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Astronomy has always been of great interest to human. People have been studying stars and other heavenly bodies since ancient times. Fortunately, in this day and age, we have instruments called ‘telescopes’ to help us observe these celestial bodies more closely.
The telescope has been around since the 1600s and has continuously modified with the advance of time and technology. Although, using a telescope was not something everybody could do. Luckily again, today even that has changed.
With companies like Orion which have been building telescopes since 1975. They sell all kinds of telescopes ranging from beginners to advanced. Amazingly, they’ve come up with telescopes which can easily be operated by a child as young as 12 years of age also.
One such telescope is the Orion Skyquest XT10, and it brings the experience to young and old. Thus, spreading joy to all. Let’s look deeper into this particular telescope below:
Table of Contents
Orion Skyquest XT10 Review – UPDATED 2019
The Orion Skyquest XT10 is a telescope which can be used by both the novice and experienced astronomers with ease. The reason for this being that it is effortless to operate. Teaches you how to locate the stars on their own. It is the largest of non-computerised black-tube scopes with a design similar to the smaller ones. It is capable of processing information quickly.
| Tube outer diameter | 12.0.” |
| Tube weight | 47.25.” |
| Base weight | 22.6lbs |
| Optical tube weight | 30.8lbs |
| Minor axis of secondary mirror | 63.0mm |
| Reflex sight | EZ Finder II |
| Eyepiece | 25mm Sirius Plossl, fully coated with multi-coatings,1.25” barrel diameter |
| Magnification with the supplied eyepiece. | 48x |
| Optical tube material | rolled steel |
| Focal ratio | f/4.7 |
| Primary mirror diameter | 254mm, BK7optical glass |
| Primary mirror focal length | 1200mm |
Our Rating : 
(4.9 / 5)
Pros
Cons
Orion 10 Inch Dobsonian Newtonian – What You Should Know?
This telescope will give you the best view in comparison to the telescopes of its kind and size. It’s not a purchase you will regret if you consider purchasing it.
Yes, it is big and bulky, but it is worth all the weight. The things that stand out the most about this telescope is the simplicity in operation. It is so easy to use that it’s considered perfect for even amateur astronomers or hobbyists.
It gives you crystal clear images of the night sky and the celestial bodies.
Point and view
You can point the telescope in the direction you want to explore and enjoy the view. Making it easy for even new astronomers to locate the celestial objects.
Apertures
10-inch aperture with 25mm Plossl eyepiece gives you a spell-bounding experience of the night sky. It can capture a lot more light and celestial objects. It can also magnify deep-sky objects.
Crayford Focuser
With its 2 inch Crayford focuser you can focus quickly and precisely. With this focuser, you can ensure your adjustments are correct, free of backlash and flexure, and have a fun experience.
Sirius Plossl Eyepiece
It also includes a 1.25” Orion Sirius Plossl eyepiece. This eyepiece provides 48-power view with the Dobsonian. With a wide apparent field of view, it shows you crisp and bright images. You can also expand the magnification by purchasing eyepieces of different focal lengths. The detachable adapter makes it possible to use both eyepieces.
CorrecTension System
This system allows you to place your telescope balanced and set precisely where you want it to be. It hinders the telescope from swinging and going off balance.
Orion Skyquest XT10 Manual
The Orion Skyquest XT10 is simple enough for a child of 12 years to use. Easy to use and portable to carry, making it very convenient. This instrument comes with a manual which explains very clearly how you should assemble all the parts. So read the manual carefully and witness the simplicity yourself.
The manual will contain the following information:
Unpacking
The telescope will come to you in two boxes. One is the optical tube assembly with the accessories, and the other is the Dobsonian base which is unassembled. Be extra cautious while you unpack the boxes. It is suggested to keep the containers. Make sure all the parts in the Parts List below are present. Be sure to check the boxes carefully, as some parts are small.
Assembly
This part of the manual will give you instructions on how to assemble all the parts listed above. It will be written in a step by step method, making it easy to follow. Follow the instructions as is and you will be able to set-up in no time. Most of the time, its the base you have to assemble by yourself.
Using Your Telescope
Once you’ve assembled all the parts of the telescope, it is essential to test it out. You can test it during the day to see how things work before you start observing the sky at night. Things you will have to check are:
- altitude and azimuth
- Focusing the telescope
- Aligning the EZ finder II
- Battery
- Aiming the telescope
- Magnification
- Tube balance
- Carrying the telescope
Collimation
Next is collimation or adjusting of the mirrors. The mirrors are fixed at the factory so should not require many adjustments; however, if it has been rough- handled, you might need to adjust it. So this section goes the manual talks you through that process.
Astronomical observing
Before you venture out on your astronomical adventures, take time to read through his section of the manual. It will guide you on how to use the telescope to get the best results. It teaches you about things like:
- selecting the right site
- cooling the telescope
- seeing and transparency
- letting your eyes dark-adapt
- tracking celestial objects
Eyepiece selection depending on what you’re observing. All this information will give you a good start, even if it is your first time.
Care and maintenance
A little effort goes a long way. Mechanical maintenance won’t be required a lot if you take proper care and follow the instructions on the manual. All it requires is the cleaning of the lenses and mirrors now and then. With the right care, this telescope may last you a lifetime.
If you take time to go through the instructions on the manual carefully, you will get the telescope set-up in no time. You will also be able to take proper care and avoid any mishaps. Once the set-up is ready, you can go on your observational adventure and have the time of your life.
The verdict of the Orion SkyQuest XT10 Telescope
The Orion XT10 is a telescope that is ideal for all types of users. Super easy operations make it fun and comfortable to use. Large apertures give a more prominent and more unobstructed view of the sky. Use it as an instrument of study and entertainment both. With a little bit of care and attention, it can last a lifetime. It’s a quality product at a reasonable rate.
Looking for other models of the telescopes? You can check out our other telescopes review here too!
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