Explore Scientific Dobson telescope N 254/1270 Ultra Light DOB (44832)

Dobsonian telescopes are widely regarded as some of the most practical tools for astronomical observation. Their design is simple yet ingenious, consisting of two main components: the optics, typically housed in a solid tube or truss tube design, and the mount, which is a wooden box (commonly referred to as a "rocker box") that sits on the ground and holds the telescope. This straightforward design allows users to start observing immediately without the need for complex setup or alignment procedures. The Dobsonian concept originated from the desire to create large telescopes at an affordable price—a goal that has been achieved remarkably well. Over time, Dobsonian telescopes have garnered a dedicated fan base that appreciates their simplicity, affordability, and high performance.

Explore Scientific enhances this classic design with a lightweight tubular aluminum frame optimized for transport and quick deployment.

Key Features

• The secondary mirror mount can be securely adjusted without tools.

• The primary mirror can be adjusted during observation and is housed in a modern cell with radial roller bearings and a 9-point flotation system.

• Large altitude bearings ensure smooth, judder-free movements, even at high magnifications.

• For transport, the cap and altitude bearings fit inside the rocker box, while the mirror box has a lid. This means only two aluminum boxes and one bundle of poles need to be transported.

• Extremely high structural rigidity ensures stability during use.

• Aluminum construction makes the telescope dew-resistant, eliminating issues like bulging press boards found in other designs.

• Two radial primary mirror fans allow rapid temperature adjustment for optimal performance.

Dimensions for the 254/1270 Ultra Light Model

• Rocker box dimensions: 395 x 395 x 310 mm

• Mirror box dimensions: 330 x 330 x 295 mm

• Pole length: approximately 700 mm

• Eyepiece height at zenith: approximately 1.15 m

• Total weight: 26.4 kg (mirror housing: 14 kg; upper section with secondary mirror + rocker box: 9.7 kg; four pairs of struts: 1.5 kg; pair of altitude bearings: 1.2 kg)

This telescope is one of the most transportable models of its size, offering exceptional adjustment stability and user-friendly operation. A comprehensive user manual ensures ease of use for all levels of experience.

Specifications

Optics

• Type: Reflector (Newtonian)

• Aperture: 254 mm

• Focal Length: 1270 mm

• Focal Ratio: f/5

• Resolving Capacity: 0.45 arcseconds

• Limiting Magnitude: 13.8

• Light Gathering Capacity: 1320x (compared to human eye)

• Maximum Useful Magnification: 508x

Tube Construction

• Design: Truss Tube

• Material: Aluminum

Reflector Details

• Central Mirror Ventilation: Yes

• Primary Mirror Material: BK7 glass

• Adjustable Primary Mirror: Yes

• Secondary Mirror Heating: No

• Primary Mirror Construction: Parabolic

Focuser

• Type: Gear rack focuser with fine focusing (1:10 reduction)

• Eyepiece Connection Size: 2 inches

Mount

• Type: Dobsonian (Rocker Box)

• Material: Aluminum

Included Accessories

• Finder Scope: Red dot finder

• Eyepiece Adapter: Compatible with both 2" and 1.25" eyepieces

• Antiglare Protector: Yes

• Extension Tubes: Yes

General Information

• Total Weight: 26.4 kg

• Series Name: Ultra Light

Areas of Application

• Moon & Planets Observation: Suitable

• Nebulae & Galaxies Observation: Suitable

• Nature Observation: Not suitable

• Astrophotography: Not recommended

• Solar Observation: Not suitable

Recommended For

• Beginners: Yes

• Advanced Users: Yes

• Observatories: No

The Explore Scientific Ultra Light Dobsonian telescope combines portability, stability, and ease of use with exceptional optical performance, making it an excellent choice for both beginners and advanced users seeking a practical yet powerful instrument for visual astronomy.