!! Clear skies!

[@MyTube4Utoo]

Cool video. Thank you.

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

Thank you!! And clear skies

[@tonybrown7846]

Very informative. Thank you.

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

Tony Brown thank you!! ❤️

[@barlow2976]

Thanks Robert, very useful. I'm going to order the 8" version as my first scope, I've been using binos so far, so I can't wait.

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

Awesome!!! Here is a cool resource on visible objects with small binoculars: www.bridgendastro.org.uk/guides/Deep-Sky%20Objects%20for%20Binoculars%20and%20the%20Naked-Eye.pdf I've read from AstroBackyard that the 8" is a sweet spot for magnification and detail, and have to agree when it comes to our 8" ACF. Their size and costs are probably their most unattractive aspects. I am super curious how you enjoy an 8" as your first telescope! Let me know if you post any photos and how to follow you

[@elchappo1320]

I just bought binoculars. If i like looking at the sky, im gonna get an 8 or 10 inch dobsonian.

[@dksirbharkaun4815]

Very good work

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

Thank you very much!

[@ashameto4121]

Amazing.. Learnt a lot. Thanks

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

Awesome, I'm glad it helped!! Clear skies!

[@reflactor]

This was extremely helpful. Thank you!

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

Absolutely I’m so glad it helped 🙂 clear skies!!!

[@bobmyers9008]

As a new owner of a 10" dobsonian, I was having a tough time getting the primary mirror aligned. I came across your video and your explanation and demonstration just clicked with me. I really appreciate your video and thank you for the help!

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

Awesome, I'm so glad you enjoyed it! If you get stuck on anything feel free to email or comment back, I love to troubleshoot dobsonian problems. Clear skies and congratulations!!

[@bobmyers9008]

Well thank you for the offer of help! Clear skies to you and all!@@spacetimewithrobert4438

[@samsthemank]

I found this telescope on craigslist and, even though I can't actually afford it, decided to look it up anyway, which led me to this video! You made a lengthy video fun and entertaining to watch throughout the whole thing, and it makes me sad I can't go out there and watch the sky with y'all

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

Don't be sad! I gotchu! Here is where we post livestreams: instagram.com/space_time_with_robert/channel/ If tonight clears up I will share the Moon through a 12" Dobsonian tonight at 18:00 PST. Also, if you're in my area hit me up and I can lend you a scope or get you at the eyepiece of one. Thank you very much for the encouraging compliment and I hope to make more some day :) Clear skies

[@chrisg9602]

Great video

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

Thank you & clear skies!

[@hansomdiy6044]

What a nice Video! Thanks a Lot.

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

Thank you!! Clear skies ❤️

[@joelcarrera6922]

Great video!!! Greetings from Panamá 🇵🇦

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

Thank you very much!! Clear skies to you and all of Panamá!

[@rgreen5358]

Great explanation of the steps getting a scope ready. Your relaxed approach is both very educational and fun to watch. A rare talent- Thanks!

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

R Green thank you SO much! I really appreciate that, we’ll try and do more 🙂❤️ clear skies!!

[@mituguyen4030]

Very good video and thank you very much for the explanation. Now i known in the details how a Dobson telescope works

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

You are very welcome, Mii! Wishing you many clear skies!! If you have any more questions feel free to ask. Also, cloudynights.com is an excellent community of experienced astronomers offering advice to everyone interested in our cosmos. Stop by and say hello if you ever get the chance!

[@isaachuntt]

Thank You. 🙂

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

No thank you!

[@MinhajMalik]

I got an 8" dob a few months back, observed M4, the Moon and Jupiter last night. This video was quite helpful when I was looking for a scope.

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

Jupiter will be in the evening sky for us in a few months and I can’t wait! Congratulations on your 8” dob & last night’s observations!! I am glad you found the video useful. If you happen to post any photos please let me know where so I can follow along & clear skies to you!!

[@MinhajMalik]

@@spacetimewithrobert4438 hey Robert thanks for such a nice reply. I will be posting some videos I shot on my KZbin channel, will be posting the link here. Wishing you the very best!

[@GrumpyOldMan9]

Nice introduction to Dobs

[@buggsy5]

You don't have to mess with a fragile and easy to scratch or get dirty moon filter. Modify the telescope dust cap with a 3" to 4" off axis hole (or make a flat cap with a hole). By placing it fairly near the edge, you can rotate it so the spider vanes are not visible through the hole. This greatly reduces the light intensity without adding glass into the optical path. Also, the diffraction spikes will be gone. There is diffraction from the edge of the round hole, but since it is curved the result is smeared out over the image and not noticeable. Also make a small rotatable shutter you can use to close the hole when using the dust cap for its designed purpose. I built an off axis aperture cap for my 16" scope and it has 4 different sized holes, one in each quadrant of the cap. I just select the one that gives me the most desirable light intensity at the eyepiece. Added: Otherwise, great video.

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

Heck yeah that is a very interesting approach to dimming the view and removing the diffraction spikes! The Skywatcher Dobsonian's come with a capped hole in the dust cap. You can remove the smaller cap to let in a much smaller amount of light. I'm imagining this is what you are doing but at the eyepiece instead of the opening of the OTA. I love it! Another trick I would do in a pinch is cover half of the front of the tube with a cloth. This would cut the light intensity down by about half as a result. But this adds weight and throws the balance off. Same goes for the dust-cap hole design. Your method sounds way sneakier! Also CONGRATULATIONS on your 16"!!! I had a chance to look through one at a B2 site and holy heck that brings in some dim stars! We looked at M13 (along with many others, it was GoTo), and I had my first view of the Swan was that night through it. So much fun! Thanks again for the tip and I am glad you enjoyed the video!

[@cowboymf1013]

Been wanting to get a telescope for a while because I'm up late looking upwards a lot anyways, but just haven't committed yet until after seeing the Lunar Eclipse a few days ago. Thinking about a 12" Dobsonian and maybe a 4.5" as a companion. This video has really REALLY helped me to better understand what I'm getting into and has made me confident that, with a little practice, I can enjoy this a lot and I'm not just investing into a headache. Thank you for such an informative and entertaining video, cheers to Robert and everybody else out on the dock.

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

Oooooh Congratulations on witnessing the Lunar Eclipse!!! We saw it from Coulee City, WA. Lucky enough to get a time lapse :) instagram.com/tv/CdpxcvogxA9 I am glad you found the video helpful and yes YES YES a 12" and a 4.5" is an AWESOME setup!! The 12" may be all you need, as they typically come with a viewfinder that is 8x50. It's no 4.5" but it's large enough to see lunar craters, all of the Pleiades star cluster and even the Moons of Jupiter. The only issue is the cross-hairs that obstructs some of the view. Still, it's a very cheap solution to wanting a wider view :) Regardless, my 4.5" gets just as much play as our 10". You'll probably love them both! And no, it's no headache so long as you don't pour acid all over your mirrors. The technology is surprisingly simple and resilient. I've seen jaw-dropping views through a 40 year-old scope. Our 12" was an office decoration for 15 years and coated in nicotine tar when we picked it up (the one time acid was actually needed lol) and after some cleaning it's nearly good as new! But wait, there's more! astroanecdotes.com/2015/03/26/the-mcdonald-gun-shooting-incident/ So I love that you described it as an investment and not just a purchase. To me, they really ARE! Let me know if you want help with anything and welcome to space!!!

[@cowboymf1013]

Wow, I'd heard the mirrors were tough, but multiple lead projectiles at, what I'm assuming was probably, around 1,230 feet per second is impressive for a few little dents, not to mention a hammer. I hope the gentleman feels a little better, at least about astronomy, now then he did then. The Eclipse started as I was getting off work and I pointed it out to a co worker, I went home and sat under a tree with a bottle of Coke Starlight and watched the whole thing from my back yard here in central Texas until it was over, it was fantastic and I really enjoyed getting to see it again in your time lapse. I had not at all considered the view finder, I'm sure that would do a similar job to the 4.5. I was considering something portable and more user friendly for hiking and that sort of thing, but I reckon that in that situation a 6" or even 8" would do that just as well or maybe even better a job and not cost or weigh really too much more. I really appreciate your response and I was kind of, really pleasantly, surprised when I saw it and the prevalent enthusiasm in it, thank you so much! When I have some new guy questions I'll definitely try to send them your way and maybe, eventually, some pictures with that 12".

[@wascadoo8946]

Well done Mate & all the best. Great Vid & “John” would appreciate your Efforts to get us all looking UP👍🍺

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

I really appreciate that :) would have been wonderful to get his signature. Clear skies to you!! ❤️❤️

[@AstroLaVista]

Dude you're such a good communicator, and I love how popular John the 2nd is with all those signatures :)

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

Dude! No u! lol and thank you so much it was a blast sharing that scope with everyone. Clear skies!!

[@LunarJim69]

Thanks or all that info! Excellent.

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

Heck yeah thank you and let me know if you want any more info! Clear skies!

[@LunarJim69]

@@spacetimewithrobert4438 Not too many clear skies here in Scotland lol. My partner has bought me an 8" Dobsonian so I'll be referring to your excellent video again when I'm setting it up. Thanks again.

[@alexeyhonorio]

amazing video tutorial! thank you and best wishes from Brazil! o/

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

Alexey Honorio thank you so much! Clear skies to you!!

[@Burghfan111]

Thanks for the great video. I bought the 10" truss version of that scope (first real scope). I am looking forward to getting it set up and your video has given me a lot more confidence to do so. I just want to order the right angle finder and laser collimator first. Thank you again.

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

Heck yeah congratulations!! I hope your telescope came in good condition and you caught a glimpse of Saturn this year! If you have any questions feel free to contact me. I'm curious how you're enjoying the truss design and if collimation is any issue. Thanks again and clear skies!

[@SeanDS89]

4:59 So cool!! I never knew that, thanks for sharing :)

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

I am so glad that made sense, thanks for verifying :) Clear skies!

[@darrenmason7234]

brilliant.. this has really helped me set up my dob 👌

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

Heck yeah I’m so glad! Clear skies to you!! ❤️

[@eddymendez270]

Exelent video thank you. 👍

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

Thank you!! Clear skies!

[@tristanyseult]

nice tutorial man, am going to by the Bresser version as soon as they become available in England thanks again

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

That’s awesome to hear, Tristan! Let me know if you have any troubles with it. Thank you and clear skies!! ❤️

[@thaum1]

Brilliant setup. Many thanks for the pointers. Your collimator demo was perfect for me. Oh, and the starburst (4 spider arms) was a revelation. Thanks

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

I was surprised to find out the four points in Hubble images were caused by the same thing! I’d think a telescope that expensive could get around that design lol. Telescopes are just awesome, though, and I’m glad you’re involved in the field! Thank you very much and if you don’t: do collimate your collimator every now and then! It makes a huge difference on bigger scopes (to me). Let me know if you need any help & Clear skies!! ❤️

[@thaum1]

@@spacetimewithrobert4438 Thanks for the response, Robert. I have only just started as I have just purchased an 8inch Sky-watcher 200p Dobson. Always wanted one, but never got around to it until now. Something to do with the kids on winter nights. So I am waiting for that to arrive. In the meantime, I am going to purchase a collimator and pick up the other essentials over time. Any pointers or recommendations would be more than welcome.

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

​ @Thaum Nice! My first large telescope was a Skywatcher 10" Dob. The altitude bearings/clutch are easy to mess up. These are the twisty knobs on the sides that keep the tube from drifting up/down. If you tighten them too much, it may loosen the bolts inside the telescope. To re-tighten, you will have to reach inside and hold the bolt while you tighten the screws on the outside. Luckily you have little astronomers to help you! Balancing can be an issue if you end up using heavy eyepieces or a camera. These scopes have no way for you to adjust their center of balance, so a magnetized flashlight or a dedicated telescope weight may be a good investment. I'd test it before you make a purchase. I use a magnetized flashlight and stick it to the back of my scope. It acts as a nice counterweight and helps me clean up in the dark! The last bit of advice that I can think of is to let your telescope acclimate before use. If you can, let it sit outside for half an hour or so during twilight. Large telescopes are very sensitive to EVERYTHING! If there is too much of a temperature differential between the telescope and the outside air, then the materials may flex and squeeze during use, making things go out of focus often. The warping is minimal and will cause no damage. It should only affect where the perfect "focus point" is. Oh wait, there's more! If ya'll wear glasses or want to see things super zoomed-in, a Barlow lens is another good investment. It's essentially a magnifying glass that you attach to your eyepieces. The big bonus to a Barlow lens (to me) is that they also make it so you don't have to get your eye super close to the glass. Perfect for people wearing glasses! A good resource for all things relating to telescopes is cloudynights.com The people there are very responsive. Just watch out for the know-it-alls ;) There are lots more tips but for now, let me know if you get stuck on anything!

[@thaum1]

@@spacetimewithrobert4438 Hey Rob, sincere thanks for the detailed post. Lots of good nuggets in there. I heard that Dobs can give trouble with balance. Torch is a great idea. Much appreciated. If the rest of the community is anything like you, it would appear I am stepping into a good world. All the best.

[@bajablast8216]

I just love coming back to this video even though I know how to use a dobsonian telescope 😅

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

I'm glad you enjoyed it! Thank you so much & clear skies!

[@racheltgal]

very good video thank you for making this USA Maine

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

Thank You!!! Clear skies to you in Maine! ❤️

[@gordonsaut]

Just ordered my first 8" dobsonian, very excited about it. Your video is gonna help me a lot setting it up! (youre reminding me so much of a young Dave Grohl btw haha) Greetings from Austria

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

Hah! I'd be happy with current Dave Grohl. Dude's a stud! And Congratulations on your first Dobsonian!!! If you run into any snags feel free to contact me. Hope to get your signature some day and clear skies to you in Austria!!

[@chazbltn664]

We own two 14" dobs and their size limits our use. I usually take out the Skywatcher 120ed on an alt/az mount to use in the backyard or in the street in front of the house. I really enjoy the light buckets though and now I am looking to buy one of these same scopes when they're available again in a few months to keep ready to roll in our garage. I'm not exactly a newbie at this but I gotta tell ya, that was a great video. Thorough and easy to understand for anyone. Great job!

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

Wow, thank you so much! I wanted the video to answer any and all questions that a teacher may have before sharing the scope with their students. Having an experienced astronomer's input is SO valuable to me and I really appreciate it!! The biggest we've got is a 12" and indeed our 10" gets far more use due it's portability. I've actually yet to even look through the 12"! Anywho, thank you again :) Clear skies!

[@thestellarcorpse]

this guy is so cool

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

No u! ❤️

[@ManishFrenchStudio]

Superb information 💖💖💖 Thank you for sharing 🙏☺️🎁🎁🎁🎁🎉🎉🎉🎉

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

I am glad you found it useful! Thank you and clear skies ❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@ManishFrenchStudio]

@@spacetimewithrobert4438 💖💖💖💖

[@Nottsboy24]

Pretty cool doing the collimation 👌 greetings from the UK 🔭

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

Thanks! Let me know if you need anything cleared up (besides your sky) ;) and Hello!!

[@Nottsboy24]

@@spacetimewithrobert4438yup 👌 absolutely i will 🔭

[@MrTyui987]

you are awesome

[@kappakumplete]

Fantastic video. I'm planning to buy a telescope for my son and this video served as an amazing tutorial and I know exactly what I'm getting myself into now.

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

Hello Kappakumplete, Thank you so much! I hope you and your son have many clear nights ahead! Me and many other amateur astronomers would love to hear about your guys’ first views and any troubles you run into. You can share them with us at cloudynights.com if you like. It’s a great way to introduce yourself to the community and there is a lot of great advice. Stargazrers Lounge is also excellent. I’m always here as well so feel free to comment back any time for help! Lastly, if you decide to purchase your telescope through Highpoint Scientific or Orion, we have affiliate links in the videos description that will earn us a commission off any purchase you make at no extra cost to you! Thanks again and clear skies! - Robert

[@kappakumplete]

@@spacetimewithrobert4438 Hi Robert and thanks for the kind reply. I’ve narrowed my selection down to the Apertura AD8 or AD10. I promise to use your affiliate link when I make the purchase. Will also be sure to check out the website. I’ll take you up on your offer for advice. I live in a suburb of Dallas, TX which I’ve learned is horribly light polluted. In your opinion, is there still worthwhile enjoyment to be had in my area, or would I absolutely have to travel to better skies every time for my son to have a pleasant experience? That answer will largely influence if I buy an 8 inch or 10 inch due to ease of transport.

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

@@kappakumplete Hello Kappakumplete, Here is a useful tool for gauging how polluted your skies are with light: www.lightpollutionmap.info And here is an article explaining the bortle scale: skyandtelescope.org/astronomy-resources/light-pollution-and-astronomy-the-bortle-dark-sky-scale/ Judging from the map, you would need to drive about 20 miles to reach Bortle 6 conditions, which is similar to the skies I have in my city. I have used both the AD10 and AD8 side-by-side in B6 conditions and the AD10 performed much better. Details on Planets were brighter and sharper despite the turbulence. We could see fainter stars in distant clusters and with more clarity. The contrast was about the same in both telescopes, however. At the end of the session, the owners of the AD8 wished they had gone for the AD10. Both the AD8 and AD10 take up similar amount of cargo space. Using them within the city, you will be restricted to brighter objects like our Moon and the neighboring planets. Still, the AD10 will likely perform better. Situations where the AD8 might perform equal to the AD10 are poor weather conditions. Otherwise, I think the AD10 is the superior choice. Here is a review with the AD10's exact measurements if you are concerned about storage: plateauterrace.blogspot.com/2012/10/apertura-ad10-dobsonian-reflector.html All that said, the AD8 is still an excellent telescope and for someone who is on a tighter budget, has less storage space or a lower lifting capacity, it's a great buy! Especially if you don't own a telescope at all. 8" vs 10" is a long-running debate actually and here is one discussion I found on cloudynights: www.cloudynights.com/topic/734164-apertura-ad8-vs-ad10-vs-dt10-for-first-telescope/ I hope that helps and feel free to ask as many questions as you like! - Robert

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

P.S. There are astronomy chairs that have adjustable heights. They are expensive but I recommend getting a good observing chair at some point. Observing with an Ad8/10 without a chair can be a physically demanding. You will be standing at the telescope, maintaining perfect balance and keeping your head steady while also focusing with your hands. Often hunched over with your neck crunched. To make the experience more comfortable and to rule out many variables that could ruin the view, a chair is a great investment! If you are handy with some wood then there are also schematics online for you to build your own. I can look them up for you if you like. That's all! - Robert

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

@@kappakumplete Sorry Kappa, I glossed over the first part of your question: Yes I think a 10” and an 8” are still a worthwhile investment even in the city. You will not have to travel with either to enjoy them. However, traveling a bit to darker areas will greatly increase their potential. Galaxies and feint Nebulae will be difficult for every telescope under light pollution. So to see these in good contrast it’s best to travel. However, visible planets, double stars and our Moon will still be a treat to look at, even under light pollution. Personally, I find stray-light to be more of a nuisance than light pollution. Finding a dark shaded area and using a dew-shield like this: www.highpointscientific.com/astrozap-flexible-dew-shield-for-meade-10-lxd75-or-lxd55-schmidt-newtonian-telescopes-az102 can remarkably increase the contrast. Lastly, here are some articles I found relating to your question: www.cloudynights.com/topic/559863-8-dob-in-bright-city-enough/ www.cloudynights.com/topic/420352-what-can-i-see-with-a-10-inch-dob/

[@ewu2030]

I am trying to buy a first telescope and I've been reading and reading and watching shit on how to and what to. But this convinced me to consider an 8 inch dob from Bresser which I think is pretty much the same construction as the one you have here. I'll go for 8 inch coz the 10 won't fit in the trunk of the car, and I can mount it more easily on a cheaper eq mount in the future. Great video and nice pictures on your insta! Cheers!

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

Hello ewu2030, Thank you very much!! I'm happy to hear the video helped you come to a decision. Fitting a 10" in a trunk is not easy!! I feel like my Nissan Versa Note was built for hauling these scopes but once I had to fit it into a Chevy Malibu and the back seat was too short. It was a hassle getting it in and out of the trunk. I stopped at a 10" because like you, it was the biggest I could fit in the backseat of my Nissan. Mounting the 10" is no easier! I have an old Losmandy G11 from the 90s that I plan to mount our new ES10 on. I start sweating just looking at the tripod. An 8" would be much more manageable for astrophotography and you wouldn't need as serious of a tripod. Still, the tube is long and will require special attention to balancing compared to an 8" SCT for example, but the Bresser 8" newts are half the price and should be easier to maintain. It sounds like you thought this out well! And yes, as far as I can tell the Bresser and Explore Scientific dobs are identical in design. I will know soon enough because I just gambled by buying a Bresser 10:1 MicroFocuser upgrade for my ES10! If you end up posting pics of your astronomy adventures, I'd love to follow along! Lastly, here is a thread on CN where me and two others are sharing mods for our dobs! www.cloudynights.com/topic/857660-customizing-eartha-my-firstlight-10-inch-dobsonian/ Enjoy your new scope and let me know if there is anything you want help with!! - Robert

[@shalabazertheboltstruck8645]

Maaan this thing is a gem... the stories... these signatures... AWESOME

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

It’s a lot of fun going over them all and remembering the events. Here is a photo of our current one instagram.com/p/CPyst20peZE/? And the first one: instagram.com/p/BmbbxRenLz7/?

[@shalabazertheboltstruck8645]

@@spacetimewithrobert4438 nice, the trebd goes on. I was thinking of buying a 10" soon but I wondered if it would be possible to transport it shotgun? Because wife and kid in the back 😀. Have you ever tried it? I mean I can put down half the rear seets but it's better to have someone at the back with a kid

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

@@shalabazertheboltstruck8645 sorry for the late reply! In my Nissan 2014 Versa Note I was able to slide the passenger front seat back enough to fit the 10” tube. It rests against the edge of the seat and on the edge of tube. I can not get the tube flush against the floor and so although it is possible, I would have to reinforce it with pillows and straps. Checking the passenger side mirror is also awkward with the scope riding shotgun. I say go for it and drive around the neighborhood a little to test how well you strapped it in. Otherwise, perhaps you could rent a small trailer? Another suggestion would be a collapsible 10” tube. They are more expensive but it sounds like you could really use the function. My last suggestion would be to go for a smaller scope but no one wants to hear that 🙂 honestly though, small telescopes are awesome as well and great for the moon and star clusters. If you can someday, I say get a small scope if you don’t already have one! Hope this helps!

[@shalabazertheboltstruck8645]

@@spacetimewithrobert4438 no truble man, thanks a lot for the detailed RE but yeah I started to think an 8" will do it for now and maybe somwhere down the line something biger that can be disassembled. I have a 114mm it's my first and I freakin love it so I think arround summer will be the perfect time to go for some big boys 😀 I love observing visually so the thaught was, the biger the better but still the 8 will be a lot fun for a real start

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

@@shalabazertheboltstruck8645 I got to use a 8” and a 10” dob side by side and the group I was with felt that the 10” definitely showed more stars, more of Andromeda’s disc, and better details on the planets. The length of tubes were very similar so I’m worried if you got a 8” Newtonian tube you would run into the same issues having it ride shotgun as the 10”. But I have not tested it so this is just my paranoia I’m sharing :) One weird idea would be to get a big used box, shape it to the dimensions of a 10” or 8” tube and try and fit it in the front seat. The dimensions should be on the product page but I can take some measurements as well if you need any. But wait, are thinking you of an 8” Schmidt Cassegrain or other compact telescope? Because I have one (8” Meade LX65) and we LOVE IT! It does not collect as much light as the big dob but the contrast and clarity is superior to all my scopes. In a dark location it was the perfect traveling observatory and it would definitely fit in the front seat!

[@brianlarsen3322]

what a cool guy^^ TY Robert..you just made me ordre one^^

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

Congratulations!!! Let me know if you would like help with anything and I hope you get some clear skies!! & thanks!

[@brianlarsen3322]

yes what would you say is the Best eyepeice to look at the moon...close and from afar???

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

@@brianlarsen3322 For the Moon and just about everything else: I am a big fan of the Baader Hyperion 8-24 Clickstop Zoom and the 2.25x Barlow kit. With this eyepiece, I can see the entire Moon and zoom in to see craters inside of craters. The image is very sharp on my 10" Dobsonian, and I do not see color fringing (blue or red halos coming off the edges of the Moon). If you're on a budget, a cheaper eyepiece would be the Orion E-Series 7-21mm Zoom Eyepiece. This eyepiece will also allow you to zoom out to see the entire Moon with a 10" telescope (60x magnification) and zoom in to see Lunar Mountain ranges (180x). You can simulate the views through these eyepieces with this online tool: astronomy.tools/calculators/field_of_view/ Let me know if you want help working the calculator. Both eyepieces will work with any 1.25" Barlow lenses you may already own, giving you greater magnification. Also, if you don't own one already, a Moon filter is a good thing to get! Any brand is fine, but some are darker than others. Baader has a variable moon filter that allows you to adjust the brightness. I hope this helps!

[@arthurcychan]

very nice telescope

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

Heck yeah it is! Loved that scope!! Clear skies ❤️

[@accusationChair]

Great job friend. I used the same dolly with my dob. My go to eyepieces were the ES 20 and 8.8 , really miss it

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

Oh I would love to try some ES EP's on that beast. The highest quality I used was the 10mm Baader Hyperion and that was amazing. What happened to your telescope? Are you planning on getting another?? & thank you!!

[@accusationChair]

@@spacetimewithrobert4438 sold for health reasons. Now I just watch vids. Thank you.

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

​@@accusationChair Understood! I hope you have found many alternatives by now, but in case you are still looking I'd like to mention: slooh.com lets you capture images from remote astrographs around the world for $20(US) a year and provides live feeds on their KZbin channel of the Sun. It's my favorite online telescope service. If you have a favorite, let me know! mo-www.cfa.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/OWN/Own.pl also allows you to capture images. They even have a way for you to edit them, at the expense of NASA and NSF and tutorials on KZbin to teach you how. Lastly, I have an Instagram page where I post live feeds from my telescopes. There are currently 31 episodes on IGTV: instagram.com/space_time_with_robert/ I just found a way to share the Orion Nebula and am looking for ways to improve the setup. Your input would be most welcomed! All the best, Robert

[@miguelmorales9667]

I liked the Batman reference! 😃

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

Hah thank you Miguel! Nana nana nana and clear skies!!

[@MrsOliva]

Сколько автографов на трубе, сколько друзей ! Это здорово. Вот, настоящий астроном.

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

Our first telescope had around 800 signatures! This one had close to 600 when we donated it. Thank you so much! Clear skies!

[@MrsOliva]

@@spacetimewithrobert4438 Thank You ! I am from Moscow. Here is 60 clear nights a year. :-) And who are all those people? Amateurs looking through this telescope?

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

@@MrsOliva yes! Anyone that looks though it can sign it if they want to. The new one is black with metallic signatures! We get 71 days of clear skies out of the year and MUCH LESS snow, here in Bellingham 🙂

[@deepmop6817]

I'm getting a Saxon 10 inch Dobsonian and I was wondering if I needed a Collimator. Awesome video btw 👍

[@deepmop6817]

Also AMAZING job replying to literally every comment, real dedication you have to help beginners and pro's with telescopes, awesome job man.

[@spacetimewithrobert4438]

​@@deepmop6817 Haha thank you! It's a labor of love, and congratulations on your next telescope! For large scopes, I think a collimator is necessary. I assume it has something to do with how the telescope is handled and stored over time that requires it. I keep the big ones rolling around in the back seat 24/7, loosening the mirrors and exposing it to various temperatures, forcing me to collimate once a week minimum. For the crispiest views, it's definitely a worth-while purchase! :) If you post any photos through your Saxon please let me know where so I can follow. Thank you again and clear skies!!