Explore Scientific Ultra Light Dobson 500 mm f/3.6 Generation II

Explore Scientific Ultra Light Dobson 500 mm f/3.6 Generation II

Description

The Explore Scientific Ultra Light Dobson 500 mm f/3.6 Generation II represents the pinnacle of visual observing instruments, designed for advanced amateur astronomers and visual specialists. With a huge 500 mm quartz mirror and robust aluminum mechanics, this telescope delivers uncompromising performance and portability.

Each component is hand-made in Hungary and Germany. The entire truss structure is TIG-welded, avoiding screws or rivets, ensuring exceptional rigidity with reduced weight. The fully disassemblable design allows transport even in smaller cars. Setup requires no tools and can be done within minutes.

The fast f/3.6 primary and 120 mm quartz secondary mirror offer quick cooldown and outstanding performance. Optical coatings deliver 94% reflectivity with a quartz protective layer for maximum durability. A laser-engraved center spot helps with precise collimation. Every scope includes an individual optical test certificate.

Mechanically, the telescope includes powder-coated altitude wheels, TEFLON/GFK bearing surfaces for smooth motion, and a dual-latch quick-release system for fast setup. The Deluxe 2.5" HEXAFOC focuser with 1:10 reduction enables precise focusing without vignetting. Balance is adjustable via four included 1 kg counterweights.

Five fans (four on the sides, one under the mirror) support rapid temperature equalization and boundary layer suppression. Both mirrors are adjustable during observation. CNC-machined aluminum strut connectors ensure a firm and backlash-free fit, and a second finder shoe allows flexibility for different finder configurations (e.g., Telrad).

Lastly, the optical tube is also mechanically compatible with heavy-duty equatorial mounts for those wishing to transition to a tracking setup.

Specifications

• 500 mm Newtonian reflector with TIG-welded full aluminum structure

• f/3.6 focal ratio with 1800 mm focal length

• Quartz primary and secondary mirrors with 94% reflectivity and quartz overcoat

• Laser-engraved primary center mark for collimation

• Optical test certificate included

• HEXAFOC 2.5" dual-speed focuser (1:10)

• Fully powder-coated components

• Disassemblable tool-free truss tube design

• Five integrated fans for rapid thermal equalization

• 6-foot stable base with smooth motion in altitude and azimuth

• Dual mounting plates for finder flexibility

• Compatible with equatorial mounts

Additional information

• Optical design: Newtonian Reflector

• Primary mirror diameter: 500 mm

• Focal length: 1800 mm

• Focal ratio: f/3.6

• Limiting resolution: 0.28"

• Max recommended magnification: 1000x

• Focuser: 2.5" HEXAFOC with 1:10 reduction

• Back focus: 45 mm (2"), 35 mm (1.25")

• Total weight: 53 kg

• Zenith eyepiece height: 1.63 m

• Materials: Aluminum (tube), Quartz (mirrors)

• Finder: 8x50 illuminated

• Power: Requires LR41 batteries (included)

• Warranty: 5 years

• Included: Dobsonian telescope, illuminated 8x50 finder, 4x 1 kg counterweights, collimation tools, battery and pouch, 2"/1.25" reducer, extension tube, light shield, optical test certificate, manual

• Packaging: 3 boxes (600×600×380 mm, 44 kg; 690×690×330 mm, 17 kg; 150×150×1150 mm, 4 kg)