Skywatcher SynScan Kit for Dobsonian 10 — electronic GoTo controller for Dobsonian telescopes

Skywatcher SynScan Kit for Dobsonian 10 is an electronic GoTo controller designed to add automated pointing and tracking to 10-inch Dobsonian telescopes. The kit provides a built-in database of celestial objects, motorized altitude and azimuth control, and a handheld interface to speed up locating planets, star clusters, nebulae and galaxies. It is intended as an upgrade for visual observers who want faster target acquisition and basic tracking without replacing the Dobsonian mount.

Advantages

The SynScan Kit converts a manual Dobsonian into a semi-automated GoTo system that reduces the time spent star-hopping and improves target centering. The controller’s database and guided alignment procedures simplify setup for users with limited experience in polar or equatorial mounts. Motorized movement in both axes allows short-term tracking suitable for visual observation and basic astrophotography with short exposures. The handheld control offers an intuitive menu and directional keypad for direct slewing and object selection.

Suitable for

• Visual observers upgrading a 10" Dobsonian for easier target finding
• Amateur astronomers who want automated slewing and simple tracking
• Observers focusing on planetary viewing and deep-sky object acquisition
• Users who prefer a handheld controller with an onboard object database

When it may not be suitable

This kit is designed specifically for 10-inch Dobsonian mounts and may not be compatible with other aperture sizes or mount geometries without modification. It provides basic tracking suitable for visual use and short-exposure imaging, but it is not a substitute for a fully motorized equatorial tracking mount required for long-exposure astrophotography.

Key specifications

• Compatibility: designed for 10-inch Dobsonian mounts
• Control type: handheld electronic GoTo controller with keypad and display
• Functionality: automated pointing, slewing and short-term tracking in altitude and azimuth
• Database: onboard catalogue of solar system and deep-sky objects
• Power: external power input for motor drives (check required voltage and connectors)
• Mount hardware: motorized drives and interface hardware adapted to Dobsonian altitude/azimuth axes

How to use

Install the motor drives and interface hardware onto the Dobsonian altitude and azimuth axes following the kit’s mechanical instructions and secure all fastenings. Connect the handheld SynScan controller to the drive electronics and supply appropriate power to the motors. Perform the guided alignment procedure via the controller—typically a simple two- or three-star alignment—to calibrate the system. Use the keypad and menu to select objects from the onboard database or to enter coordinates; the controller will slew the telescope to the chosen target and maintain short-term tracking during visual observation.

What to consider before purchase

• Verify mechanical compatibility with your specific 10" Dobsonian model and whether additional adapters are needed
• Confirm required power source and connector type for the motor drives
• Understand that tracking capability is intended for visual use and short exposures, not long-exposure astrophotography
• Check whether installation requires tools or modifications to the existing mount

Usage recommendations

For best performance, perform alignments on a clear night with visible bright stars and ensure the mount is level. Use firm but not excessive torque on mechanical fittings, and verify cable routing to avoid snagging during slews. For short-exposure imaging, use low-backlash focuser accessories and limit exposure times according to the tracking accuracy.