Ample light grasp ... Check. Portable ... Check. Stable mount ... Check. Quick setup and take-down ... Check. Easy to operate ... Check. Affordable ... Check.
As you run through the checklist of attributes you've heard are important in a good beginner's telescope, you realize that the classic SkyQuest XT6 meets all the criteria — in spades. Astronomy magazine called it "an excellent entry-level telescope for an adult."
It's a telescope that opens up limitless observing possibilities. With its big 150mm diameter parabolic primary mirror the XT6 collects nearly 80% more light than a 4.5" reflector, rendering brighter images and greater detail in deep-sky nebulas and star clusters. And the 1200mm focal length gives the scope ample power to zoom in on subtle planetary and lunar features.
The 45"-long enameled-steel optical tube glides wtih silky smoothness on the cabinet-quality Dobsonian wood base. You just point the scope and view! Orion-engineered CorrecTension springs keep the tube balanced to perfection and allow the whole unit to be carried together by the handle on the base.
The XT6 is outfitted with a 1.25" aluminum rack-and-pinion focuser, a 6x30 achromatic finder scope, eyepiece rack, and one Sirius 25mm Plössl eyepiece. The mirror is center-marked for precise collimation.
The SkyQuest XT6 ... Check it out, today! One-year limited warranty.