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Congratulations on your purchase of an Orion SkyQuest XXg GoTo Dobsonian. These revolutionary Dobs
combine large-aperture optical performance with state-of-the-art computerized GoTo pointing capabil-
ity. Moreover, these big telescopes were designed by Orion to be remarkably transportable – both their
base and optical tube break down into easily manageable components that can fit into any standard size
vehicle. Setup for an observing session takes just minutes, and the views are spectacular! We know you
will enjoy many years of rewarding observations with your SkyQuest XXg GoTo Truss Dobsonian.
Please read these instructions thoroughly before beginning assembly and subsequent use of the tele-
scope.
1. unpacking
The SkyQuest XX12g is packed in three boxes, one contain-
ing the optical tube assembly (OTA), truss poles, and acces-
sories; a second containing the unassembled Dobsonian
base; and third containing the primary mirror and mirror cell.
The XX14g ships in four boxes, with the truss poles and coun-
terweights contained in a separate box. The XX16g is pack-
aged in five boxes, with the base components divided into two
separate boxes to keep the weight and size of the individual
boxes more manageable.
Before beginning assembly, unpack each box and confirm
that all of the parts in the Parts List below are present. The
parts are listed by the box they should arrive in, but some of
the parts may be in different boxes than indicated below. Be
sure to check all boxes carefully, as some parts are small. If
anything appears to be missing or broken, immediately call
Orion Customer Support (800-676-1343) or email support@
telescope.com for assistance.
WARNING: Never look directly at the Sun through your
telescope or its finder scope – even for an instant – with-
out a professionally made solar filter that completely cov-
ers the front of the instrument, or permanent eye damage
could result. Young children should use this telescope
only with adult supervision.
table of contents
1. Unpacking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
2. Assembly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
3. The GoTo Hand Controller . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
4. Collimating the Optical System . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
5. Using Your Telescope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
6. Specifications. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
