Orion SkyQuest XT8 Dobsonian Reflector Telescope

Rating:
Summary: Wonderful beginner scope
Review: As a newbee to astronomy, I researched telescopes for months before deciding on the Skyquest XT8. My main concern was being able to carry it. I decided on this one because its total weight was around 42 lbs. You can seperate the base from the tube and carry it in two pieces, or you can carry the whole thing assembled. Since I am a female, 5'4", I still find it a bit bulky. However, I chose this one instead of a smaller one for the simple fact I want to see as much as I can see, and be able to carry it. I am so glad I did. My first few times seeing, I was awed. I easily found Jupiter: Very clear dark and light belts and surrounding moons, could even make out the dark spot! Saturn: Casini's division is evident on a clear, calm night, M42: stunning nebula like a "fan of light" in Orions sword, the moon looks so close, and you can make out so much detail in the craters, plus much more. I highly recommend the deluxe filter set also. The different filters make details in the planets and nebulae more visible. Blue is great for seeing Orions nebula, green gives jupiters belts more contrast, yellow helps with contrast in Venus cloud cover. Over all, I would give this scope a 10 out of 10. I certianly haven't been dissapointed! Orion's customer service is A+, which is incredible in itself.

Rating:
Summary: Wonderful beginner scope
Review: As a newbee to astronomy, I researched telescopes for months before deciding on the Skyquest XT8. My main concern was being able to carry it. I decided on this one because its total weight was around 42 lbs. You can seperate the base from the tube and carry it in two pieces, or you can carry the whole thing assembled. Since I am a female, 5'4", I still find it a bit bulky. However, I chose this one instead of a smaller one for the simple fact I want to see as much as I can see, and be able to carry it. I am so glad I did. My first few times seeing, I was awed. I easily found Jupiter: Very clear dark and light belts and surrounding moons, could even make out the dark spot! Saturn: Casini's division is evident on a clear, calm night, M42: stunning nebula like a "fan of light" in Orions sword, the moon looks so close, and you can make out so much detail in the craters, plus much more. I highly recommend the deluxe filter set also. The different filters make details in the planets and nebulae more visible. Blue is great for seeing Orions nebula, green gives jupiters belts more contrast, yellow helps with contrast in Venus cloud cover. Over all, I would give this scope a 10 out of 10. I certianly haven't been dissapointed! Orion's customer service is A+, which is incredible in itself.