Explore Scientific Dobson telescope N 406/1826 Ultra Light Generation II DOB (55225)

Dobsonian telescopes are renowned for their practicality and simplicity in astronomy. Their design consists of two main components: the optics (typically a solid tube or truss tube design) and the mount (a wooden "rocker box" that sits on the ground). This straightforward setup allows for immediate observation without complex alignment procedures. The Dobsonian concept originated from the desire to create large, affordable telescopes—a goal that has been brilliantly achieved. These instruments have developed a dedicated following due to their fascinating simplicity and high performance at a low price.

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

Key Features

• Tool-free, secure adjustment of the secondary mirror mount

• Adjustable primary mirror with a modern cell featuring radial roller bearings and a 9-point flotation system

• Large altitude bearings for smooth, stable movements at high magnifications

• Compact transportation design with cap and altitude bearings fitting inside the rocker box

• High structural rigidity and dew-resistant aluminum construction

• Two radial primary mirror fans for rapid temperature adjustment

Second Generation Improvements

• Teflon sleeve bearings and GRP for sensitive tracking

• Enhanced primary mirror cell with precise adjustment mechanism

• Double-sided friction settings and braking system for altitude bearings

• Larger feet for increased stability

• Universal viewfinder shoe for easy finderscope upgrades

• Included 2 x 1.0kg counterweights

• Quick-release fasteners with spring elements for comfortable handling

• Powder-coated altitude bearings for increased durability

• Laser-engraved primary mirror center mark

Dimensions for the 406/1826 Ultra Light Model

• Rocker box: 550x550x330mm

• Mirror box: 480x480x300mm

• Pole length: approx. 1250mm

• Eyepiece height at zenith: approx. 1.63m

• Total weight: 38.4kg (Mirror housing: 23.8kg; Upper section with secondary mirror + rocker box: 10.5kg; 4 pairs of struts: 2.5kg; Pair of altitude bearings: 1.6kg)

This telescope offers exceptional transportability, adjustment stability, and user-friendliness for its size, supported by a comprehensive user manual.

Specifications

Optics

• Type: Reflector (Newtonian)

• Aperture: 406 mm

• Focal Length: 1826 mm

• Focal Ratio: f/4.5

• Resolving Capacity: 0.28 arcseconds

• Limiting Magnitude: 14.8

• Light Gathering Capacity: 3360x (compared to human eye)

• Maximum Useful Magnification: 812x

Tube Construction

• Design: Truss Tube

• Material: Aluminum

Reflector Details

• Primary Mirror Material: BK7 glass

• Adjustable Primary Mirror: Yes

• Secondary Mirror Obstruction: 25%

• Primary Mirror Construction: Parabolic

• Secondary Mirror Design: Flat

• Secondary Mirror Heating: No

Focuser

• Type: Gear rack with 1:10 fine focusing

• Eyepiece Connection: 2"

Mount

• Type: Dobsonian (Rocker Box)

• Material: Aluminum

• GoTo Control: No

Included Accessories

• Finder Scope: Red dot finder

• Eyepiece Adapter: 2" / 1.25"

• Antiglare Protector: Yes

• Extension Tubes: Yes

• Counterweights: 2 x 1.0kg

General Information

• Series: Ultra Light

• Total Weight: 38.4kg

• Heaviest Component: 23.8kg

Areas of Application

• Moon & Planets: Yes

• Nebulae & Galaxies: Yes

• Nature Observation: No

• Astrophotography: Not recommended

• Solar Observation: No

Recommended For

• Beginners: No

• 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 advanced amateur astronomers seeking a powerful yet transportable instrument for visual astronomy.