Table Of Contents; Unpacking - Orion 9966 Instruction Manual

W
elcome to an exciting new world of adventure! Your SkyQuest XT12 Dobsonian is a high-quality opti-
cal instrument designed to bring you dazzling views of the outer reaches of our universe. With special
new innovations, such as the CorrecTension (XT) Friction Optimization system, large format focuser,
and deluxe accessory package, this telescope represents a giant leap forward in the evolution of the
Dobsonian. Whether you are brand-new to amateur astronomy or a seasoned stargazer, the SkyQuest
XT12 Dobsonian will provide many evenings of enjoyment and fascination.

Table of Contents

1. Unpacking ...............................................3
2. Assembly.................................................4
3. Using Your Telescope ..............................8
4. Collimation (Aligning the Mirrors) .......... 11
5. Astronomical Observing ........................13
6. Care and maintenance ..........................17
7. Specifications ........................................17

1. Unpacking

The telescope will arrive in three boxes, one containing the
optical tube assembly and accessories, another containing
the unassembled Dobsonian base, and the last containing
the primary mirror in its cell. Be careful unpacking the boxes.
We recommend keeping the original shipping containers. In
the event that the telescope needs to be shipped to another
location, or returned to Orion for warranty repair, having the
proper shipping containers will help ensure your telescope
will survive the journey intact.
Make sure all the parts in the Parts List are present. Be sure
to check boxes carefully, as some parts are small. If any-
thing appears to be missing or broken, immediately call Orion
Customer Support (800-676-1343) or email sales@telescope.
com for assistance.
Parts List
Box #1: Optical Tube Assembly and Accessories
Qty. Description
1 Optical tube assembly
1 Dust cover
WARNING:
Never look directly at the
Sun through your telescope or its finder
scope-even for an instant-without
a professionally made solar filter that
completely covers the front of the
instrument, or permanent eye damage
could result. Young children should use
this telescope only with adult supervision.
1 25mm Sirius Plössl eyepiece
1 10mm Sirius Plössl eyepiece
1 9x50 finder scope
1 Finder scope bracket with O-ring
1 4-hole eyepiece rack
1 Collimation cap
2 Eyepiece rack mounting wood screws (length 3/4")
2 Spring coils
2 Pull loops
4 Nylon spacers (black)
2 1/4" washers (black)
2 Phillips-head screws (black, length 1-3/4")
2 Screws with round knobs attached
Box #2: Dobsonian Base
Qty. Description
1 Left panel
1 Right panel
1 Front brace
1 Top baseplate
1 Ground baseplate
12 Base assembly screws (length 2")
1 Hex key (4mm)
3 Plastic feet
3 Feet attachment wood screws (length 1")
1 Self-adhesive rubber bumper
1 Large hex-head screw (length 3")
2 3/8" washers
1 3/8" lock nut
1 Nylon spacer (white)
1 T-nut
1 Handle
2 Socket head cap screws, 5/16" (black)
2 5/16" washers (black)
2 5/16" nuts (black)
1 Hex key (6mm)
3