Orion SkyQuest XT4.5, Classic 4.5" Dobsonian Telescope Kit, with Eyepieces, Focuser, Finder & Software

The Orion SkyQuest XT4.5 Dobsonian Telescope has compact size, innovative design and point-and-view simplicity. The XT4.5's Newtonian reflector tube assembly features a big 4.5"(114mm) light-gathering mirror housed in an enameled steel tube. This mirror pulls in 260% more starlight than the lens of a 60mm refractor (the classic beginner telescope), bringing hundreds more objects boldly into view.

The XT4.5 is one very revealing telescope. It's also a true "Dobsonian" telescope, having all the great features that make Dobs so popular. Such as intuitive up-down, left-right maneuverability (without lock knobs or other adjustments to mess with) and sturdy support of the optics. The XT4.5's base features Teflon/Nylon bearing pads, so the scope glides smoothly with just a gentle nudge of the tube.

The base provides far greater stability than the tripods included with most beginner scopes, so the views are always steady. The XT4.5 sports exclusive CorrecTension Friction Optimization for superior tube balance and motion control. The CorrecTension springs also keep the tube fastened to the base, so the whole scope can be carried as a single unit by the handle installed on the tube. There's literally no setting up or dismantling needed each time the scope is used. The SkyQuest XT4.5 comes complete with great accessories.

Instead of a small 5x nonachromatic finder scope it includes a 6x26 achromatic correct-image finder scope and a "navigation knob" for easy slewing of the telescope. It also comes with two fully coated 1.25" Sirius Plossl eyepieces: a 25mm for low-power views at 36x and a 10mm for getting in close at 91x. The SkyQuest XT4.5 is a quality astronomical instrument capable of delivering high-resolution images of astronomical objects.