Choosing and Using a Dobsonian Telescope [Paperback]

In the 1960's, American amateur astronomer, John Dobson, designed a revolutionary kind of astronomical telescope featuring a lightweight large-aperture reflecting system on a simple mounting, using the then-revolutionary material called teflon. The design combines simplicity and portability with large-aperture prowess. Thirty years later Dobsonians remain supreme for visually observing faint deep-sky objects and are one of the best-selling large telescopes in the USA and Europe. This popularity is reflected in the recent increase of companies now heavily marketing Dobsonians, in particular, Meade (the Lightbridge range), Orion USA (XT Intelliscope series), and Skywatcher (Skyliner and Flextube models). This book is the ultimate guide to buying and using commercial Dobsonians, both 'Econo' and 'Primo' models, with in-depth accounts for the various models (plus accessories) on the market and descriptions of the many innovations that amateurs have made to optimize their telescopes' performance.

Presenting in-depth accounts of this astronomical telescope, this volume is the ultimate guide to commercial Dobsonians. The Dobsonian design combines simplicity and portability, and remains supreme for visually observing faint deep-sky objects.

Preface.- Part I: The Dobsonian Telescope.- Chapter 1: John Dobson, The Man and His Legacy.- Chapter 2: Know Thy Dob!.- Chapter 3: The Mini-Dobs.- Chapter 4: Getting Serious.- Chapter 5: The Planetary Dobs.- Chapter 6: The 12-inch to 16-inch Dobs.- Chapter 7: Different Strokes.- Chapter 8: Here Be Monsters!.- Part II: Using Your Dobsonian.- Chapter 9: Accessorizing Your Dob.- Chapter 10: Adjusting, Maintaining, and Testing Your Dob.- Chapter 11: Sketching and Imaging with Your Dob.- Chapter 12: Where Next, Columbus?.- Appendix A: References.- Appendix B: Useful Formula.- Appendix C: Glossary.- Index.

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If you are considering purchasing a Dobsonian telescoplCk