The Orion SkyQuest XT8 Intelliscope is the logical extension to the already almost legendary SkyQuest series of Orion telescopes. The XT8 uses the same Dobsonian design as the original Intelliscope, but adds an optional computerized object location system that lets you easily point the scope to any of the more than 14,000 objects in the included celestial database. Nebulas, galaxies, star clusters and planets are easy targets for the XT8.

The main body of the scope uses an 8-inch Newtonian reflector design. What makes the design a Dobsonian is the use of a simple alt-azimuth mount, also known as a gun carriage or cannon-style mount. A simple pivot point adjusts altitude; a simple plate adjusts the azimuth (side-to-side movement). This simple mount system produces a bigger telescope at a lower cost than other designs, although it does have some drawbacks.

The XT8 consists of a 44.5-inch enameled steel tube that contains a 203mm (8-inch) primary mirror. Two eyepieces are included; the XT8 also accepts 2-inch eyepieces. A 2-inch Crayford-style focuser with rack-and-pinion system provides focusing. A 9x50 power finder scope is included for manual object location.

The well-designed Dobsonian base is made of wood and uses Teflon and UHMW bearing pads. The base includes a navigation knob for slewing the scope and keeping an object centered. This is one of the tradeoffs of a Dobsonian system. With standard equatorial mounts, slewing can be performed simply with clock drive motors, allowing you to concentrate on viewing or taking photos with your camera. Dobsonian bases must be manually slewed, which limits camera use to quick shutter speeds. There's no option to use the long exposures required for deep sky objects.

The XT8 computerized system uses a set of guide arrows that show you which direction to move the scope to quickly center an object. Once the object is centered, you must move the scope by hand to keep the object centered.

The Orion SkyQuest XT8 Intelliscope is a good first telescope for individuals who are new to astronomy, and an ideal choice for experienced users who want a scope that is sizable yet easily portable.


Pros: Good optics, good for viewing both deep space objects and planets, pinpointing objects is a quick and easy task
Cons: Manual base restricts use for astrophotography, requires manual slewing of base

Warranty
1 year, limited