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Explore Scientific  |  SKU: ES-DOB1645-01

Explore Scientific 16" f/4.5 Truss Tube Dobsonian Telescope

$3,599.99 $4,319.99

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Explore Deep Space Anywhere – Portable 16” Dobsonian Power

 

Unlock the cosmos with stunning deep-sky views and professional-grade precision—all in a telescope designed for portability and ease of use.


Unmatched Features for Serious Stargazers

  • Massive 406mm Aperture: Captures 2,400 times more light than the naked eye, revealing faint galaxies, nebulae, and star clusters in stunning detail.
  • Focal Ratio of f/4.5: Perfect for both wide-field exploration and high-magnification views of planets and lunar craters.
  • Tool-Free Assembly: Transport and set up effortlessly with a lightweight truss design that fits into compact vehicles.
  • Precision Dual-Speed Focuser: The 2” rack-and-pinion focuser with 10:1 reduction delivers razor-sharp clarity for celestial targets.
  • Advanced Cooling System: Dual radial mirror fans stabilize the primary mirror’s temperature quickly, reducing cooldown time for consistent, clear images.
  • Optimized Truss Poles: Sturdy, lightweight aluminum poles measuring 140 cm in length and 25 mm in diameter ensure durability and portability.
  • Comfortable Viewing Height: With an eyepiece height of 167 cm at zenith, the telescope ensures an ergonomic and enjoyable observing experience.
  • Nine-Point Mirror Cell Support: Provides stability and prevents distortion of the large primary mirror, ensuring sharp and consistent views.
  • Portable and Compact Design: The mirror box (42.5 cm tall, 66 lbs) and secondary cage (48 cm OD, 8 lbs) are engineered for easy handling and transport.

How This Telescope Stands Out

Feature Explore Scientific 16" Dobsonian Typical 8" Dobsonian Typical 5" Refractor
Aperture 406mm 203mm 127mm
Light-Gathering Power 2,400x the naked eye 816x 329x
Focal Ratio f/4.5 f/6 f/7.9
Maximum Magnification 800x 400x 250x

What You Can See with the Explore Scientific 16" Dobsonian

This telescope opens up a world of celestial wonders. Here’s what you can expect to observe:

Planets and Lunar Details

  • Saturn: Clearly see the rings and even the Cassini Division.
  • Jupiter: Spot the Great Red Spot and track its four largest moons.
  • Moon: Explore craters, mountain ranges, and rilles in stunning clarity.

Deep-Sky Objects

  • Galaxies: View Andromeda (M31), the Whirlpool Galaxy (M51), and other distant galaxies.
  • Nebulae: Observe the Orion Nebula (M42), the Crab Nebula (M1), and more, with intricate details and vivid contrast.
  • Star Clusters: Resolve individual stars in the Pleiades (M45) or the Hercules Globular Cluster (M13).

Stellar Phenomena

  • Double Stars: Split binary systems like Albireo with ease.
  • Faint Stars: Detect celestial objects up to a limiting magnitude of 15.74.
  • Fine Planetary Details: With a theoretical resolving power of 0.34 arc seconds, observe intricate surface details on planets.

Is This Telescope for You?

The Explore Scientific 16" f/4.5 Dobsonian Telescope is designed for those who:

  • Want Professional-Grade Performance: Perfect for advanced users upgrading from smaller scopes or beginner models.
  • Love Deep-Sky Observing: Ideal for capturing faint celestial wonders like the Andromeda Galaxy or the Horsehead Nebula.
  • Explore Remote Skies: Compact and easy to transport for trips to dark-sky locations.
  • Enjoy Versatility: Wide-field and high-magnification options meet all stargazing needs.
  • Value Ease of Use: Tool-free assembly, intuitive focusing, and included accessories make this telescope accessible to all.
  • Engage in Outreach or Education: Perfect for astronomy educators or outreach programs to inspire audiences with the wonders of the universe.

Everything You Need for Stellar Observing Right Out of the Box

This telescope comes fully equipped for an effortless and rewarding experience:

  • Two-Speed 2" Rack & Pinion Focuser with 1.25" Adapter: Achieve smooth, precise focus for both wide-field and detailed observations.
  • LED Red Dot Finder: Quickly and accurately align your telescope to your desired target.
  • Collimation Assist Tool: Simplifies mirror alignment, ensuring perfect optical performance.
  • Flexible Light Weight Light Baffle: Blocks stray light and enhances contrast for better image quality.
  • Two Primary Mirror Fans: Quickly bring the mirror to thermal equilibrium, reducing setup time.
  • Detailed Instructions: Step-by-step guidance for setup, maintenance, and optimal usage.

Enhance Your Observing Experience with Recommended Accessories

Take your stargazing even further with these must-have accessories:

  • 12V Battery Power Supply for Dobsonians: Keep your telescope and cooling fans powered for uninterrupted observing sessions, even in remote locations.
  • 16" Dobsonian Shroud: Block stray light, maintain thermal stability, and protect your optics from dust and debris.
  • Coma Corrector: Eliminate edge distortions for sharp, undistorted views across the entire field of view—perfect for astrophotography enthusiasts.

Browse the Explore Scientific Truss Tube Dobsonian series: 10" | 12" | 20"

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Questions & Answers

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  • Can beginners use this telescope, or is it better suited for advanced astronomers?

    While the telescope’s large aperture and advanced features cater to intermediate and experienced astronomers, it’s also designed to be user-friendly enough for dedicated beginners. Features like easy collimationtool-free assembly, and smooth bearings make it accessible for those new to astronomy but serious about deep-sky observation or astrophotography. For beginners, this telescope offers room to grow, providing a pathway to more advanced observations as their skills improve.