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Skywatcher 8-inch Dobsonian GOTO Upgrade Kit
Easily convert your 8" Skywatcher Dobsonian into a GOTO telescope with auto-tracking, 42,900-object SynScan database, fast setup, hands-free navigation, and enhanced stargazing efficiency.
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The Sky-Watcher 8-Inch Dobsonian GOTO Upgrade Kit transforms your manual Sky-Watcher 8" Dobsonian Telescope into a computerised GOTO system with ease. This user-friendly upgrade includes a SynScan hand controller that grants access to a vast database of 42,900 celestial objects, making it simpler to locate and track stars, planets, and more.
Transform Your Telescope with GOTO Functionality
The included SynScan V5 hand controller offers access to a database of over 42,900 celestial objects, covering Messier, NGC, IC catalogues, planets, and user-defined entries. The controller supports sidereal, lunar, and solar tracking speeds, along with multi-point alignment methods to improve pointing accuracy. Once installed, the mount automates object finding and celestial tracking, reducing the need for manual positioning and alignment.
This GOTO upgrade kit is specifically designed for the 8-inch solid-tube Sky-Watcher Dobsonian base, maintaining the telescope’s large aperture and simplicity while integrating intelligent motorised control. It’s an ideal solution for observers looking to enhance their telescope without replacing the optical tube.
Easy Installation
Installation is straightforward with minimal tools required, and once fitted, the upgraded base allows for both northern and southern hemisphere tracking. The system is powered by a standard 12V DC source, making it compatible with power tanks or regulated AC adapters for backyard or field use.
The Sky-Watcher 8" GOTO Upgrade Kit is covered by a 5-year limited Sky-Watcher warranty, ensuring reliable performance. It enhances the efficiency of stargazing by automating setup and object location, helping observers get the most out of their telescope.
Full Specifications
| Compatibility | Sky-Watcher 8" Classic Dobsonian |
| Hand Controller | SynScan V5 with 42,900-object database |
| Motor | Dual-axis DC servo motors with encoders |
| Tracking Modes | Sidereal, Solar, Lunar |
| Alignment Methods | 1-star, 2-star, Brightest Star |
| Motor Drive | GOTO-compatible altitude and azimuth drive system with gearboxes |
| Encoder Type | Dual encoders |
| Communication Ports | RS-232, USB (via SynScan), and auxiliary port support |
| Power Supply | 12V DC, 2A minimum (not included) |
| Firmware Upgradable | Yes, via SynScan or external connection |
| Operating Temperature | -20°C to +40°C |
| Warranty | 5-year limited Sky-Watcher warranty |
Recommended Accessories
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12V 2A Power Adapter for Computerised Telescopes Supply your computerised telescope with a constant voltage with a 12V 2A power adapter. Reduces issues due to insufficient/dropping voltage that may occur with standard AA batteries (if applicable). |
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12V 2A Power Adapter for Computerised Telescopes Power your computerised telescope with this power adapter so that batteries aren't required. |
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About Sky-Watcher
Contemporary telescope-making has advanced the simple optical designs early scopes to revolutionary, state of the art. The Sky-Watcher company believes Telescopes of quality make should no longer be expensive, but accessible to everyone. Sky-Watcher philosophy has always been to bring the vast wonders of the skies within reasonable reach of anyone with enough curiosity and courage to look up and imagine. Sky-Watcher scopes come in a large range of observational applications - from 10"Dobsonians to spotting scopes for land use.
Product Code: SWA-DOB8GTK
Q1. What is the Sky-Watcher 8-Inch Dobsonian GOTO Upgrade Kit?
The Sky-Watcher 8-Inch Dobsonian GOTO Upgrade Kit is a motorised GOTO upgrade system that converts your manual Sky-Watcher 8" Dobsonian telescope into a fully computerised mount for automatic object location and tracking.
Q2. What telescopes are compatible with this GOTO upgrade kit?
This Dobsonian upgrade is specifically designed for the Sky-Watcher 8-Inch Classic Dobsonian or saxon Deepsky 8" Dobsonian Telescope, manufactured by the Synta factory.
Q3. What does the upgrade kit include?
The GOTO upgrade kit includes altitude and azimuth motors, a SynScan hand controller, encoders, cables, mounting hardware, and everything needed to convert your telescope into a computerised system.
Q4. How do I install the Sky-Watcher 8-Inch Dobsonian GOTO Upgrade Kit?
Installation is straightforward with basic tools and the provided instructions. Most users can complete the setup within an hour, turning their 8-inch Dobsonian into a powerful GOTO system.
Q5. What features does the SynScan controller offer?
The SynScan hand controller provides access to a database of over 42,900 celestial objects and allows for automatic slewing, tracking, and object finding with your upgraded Sky-Watcher Dobsonian.
Q6 .Can I still use my Dobsonian telescope manually after upgrading?
Once the Sky-Watcher 8-Inch Dobsonian GOTO Upgrade Kit is installed, manual movement is no longer recommended, as the motors are designed to handle all tracking and positioning.
Q7. Is this GOTO upgrade kit suitable for astrophotography?
The GOTO upgrade enables basic tracking, ideal for short-exposure planetary and lunar photography, but it is not designed for long-exposure deep-sky astrophotography.
Q8. What power source does the Sky-Watcher GOTO upgrade kit require?
The system operates on 12V DC power, with at least 2A output. A portable power tank or AC adapter is recommended for stable operation during extended observing sessions.
Q9. Can this go to upgrade be used in both hemispheres?
Yes, the Sky-Watcher 8-Inch Dobsonian GOTO Upgrade Kit supports tracking in both the northern and southern hemispheres and is fully adjustable to your location.
Q10. Is the GOTO upgrade kit covered under warranty?
Yes, the Sky-Watcher GOTO upgrade kit comes with a 5-year limited warranty, ensuring long-term support and peace of mind for your Dobsonian upgrade.