More Information  · Supplied Accessories  · Images of Some Features

The optical performance of the SkyQuest XT4.5 is far and away better than that of a flimsy 60mm department store refractor (the classic beginner’s scope). Its 4.5” (114mm) mirror, housed in an enameled steel tube, gathers 260% more starlight than a 60mm refractor. More light means you can see a lot more celestial objects – and see them in greater detail. Just think of it: in any given evening with clear skies you could survey the Moon’s myriad craters in detail; then study Jupiter’s cloud bands; then star-hop among the Milky Way’s diverse star clusters and nebulas. The XT4.5 is one very revealing telescope!

The Orion XT4.5 is a true “Dobsonian” scope, having all the great features that make Dobs so popular – such as intuitive up-down/right-left maneuverability (without lock knobs or other adjustments to mess with) and sturdy no-frills support of the quality optics. The XT4.5’s base features Teflon/Nylon bearing pads, so the scope glides smoothly from object to object with just a gentle fingertip nudge of the tube. The base provides far greater stability than the tripods included with most beginner scopes, so the views are always steady. And, like Orion’s other critically-acclaimed SkyQuest Dobsonians, the XT4.5 uses Orion’s exclusive CorrecTension Friction Optimization for superior tube balance and motion control.

With the Orion SkyQuest XT4.5, stargazing is easy and fun. Its compact size, innovative design, and point-and-view simplicity make it the most user-friendly telescope for kids to come along in years. Kids ages 8 to 88, that is, because adults will appreciate its portability and excellent optical performance, too! A Sky & Telescope magazine review said, “For those seeking that mythical ideal first telescope, your search may be over . . . The SkyQuest [XT4.5] has set a new standard for the beginner’s telescope.” A Sky & Telescope review of beginner’s scopes proclaimed the XT4.5 “The best of the bunch – a solid combination of optics and mechanics.”

Don’t kill a budding interest in astronomy with a flimsy department store telescope. The SkyQuest XT4.5 is a real telescope, not a toy. It’s a quality astronomical instrument capable of delivering high-resolution images of astronomical objects. Which is why Mom, Dad, and the rest of the gang will enjoy using it, too. Hey, the line forms at the eyepiece!