Wow this sounds like something I should've gotten from the start I mean it's the best of both worlds your still learning the sky and having the ability to have a kinda GoTo in away but without worrying about needing gears. Seriously thinking about getting one of these.
Thank you very much!!!! I had no luck learning this on my own. You made this so simple to do! I have the 6" Orion with the push to. This is a lot of fun learning the skies. Thanks!
Okay, here I am 10 years after this was posted. I bought the XT-6 in 2020 because I was impatient. I really enjoyed it for the planets, but it's not much for deep sky objects. So now I'm saving up for the XT10i, and I hope to have it by this summer's "galaxy season"!
great instructional video... thank-you... the pix in pix showing the controller while instructing is awesome... thanks! Just picked up the 10" version of this scope Looking forward to it!
Hi Paa Hawkins, The Intelliscope system uses encoders to help you find the objects you're looking for, but there is no motor drive on the system, so you will have to push it like a normal Dobsonian in order to track objects. It's got very smooth motions, so it's quite easy to follow something, even at high power. For automatic tracking, we have smaller scopes on the Autotracker mount, or the larger Go-To Dobsonians (the XTg's). Thanks -Ken Orion Telescopes
Hi Amir, You'll need to find two stars in the sky and identify them. We include Starry Night software which can help, or you can also purchase the #4110 Star Planisphere. ID'ing stars is not all that difficult with a little practice. If you can find the Orion, you've already found one - the left shoulder is Betelgeuse. The crook in the handle of the Big Dipper is Mizar. And the Intellicope is quite accurate - it will place any object into the field of view. Thanks -Ken Orion Telescopes
Orion should do a more detailed video using an actual alignment. It just isn't as easy as portrayed in this video when it comes to star alignment. You only use the spotter scope for location, but you use the eyepiece for the actual alignment. You have to use a high power cross-hair eyepiece and that means the star will quickly drift thru the field of view. The reason for this, is that if you use a low power eyepiece for the alignment and then change to a high power eyepiece, odds are, the object will no longer be in the field of view. To compensate for this, you have to align the star so that it will drift thru the very "center" of the cross-hair at which time you have to quickly press the enter button in order to "capture" the alignment. This has been my experience and it isn't easy! Oh, and don't forget to breath while doing this. I know this sounds strange, but you have a tendency to want to hold your breathe while trying to look thru the eyepiece and perform an alignment, so breath... it helps.
Hi OriginalAstroTard, A crosshair would definitely make the alignment more accurate, but in my experience, you don't really need it. All I use is the low power 25mm that comes with the scope. I use the finder to get it close, then look through the 25mm, and visually place the star in the middle of the field. It may not be as accurate as swapping to a high power with a crosshair, but you don't feel rushed, and it's easy and accurate enough so that the computer can place any object within the field of the 25mm. They may not be dead center, but they should be somewhere within the center 50-60% of the field of view. And I agree, breathing definitely helps! Thanks -Ken Orion Telescopes
Orion Telescopes & Binoculars Thank you for your quick reply, but the problem comes from aligning with a low power eyepiece and then moving to a high power eyepiece. Because the field of view for a high power eyepiece is narrower, there's a good chance the object will be "outside" of the field of view and then you find you have to search for it. However, when using a high power eyepiece to align, you can easily move to a lower power eyepiece and still maintain the alignment without having to "search" for the object. Unfortunately, alignment with a high power eyepiece is a pain because the object appears to "drift" more quickly thru your field of view. Thank you.............
***** Hi Original, I see what you mean. It's definitely easiest to start the search for an object with the low power eyepiece. When using the object locator to find something, we recommend starting with the 25mm, and once you've found it, then moving to the higher power. The object locator should definitely put the object somewhere within the middle portion of the 25mm eyepiece with a quick and easy alignment. So once you're done looking at an object at whatever power, when it's time to search for something new, just put the 25mm in, and use the locator to find it. Thanks -Ken Orion Telescopes
On the XX14i, with some care, the Intelliscope will get you within about half a degree or so of your target (but only occasionally closer). It isn't quite as accurate in pointing as a full Go-To telescope like the NexStar or CPC series from Celestron, but the thing works. The worst thing about it is that the display is a bright green, which is definitely the wrong color (red impacts dark adaptation the least).
That Orion StarBlast 6i also has a tracker. So once you have centered your target it should continue to track the object. We are going to add that Telescope with our current Zhumell 10".... should make for much more exciting viewing sessions.
Regarding initial star alignment it appears that this is an ongoing repeatable process unless you return the telescope to the exact same spot you used originally. That may be obvious to some but for new users not so much. I appreciate the clarification.This isn't mentioned in the videos.
Everybody needs to be aware that the 6i requires that you disassemble the base, install the encoders, etc. and re-assemble the base. None of Orion's videos show how to do this. I really don't understand why they can't sell the 6i with the encoders already installed. We are attempting this process today.
What's not discussed is the frequency of how often you need to realign the telescope due to the earth's rotation. In other words, after the alignment procedure is complete how much time do you have for observing before you need to realign?
Hi Rinaldo401, Altair and Vega were only examples that we used in this video. There are dozens of stars to choose from in the list, and there will always be stars up in the sky all year round that you can select from. Thanks! -Ken Orion Telescopes
Gosh. I could have sworn I saw the exhibitor say to use the main EP to center the object prior to hitting "enter". I've used this type of system from a different maker countless times and it is pretty darn easy. What I'd like to know is if there's a mode for having the scope set up on an equatorial wedge or do you just have to lie to it that you're at the North Pole?
From what I understand you just need 2 stars. You just find the star and identify it. The system just needs to know the stars you are identifying. They probably pick stars that most people have probably heard of. Some systems, I believe want them to be separated by a certain distance. It probably might help with accuracy. It's probably more important to be able to do it quickly because the Earth is constantly moving so the faster it is done, the more precise it will probably be. I'm not an owner, but based on what I have seen in reviews it is my understanding of how they work.
Question.. Lets say i input in controller to view Mars. I move the scope until its zeros and i see Mars. i walk away and come back in 10 minutes. Do the numbers on the controller change so i can just move the scope again until zeroed out? or do i need to reinput everything again?
@oriontelescopes Thank you very much! il yes or yes buy one for christmas im looking forward for the XT8i finally will that program work in a mac? Thanks!
When I try to look at planets or anything for some reason the numbers don’t move like when I move the base of the telescope the number just glitches out my connections are good what do I do please help
Hi. This seems like an amazing scope, the best 10" I can find at that prize, at least in Sweden. I did read that some people have problems with the Push-To functionality at around or below 0 degrees C. What's your opinion of this?
+Wintran Hi Wintran, At zero or below, the display of the hand controller can become faint due to the AA batteries not performing well in low temperature. I would suggest two things - getting a good pair of lithium AA batteries (which work better in extreme temperatures compared with alkaline batteries), and then keep the hand controller in your pocket or your jacket when you're viewing through the scope. The controller will stay warmer against your body, and the display should be bright enough to read easily. Thanks -Ken Orion Telescopes
+oriontelescopes Thanks a lot for your response and tips! I already ordered your xt10i two days ago and I'm sure I'll be very happy with it. I really appreciate these videos you put up and the fact that you respond to questions. Keep up the great work!
The only problem with push to that I have experienced is whatever you are looking at usually races across the field of view in a few seconds and you have to move the scope to track it. Every time you touch the handle to move it you get "shakey cam" and cant focus anything. Just to line the object up again to appreciate for a few seconds and do the whole process over again.
so in this case would you recommend a GoTo? Your experience is my problem with plain manual dobs. Its frustrating and take the enjoyment out of the hobby for me
Bah that sucks! Such a nice Dob too. But it should still be much better than the traditional Dobs without anything. They can be a pain. Also they should allow for this to be (upgraded) to the GoTo if it already has the pushto method.
Hi Aaron, It's a fairly dim green, and you adjust the brightness if you want it even dimmer. Faint green affects your eyes about the same as faint red, but is still a little easier to see. In fact, pilots have long used dim green to preserve their night vision while still seeing the dials. Thanks -Ken Orion Telescopes
I bought one used, and it's not working right. I know it's not under warranty, but if I bring it in to the SJ or Watsonville shops, can I get it looked at? Does Orion offer service if you are no longer under warranty? I think it was assembled wrong.
Yes, if you bring it into one of our store locations we'd be happy to take a look at it. Our stores are currently closed until further notice, updates will be on our website here: bit.ly/3jgsbZi
10 лет назад
Any alignment tutorial with go to dobsonian telescopes?
Hi Salvador, We don't have an alignment tutorial for these scopes out under the night sky, but starting at 1:50 in the video above, Bryan runs through the alignment procedure with the Intelliscope system. For the Go-To, it's fairly similar - you manually point the scope at the first alignment star in the list, tell the system you are centered on it, then it will slew over to where it thinks the 2nd star is located. You'll then do a small adjustment to get the star centered, and once that is done you are aligned and ready to find anything in the night sky. Thanks -Ken Orion Telescopes
@oriontelescopes Thanks! for answering my question, but if i buy the XT8i will it come with the star chart? do i need to install that to the telescope. Thanks again!
I have learned a lot from watching most all of the videos posted and I now feel that I am ready to purchase. I thought I was settled on the XT8plus, but after finding the StarBlast 6i, I am having second thoughts. This will be my first telescope and I want to make the best purchase for my $. The intelliscope feature is highly appealing since I am new this, but If I move up to the XT8i, I am out of my price range. That begs the question, will the 6i leave me wishing that I had waited until I could afford the XT8i? Many thanks.
Hello Jeremy Scoggins. The 6 inch aperture is a great size and capable of viewing thousands of objects. However, many of the popular objects to hunt and view out there would be more visible in the larger 8 inch size. Even though it's only a 2" difference in aperture, it translates into 78% more light gathered in the 8" versus the 6". If you're looking to purchase this scope and grow into it over the long run, the 8" will provide you with a more robust experience. If you don't mind the extra wait, the 8" will certainly be worth it - it's one of our best and most popular telescopes.
Orion Telescopes & Binoculars Thank you for your thorough response. I am depending on you guys to be my ‘expert’ as it pertains to choosing the best scope for my first purchase. Based on your advice, I shall wait and purchase the XT8I. I feel like a kid waiting for Christmas, can’t wait to do some gazing. Kind Regards.
The Intelliscope doesn't select specific stars, the list of alignment stars is presented in alphabetical order. The instruction manual has star charts showing the locations of alignment stars, for best results the two stars should be separated by more than 60 degrees.
Orion Telescopes. I recently purchased this exact model. The first time around, I was given the Xt10i base and had to return it. Took a couple of weeks, but I know how mistakes can happen. But now I'm not so sure I was given the right hand-held device? I am checking out the one in my hand right now, and it displays three numbers instead of two, as well as different arrow positions. Example: (X) -> (X) (X) [Up or down arrow]. The only values that change when I move the telescope are the first two, which can not be perfectly zero'd out, the third value however does not change to any position, When i first power it on, it ask me to "Align Dec Mark." All aside, I tried my best. It does ask me to position the telescope to the two stars as in the video. I choose Rigel and Betelgeuse because they're the most apparent this time of year. I align them and hit enter. I ask to search for Jupiter, i get to the closest Zero'd in value I can (Which is 0 -> 9, vice verse) and I know by heart that while zeroing in, I am literally going in the exact opposite direction I need to be. Any help would be great
Hi Jordan, I'm sorry for any problems you are encountering with the Intelliscope system. The first thing I notice is that you are in the wrong alignment mode (Align Dec Mark). If you look at page 8 of the manual at the very top (under the Alignment section), it shows how to switch to "Point Vertical" which is how it should read with your Dobsonian. Basically just hit the up arrow when "Align Dec Mark" is flashing. Try it in this mode and see if the numbers correctly count up or down after doing a star alignment. If they don't, please call our tech support staff at 800-676-1343 and we can troubleshoot the problem for you. Thanks! -Ken Orion Telescopes
Does the database include any variable stars that can be observed? Can I find variable stars and program their locations in the Intelliscope so I can use it to find them again?
Yes, there is a catalog of variable stars included. You can also save and recall 99 different custom locations if you find a variable star that isn't in the catalog.
Mine lasted about a year, and I'm glad it broke: I was getting lazy, and it's nice to get back to star charts, my notes, and the finder scope. It's amazing how fast one loses skill when one relies on a computer to do all the work.
I know what you're trying to say but saying that you are glad it broke because you don't want to be using it anymore, is like saying that you're glad that the power steering went out on your car. With all the light pollution that is encroaching into even "darker" skies, it's easier to find things this way because even moderate things you can't see anymore. And it is getting mote and more difdicult to go to dark-sky sights anymore because you have to find somewhere to go that's not on private property.
I'm thinking about buying this as my first telescope. After i get comfortable with the ''push to'' and navigating the sky, could I buy a new go to base for it and switch it
wolfgang15425 Hi wolfgang, You can't buy a separate go-to dobsonian base for these because the mounting system is entirely different and not compatible. However, you could always mount a reflector onto a large EQ mount using the appropriate rings. An 8" reflector could go on the SkyView Pro mount at the minimum, and the Sirius would probably be better. The 10" dob would need the Atlas or larger mount. If you're just looking to have a go-to system in the future, it probably would be more cost effective to save and purchase it at the outset, rather than buying a separate large EQ mount later. Thanks -Ken Orion Telescopes
Hello. I'm debating between getting the XT10 with the GoTo or the Intelliscope. It seems like finding objects is easy enough but how constant is the adjustment needed for the pushto to follow objects in the sky? I understand that some will move faster than others, but what would an average time be for an object to pass into then out of the viewing area of the telescope?
+Mickey Ewing Hi Mickey, It depends on the magnification that you are using. Everything is going to be moving at the about the same rate (because it's earths rotation that you're mostly seeing), but at low power it will appear to move more slowly than at high power. If you're looking at a nebula at low power, it may take a few minutes to move through the field, so you won't have to nudge it very often. But at high power looking at a planet, you'll get used to positioning the planet at one edge of the field, and then letting it drift through the field of view, until you have to nudge it again when it reaches the other edge. At higher powers, it's common to nudge the telescope every 30-60 seconds. It actually is fairly easy and becomes second nature after a little practice. But you are correct that the Goto would completely eliminate having to nudge the telescope. Thanks -Ken Orion Telescopes
+oriontelescopes That 30-60 second window actually isn't even as often as I would've thought. Adjusting it doesn't seem like a hassle really and makes sense that it would come naturally eventually. Thanks for the reply and help!
Hi Ink d, In the setup section of the manual there is a picture diagram as to where each of the two wires attach from the encoders to the side circuit board. If you've attached them like shown and it still doesn't work, try the "hidden functions test" in the back of the manual for testing the two encoders. If that still doesn't help, please call our tech support line at 800-676-1343, and we will be happy to help resolve the issue. Thanks -Ken Orion Telescopes
Hi Doitman, That's one of the XT-g Dobsonians - from the look of it, probably the 10" model. It's a fully go-to tracking version of the dobs. Go to our website, and under the telescope section, click on "Dobsonians", and then in the menu on the left, choose "go-to dobs" to view the full selection. Thanks -Ken Orion Telescopes
Are there alternate alignment options? I'm considering getting the 6i for use from a spare bedroom out the window so field of view is small, no very few bright stars. My celestron 127slt just lets you point to ANY two bright objects and the controller works out what they are and alignment is great, but i use the scope downstairs out the back, am disabled so cant carry it upstairs. I can identify the stars i can see from spare room, So does the 6i allow user to specify the alignment target? Any problems with southern hemisphere usage? firmware?
Steve Bolton Hi Steve, You can pick the alignment stars yourself in the controller, so you can pick two stars that are visible in that particular direction. The alignment is always more accurate if you choose widely spaced apart stars, but you can still pick closer stars if need be. There won't be any problem with southern hemisphere viewing, as the system will figure out where you are viewing from, based on the calibration stars. Hope that helps, thanks! -Ken Orion Telescopes
Hi Don, Can you see the background light up when it turns on? Or does the power button simply not do anything? If replacing the 9-volt battery with a fresh one does not fix the problem, please call our customer service at 800-676-1343, and ask for Tech Support, where we can help troubleshoot further. Thanks -Ken Orion Telescopes
I spoke with your tech support yesterday, by chat. They suggested I check the ribbon cable. I found that the displays ribbon cable was torn across two conductors. My plan is to use aluminum foil and kapton tape to repair, unless you have a better idea--?
Hi Don, I don't have any better ideas if you wanted to try and fix it yourself, and that solution sounds quick and inexpensive. If the home fix doesn't solve the problem, you can always send it in to our repair center with a note describing the problem and have our technical services department take a look. Thanks! -Ken Orion Telescopes
Does the Hand controller have firmware issues?? i had real bad experience with Celestron models? Will they power up properly ??? im From the UK ..so if there is an issue where can i take it for trouble shooting? i have a pack of celestron optics ..can i use them with orion?
Hi Raajesh. We've been selling our Intelliscope system for a number of years now and it's a dependable locating system. All of our products are covered by a warranty, you can find the details of the warranty coverage on our UK page here: bit.ly/2HLVWgy The Intelliscope system is designed for our Skyquest Intelliscope models or the Starblast 6i model telescope. The Intelliscope hand controller may not work if plugged into non-Orion products. If you have any specific compatibility questions, please feel free to email us at sales-uk@telescope.com.
Hi Donovan. We sell a series of computerized XT Dobs that are called "GoTo" that have this kind of functionality. The bases are specially designed to use this motorized system for tracking and locating. This system cannot be retrofitted onto "Classic" model Dobs that didn't originally include it, and we don't sell these computerized bases separately.
It could be possible but may require some modification, like removing the side bearings to install the proper tube rings. If you would like to discuss some computerized solutions, contact us and we can run down your GoTo options: 1-800-447-1001 sales@telescope.com www.telescope.com
Our Intelliscope models do not automatically track, they can locate objects but need to be moved by hand. For long exposure pictures you would want to look for a telescope with an equatorial mount: bit.ly/2WIUQ04
my intelliscope is not working correctly. i align the stars, and the up and down works correctly and the numbers change accordingly, but the left and right doesn't work and the numbers only change between 177, 178, 179, 178, 177 (for example) etc. no matter how far left or right i turn it it the numbers only change by 3 numbers ie 178, 178, 179 or 67, 68, 69 etc. does anyone know what's up with it?
Hi rumpelstitskin000, It sounds like the encoder is not properly reading the magnet as you turn the scope left to right. This is usually caused by the sensor being too far away from the magnet to get a good reading. Or a rarer occurrence, the base could be tightened down so tight that the magnet is touching the sensor, giving bad results. So the first thing I would do is check the tightness of the bolt holding the two base boards together. The proper tension is to tighten until the washer underneath the bolt head on the top panel is just pinched by the head of the bolt (when you can't wiggle it under the bolt head), then tighten 1/4-1/2 turn more. If that doesn't solve the problem, call our tech support at 800-676-1343 and they can troubleshoot further. Thanks! -Ken Orion Telescopes
Hi luzimi, You can't expand the database past the current size, but if there are any updates to it in terms of patches or bug fixes, there is a flash procedure and the database file will be available on our website. The current database is included in every unit, so at this time there is no update needed or available. Thanks -Ken Orion Telescopes
Why is there nothing on tracking manually? Nowadays, if you want to sell a scope that does not track, why not explain how you manually track with this scope?
Hi Karter. This video is meant to go over the steps of using the Intelliscope hand controller. We have various videos that go into more detail about the manual use of a telescope like this one here that covers the use of the XT8 Classic, which is the manual version of the telescope used here: ruclips.net/video/kCNUv5Wj4vg/видео.html
i've got a question, i want one of these for christmas and i was looking forward for the XT8i or the XT8 normal but the problem was that i did some research about it and found that it is a reflector telescope is there any problem with that, if i buy a Orion telescope like the XT8i will i be able to look at the moons nebulas clusters galaxies planets etc. normally? Thanks!
Hi Windy, The big one can do 200x-300x on a night of steady seeing, and occasionally more if the atmosphere is very steady But it's not really about the magnification with a big scope - its more about the light grasp. That big mirror pulls in vastly more light than a small scope, so when looking at a nebula or galaxy at any magnification, the big one will show you more details because it's brighter. Thanks -Ken Orion Telescopes
Hi Windy, If there was no atmosphere to interfere, then yes, this scope could easily do 600x. But after about 300x, the scope is no longer the problem. The atmosphere above us is acting like the surface of a swimming pool. Imaging sitting at the bottom of the pool and looking up at a tree over the water. It will be very distorted. After 300x, you start magnifying the distortions of the air (the local wind and any wind from the jet stream miles over your head). So all scopes are limited in magnification because of this. There may be very rare days where the jet stream is not above you, and conditions come together to allow you to push past 300x, but those nights are very rare indeed. That's why we have two specs for magnification - the theoretical mag, and the practical mag. We top out practical mag at 300x, and theoretical will continuously increase based on the diameter of the scope. Thanks -Ken Orion Telescopes
Hello. I stay in India and i bought an Orion Starblast 6i on my visit to the United States. 1)I live in the most urban area of Mumbai and it is quite polluted. Will i be able to see planets and nebulaes? 2)When I switched on the EZ finder 2, no red dot was appearing through the glass we were supposed to look. 3)I am relying on the google sky maps application on my phone to align the telescope with the first two stars. Will this be accurate? Please help.
Hi Dheer, In a light polluted city, planets will look great as they cut through the light pollution. But nebulae and galaxies will be extremely difficult to see unless you travel away from the city lights. A light pollution filter can help somewhat, but even still, darker skies are better for the faint objects. As for the easy finder, make sure the battery is fresh, and inserted the correct direction (the + should be facing outwards, touching the metal clip). And regarding the alignment stars, you can use google sky to identify the stars you want to use, but if you want the computer to accurately put objects into the field of view of the eyepiece, you'll need to make sure those two alignment stars are centered in the eyepiece of the telescope. So use google sky as a starting point to ID the proper star, then use the finderscope to point the scope in the direction of the star, then do a final alignment into the center of the field of view of your telescope eyepiece. Repeat for the second star. Thanks -Ken Orion Telescopes
Hi Dheer, If your battery is dead, it should be replaced. Look in the manual for how to replace it, but essentially you just pop off the black cover over the battery, and insert a new CR-2032 battery into the compartment, + side facing outwards. Thanks -Ken Orion Telescopes
If you're in the US or Canada, you can order right from our website at www.telescope.com. You can find our Intelliscope selection here: bit.ly/2xIUtrM EU customers can visit us at eu.telescope.com. You can also order by phone in the US by calling toll free 1-800-447-1001.
Hi savetheFISHeeZE, Something definitely doesn't sound right, so please give our tech support a call at 800-676-1343, and we can troubleshoot the issue for you and get to the bottom of it. Thanks! -Ken Orion Telescopes
Wow this sounds like something I should've gotten from the start I mean it's the best of both worlds your still learning the sky and having the ability to have a kinda GoTo in away but without worrying about needing gears. Seriously thinking about getting one of these.
Thank you very much!!!! I had no luck learning this on my own. You made this so simple to do! I have the 6" Orion with the push to. This is a lot of fun learning the skies. Thanks!
Okay, here I am 10 years after this was posted. I bought the XT-6 in 2020 because I was impatient. I really enjoyed it for the planets, but it's not much for deep sky objects. So now I'm saving up for the XT10i, and I hope to have it by this summer's "galaxy season"!
great instructional video... thank-you... the pix in pix showing the controller while instructing is awesome... thanks! Just picked up the 10" version of this scope Looking forward to it!
Orion video are the most helpful, and most well done videos I’ve ever watched. Thank you for all you do! I ❤️ Orion!
Hi Paa Hawkins,
The Intelliscope system uses encoders to help you find the objects you're looking for, but there is no motor drive on the system, so you will have to push it like a normal Dobsonian in order to track objects. It's got very smooth motions, so it's quite easy to follow something, even at high power. For automatic tracking, we have smaller scopes on the Autotracker mount, or the larger Go-To Dobsonians (the XTg's).
Thanks
-Ken
Orion Telescopes
Hi Amir,
You'll need to find two stars in the sky and identify them. We include Starry Night software which can help, or you can also purchase the #4110 Star Planisphere.
ID'ing stars is not all that difficult with a little practice. If you can find the Orion, you've already found one - the left shoulder is Betelgeuse. The crook in the handle of the Big Dipper is Mizar.
And the Intellicope is quite accurate - it will place any object into the field of view.
Thanks
-Ken
Orion Telescopes
Thank you Orion for posting this. Very informative.
Orion should do a more detailed video using an actual alignment.
It just isn't as easy as portrayed in this video when it comes to star alignment. You only use the spotter scope for location, but you use the eyepiece for the actual alignment. You have to use a high power cross-hair eyepiece and that means the star will quickly drift thru the field of view. The reason for this, is that if you use a low power eyepiece for the alignment and then change to a high power eyepiece, odds are, the object will no longer be in the field of view. To compensate for this, you have to align the star so that it will drift thru the very "center" of the cross-hair at which time you have to quickly press the enter button in order to "capture" the alignment. This has been my experience and it isn't easy!
Oh, and don't forget to breath while doing this. I know this sounds strange, but you have a tendency to want to hold your breathe while trying to look thru the eyepiece and perform an alignment, so breath... it helps.
Hi OriginalAstroTard,
A crosshair would definitely make the alignment more accurate, but in my experience, you don't really need it. All I use is the low power 25mm that comes with the scope. I use the finder to get it close, then look through the 25mm, and visually place the star in the middle of the field. It may not be as accurate as swapping to a high power with a crosshair, but you don't feel rushed, and it's easy and accurate enough so that the computer can place any object within the field of the 25mm. They may not be dead center, but they should be somewhere within the center 50-60% of the field of view.
And I agree, breathing definitely helps!
Thanks
-Ken
Orion Telescopes
Orion Telescopes & Binoculars
Thank you for your quick reply, but the problem comes from aligning with a low power eyepiece and then moving to a high power eyepiece. Because the field of view for a high power eyepiece is narrower, there's a good chance the object will be "outside" of the field of view and then you find you have to search for it.
However, when using a high power eyepiece to align, you can easily move to a lower power eyepiece and still maintain the alignment without having to "search" for the object. Unfortunately, alignment with a high power eyepiece is a pain because the object appears to "drift" more quickly thru your field of view.
Thank you.............
*****
Hi Original,
I see what you mean. It's definitely easiest to start the search for an object with the low power eyepiece. When using the object locator to find something, we recommend starting with the 25mm, and once you've found it, then moving to the higher power. The object locator should definitely put the object somewhere within the middle portion of the 25mm eyepiece with a quick and easy alignment.
So once you're done looking at an object at whatever power, when it's time to search for something new, just put the 25mm in, and use the locator to find it.
Thanks
-Ken
Orion Telescopes
On the XX14i, with some care, the Intelliscope will get you within about half a degree or so of your target (but only occasionally closer). It isn't quite as accurate in pointing as a full Go-To telescope like the NexStar or CPC series from Celestron, but the thing works. The worst thing about it is that the display is a bright green, which is definitely the wrong color (red impacts dark adaptation the least).
That Orion StarBlast 6i also has a tracker. So once you have centered your target it should continue to track the object. We are going to add that Telescope with our current Zhumell 10".... should make for much more exciting viewing sessions.
Great video thanks goodness for the star tracking feature
Regarding initial star alignment it appears that this is an ongoing repeatable process unless you return the telescope to the exact same spot you used originally. That may be obvious to some but for new users not so much. I appreciate the clarification.This isn't mentioned in the videos.
Everybody needs to be aware that the 6i requires that you disassemble the base, install the encoders, etc. and re-assemble the base. None of Orion's videos show how to do this. I really don't understand why they can't sell the 6i with the encoders already installed. We are attempting this process today.
What's not discussed is the frequency of how often you need to realign the telescope due to the earth's rotation. In other words, after the alignment procedure is complete how much time do you have for observing before you need to realign?
I would like to know more specifics about how the "user difined" portion works.
Hi Rinaldo401,
Altair and Vega were only examples that we used in this video. There are dozens of stars to choose from in the list, and there will always be stars up in the sky all year round that you can select from.
Thanks!
-Ken
Orion Telescopes
Is it better to choose stars that are farther apart than Altair and Vega for better accuracy? I have heard that it is, but don't know.
@@bowrudder899 The instructions say the two alignment stars should be at least 60 degrees apart for best pointing accuracy; try Altair and Capella.
Really nice telescopes very simple. I will buy one soon.
Really nice telescopes, pity they don't ship overseas, I've seen them advertised on ebay and would love the XT12i...
Gosh. I could have sworn I saw the exhibitor say to use the main EP to center the object prior to hitting "enter". I've used this type of system from a different maker countless times and it is pretty darn easy. What I'd like to know is if there's a mode for having the scope set up on an equatorial wedge or do you just have to lie to it that you're at the North Pole?
Oh man that's so cool! I don't know if I should get a classic XT8 or this.
What if I dont know where those stars (or any stars) are? how do i align it? also, how accurate is the IntelliScope?
Simple, and perfect. I need one!
Could i choose what stars i want to do the alignment with? Where i live Vega is always blocked by some pine trees.
From what I understand you just need 2 stars. You just find the star and identify it. The system just needs to know the stars you are identifying. They probably pick stars that most people have probably heard of. Some systems, I believe want them to be separated by a certain distance. It probably might help with accuracy.
It's probably more important to be able to do it quickly because the Earth is constantly moving so the faster it is done, the more precise it will probably be. I'm not an owner, but based on what I have seen in reviews it is my understanding of how they work.
Can you attach the intelliscope to a normal dobsonian for example an xt8?
Thanks so much this was so helpful
So is this a go to?
Thanks for this video it is very helpful!
Question.. Lets say i input in controller to view Mars. I move the scope until its zeros and i see Mars. i walk away and come back in 10 minutes. Do the numbers on the controller change so i can just move the scope again until zeroed out? or do i need to reinput everything again?
This is my christmast present...... In September🔭🔭🔭🔭🔭
@oriontelescopes Thank you very much! il yes or yes buy one for christmas im looking forward for the XT8i finally will that program work in a mac? Thanks!
Looking for instruction on RS232 use
When I try to look at planets or anything for some reason the numbers don’t move like when I move the base of the telescope the number just glitches out my connections are good what do I do please help
Great Video!
Tienen en el idioma español el Goto?
Hi. This seems like an amazing scope, the best 10" I can find at that prize, at least in Sweden. I did read that some people have problems with the Push-To functionality at around or below 0 degrees C. What's your opinion of this?
+Wintran Hi Wintran,
At zero or below, the display of the hand controller can become faint
due to the AA batteries not performing well in low temperature. I would
suggest two things - getting a good pair of lithium AA batteries (which
work better in extreme temperatures compared with alkaline batteries),
and then keep the hand controller in your pocket or your jacket when
you're viewing through the scope. The controller will stay warmer
against your body, and the display should be bright enough to read
easily.
Thanks
-Ken
Orion Telescopes
+oriontelescopes Thanks a lot for your response and tips! I already ordered your xt10i two days ago and I'm sure I'll be very happy with it. I really appreciate these videos you put up and the fact that you respond to questions. Keep up the great work!
Can you comment on the xt8i vs the GoTo xt8g? Is one easier to operate for a novice than the other?
Will the push-to system work with refractors?
The only problem with push to that I have experienced is whatever you are looking at usually races across the field of view in a few seconds and you have to move the scope to track it. Every time you touch the handle to move it you get "shakey cam" and cant focus anything. Just to line the object up again to appreciate for a few seconds and do the whole process over again.
so in this case would you recommend a GoTo? Your experience is my problem with plain manual dobs. Its frustrating and take the enjoyment out of the hobby for me
Bah that sucks! Such a nice Dob too. But it should still be much better than the traditional Dobs without anything. They can be a pain. Also they should allow for this to be (upgraded) to the GoTo if it already has the pushto method.
very helpful
Very informative. But I would be a little concerned about the light emitted from the controller. Wouldn't red be better?
Hi Aaron,
It's a fairly dim green, and you adjust the brightness if you want it even dimmer. Faint green affects your eyes about the same as faint red, but is still a little easier to see. In fact, pilots have long used dim green to preserve their night vision while still seeing the dials.
Thanks
-Ken
Orion Telescopes
I bought one used, and it's not working right. I know it's not under warranty, but if I bring it in to the SJ or Watsonville shops, can I get it looked at? Does Orion offer service if you are no longer under warranty? I think it was assembled wrong.
Yes, if you bring it into one of our store locations we'd be happy to take a look at it. Our stores are currently closed until further notice, updates will be on our website here: bit.ly/3jgsbZi
Any alignment tutorial with go to dobsonian telescopes?
Hi Salvador,
We don't have an alignment tutorial for these scopes out under the night sky, but starting at 1:50 in the video above, Bryan runs through the alignment procedure with the Intelliscope system. For the Go-To, it's fairly similar - you manually point the scope at the first alignment star in the list, tell the system you are centered on it, then it will slew over to where it thinks the 2nd star is located. You'll then do a small adjustment to get the star centered, and once that is done you are aligned and ready to find anything in the night sky.
Thanks
-Ken
Orion Telescopes
oriontelescopes Thank you so much.
how does the pad attach to the dobsonian newtonian stand scope? can this be added to any scope ?
@oriontelescopes Thanks! for answering my question, but if i buy the XT8i will it come with the star chart? do i need to install that to the telescope. Thanks again!
Sorry guy, I’m new in this and I’m lost, how to locate Vega an Altair or two references. Could you be a little more specific, please?
This is gonna be great in Vermont
I have learned a lot from watching most all of the videos posted and I now feel that I am ready to purchase. I thought I was settled on the XT8plus, but after finding the StarBlast 6i, I am having second thoughts. This will be my first telescope and I want to make the best purchase for my $. The intelliscope feature is highly appealing since I am new this, but If I move up to the XT8i, I am out of my price range. That begs the question, will the 6i leave me wishing that I had waited until I could afford the XT8i?
Many thanks.
Hello Jeremy Scoggins. The 6 inch aperture is a great size and capable of viewing thousands of objects. However, many of the popular objects to hunt and view out there would be more visible in the larger 8 inch size. Even though it's only a 2" difference in aperture, it translates into 78% more light gathered in the 8" versus the 6". If you're looking to purchase this scope and grow into it over the long run, the 8" will provide you with a more robust experience. If you don't mind the extra wait, the 8" will certainly be worth it - it's one of our best and most popular telescopes.
Orion Telescopes & Binoculars Thank you for your thorough response. I am depending on you guys to be my ‘expert’ as it pertains to choosing the best scope for my first purchase. Based on your advice, I shall wait and purchase the XT8I. I feel like a kid waiting for Christmas, can’t wait to do some gazing.
Kind Regards.
What if those two stars are blocked by trees? Can you enter different stars or does the unit pick the stars?
The Intelliscope doesn't select specific stars, the list of alignment stars is presented in alphabetical order. The instruction manual has star charts showing the locations of alignment stars, for best results the two stars should be separated by more than 60 degrees.
wow that's cool
Orion Telescopes.
I recently purchased this exact model. The first time around, I was given the Xt10i base and had to return it. Took a couple of weeks, but I know how mistakes can happen.
But now I'm not so sure I was given the right hand-held device?
I am checking out the one in my hand right now, and it displays three numbers instead of two, as well as different arrow positions.
Example: (X) -> (X) (X) [Up or down arrow].
The only values that change when I move the telescope are the first two, which can not be perfectly zero'd out, the third value however does not change to any position,
When i first power it on, it ask me to "Align Dec Mark."
All aside, I tried my best. It does ask me to position the telescope to the two stars as in the video. I choose Rigel and Betelgeuse because they're the most apparent this time of year. I align them and hit enter. I ask to search for Jupiter, i get to the closest Zero'd in value I can (Which is 0 -> 9, vice verse) and I know by heart that while zeroing in, I am literally going in the exact opposite direction I need to be.
Any help would be great
Hi Jordan,
I'm sorry for any problems you are encountering with the Intelliscope system. The first thing I notice is that you are in the wrong alignment mode (Align Dec Mark). If you look at page 8 of the manual at the very top (under the Alignment section), it shows how to switch to "Point Vertical" which is how it should read with your Dobsonian. Basically just hit the up arrow when "Align Dec Mark" is flashing.
Try it in this mode and see if the numbers correctly count up or down after doing a star alignment. If they don't, please call our tech support staff at 800-676-1343 and we can troubleshoot the problem for you.
Thanks!
-Ken
Orion Telescopes
Can you tell my missus how much I need one of these for me please?
The cheapest one a.k.a the smol one is about 600$ usa
Why dosnt it come with the tracker anymore? All i can find is the classic.
Does the database include any variable stars that can be observed? Can I find variable stars and program their locations in the Intelliscope so I can use it to find them again?
Yes, there is a catalog of variable stars included. You can also save and recall 99 different custom locations if you find a variable star that isn't in the catalog.
Thanks for answering my question. There are probably 14,000 you can view with an 8 or 10 inch scope.
What’s the best lent I can buy ?
I think I may have just found my telescope. Great vid.
Can you calibrate them in all countries with the same two stars? eg India
Yes, the list of alignment stars you can select from has stars all over the sky, so aligning from different locations and times is certainly possible.
but o'que happens if no Altair and Vega are in the sky at the time?
Mine lasted about a year, and I'm glad it broke: I was getting lazy, and it's nice to get back to star charts, my notes, and the finder scope. It's amazing how fast one loses skill when one relies on a computer to do all the work.
I know what you're trying to say but saying that you are glad it broke because you don't want to be using it anymore, is like saying that you're glad that the power steering went out on your car. With all the light pollution that is encroaching into even "darker" skies, it's easier to find things this way because even moderate things you can't see anymore. And it is getting mote and more difdicult to go to dark-sky sights anymore because you have to find somewhere to go that's not on private property.
I'm thinking about buying this as my first telescope. After i get comfortable with the ''push to'' and navigating the sky, could I buy a new go to base for it and switch it
wolfgang15425
Hi wolfgang,
You can't buy a separate go-to dobsonian base for these because the mounting system is entirely different and not compatible. However, you could always mount a reflector onto a large EQ mount using the appropriate rings. An 8" reflector could go on the SkyView Pro mount at the minimum, and the Sirius would probably be better. The 10" dob would need the Atlas or larger mount.
If you're just looking to have a go-to system in the future, it probably would be more cost effective to save and purchase it at the outset, rather than buying a separate large EQ mount later.
Thanks
-Ken
Orion Telescopes
Thank you is there any reflectors like this that you would suggest.
I definitely prefer Celestron's control pad...
Hello. I'm debating between getting the XT10 with the GoTo or the Intelliscope. It seems like finding objects is easy enough but how constant is the adjustment needed for the pushto to follow objects in the sky? I understand that some will move faster than others, but what would an average time be for an object to pass into then out of the viewing area of the telescope?
+Mickey Ewing
Hi Mickey,
It depends on the magnification that you are using. Everything is going to be moving at the about the same rate (because it's earths rotation that you're mostly seeing), but at low power it will appear to move more slowly than at high power. If you're looking at a nebula at low power, it may take a few minutes to move through the field, so you won't have to nudge it very often. But at high power looking at a planet, you'll get used to positioning the planet at one edge of the field, and then letting it drift through the field of view, until you have to nudge it again when it reaches the other edge.
At higher powers, it's common to nudge the telescope every 30-60 seconds. It actually is fairly easy and becomes second nature after a little practice. But you are correct that the Goto would completely eliminate having to nudge the telescope.
Thanks
-Ken
Orion Telescopes
+oriontelescopes That 30-60 second window actually isn't even as often as I would've thought. Adjusting it doesn't seem like a hassle really and makes sense that it would come naturally eventually.
Thanks for the reply and help!
why wont the numbers change when I move my telescope? is there a diaphragm on where the wires are to be plugged. please and thank you
Hi Ink d,
In the setup section of the manual there is a picture diagram as to where each of the two wires attach from the encoders to the side circuit board. If you've attached them like shown and it still doesn't work, try the "hidden functions test" in the back of the manual for testing the two encoders. If that still doesn't help, please call our tech support line at 800-676-1343, and we will be happy to help resolve the issue.
Thanks
-Ken
Orion Telescopes
What was that motorized telescope at :48 it looks similar to the starblast
Hi Doitman,
That's one of the XT-g Dobsonians - from the look of it, probably the 10" model. It's a fully go-to tracking version of the dobs. Go to our website, and under the telescope section, click on "Dobsonians", and then in the menu on the left, choose "go-to dobs" to view the full selection.
Thanks
-Ken
Orion Telescopes
Are there alternate alignment options? I'm considering getting the 6i for use from a spare bedroom out the window so field of view is small, no very few bright stars. My celestron 127slt just lets you point to ANY two bright objects and the controller works out what they are and alignment is great, but i use the scope downstairs out the back, am disabled so cant carry it upstairs. I can identify the stars i can see from spare room, So does the 6i allow user to specify the alignment target? Any problems with southern hemisphere usage? firmware?
Steve Bolton Hi Steve,
You can pick the alignment stars yourself in the controller, so you can pick two stars that are visible in that particular direction. The alignment is always more accurate if you choose widely spaced apart stars, but you can still pick closer stars if need be. There won't be any problem with southern hemisphere viewing, as the system will figure out where you are viewing from, based on the calibration stars.
Hope that helps, thanks!
-Ken
Orion Telescopes
@oriontelescopes Ok thank you very much Ken for all the help. I'll my XT8i :D!
I am getting a blank display when I turn on the power; why is that?
Hi Don,
Can you see the background light up when it turns on? Or does the power button simply not do anything? If replacing the 9-volt battery with a fresh one does not fix the problem, please call our customer service at 800-676-1343, and ask for Tech Support, where we can help troubleshoot further.
Thanks
-Ken
Orion Telescopes
I spoke with your tech support yesterday, by chat. They suggested I check the ribbon cable. I found that the displays ribbon cable was torn across two conductors. My plan is to use aluminum foil and kapton tape to repair, unless you have a better idea--?
Hi Don,
I don't have any better ideas if you wanted to try and fix it yourself, and that solution sounds quick and inexpensive. If the home fix doesn't solve the problem, you can always send it in to our repair center with a note describing the problem and have our technical services department take a look.
Thanks!
-Ken
Orion Telescopes
Where do you buy it from I can't find it anywhere
Does the Hand controller have firmware issues?? i had real bad experience with Celestron models? Will they power up properly ??? im From the UK ..so if there is an issue where can i take it for trouble shooting? i have a pack of celestron optics ..can i use them with orion?
Hi Raajesh. We've been selling our Intelliscope system for a number of years now and it's a dependable locating system. All of our products are covered by a warranty, you can find the details of the warranty coverage on our UK page here: bit.ly/2HLVWgy
The Intelliscope system is designed for our Skyquest Intelliscope models or the Starblast 6i model telescope. The Intelliscope hand controller may not work if plugged into non-Orion products. If you have any specific compatibility questions, please feel free to email us at sales-uk@telescope.com.
I wish the handheld was not just a plain LED.. it would be hard to see at night
I keep getting negitive numbers help
Hello, where could I buy a go-to mount for my xt-10 dobsonian? Could I purchase the mount without the tube?
Hi Donovan. We sell a series of computerized XT Dobs that are called "GoTo" that have this kind of functionality. The bases are specially designed to use this motorized system for tracking and locating. This system cannot be retrofitted onto "Classic" model Dobs that didn't originally include it, and we don't sell these computerized bases separately.
Thanks for getting back to me. Could I use the Atlas mount with my 10 inch tube?
It could be possible but may require some modification, like removing the side bearings to install the proper tube rings. If you would like to discuss some computerized solutions, contact us and we can run down your GoTo options:
1-800-447-1001
sales@telescope.com
www.telescope.com
Can someone tell me if this XT10i can follow objects in sky so I can take long exposure photos?
Our Intelliscope models do not automatically track, they can locate objects but need to be moved by hand. For long exposure pictures you would want to look for a telescope with an equatorial mount: bit.ly/2WIUQ04
❤
my intelliscope is not working correctly. i align the stars, and the up and down works correctly and the numbers change accordingly, but the left and right doesn't work and the numbers only change between 177, 178, 179, 178, 177 (for example) etc. no matter how far left or right i turn it it the numbers only change by 3 numbers ie 178, 178, 179 or 67, 68, 69 etc. does anyone know what's up with it?
Hi rumpelstitskin000,
It sounds like the encoder is not properly reading the magnet as you turn the scope left to right. This is usually caused by the sensor being too far away from the magnet to get a good reading. Or a rarer occurrence, the base could be tightened down so tight that the magnet is touching the sensor, giving bad results.
So the first thing I would do is check the tightness of the bolt holding the two base boards together. The proper tension is to tighten until the washer underneath the bolt head on the top panel is just pinched by the head of the bolt (when you can't wiggle it under the bolt head), then tighten 1/4-1/2 turn more. If that doesn't solve the problem, call our tech support at 800-676-1343 and they can troubleshoot further.
Thanks!
-Ken
Orion Telescopes
is it possible to update the object database?
Hi luzimi,
You can't expand the database past the current size, but if there are any updates to it in terms of patches or bug fixes, there is a flash procedure and the database file will be available on our website. The current database is included in every unit, so at this time there is no update needed or available.
Thanks
-Ken
Orion Telescopes
Why is there nothing on tracking manually? Nowadays, if you want to sell a scope that does not track, why not explain how you manually track with this scope?
Hi Karter. This video is meant to go over the steps of using the Intelliscope hand controller. We have various videos that go into more detail about the manual use of a telescope like this one here that covers the use of the XT8 Classic, which is the manual version of the telescope used here:
ruclips.net/video/kCNUv5Wj4vg/видео.html
the one on the right.
i've got a question, i want one of these for christmas and i was looking forward for the XT8i or the XT8 normal but the problem was that i did some research about it and found that it is a reflector telescope is there any problem with that, if i buy a Orion telescope like the XT8i will i be able to look at the moons nebulas clusters galaxies planets etc. normally? Thanks!
how much can the big one zoom in?
Hi Windy,
The big one can do 200x-300x on a night of steady seeing, and occasionally more if the atmosphere is very steady But it's not really about the magnification with a big scope - its more about the light grasp. That big mirror pulls in vastly more light than a small scope, so when looking at a nebula or galaxy at any magnification, the big one will show you more details because it's brighter.
Thanks
-Ken
Orion Telescopes
i thought it could zoom in 600x.
Hi Windy,
If there was no atmosphere to interfere, then yes, this scope could easily do 600x. But after about 300x, the scope is no longer the problem. The atmosphere above us is acting like the surface of a swimming pool. Imaging sitting at the bottom of the pool and looking up at a tree over the water. It will be very distorted.
After 300x, you start magnifying the distortions of the air (the local wind and any wind from the jet stream miles over your head). So all scopes are limited in magnification because of this. There may be very rare days where the jet stream is not above you, and conditions come together to allow you to push past 300x, but those nights are very rare indeed. That's why we have two specs for magnification - the theoretical mag, and the practical mag. We top out practical mag at 300x, and theoretical will continuously increase based on the diameter of the scope.
Thanks
-Ken
Orion Telescopes
oh.
Hello. I stay in India and i bought an Orion Starblast 6i on my visit to the United States.
1)I live in the most urban area of Mumbai and it is quite polluted. Will i be able to see planets and nebulaes?
2)When I switched on the EZ finder 2, no red dot was appearing through the glass we were supposed to look.
3)I am relying on the google sky maps application on my phone to align the telescope with the first two stars. Will this be accurate?
Please help.
Hi Dheer,
In a light polluted city, planets will look great as they cut through the light pollution. But nebulae and galaxies will be extremely difficult to see unless you travel away from the city lights. A light pollution filter can help somewhat, but even still, darker skies are better for the faint objects.
As for the easy finder, make sure the battery is fresh, and inserted the correct direction (the + should be facing outwards, touching the metal clip).
And regarding the alignment stars, you can use google sky to identify the stars you want to use, but if you want the computer to accurately put objects into the field of view of the eyepiece, you'll need to make sure those two alignment stars are centered in the eyepiece of the telescope. So use google sky as a starting point to ID the proper star, then use the finderscope to point the scope in the direction of the star, then do a final alignment into the center of the field of view of your telescope eyepiece. Repeat for the second star.
Thanks
-Ken
Orion Telescopes
Thanks a lot Ken.
I think the battery of my EZ finder is over, black I replace it?
Hi Dheer, If your battery is dead, it should be replaced. Look in the manual for how to replace it, but essentially you just pop off the black cover over the battery, and insert a new CR-2032 battery into the compartment, + side facing outwards.
Thanks
-Ken
Orion Telescopes
😍😍
Where do I buy/ order it from??
If you're in the US or Canada, you can order right from our website at www.telescope.com. You can find our Intelliscope selection here:
bit.ly/2xIUtrM
EU customers can visit us at eu.telescope.com.
You can also order by phone in the US by calling toll free 1-800-447-1001.
Hi savetheFISHeeZE,
Something definitely doesn't sound right, so please give our tech support a call at 800-676-1343, and we can troubleshoot the issue for you and get to the bottom of it.
Thanks!
-Ken
Orion Telescopes
I want one so bad but my wallet says no