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The Orion SkyQuest XX12g pairs a 305 mm (12-inch) mirror with computerized locating and tracking. Its main tradeoff is practical rather than optical: the manual lists a 47 lb optical tube and an 89 lb base, so moving and assembling it takes planning. A 2015 reviewer reported pleasing views and useful GoTo performance, but that is one observer’s experience—not a guarantee for every telescope or observing session.
What the XX12g offers
Orion’s June 2013 manual describes a truss-tube Dobsonian with a 305 mm center-marked parabolic primary mirror, 1500 mm focal length and f/4.9 focal ratio. These are manufacturer specifications, not independent measurements. The manual also specifies enhanced aluminum coatings with 94% reflectivity and a SiO2 overcoat.
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Telescope Cover for Orion SkyQuest XX12g GoTo Dobsonian 2012–2024 | $47.99 | Buy on Amazon |
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Telescope Cover for Orion SkyQuest XX12g GoTo Dobsonian 2012–2024 | $47.99 | Buy on Amazon |
The manual lists a dual-speed Crayford focuser with 11:1 fine adjustment. It accepts 2-inch and 1.25-inch eyepieces, with the included adapter for the smaller size. The relatively fast f/4.9 focal ratio makes the telescope optically capable, while the 2015 reviewer noted some coma near the edge of the field.
How well does the GoTo system work?
The mount uses DC servo motors and optical encoders on both the altitude and azimuth axes. According to the manual, it offers nine slew rates from 1x to 1000x, sidereal, lunar and solar tracking, and Brightest Star or Two Star alignment. The manual documents a controller database of over 42,900 objects; that figure describes the controller generation documented in 2013, not a current database count.
#1 Best Overall
- Applicable Model:For Orion SkyQuest XX12g GoTo Dobsonian 2012–2024.
- Materials:Made from durable high-quality materials to help protect your telescope during outdoor storage.
- Protection:Helps reduce sun exposure that may cause fading cracking or premature aging of telescope components.
- Fixing Strap:Strap adjustable drawstring clean closing and prevents wind entering from bottom.
- After-sales service:Should you encounter any issues with this product, I will reply to you within 24 hours.
In his April 2015 review, Steve Ringwood of Astronomy Now reported successful alignment and object finding in his observing sessions, including putting the Moon in the eyepiece on the first aim. He also described the motors as smooth and quiet. Those reports are useful firsthand observations, but they are not a controlled comparison or a promise of results for every setup, sample or user.
What does it weigh, and is it manageable?
The manual lists the assembled optical tube at 47 lb and the base at 89 lb; it gives the tube length as 58.3 inches. The truss design lets the telescope break down for transport, but it does not make the individual sections light. Ringwood likewise identified weight as the main practical drawback and said moving the assembled base was difficult. He suggested planning for transport and considering a trolley or other moving aid.
The manual specifies 12 V DC at 2.1 A, tip positive, and says the system can operate in either hemisphere. Owners therefore need a suitable power source as well as space and a safe way to move the telescope. The sources establish these historical specifications, but do not establish current production, stock, pricing, warranty or support arrangements.
What comes in the box?
The manual’s included-parts list names:
- 28 mm DeepView 2-inch eyepiece
- Illuminated 12.5 mm Plössl eyepiece
- EZ Finder II
- Collimation cap
- XX12g cooling fan
- 1.25-inch eyepiece adapter for the focuser
For a used telescope, check the actual listing and verify that the accessories and structural parts are present; the manual’s list does not confirm what any particular seller has.
Assembly, collimation and stray light
The manual describes a truss-tube design that dismantles for transport. It recommends checking optical collimation each time the tube is assembled, so account for that task in setup time. A collimation cap is listed as included; a laser collimator is an optional precision aid, not a stated requirement.
Rank #2
- Applicable Model:For Orion SkyQuest XX12g GoTo Dobsonian 2012–2024.
- Materials:Made from durable high-quality materials to help protect your telescope during outdoor storage.
- Protection:Helps reduce sun exposure that may cause fading cracking or premature aging of telescope components.
- Fixing Strap:Strap adjustable drawstring clean closing and prevents wind entering from bottom.
- After-sales service:Should you encounter any issues with this product, I will reply to you within 24 hours.
Orion’s manual recommends using a light shroud over the truss section to reduce stray light and dust and help prevent dew. It also recommends transporting the lower tube section upright where possible to reduce stress on the mirror support. These instructions are especially relevant if the telescope will be taken apart and moved regularly.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What did the 2015 reviewer see?
Ringwood reported pleasing lunar and planetary views, strong star images and stable viewing after assembly. His observing notes include lunar craters, Uranus, Neptune, the Pleiades, the Double Cluster and the double star epsilon Lyrae. He found assembly straightforward and described the mount as rigid once tightened. These are observations from one reviewer’s sessions, not controlled test results or a guarantee that another owner will see the same objects or image quality; conditions, alignment, collimation and observer experience matter.
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Is the XX12g worth buying?
The XX12g is most compelling for an observer who wants a large-aperture visual Dobsonian with automated object locating and tracking, and who has a realistic plan for transporting, assembling and powering it. Its 2013 manual and 2015 review describe a substantial, capable instrument, not a lightweight grab-and-go telescope. A prospective buyer should assess the weight of both sections, storage and vehicle access, the work of collimating after assembly, and the completeness and condition of any used example.
The cited material does not establish current availability or a present-day fair price. Historical listings are not a sound basis for judging today’s value: Astronomy Now’s review from 2015 and Astronomy.com’s 2011 product notice reflect prices at those dates, not current offers.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
