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Explore Scientific 20
Explore Scientific 20" f/3.6 Truss Tube Gen 2 Dobsonian Telescope
CAD14,315.46
Explore Scientific Firstlight 10
Explore Scientific Firstlight 10" Solid Tube Dobsonian Package Deal
CAD1,639.61
Explore Scientific Firstlight 10
Explore Scientific Firstlight 10" Solid Tube Dobsonian
CAD1,200.71
Explore Scientific Firstlight 8
Explore Scientific Firstlight 8" Solid Tube Dobsonian
CAD991.71
Explore Scientific 16
Explore Scientific 16" Truss Tube Generation II Dobsonian Telescope
CAD5,077.66

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  3. Dobsonians
  4. Explore Scientific Dobsonians

Explore Scientific Dobsonians

Explore Scientific introduced their line of Truss Dobs well over a year ago.  During that time they kept making improvements to the final product winning a Sky and Telescope Hot Product Award along the way.  Well, the only real issue is the improvements took so much time that a scheduled introductory price will come to an end on the 15th of September.  However, if you order now you will still get the introductory price.  On top of all that, they are in limited supply. 

Products [7]

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Explore Scientific 10
Explore Scientific 10" Truss Tube Generation II Dobsonian Telescope
CAD1,556.01
Buy
Explore Scientific 12
Explore Scientific 12" Truss Tube Generation II Dobsonian Telescope
CAD2,851.81
Buy
Explore Scientific 16
Explore Scientific 16" Truss Tube Generation II Dobsonian Telescope
CAD5,077.66
Buy
Explore Scientific Firstlight 8
Explore Scientific Firstlight 8" Solid Tube Dobsonian
CAD991.71
Buy
Explore Scientific Firstlight 10
Explore Scientific Firstlight 10" Solid Tube Dobsonian
CAD1,200.71
Buy
Explore Scientific 20
Explore Scientific 20" f/3.6 Truss Tube Gen 2 Dobsonian Telescope
CAD14,315.46
Buy
Explore Scientific Firstlight 10
Explore Scientific Firstlight 10" Solid Tube Dobsonian Package Deal
CAD1,639.61
Buy
pagination

Explore Scientific’s Dobsonian telescopes are designed to offer exceptional aperture and deep-sky performance at a remarkable value. Known for their smooth mechanics, solid construction, and bright, high-contrast views, these telescopes are ideal for observers who want to explore faint nebulae, galaxies, and star clusters under dark skies.

All models use Newtonian reflector optics mounted on a Dobsonian base, providing maximum aperture per dollar and a natural, intuitive “push-to” observing experience.

Key Advantages of Explore Scientific Dobsonians

  • Large Aperture, Excellent Contrast
    Mirrors from 8" to 16" gather abundant light for revealing faint deep-sky objects.

  • Easy, Intuitive Movements
    The Dobsonian mount allows smooth, manual tracking with minimal learning curve.

  • Well-Engineered Bases
    Sturdy, adjustable, and easy to set up — suitable for backyard or dark-sky travel.

  • Upgradeable Platform
    Models support accessories such as red-dot finders, shrouds, and digital setting circles.

  • Breakdown & Transport Options
    The Truss Tube designs pack down small for travel while maintaining rigidity and optical alignment.

Model Breakdown

8" Dobsonian (203mm)

Ideal for beginners or portable observers.

  • Bright views of the Moon, planets, brighter nebulae and star clusters

  • Easy to transport and store

  • Perfect for backyard astronomy or casual travel
    Best for: First-time telescope owners, families, nature observers

10" Dobsonian (254mm)

A sweet spot for both planetary detail and deep-sky reach.

  • Noticeable improvement in brightness over 8"

  • Brings out more structure in galaxies and nebulae

  • Still manageable for one person to set up
    Best for: Intermediate observers looking for a versatile main telescope

12" Dobsonian (305mm)

High performance deep-sky instrument.

  • Reveals spiral arms in galaxies under dark skies

  • Globular clusters resolve into thousands of individual stars

  • Requires more trunk space and setup time
    Best for: Dedicated observers ready to explore faint, complex objects

14" & 16" Truss Dobsonian Series

For serious deep-sky enthusiasts and dark-sky expeditions.

  • Maximum light-gathering power in a portable truss-tube format

  • Striking detail in nebulae, supernova remnants, and low-surface-brightness galaxies

  • Packs down for easier transport despite large optics
    Best for: Experienced observers, clubs, astronomy outreach, dark-site trips

Which Model Should You Choose

ModelPortabilityDeep-Sky PerformanceIdeal User
8"Very EasyModerateBeginner / Family
10"EasyStrongIntermediate Observer
12"MediumExcellentDedicated Hobbyist
14"/16" TrussTravel-capableOutstandingSerious Deep-Sky Enthusiast

Explore Scientific Dobsonian Comparison Chart

ModelApertureFocal RatioApprox. Focal LengthIdeal User / Use Case
Explore Scientific 8" Dobsonian Reflector Telescope 203 mm (8 )f/6~1218 mm Beginner or backyard observer: easy to handle, good all-rounder.
Explore Scientific 10" Dobsonian Reflector Telescope 254 mm (10 )~f/5 (varies by model) Intermediate observer wanting more light-gathering and deeper sky reach.
Explore Scientific 12" Truss Tube Dobsonian ~305 mm (12 )(varies)(varies)Serious hobbyist: deeper nebulae and galaxy work, larger setup.
Explore Scientific 16" Truss Tube Dobsonian 406 mm (16 )f/4.5 Enthusiast / club level: maximum aperture for deep-sky, more logistics involved.
Explore Scientific 20" Truss Tube Dobsonian 500 mm (20 )f/3.6 Observatory style or very dedicated observer: huge aperture, major setup & transport.

Key Considerations for Choosing

  • Portability & Setup: Smaller apertures (8 , 10 ) are easier to transport, set up and manage for one person. Larger models (16 , 20 ) require more space, time and possibly assistance.

  • Light-Gathering Power: A larger aperture means more light and greater ability to see faint nebulae, galaxies and fine detail. But this comes with bigger size and higher cost.

  • Focal Ratio: Faster scopes (lower f-ratio) often allow wider field views but can require better eyepieces to fully benefit.

  • Budget & Usage: Consider how much time you’ll dedicate and what targets you want. For backyard casual stargazing, 8 or 10 may suffice. For deep-sky hunting under dark skies, 12 + offers more performance.

  • Transport & Storage: Truss-tube models (12 , 16 , 20 ) break down for transport but still demand more space. If you live in an urban environment or move frequently, smaller models may be more practical.


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