Skywatcher Dobson telescope N 305/1500 Skyliner FlexTube BD DOB GoTo

Sky-Watcher Skyliner FlexTube GoTo 12" (305/1500) Telescope

The Sky-Watcher Skyliner FlexTube GoTo 12" is a powerful Newtonian reflector on a Dobsonian mount, combining immense light-gathering capability with a patented collapsible truss-tube design. Featuring a large 305mm parabolic aperture and the automated SynScan GoTo computer control system, this instrument is designed for deep-sky enthusiasts and experienced observers alike. SkyHunters is one of the leading suppliers of telescopes, offering professional expertise and support for your equipment.

Key advantages

• Large Light-Gathering Power: The 305mm parabolic primary mirror provides 44% more light gathering than a 10-inch model, delivering exceptional detail on faint deep-sky targets.
• Innovative FlexTube Design: Patented 3-rod collapsible truss system allows effortless transport and rapid setup without losing collimation stability.
• SynScan GoTo & Auto-Tracking: Motorized tracking with a 42,900-object database eliminates manual adjustment and keeps targets perfectly centered even at high planetary magnifications.
• Smooth Crayford Focuser: 2-inch focuser with 1.25-inch adapter and integrated T2 camera thread enables precise focus adjustment and DSLR attachment via an optional T2 ring.
• Flexible Focus Positioning: Moving the sliding rods in or out adjusts the focus position, ideal for imaging bright astronomical targets.

Product description

A large aperture for an accessible price has always been the primary reason for choosing a Dobsonian telescope. With the BlackDiamond Dobsonian series, Sky-Watcher reimagined this classic concept. The novel patented sliding rod design makes transport exceptionally easy while allowing the focus point to be flexibly shifted by sliding the rods further in or out.

Manual tracking was traditionally a drawback of Dobsonian mounts, as targets would drift out of view quickly under magnification. The BlackDiamond Autotracking and GoTo series solve this with fully automated tracking. Tiresome manual guiding is no longer necessary, making the telescope fully capable for planetary observation at high magnifications.

Telescope and Mount Features:
Equipped with a 12-inch (305mm) parabolic primary mirror and a focal ratio of f/4.9, this telescope offers an optimal compromise between massive light-gathering power and portability. Under good seeing conditions, almost all objects in the NGC catalogue are visible. On planets, fine details become visible: Saturn displays half a dozen moons and distinct gaps in its ring system. The immense light-gathering capability also opens up opportunities for capturing lunar eclipses and planetary astrophotography.

Truss Tube Mechanics:
Truss tube Dobsonians are favored by active observers for their portability. Sky-Watcher's FlexTube system utilizes only 3 sliding tubes that quickly collapse. Upon arrival at your observation site, simply extend the tubes and lock them in place; the rigid structure ensures collimation remains stable.

GoTo SynScan Automation:
The GoTo configuration features SynScan handset control, allowing observers to select any target from a pre-programmed database of 42,900 objects. Powerful servo motors on both axes slew the telescope automatically. The system includes optical encoders, built-in Wi-Fi, and a USB 2.0 interface for versatile control options.

Technical specifications

Package contents

• Optics with collapsible tube structure
• Reinforced rockerbox mount
• 10mm and 25mm eyepieces (1.25")
• 2" Crayford focuser with 1.25" adapter and T2 camera connection
• 9x50 quick-release finder scope for easy object location
• Primary mirror with central marker for easier collimation
• User manual in German