StellaLyra 8'' f/6 Dobsonian
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StellaLyra 8'' f/6 DobsonianStellaLyra 8'' f/6 DobsonianStellaLyra 8'' f/6 Dobsonian
StellaLyra 8'' f/6 DobsonianStellaLyra 8'' f/6 DobsonianStellaLyra 8'' f/6 Dobsonian

StellaLyra 8" f/6 Dobsonian

£449.00
  (19 Reviews)
✓ 2 year warranty

:  

88x in stock shipped 1-2 working days

About this product

Model:  stellalyra_8_f6_dob
Part Number:  GS680-D

The UK's BEST 8" Dobsonian telescope! 

Designed and manufactured to a very high standard by Guan Sheng Optical (GSO) in Taiwan. 

With an 8" aperture, this easy-to-use Dobsonian telescope is an excellent choice for visual astronomy.

Viewing the lunar surface will feel like you can reach out and scratch plaster! Venus and its phases are also viewable. In good seeing conditions, you can observe Mars with surface shading and polar cap, Jupiter's weather bands and a number of its Moons and Saturn with its rings, including the Cassini division, are also clearly visible. So too, are many deep sky objects such as galaxies and nebulae. For many owners, this telescope will provide a lifetime of observing. 

All StellaLyra Dobsonian telescopes are fitted with a quality GSO aluminised parabolic primary mirror with a minimum 93% reflectivity and a silicon-dioxide protective overcoat to ensure the surface remains bright for years to come.  

Collimation knobs on the primary mirror cell provide easy collimation adjustment without tools, and an integrated fan provides fast cooling. 

This 8” model also features an impressive CNC-machined 2" Crayford focuser with 1:10 dual-speed focus adjustment for smooth, precise focusing. And no image-shift!

The focuser includes a 2" to 1.25" adapter, so you use both 2" and 1.25" eyepieces and accessories. Brass compression rings grip them securely without marring their nosepiece. A convenient 35mm focus extender is also supplied so you can achieve focus easily when using most long focal length 2" eyepieces. 

Two fully multicoated eyepieces (1.25" 9mm Plössl & 2" 30mm SuperView) are included so views will be clear and sharp from the outset.  

The Dobsonian base is delivered flat-packed and is easy to assemble. 

A robust roller-bearing assembly provides smooth, reliable azimuth adjustments. Metal plates above and below the bearings prevent them from sinking into the softer wood (no divots!), so the movement remains smooth, even after years of use. 

For altitude adjustment, a robust steel shaft and CNC-machined metal plates with large knurled tension adjustment knobs, one on each side, provide smooth, precise movements and adjustable tension. 

The mount also features a convenient balance adjustment mechanism with an engraved scale that enables the telescope to be moved forward or backward for precise balance. This is useful when changing from a small eyepiece to a large, heavy one or when adding a second finderscope or binoviewer. 

For comfort and convenience, a Right-Angled Correct Image 8x50 finder scope is included, so no cricked neck!  

NOTE: The assembly instructions are generic for 8", 10" & 12" models, so please don't be concerned if your telescope is supplied with fewer screws than shown in the instructions. You will have the correct number. 

 

FEATURES

  • 203mm (8") Newtonian reflector optics
  • 1200mm focal length
  • f/5.9 focal ratio
  • 25% secondary mirror obstruction
  • Parabolic primary mirror with minimum 93% reflectivity
  • Aluminium and silicon dioxide (SiO2) protective mirror coatings
  • Sturdy primary mirror-cell with easy grip collimation knobs
  • Cooling fan brings the primary mirror to ambient temperature quickly for best performance
  • Rigid, steel telescope tube with 4-vane, all metal secondary Spider and adjustable primary cell
  • CNC-machined 2" dual-speed Crayford focuser with non-marring brass compression rings 
  • 2" to 1.25" adapter enables the use of both 2" and 1.25" eyepieces and accessories
  • 35mm focus extension enables focus when using long focal length 2" eyepieces
  • Smooth, stable Dobsonian mount with tension adjustments, four slot eyepiece holder and front carry-handle
  • Supplied with fully multicoated 1.25" 9mm Plössl and 2" 30mm Superview eyepieces
  • 8x50 Right-Angled Correct Image finderscope for comfort and convenience

Focuser

  • 2" dual-speed Crayford focuser
  • 10:1 fine focus adjustment for precise focusing
  • Crayford design provides smooth focusing with no image shift
  • Includes a 2" to 1.25" adapter so you can use 2" and 1.25" eyepieces and accessories
  • 35mm focus extension enables focus when using long focal length 2" eyepieces
  • Brass compression rings hold items securely without marring the barrels
  • A handy measurement scale makes it easy to remember focus positions when changing eyepieces

Dobsonian Mount

  • Supplied flat-pack but quick and easy to assemble
  • Altitude tension clutch on the sides provides smooth, accurate movement and easy adjustment to suit different payloads and personal preference
  • The azimuth axis (on the bottom) features a 'Lazy Susan' style roller bearing assembly for smooth 360º movement and an adjustable tensioner
  • A handle on the front makes the Dobsonian mount easy to move around the garden
  • A handy 4-position eyepiece holder on the side provides convenient storage for eyepieces and accessories

8x50 Right-Angled Finderscope

  • Straight-through finderscopes can be uncomfortable and inconvenient, so most StellaLyra Dobsonians are supplied with an 8x50 Right-Angle Correct Image finderscope. So no cricked neck! 
  • A large 50mm aperture helps spot dimmer targets
  • Cross-hair reticule for precise alignment
  • Two adjustment screws and a sprung loaded tensioner make it quick and easy to align the finderscope to the main telescope (it can be aligned during daytime when aimed at a distant pylon, but be careful not to point it anywhere near the Sun)!

Primary Mirror Cell

  • Robust primary mirror cell holds collimation well.
  • Collimation is easily adjusted using oversize, easy-to-grip adjustment and locking knobs.
  • The primary mirror cooling fan helps draw air over the mirror for faster cooling. The fan can be powered using the supplied AA battery holder (batteries not included) or a separate 12v DC power supply with a centre positive 2.1mm/5.5mm DC jack.

Other Accessories

  • 35mm 2" focus extension tube with brass compression ring for eyepieces and accessories that require additional back focus distance
  • 9mm 1.25" 52º Plössl eyepiece with 6mm eye-relief
  • 30mm 2" 68º Superview eyepiece with 22mm eye-relief
  • 8x AA battery holder with 2.1mm DC plug to fit the primary mirror cooling fan

Size Comparison: 

Telescope Field of View Simulator


What's in the box

  • 8" Newtonian Reflector Telescope
  • Dobsonian Mount
  • 8x50 Right Angled Erect Image Finderscope
  • 9mm 1.25" Super-Plossl Eyepiece
  • 30mm 2" Superview Eyepiece
  • 35mm 2" Focus Extension tube
  • 2" to 1.25" Adapter
  • Cooling Fan & Battery Holder

Specifications

Model 8" f/6 Dobsonian
Optical design Newtonian Reflector
Aperture 203mm (8")
Focal ratio f/5.9
Focal length 1200mm
Primary mirror BK7 Parabolic primary mirror, minimum 93% reflectivity
Mirror coatings Aluminum and silicone dioxide (SiO2)
Secondary mirror Minimum 93% reflectivity
Secondary mirror holder 4-vane all metal spider
Secondary Mirror Obstruction 25%
Focuser 2" dual-speed Crayford
Mount Dobsonian mount with tension clutch control
Finderscope Right Angled, 8x50
Eyepiece 1 9mm 1.25" 52º Super-Plossl with 6mm eye-relief
Eyepiece 2 30mm 2" 68º Superview with 22mm eye-relief
Accessories 35mm 2" extension tube, 2" to 1.25" eyepiece adapter & 12v battery holder for the cooling fan
Tube outside diameter 230mm / 9.1"
Tube length 1150mm / 45.3"
Mount Base Height 600mm / 23.6"
Mount Base Diameter 500mm / 19.7"
Tube weight 9.5kg / 20lbs 15oz
Shipped size OTA 128cm x 40cm x 35cm / 50.4" x 15.7" x 13.8"
Shipped size Base 58cm x 68cm x 14cm / 22.3" x 26.8" x 5.5"
Shipped weight OTA 15kg / 33lbs 1oz
Shipped weight Base 12kg / 26lbs 7oz

Downloads / Manuals

Manual

StellaLyra 8" / 10" / 12" Dobsonian Assembly Manual

Customer reviews

Average Rating (19 Reviews):  
Write a Review and share your opinions!

Rating (max 5):  
A wonderful telescope, thoughtfully-designed and well-built
21 May 2023  | 

I have owned this telescope for many years (under the Revelation brand). The optics are wonderful and - of great importance - the platform is extremely stable, offering vibration-free views under conditions that most other telescopes can find challenging. The focusser is very precise and free from excess play. The altitude pivot mechanism is of particular note, with large-sized tension knobs that provide fine control over the desired stiffness of movement. Once balanced for your accessories, the mechanism (contrary to what is implied in the description) never needs touching again, as there remains enough stiffness in the mechanism to cope with a wide range of eyepieces and other attachments.

The fan is quiet and unobtrusive, and the built-in eyepiece rack surprisingly handy. Overally, it is always a pleasure to use this telescope.

It is worth noting however, that an 8" Dobsonian like this is at the limit of what most people can comfortably carry. It's heavy - there's no denying that, and if transporting by car to an observing site, then I would recommend you either buy a big cloth bag for the tube, or alternatively fashion a carry shoulder carry strap out of luggage straps (the pivot mechanism can be used to prevent such straps from slipping). In this way, you can carry the tube under one arm, and carry the base (which has it's own handle) with the other hand. In any case, be aware that you'll have to stop for a rest break or two on anything but the shortest of walks.

The quality of stability the views however, make it all worthwhile.

Note also that the height of the base, and the 8" form-factor allows a simple lightweight walking chair to be used. Nothing more sophisticated is required provided that you operate the scope by sitting alongside it rather than square-on. With such a set-up, I have never found the need for an adjustable astronomy chair, and bending forwards for low altitudes, and then sitting up straight for high altitudes feel entirely intuitive, natural and comfortable.

If this size of scope suits you, then I wholeheartedly recommended this model.


Rating (max 5):  
Best beginner telescope to buy!
13 May 2023  | 

I have had this for a couple of weeks, i live in a very light polluted area and this telescope has no trouble showing me great images, high quality, highly recommened for beginners!


Rating (max 5):  
StellaLyra 8" f/6 Dobsonian
08 May 2023  | 

This is my first large aperture scope and I must say I'm impressed with the construction and robustness of the design. The law that says as soon as you buy a new scope you don't get a clear night to see its capabilities is working overtime in my case but I did manage to view the moon for over an hour on one occasion and I was very pleased with the sharpness and definition of the image. The delivery and packaging from FLO was exceptional, the scope arrived within 24hours of ordering. I am very pleased with my purchase.


Rating (max 5):  
Fantastic service
14 March 2023  | 

Ordered the scope on the Saturday afternoon and it arrived Tuesday lunchtime. Regular updates from DPD and arrived exactly when they predicted. Packaging was excellent, all items were well protected and arrived in perfect condition. Assembly was straight forward and instructions on the website were fine.

The scope itself and accessories are of a high standard. I also purchased the SL 2x Barlow. Really pleased with the quality of these items. I even managed a few hours viewing after the snow cleared up.

All round exceptional service. Highly recommend the scope and First Light Optics. I will definitely be purchasing from them again in the future.


Rating (max 5):  
StellaLyra 8" Dobsonian telescope.
11 March 2023  | 

After reading so many good reviews about FLO, I decide to buy from here.
Couldn't be happier with the purchase and delivery was exactly as expected.
So many astronomers recommended an 8 inch Dob for the best compromise of size, weight, portability, ease of use and performance.
This scope has great features that make it a pleasure to use.
Right angled finder scope, lazy Susan base bearing, adjustable optical tube balance position, super quiet fan for primary mirror, Black tube and base.
I did wonder if the base bearing should be greased but an internet search was in favour of leaving it ungreased for best feel. It shouldn't need grease anyway as it's never rotated at speed but wanted to do the right thing.
Only used for one night at time of review but was delighted at the quality of the telescope and views through the eyepieces.
Bottom line, very happy and will be back when I'm ready to buy accessories.


Rating (max 5):  
Near perfect setup
25 February 2023  | 

Firstly, the service from FLO was good. Quick despatch and I usually find DPD to be decent. I helped the driver with the OTA box which is awkward and heavy for a single person lift.

The construction is simple but there are no instructions supplied so check the video online called “Zhumell Deluxe Dobsonian Reflector Telescope Video” which is basically the same thing. Take your time because it is easy to bolt together some bits the wrong way round.

Collimation was slightly out as you might expect from the delivery process. I used a collimation cap (£6 from FLO) and the process was simple enough and can be done while the inevitable cloud cover hangs around.

The supplied accessories are what sets this apart from competitors. I found the finderscope very easy to use, the eyepieces are decent for beginners. I like the dob mount with the ball bearing style rotation. With the balance roughly right we had no problems nudging the telescope smoothly to follow the targets. The focuser feels like a quality instrument and despite needing the supplied extension tube for the 2” eyepiece we have found focus easily on most targets.

Our first night out was not the best seeing but we used the low power eyepiece to view the Orion Nebula which was very clearly visible. We used a bst starguider 5mm EP (not supplied) to view jupiter through some wobbly atmosphere and we saw it with its moons. The equatorial bands were just about there too. On a better night I’m confident we see much better detail.

Do consider the size and weight of this telescope. I can lift the whole thing and walk around with it but I would prefer to use a dolly board or sack barrow arrangement to save my back. Storage is potentially an issue too.

Overall I am very pleased. This was a present for my 14 yo daughter who has spent 5 years battling with a junk telescope (76/700) complete with plastic eyepieces and wobbly tripod. Somehow her enthusiasm never wavered and we just had to reward her with a decent setup. I’m glad we chose this.


Rating (max 5):  
Stellalyra 8" Dobsonian
20 February 2023  | 

Very pleased with my recent purchase , it's my second scope which took a lot of research before deciding on this Dobsonian for visual astronomy . I've not had the chance to use it much so far but have had decent views of Jupiter , Orion's nebula and M35 using the standard lenses supplied . It's a well made telescope with excellent standard equipment its taking a little to get use to it after years of using a refractor and eq mount but wanted something easier to use as I'm also teaching my 9 year old and so far he's doing pretty well . Delivery and packaging was perfect ( was considering going to pick up as was worried how it would be treated but arrived in perfect condition ) I highly recommend this scope and firstlight optics and will be using them for further purchases in the future


Rating (max 5):  
First scope - initial impressions
22 August 2022  | 

Easy ordering from FLO and delivery by DPD within two days. All tracked, and absolutely secure with no damage. Great service.

Instructions downloaded from the site and then assembly of the base was straightforward as with any flatpack. Quality of finish, machining and alignment of screw holes was perfect. Even the Allen key didn't round off. And operation of the turntable with the roller bearings was perfectly smooth. Even if that began to fail, another stout lazy Susan would sort it.

I feel the base warrants carrying handles either side, especially if moving even a short distance with the scope mounted. To that end, I've placed two rope handles to facilitate this. The base would also benefit from a soft bump stop to buffer the primary end if it inadvertently swings, and padding where the tube may bump down on the front face. But these are personal tweaks not warranting any star deduction.

Having read up on collimation at length, I was pleased that the scope was almost perfect out of the box. Minor tweak to two of the black primary knobs, and that was it. I used a £6 Rigel cap. The 8x50 RACI finder is excellent - great optics and easy to focus and align. The great test came looking at Polaris, then Arcturus, then Jupiter, testing the az-alt movement and getting comfortable on a chair. Once I'd got the hang of focusing with the various accoutrements, all was pinpoint. So pleased to see Jupiter and three of its moons - the moons perfect bright points in the 30mm supplied eyepiece.

Overall initial impressions for my first scope, customer service, the extras supplied, assembly, finish, quality and machining et. al., I reckon I made the correct choice with a StellaLyra 8" Dob.

Guess what? It's chucking it down with four days of cloud cover promised. C'est la vie!


Rating (max 5):  
My first telescope, very happy with it 🙂
09 August 2022  | 

Very pleased with the overall quality of materials and machining given the price point.
It is heavy but manageable if moved in two pieces.
I was dithering & nearly got the Ursa Major 6" because it's smaller but uses same quality mirrors. I might go for that in a few years if it's still available. However it's good to have the extras on this model ( RACI finder, 2" dual speed focuser etc)
Assembly of the base needs a little care, it's possible to get a couple of bits the wrong way round looking at it.
I've managed to confirm for myself that the moon is not made
of cheese so far. Next, I look forward to seeing if Saturn really does exist and has those funny rings around it. I might need to bury myself in star charts and calendars first.


Rating (max 5):  
Good mid end Dobsonsian
26 July 2022  | 

I had a looked at the Skywatcher Skyliner 200P Dobsonian but the Stellalyra just seemed a lot better value for only a little bit more money. What I wanted was something that would let me do some quick visual sessions in a fairly light polluted back garden.

Ease of setup is very appealing, a couple of minutes to carry the base and tube into the garden take some dust caps off and then your away!

Compated to other dobs of the same price this has a better focuser, one that doesn't slip even with extension tubes and 2" eyepieces. It comes with two good usable eyepieces rather than the really cheap ones that often get bundled in. Assembling the mount was easy, its very sturdy but at the same time its smooth so you need hardly any effort to move the telescope to find objects. I have had no issues with the tube wobbling when its windy.

Resolving double stars, some nice views of craters on the moon and jupiters/its moons have all looked great. A good choice as a serious begginers visual scope that will last you as you become more advanced.

I would advise buying the badaar laser colimator and watching some tutorials on collimation.

I added a Telrad (as I already had one), I find this easy to use but the supplied finder scope is very very good and as its right angled its far easier to use.


Read all 19 customer reviews...

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