Dobsonian telescopes have long been popular with amateur astronomers for their large apertures, simple designs and affordability. Over the years, advancements in technology have given rise to new variations of the Dobsonian telescope, making the hobby of stargazing even more accessible and enjoyable. In this blog, I will compare three types of Dobsonian telescopes: the Manual Dobsonian, the Celestron StarSense Explorer Dobsonian and a computerised Dobsonian, offered by Skywatcher. Each offers distinct advantages, but the choice of which is best for you will depend on your needs and preferences.
1. Manual Dobsonian Telescope
The Manual Dobsonian is the original, no-frills version of the telescope. It consists of a large Newtonian reflector tube mounted on a simple yet stable alt-azimuth mount. The design emphasises a large aperture for the price, allowing for deep-sky observations like galaxies, nebulae and star clusters. However, as the name implies, you must manually move the telescope to locate celestial objects. Options include solid tube, truss tube, and collapsible Dobsonian models, each providing different portability, storage and travel benefits. Reputable brands such as Saxon and Skywatcher offer a range of designs catering to novice and the seasoned astronomer.
Advantages
- Affordability: Manual Dobsonians are typically the least expensive among the three types, making them a popular choice for beginners or those on a budget.
- Simplicity: There are no electronics or motors involved, meaning there’s little that can go wrong. This makes them highly reliable and easy to maintain.
- Learning the Sky: Using a manual telescope helps you develop a deeper understanding of the night sky, as you must locate objects using star maps, finderscopes or a smartphone app that uses an adapter such as the Saxon Push Guide smartphone adapter.
Challenges
- Manual Tracking: One of the main downsides is the need to manually track objects as they move across the sky. This can become tedious, especially at higher magnifications where objects quickly drift out of view.
- Finding Objects: Without any form of computer assistance, finding faint deep-sky objects can be challenging, especially for beginners who may struggle.
A manual Dobsonian is ideal for those who love the hands-on experience of observing and learning the night sky, but it requires patience and practice.
The Saxon 8 inch Dobsonian Telescope
2. Celestron StarSense Explorer Dobsonian
The Celestron StarSense Explorer Dobsonian offers a user-friendly upgrade over the manual version by incorporating Celestron’s innovative StarSense Explorer technology. This system uses your smartphone to assist in locating celestial objects. By using images of the sky captured by your phone’s camera helps you find your desired targets quickly and efficiently.
Advantages
- User-Friendly: One of the biggest appeals of the StarSense Dobsonian is its user-friendliness. You simply mount your phone to the telescope and the app will help to guide you to planets, galaxies, and other objects.
- Affordability with Tech: The StarSense model is priced between the manual and GOTO versions. You get the benefit of technology without the higher cost of a fully motorised GOTO system.
- Portability: Since the StarSense Explorer Dobsonian uses your smartphone rather than heavy motors or electronics it is comparatively lightweight and easier to transport.
Challenges
- Smartphone Dependency: The telescope’s ease of use depends on your smartphone. If your phone’s camera struggles with low light or your battery dies, you may have difficulty using the system.
- Manual Movement: While StarSense can help you locate objects, you still have to move the telescope manually. For users looking for full automation, this may be a drawback.
The Celestron StarSense Explorer Dobsonian Telescopes are great for beginners who want a little extra help navigating the night sky but still enjoy the hands-on nature of manual control. It’s also ideal for people who aren’t ready to commit to the cost of a fully automated system like the GOTO.
New technology with some Astronomy apps can offer similar results using a smartphone adapter at a much cheaper cost.
3. Skywatcher Computerised GOTO Dobsonian Telescopes
Overview
The Skywatcher Computerised GOTO Dobsonian is the most advanced of the three types, featuring full motorised control. GOTO technology allows the telescope to point to any object in its database once aligned automatically. The alignment process involves using a two- or three-star method, where you manually centre a couple of bright stars to “teach” the telescope its orientation.
The Skywatcher 8in GOTO Dobsonian Telescope
Advantages
- Motorised: The primary advantage of the GOTO Dobsonian after it has been calibrated and aligned, is that it can automatically find and track objects. This makes it a favourite among users who want to spend more time observing and less time locating objects.
- Accurate Tracking: Unlike manual or StarSense Dobsonians, the GOTO tracks celestial objects across the sky as Earth rotates. This makes long observing sessions, especially of planets or deep-sky objects, much more enjoyable.
- Extensive Object Database: GOTO systems come pre-loaded with databases of thousands of objects. With a few button presses, you can observe anything from nearby planets to far-off galaxies.
- These are available in a wide range of sizes and feature a collapsible tube design. They can be controlled using either a Synscan hand controller or the Synscan mobile app. Select models also include a disengageable clutch, allowing for easy switching between motorised and manual operation.
Challenges
- Cost: GOTO Dobsonians are the most expensive of the three types. However, many users feel the extra cost is worth it for the convenience and performance.
- Power Dependency: The motorised system requires a power source, typically a battery pack or AC power.
- Star Alignment: The two or three-star alignment process might seem daunting for beginners. However, it’s not as difficult as you might think. The telescope’s software guides you step by step, and you only need to align with two or three bright stars, which are very easy to find.
Why GOTO is the Better Alternative to StarSense Explorer
While the Celestron StarSense Dobsonian simplifies the process of finding celestial objects, the Skywatcher GOTO Dobsonian telescope offers a far superior experience in terms of both ease and precision. The two or three star alignment process may initially seem tricky, but modern GOTO systems make it straightforward with on-screen instructions. Once you complete the alignment, you can sit back and enjoy fully automated tracking, which is especially useful when observing objects for extended periods. GOTO systems eliminate the need for constant manual adjustments, allowing you to focus on the universe’s beauty rather than the telescope’s mechanics.
Conclusion
Each of these Dobsonian telescopes offers something unique to the stargazer:
- The Manual Dobsonian telescope is for the purist who enjoys star hopping and wants the best value for the aperture.
- The Celestron StarSense Dobsonian telescope provides an affordable middle ground, blending manual control with smartphone-guided assistance.
- The Skywatcher GOTO Dobsonian telescope is the ultimate in terms of large aperture and beginner-friendly features with the most upgradable option, with full automation that makes observing the night sky an effortless pleasure.
If you are serious about stargazing and want a seamless experience, the GOTO Dobsonian Telescope is the best option, despite the slightly higher cost.
However, for budget-conscious users a Manual Dobsonian telescope will enable you to have the same views at a much cheaper price.
Optics Central stocks a wide range of Dobsonian Telescopes. Enquire today if you have any comments or questions.