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Sky-Watcher Flextube 200 Dobsonian 8-inch Collapsible Large Aperture Telescope – Portable, Easy to Use, Perfect for Beginners (S11700)

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Availability: Only 1 left in stock, order soon!
Fulfilled by Adorama

Arrives Friday, Jul 31
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Style: 8" Collapsible Dobsonian


Features

  • LARGE APERTURE: Get a bright, bold viewing experience at a fraction of the cost of other optical designs.
  • INNOVATIVE COLLAPSIBLE DESIGN: Unique strut design allows for optical tube to collapse for ease of portability while keeping collimation.
  • PROPRIETARY TENSION CONTROL HANDLES: These patented handles allow for accurate movement without the need for perfect balance.
  • 94% REFLECTIVE MIRRORS: Fully multi-coated borosilicate primary and secondary mirrors deliver exceptional views.
  • TEFLON BEARINGS: Proprietary Teflon bearings ensure smooth azimuth movement.
  • COMES COMPLETE: All accessories such as, 2-inch Crayford-style focuser with 1 1/4-inch adapter, two super wide-angle eyepieces (25mm and 10mm), and 8x50 right-angle finder scope are included with purchase.
  • STURDY AND LIGHTWEIGHT DESIGN: When fully assembled, the Dobsonian weighs only 40 pounds fully assembled (24 pound tube, 26 pound base)

Description

For years, Dobsonian telescopes have provided astronomers with the most bang for their buck using a large aperture and simple design. Viewing with a large aperture can provide a stellar experience, however the size of large reflector telescopes can pose problems for users looking to either store or transport their telescope from one location to another. The Sky-Watcher Collapsible Dobsonian solves this problem with a unique collapsible design using three retractable steel struts, allowing for easy storage and transit. Transport Anywhere, Anytime Dobsonians are known for giving users a large aperture reflecting telescope at a low price, however they often lack portability. Sky- Watcher has innovated this classic telescope design by integrating a collapsible tube system, addressing users’ portability concerns. Sky-Watcher Collapsible Dobsonians feature a strut system carefully designed to ease setup time in the field while delivering consistent optical performance. Each strut has preset indentations which place the optics in the same position time after time, maintaining collimation. Unlike Dobsonians using a truss-tube system, Sky-Watcher’s Collapsible Dobsonian does not need to be disassembled. The strut system is comprised of three 1” steel poles, joining the bottom and top portion of the optical tube. When extended, three chrome locking screws hold the instrument in place. Unlike truss tube Dobsonians, Sky-Watcher’s Collapsible Dobsonian holds collimation extremely well, forgoing the need to collimate each time it’s used. The retracting design can shorten the optical tube up to 36%, making storage and transit much easier. Borosilicate? Gesundheit! At the heart of any Sky-Watcher telescope are observatory-grade optical components. The Collapsible Dobsonian is no exception, using components that yield exceptional contrast, 94% reflectivity and minimal vignetting. Mirrors are constructed with borosilicate glass, then coated with quartz, titanium and silicon dioxide to ensure an unparalleled viewing experience. Combining these superb optics with a large Dobsonian aperture helps ensure you’ll have bright, bold views of faint deep sky objects. To ensure Sky-Watcher Dobsonians remain easy to use, all Collapsible Dobsonians include a mount base that is so smooth, it can be rotated with the push of a finger. 8” and 10” models come complete with Teflon™ bearings, while the larger 12”, 14” and 16” models use steel needle bearings to ensure smooth and easy movement. Upgraded Pro Models Sky-Watcher’s 14” and 16” Collapsible Dobsonian Pro models offer a few additional upgrades. Pro models also use a conical parabolic mirror to help reduce the weight of the primary and for faster cool-down time. Additionally, a 10:1 dual-speed Crayford-style focuser offers users a more precise method for focusing and needle bearings produce smoother, quieter movement. Pro models also include Sky-Watcher’s premiere collapsible mount which uses an easy-breakdown base for enhanced portability. Normally, these larger aperture scopes would be extremely difficult to transport but with Sky-Watcher’s innovative design these telescopes can be used anywhere. Accessories and More At Sky-Watcher, we want you to feel confident in your purchase, knowing that your telescope will come with all required accessories to start using your telescope. All Sky-Watcher Dobsonian telescopes include a 2” Crayford focuser and a 1.25” adapter, allowing you to utilize both 2” and 1.25” eyepieces. Also included, are two 1.25” eyepieces (25mm and 10mm), a 8x50 finderscope and eyepiece tray.

Brand: Sky-Watcher


Model Name: Flextube 200 Dobsonian 8-inch


Eye Piece Lens Description: Plossl


Objective Lens Diameter: 203 Millimeters


Telescope Mount Description: Altazimuth Mount


Product Dimensions: 29.5"D x 20"W x 36"H


Focus Type: Manual Focus


Power Source: Adapter


Finderscope: Reflex


Item Weight: 27 Pounds


Eye Piece Lens Description: Plossl


Mount: Altazimuth Mount


Focus Type: Manual Focus


Power Source: Adapter


Finderscope: Reflex


Compatible Devices: Eyepieces (1.25-inch and 2-inch), Finderscopes, Cameras (with 1.25-inch or 2-inch adapter)


Coating: Multi-Coated


Focal Length Description: 1200mm


Field Of View: 1.15 Degrees


Zoom Ratio: 12


Additional Features: Collapsible Design for Easy Portability


Objective Lens Diameter: 203 Millimeters


Item Dimensions D x W x H: 29.5"D x 20"W x 36"H


Item Weight: 27 Pounds


Exit Pupil Diameter: 33.83 Millimeters


Brand: Sky-Watcher


Model Name: Flextube 200 Dobsonian 8-inch


Global Trade Identification Number: 05


Manufacturer: Sky-Watcher


UPC: 050234117005


Manufacturer Part Number: S11700


Model Number: S11700


Warranty Description: 2 Year telescope warranty


Built-In Media: 10mm Plossl, 25mm Plossl, 8x50 RACI Finder


Unit Count: 1.0 Count


Frequently asked questions

If you place your order now, the estimated arrival date for this product is: Friday, Jul 31

Yes, absolutely! You may return this product for a full refund within 30 days of receiving it.

To initiate a return, please visit our Returns Center.

View our full returns policy here.

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Top Amazon Reviews


  • Perfect for a beginner to Amateur
Style: 8" Collapsible Dobsonian
I have never owned or operated a telescope before but I began looking for a beginner scope for over a year now. Upon several reviews and forum ratings, I originally went with the Celestron 127EQ (Big Mistake) So I immediately returned it. Not only was the mount hard to maneuver but darn near impossible to collimate. So I started my search over and the term Dobsonian (Type of Mount) kept popping up from amateur astronomers. So naturally I being researching and came across this magnificent scope!! Not only is The dobsonain mount easy to maneuver, lock and keep track/move with the sky. It's easy to assemble!! (All needed tools are in the box) Now to the scope it self.. When you first unbox the unit you can immediately tell it is very well crafted.. (no cheap plastic bits) The 2" focuser is very smooth (it does come with a 1.25" adapter) and the x2 - 1.25" plossl lens it comes with are very decent quality (only wish it came with a Barlow lens) The finder Scope is excellent quailty and accurate as well I was skeptical about the whole collapsible thing, but it transitions very smoothly making it much easier to store and carry. So very glad I went this way. Plus it keeps the primary mirror and secondary mirror in completely different tubes.. (Just in case you drop a tool or 2 down the tube it doesn't bust up your primary mirror.) After my horror story with the 127EQ I bit the bullet and purchased a hotech 2"/1.25" laser crosshair collimator..seriously collimation is a snap (2 mins Max) ...A must have !! After every is ready to go and it's all collimated.. And you finally sit down..on a clear night.. And look through the lens for the first time at the moon (HDTV has Nothing on this scope) it's beautiful, everything you wished for..(even in the city) My 3.5 year old son and my wife are also always wanting to use the scope.. I am seriously considering buy 2 more. So if you are on the fence of buying a scope.. STOP and get down and press Buy Now!! You won't regret it.. I know my family and I don't.. ... show more
Reviewed in the United States on May 23, 2013 by Kevin C

  • Great Dob scope for star hopping
Style: 8" Collapsible Dobsonian
I purchased this after getting a cheap scope with an unstable tripod. Reading the reviews the Dobsonian mounts were easy to use and great for the backyard. The telescope arrived in two boxes like described and I had already watched YouTube videos on assembling. It really was easy and anyone who has assembled furniture can figure it out. The telescope was also updated based on some of the feedback from other customers. Mine came with a 90 degree finder scope. The main OTA can accept both 1.25” and 2” lenses. The altitude movement was very smooth, however the azimuth movement was sticky. There is a modification for the scope where you install a 12” lazy Susan bearing between the two circular base pieces and I highly recommend it. The lazy Susan will make the azimuth adjustments very smooth and easy. I also removed the 3 feet that came with the telescope and replaced them with 4 x 2.5” locking casters making it much easier to move the scope to the backyard. The scope is a star hopper so you need a basic understanding of the night sky. I took an Astronomy class almost three decades ago. That and a sky application for the phone helped me pick out Jupiter and Saturn. Even in the suburbs with a light pollution of 5 I am able to see the two gas giants easily. You don’t have to wait for astronomical twilight to fade before taking in Jupiter. Once I got my bearings I went for my first nebula and found the Lagoon. It was really a matter of practice with this scope and hopping. If you are looking for a scope to find stuff for you then go for the go to version. The lenses are ok for beginning with. They are both 1.25” but the kit lacks a Barlow. I borrowed the 2x Barlow from the cheap kit, but you can really tell the difference in lenses quality. A zoom lens would also be a good addition to someone buying this kit. I got the laser collimator and moon filter offered by Amazon as a package. The collimator is necessary and I recommend watching a video on how to align your mirrors. I have not found use of the moon filter yet. Here I would recommend a good quality Barlow or Zoom lens. I also wished Amazon carried a light shield for the open truss. You can find one from another reseller and for the backyard with lots of stray light, I’d recommend one. The last thing I’d recommend is a good set of star charts and Left turn at Orion to help you search the night sky. ... show more
Reviewed in the United States on October 24, 2019 by Sonya Good

  • 1-star AF
Style: 10" Collapsible Dobsonian
If you’re looking for tons of practice collimating telescopes but none of the reward of a clear image of the night sky, this is the telescope for you. I’ve owned this scope for about a month and a half now and I haven’t gotten one single clear image out of it. I’ve tried everything: collimating it countless times, checking the alignment of my collimating laser, buying a NEW laser in hopes that I hadn’t wasted $700 on a bunk telescope. I’ve heard people online say that length from the primary mirror that the secondary mirror snaps to is too close or too far to get a clear image and that you have to tweak this or that, none of which has made any difference for me. Either I’m using it COMPLETELY wrong, which I don’t find terribly likely, or it’s just extremely user-unfriendly. Either way, it has earned every bit of one star in my experience. ... show more
Reviewed in the United States on November 10, 2019 by Sam Smith

  • Amazing Experience When You Figure Out What You're Doing
Style: 8" Collapsible Dobsonian
I spend a few good hours researching what I needed for this telescope. Thankfully, I was given some 2" eyepieces and they're so nice to look through. I spend also spent a few hours learning how to collimate properly and make other adjustments. Everything is dialed in and last night I was able to see the moon like I'd never seen it before. I'd still like to make some modifications to this scope, wheels are going to be a must and maybe some weights to offset the gigantic 2x Barlow I'm using. But, I can't wait until I have a few good nights with a visible planet and some galaxies. I would recommend this thing to anyone that can lift or move 30lbs around. There's still a lot to learn about this big guy, but what I've seen so far is worth the price and I can't wait to see more. I'm not sure what happened with others, but it shipped quickly and safely for me and was a complete shipment of two boxes. I haven't dealt with Celestron's customer support, so I can't speak on that either. I'm thankful I was sent everything I needed and received a complete order. ... show more
Reviewed in the United States on June 21, 2024 by Bennigans

  • Nice scope for the cost
Style: 8" Collapsible Dobsonian
I ordered this scope yesterday, and it was delivered today (go Amazon!, I initially ordered though Celestron, but they lied about having it in stock and also charge more). The packaging was sufficient, no damage to the scope or parts. Assembly was easy and tools are included. Took about 20 minutes to put together. Unlike the picture, the mount was black (which I prefer anyway). The collimation was off a little, but better than I expected - I used a laser collimator to get things aligned to my liking. First light was tonight! M42 and Jupiter looked great. I used low power (30x) and high (250x), and both provided reasonable images. Unfortunately the moon was quite bright and it was windy and cold, so the session was short. So far, I'm impressed with the amount of scope I have for the price. I'll update again as I have the chance to do more observing. - Update on 4/14/2013: Viewing has been good. After a bit more collimation, the scope is performing well and I have no complaints. Except with Celestron - they seem to ignore their customers feedback and have not responded by any of my complaints about their service. I am quite hesitant to purchase any Celestron products in the future based on this. ... show more
Reviewed in the United States on February 21, 2013 by LuckyJ

  • Tickled by how much I fell in love with this scope! Tickled by how much I fell in love with this scope!
Style: 8" Collapsible Dobsonian
First of all, I really, really had no idea what I was doing at first with this metal tube and mirror set. Month's of fighting with aligning mirror's... just not knowing how to use the thing. One day it kind of just clicked. Now I absolutely love my scope, aligning the mirror's is fun, I purchased 'Turn Left at Orion' and believe it or NOT I found Uranus recently and was so dang proud of myself! "A large star, dim for it's size!" When Neptune starts rising I'm going to hunt for them next! Build quality I had no issue's with, I'd say I overtightened things and had to go back and loosen the swivel base as I made it MUCH too tight, fiddle around and it can be buttery smooth! Now that I'm getting more into this I almost wish I had gotten a 10" but oh I don't know if I could deal with anything heavier. Not that it is that heavy, it can easily be broken down into two pieces. I just have to carry the whole thing out all at once. Whenever people are over and it's a clear night, looking at the moon is always breath taking, Jupiter is always a joy, a and it's fun to wave to Saturn as it just zip's by. Orion Nebula look's incredible, you really get some spectacular views. I had spent over 10yrs just going back and forth on getting a proper 'Telescope' finally just PURCHASED SOMETHING, and I'm so glad I did. It's been a joy. I am very gentle with it so I haven't had any issues. I find the product very stable... it does go out of alignment... every time as I do carry it around and totally don't bang it against a door frame every time. But with a laser Collimator it takes like 5 minutes, plus you need to let the scope adjust to the temp. I am currently reading into getting a 2" eyepiece to use to get some wider field of view as most clear nights I love to just pull up a chair, or kneel down on a pillow... and just slowly sweep the sky, lookin at stuff. I find something cool, I look at a planetarium app to see what I found. Learning how to properly clean eyepieces was a 'Must' after letting nieces and nephews view! ... show more
Reviewed in the United States on March 29, 2026 Reviewed in the United States on March 29, 2026 by Centari

  • Nice big scope!
Style: 8" Collapsible Dobsonian
I previously owned an Orion reflector, and had been used to the quality of their devices. When I stumbled across this Dob on Amazon, I figured there must be a catch. Then,I began investigating. There was no catch, just a nice inexpensive scope, but with a quality stamp behind it. I ordered my device, and it arrived safe and sound the next day. It was extremely easy to assemble(i had already downloaded the manual), and it actually sat two weeks, before I could collimate it. I collimate using a laser collimator, and it took a while(as always for me), but went without too much issue. My screws into the primary mirror were easy, with the second being a little more stiff. But nothing too outrageous. I was sort of, but not too completely surprised to find the mirrors off(both), as that is a lot of shipping, and additionally, even my Orion required collumation out of the box. Once the mirrors were done, I then at the finder scope, which was very straightforward. I then, gazed through the eyepiece, and all was clear. Nice quality view, and not too too bad eyepieces. It is funny, because I also thought about purchasing the 10" traditional dob, as it actually is a bit cheaper than this one. However, the collapsible nature of this scope made the decision for me.. Either one is excellent, however, this seemed to for me better. Overall, great scope at an excellent price! ... show more
Reviewed in the United States on September 20, 2015 by Damon

  • ... broken set screw on the spotter scope ring but easily replaceable at the local hardware store ... broken set screw on the spotter scope ring but easily replaceable at the local hardware store
Style: 8" Collapsible Dobsonian
The scope arrived with a broken set screw on the spotter scope ring but easily replaceable at the local hardware store, and we had purchased a Telrad sight as well, so no worries there. We also purchased a collimation eyepiece and a 2X Barlow. The base was easy to assemble (if you have some more functional tools handy it would be advised, but the tools it shipped with will work). It's solid particle board, and all arrive in nominal condition. The scope tube and mirrors arrived in nominal condition as well, and as soon as the mirrors were collimated, it was useable. Components are of decent grade and manufacture and give the impression that they will last a long time if reasonably cared for. First light was a large, full moon and it was very sharp. The kids approved and I may be turning my oldest into a junior astronomer. Jupiter has been next, and again, not disappointed. Crisp clear views. Mirrors and lenses appear to be of decent quality. Pros: Easy to assemble, very good viewing once collimated, spotting scope is of decent quality, takes little space in the house, adapters for eyepieces are fairly universal. Cons: None really. Could have been bigger. :P Extra: Telrad won't mount easily, may need riser plate. Am going to custom build a mount for mine. ... show more
Reviewed in the United States on March 11, 2016 Reviewed in the United States on March 11, 2016 by Jessica Whytsell

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