What is HandyDob?
日本語
한국어
HandyDob6 is now available in limited quantities on Amazon US.
- Amazon US: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FG7NT9LX
🔧 HandyDob6 Quality Notice (Feb 13–16 Amazon US Orders)
We have identified a potential issue affecting a small number of HandyDob6 units from a specific production batch sold through Amazon US between February 13 and February 16.
If you purchased your HandyDob6 during this period, we kindly ask you to review the detailed notice below and check whether your unit may be affected. If necessary, we will promptly provide a corrected replacement part at no cost.
Before You Buy
This telescope is not a toy. To use it properly, you need to know the basics of how to collimate a Dobsonian telescope. Unlike refractors or binoculars, Dobsonian telescopes require collimation tools such as a Cheshire eyepiece or a laser collimator to align the optics. Collimation tools and eyepieces are not included with this telescope package.
The mirror used in this telescope is a parabolic mirror. It is not a premium mirror, but its performance is quite respectable. With proper collimation and once the mirror has cooled down, it will show you a beautiful night sky. (For reference, premium mirrors alone often cost nearly as much as an entire telescope.)
The telescope and accessories shown in photos or videos may differ slightly from the actual product. These differences result from improvements in components or ongoing product enhancements, and we assure you that such changes are part of our continuous efforts to improve quality.
The frame of this telescope is produced using an FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) 3D printer. FDM is a 3D printing technology that builds objects layer by layer by melting plastic filament. Due to the nature of FDM printing, visible layer lines will appear, unlike injection-molded plastic. Some people may find this acceptable, while others may not.
Additionally, some parts and assembly processes are hand-finished, which means there may be slight tolerances or minor variations compared to products manufactured entirely through automated processes.
For these reasons, we strongly recommend reviewing the photos and videos of the product thoroughly before making your purchase.
What is HandyDob?
HandyDob is a combination of “Handy” and “Dobsonian”—a lightweight portable Dobsonian telescope designed for maximum portability and ease of assembly. Unlike traditional large and heavy Dobsonian telescopes, HandyDob uses 3D printing technology to create a light yet durable frame that can be quickly assembled and disassembled by anyone. The HandyDob6 uses a 6-inch (150mm) primary mirror, capable of observing the Moon, planets, star clusters, and galaxies. It fits in a 17-inch travel bag, making it perfect for stargazing anytime, anywhere.
🌌 Jupiter Through HandyDob6 — Shot on iPhone (Captured by User)
Captured and shared by a HandyDob6 customer during a camping trip.
- Setup: HandyDob 6" Dobsonian · TMB 2.5mm · iPhone 16 (Afocal)
- Location: Goryeong, South Korea · Bortle 4.9 skies
HandyDob6 – 6-inch Ultra Light Travel Dobsonian
Specifications
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Travel Dobsonian Telescope |
| Aperture | 150mm (parabolic mirror, protective coating) |
| Mirror Precision | PV 1/4 λ or better (manufacturer specification: PV 1/6–1/8 λ) |
| Focal Length | 750mm |
| F-ratio (F) | 5 |
| Secondary Mirror | 38mm (with heater, protective coating) *The secondary mirror holder is compatible with a Antares Optics 1.52" minor axis secondary mirror. |
| Focuser | 1.25" CNC machined, precision bearing slide, 35mm travel |
| Finder | Red dot finder |
| Body Size | 250mm x 280mm x 110mm |
| Body Weight | 4.2kg |
| Bag Size (17-inch) | 400mm x 300mm x 180mm (excluding handle) |
| Total Weight with Bag | 7.8kg (with all accessories) |
| Focuser Height After Assembly | 745mm (from floor pointing at zenith) |
Features
- 3D printed portable Dobsonian telescope
- Full body: High-quality PETG-CF (carbon fiber infused)
- Primary/Secondary mirror covers and clips made from PETG
- All components fit into the travel bag including truss poles
- Carry-on size for air travel
- Passes airline checks with just a mini hex wrench set
- Fast and simple assembly/disassembly
- Minimal bolts (9 total)
- Primary mirror:
- Accepts up to 153mm diameter
- Position adjustable with 3 knobs
- Magnetic detachable mirror cover with handle
- Secondary mirror:
- Built-in heater and magnetic USB connection
- Comes with protective cover and dedicated case
- Magnetic holder and position guide
- Focuser:
- CNC aluminum alloy with precision bearing slide
- 35mm travel and sag-resistant design
- Truss poles:
- Maintain stable center of gravity
- Supports heavy eyepieces and smartphones
- Counterweight and balance:
- Magnetic 220g weight and elastic bands
- Altitude lock pin (5° fixed)
- 3/8" camera tripod compatible (an astronomical tripod such as the Photoclam Astro Tripod or TC40 is recommended).
- Includes detachable dot finder and light hood
- Rubber feet with leveling capability
- Visual assembly guide arrows
- Cooling fan: 40mm dual ball bearing, magnetic, USB 5V
- Built-in bubble level
Full Package Contents
- Telescope body (top/bottom case, mirror box, mirror cell, upper cage)
- Detachable 1.25" focuser
- Truss poles (16 total, 8 used during setup)
- 2 side bearings & 2 crossbars
- Secondary mirror with holder, cover, and case
- Magnetic primary mirror cover with handle
- USB magnetic heater cable for secondary
- On/Off USB switch for heater
- Focuser stabilizer bracket
- 4 vibration dampening brackets for truss poles
- Magnetic cooling fan
- 7 velvet pouches (1 for bearings, 1 for poles, 5 general)
- Mini hex wrench set (1.5–4mm)
- 220g magnetic counterweight
- 2 balance bands
- 17-inch travel bag
Origin
- Frame production and assembly: South Korea
- Main components: China
- Made in Korea (Body 3D Printed and Assembled in Korea, Parts made in China)
Support & Warranty
- 1-year warranty (user damage not covered)
- HandyDob6 travel bag is excluded from warranty
- Technical inquiries: [email protected]
- A/S Requests:
🎬 YouTube Review
Review by Ed Ting - There’s an Entire 6" f/5 Truss Dob in This Case. The Cool Factor is Through the Roof
Review by ByeolMasil TV – Unboxing & Introduction
Review by ByeolMasil TV – How to Assemble HandyDob6
🎬 Demo Videos
Full Motion Demo – Balance & Center of Gravity
HandyDob6 User Manual
HandyDob Gallery
Where to Buy HandyDob
Where can I find reviews of your products?
Our products are already well received in South Korea, with a large number of units sold through local astronomy communities and online marketplaces. We continue to receive high ratings and positive feedback from users. You can check customer reviews and product details on our Korean online store:
- Naver Smart Store: https://smartstore.naver.com/builtastro
- Amazon US: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FG7NT9LX
Have you heard of Push-To Air, the wireless encoder system for Dobsonian and Alt-Azimuth mounts?
