The Explore Scientific 12" Generation II Truss-Tube Dobsonian Telescope delivers massive light-gathering power in a portable, easy-to-use package—making it a top choice for visual observers ready to explore the deep sky with serious aperture. This next-generation model builds on the revolutionary Dobsonian design by incorporating mechanical upgrades and structural refinements that enhance usability, durability, and optical performance.
With its 305mm (12") parabolic primary mirror, this scope gathers over 1,800 times more light than the unaided human eye, revealing globular clusters, bright galaxies, planetary nebulae, and fine lunar and planetary details with incredible clarity. Despite its size, the truss-tube construction makes it surprisingly easy to transport, disassemble, and reassemble without tools—ideal for dark-sky trips or outreach events.
The upgraded altitude bearings, dual-speed focuser, and radial cooling fans make this Dobsonian a joy to use, even at high magnifications. Add a coma corrector (sold separately) for wide-field views with pinpoint star performance across the field.
CA Residents: Prop 65 WARNING(S)
⭐ Features & Benefits
- 12" (305mm) parabolic primary mirror for stunning deep-sky and planetary views
- Gathers 1,800× more light than the human eye—perfect for galaxies, clusters, and nebulae
- Dual-speed 2" focuser with 10:1 micro-focus helical gearing for precise focusing
- Tool-free disassembly for fast transport and setup at remote observing sites
- Oversized altitude bearings ensure smooth, stable movement and tracking
- Truss-tube design reduces weight while maintaining structural rigidity
- Dual radial cooling fans help bring optics to ambient temperature faster
- Collimation assist tool included for easy mirror alignment
- Soft light baffle enhances contrast and minimizes stray light
- Compatible with optional coma corrector for improved edge-of-field performance
🌟 Who It’s For
- Intermediate to advanced observers ready to step into large-aperture astronomy
- Deep-sky enthusiasts hunting galaxies, clusters, and nebulae from dark skies
- Public outreach presenters who need a showpiece telescope that’s portable
- Lunar and planetary fans looking for sharp contrast and detailed views
- Anyone wanting maximum aperture per dollar in a high-performance system
🎯 What You’ll Be Able to See
- Faint galaxies like the Whirlpool, Andromeda, and Sombrero with spiral arm detail
- Globular clusters like M13 resolved into thousands of stars
- Planetary nebulae such as the Ring and Dumbbell glowing in subtle color
- Lunar surface in striking detail—rilles, craters, and shadows along the terminator
- Saturn’s rings, Jupiter’s cloud belts, and Mars’ polar caps and surface features
🎒 What’s Included
- 12" (305mm) parabolic primary mirror optical tube
- Two-speed 2" focuser with 1.25" adapter
- LED red dot finder
- Collimation assist tool
- Lightweight light baffle
- Dual radial cooling fans (AA battery pack not included)
- Truss assembly hardware
- Tool-free base and optical tube disassembly components
Specs
| Item Number | DOB1245–01 |
|---|---|
| Focal Ratio | f/5 |
| Focal Length | 1525 mm |
| Primary Mirror Diameter | 350 mm |
| Secondary Obstruction | 24% |
| Mirror Cell Support Points | 9 |
| Truss Pole Length | 88 cm |
| Truss Pole Diameter | 20 mm |
| Secondary Cage Assembly Diameter | 38 cm OD |
| Secondary Cage Assembly Weight | 6.5 lbs |
| Secondary Cage Assembly Height | 17 cm |
| Mirror Box / Rocker Box Height | 42.5 cm |
| Mirror Box Weight* | 50 lbs |
| Eyepiece Height at Zenith | 142.24 cm |
| Theoretical Limiting Resolution | 0.38 arcseconds |
| Theoretical Rayleigh Limit | 0.45 arcseconds |
| Theoretical Limiting Magnitude | 15.11 mag |
| Theoretical Maximum Magnification | 600x |
- Mirror weight may vary slightly due to manufacturing processes.
Warranty Information:
This product includes a Limited One-Year USA Warranty, which converts to the Explore STAR Transferable Extended Life of the Product Warranty when registered within 60 days of purchase.
To activate your warranty, register your product at:
www.explorescientific.com/pages/product-registration