FLO

Looking at our sales of 10" and 12" models, they will probably also have sold out in around 1-2x weeks.

Sorry about that. During these extraordinary times we were unable to source more of the 16" model. Our website product page currently says 90-120x working days (approx 4-6x months) but I suspect more will arrive in around four months. All other models are currently in stock 🙂

Yes 🙂

Sky-Watcher's UK distributor hasn't mentioned any upgrades and we are unable to speak directly with Synta (Sky-Watcher's parent company).

Yes, the the telescope can be moved forwards and backwards for balance. This photo shows the mechanism.

I know you are a big fan of Bresser Messier Dobsonian telescopes (we stock those too). Bresser Dobsonians have a single-speed R&P focuser (a dual-speed upgrade kit is available separately). StellaLyra Dobsonians (8" and larger) are fitted with a dual-speed Crayford focuser (no need for an upgrade kit). I would not say one is "better" than the other but as a visual astronomer I prefer dual-speed Crayford focusers for their smoother more precise focus action and no image shift. If I were an astrophotographer or intended fitting a heavy DSLR camera, I might think differently. Regarding "proper big alt bearings" vs GSO's CNC-machined metal plates with tension adjustment. Surely that too is personal preference. Bresser Dobsonians include a 6x30 Finder Scope, a 1.25" 25mm SPL eyepiece and a solar filter. StellaLyra Dobsonians (8" upwards) include a larger 8x50 Right-Angled Correct Image finderscope, 1.25" 9mm Plössl and 2" 30mm SuperView eyepieces. Bresser Dobsonians have tube-rings so it is easier to remove the OTA then fit it to a GEQ mount, though I am not sure how many will choose to do that. And their base is assembled using furniture fasteners so can be disassembled for transport, but again I am not sure how many will want to do that (my Dob base fits the car boot fully assembled and the OTA across the backseat). Both are good Dobsonian telescopes. We stock both 🙂 Steve

They have chosen a regular straight finderscope for theirs (the StellaLyra model has a Right-Angle Correct Image finderscope).

I will be surprised if at least one NA retailer is not selling the same (a different brand and probably some minor spec' differences). If not then we will happily ship to the US.

They are genuine carbon-fibre 🙂

No discounts but every telescope includes our eternal gratitude, free of charge 🤗 Steve

Eek! That one is corrected too 🙂 If you notice any others please say.

Oops 🙃 Typo has been corrected. Thank-you 🙂

When properly tensioned the 2" Crayford focusers will carry most DSLR cameras without slipping but it is important to note Dobsonian telescopes are designed primarily for visual astronomy. Telescopes designed for astrophotography tend to have R&P focusers (compared to Crayford focusers, most comparable R&P focusers lack finesse but have higher load bearing capacity). All StellaLyra Dobsonians have black anodised CNC-machined (not cast metal) focusers. Even the most affordable 6" model. The 2" focusers fitted to larger models also have 1:10 dual-speed focus mechanisms. HTH

The StellaLyra 6" Dobsonian is the smallest in the series and most affordable. Though less glamorous than its sisters (we have focused on traditional design and affordability) it still features an f8 parabolic mirror set with only 22% secondary obstruction and a CNC-machined Crayford focuser with brass compression ring. So it performs very well where it matters. We predict around Christmas time this will be the bestseller.

Watch this space.... 😉

StellaLyra 16" Dobsonian. The largest in the range 🙂

These new (to the UK) StellaLyra Dobsonian telescopes are designed and manufactured to a very high standard by Guan Sheng Optical (GSO) in Taiwan. Considering their price, performance, design and specification, we believe they are the BEST Dobsonian telescopes on the market 🙂 Photos below show the StellaLyra 12" Dobsonian. 6", 8", 10" & 16" models are also available.

You don't need to believe us Louis. It is okay. VAT doesn't affect you in the US 🙂 Steve

I promise you here in the UK we are very aware VAT is included in almost all B-C retail prices. It is common knowledge. If the rate changed by even half of one percent it would be headline news. Steve

No. They are not.

Oh my! It has been a while since we had a discussion like this one at SGL. A US retailer too. Our price for the Tele Vue Nagler 31 is £595 (£495.83 excl VAT / approx $687). If you see a higher price please refresh your web browser. For our customers outside the UK our website automatically removes VAT. Our Tele Vue prices are based on US retail prices plus the true cost of importing. For this reason our prices vary over time (depends largely on the $-£ currency exchange rate). If at any time you notice a significant discrepancy between our Tele Vue retail prices and US $ prices (remember to allow for tax) please email us. HTH

One Sky-Watcher Heavy Duty Tripod for Sky-Tee, HEQ5, EQ5. Customer Return Customer ordered the wrong version. All present, correct and A-OK but scruffy packaging. Full manufacturers warranty. £135.00 £121.00 (saving £14.00)

One William Optics 50mm Right Angle Correct Image Finder 50mm Right Angled Finder in Space Gray. Ex Demo Ex demo, Boxed in perfect condition. Full manufacturers warranty. £160.00 £144.00 (saving £16.00)

One Astro Essentials 9x50 Right-Angled, Erecting Finderscope. Open Box Ex demo, open box. Good condition. Full manufacturers warranty. £59.00 £53.00 (saving £6.00)

One StellaMira 2" 90º Erecting Prism Diagonal. Ex Demo Ex demo, Boxed in perfect condition. Full manufacturers warranty. £159.00 £143.00 (saving £16.00)