Dobsonian telescopes

Azimuth (Dobson)

— like any azimuthal mounts, such systems are not tied to the position of the earth's axis (for more information about such a binding, see p. "equatorial"). The Dobson system differs from the "usual" azimuthal mount in its design. So, the telescope tube in such models is not mounted on a bracket connected to the mount assembly, but on a horizontal axis. This axis provides an up-and-down tilt, and is attached to a vertical support or pair of supports, which, in turn, are placed on a swivel base, which allows you to point the telescope horizontally. This design is well suited for telescopes with mirrors (see "Design"), but it does not make sense to use it in refractors. Except for this, the features of Dobsonian systems are similar to classical azimuthal mounts (see the relevant paragraph).

Note that some consider this option "amateur", but this is not entirely justified: Dobson mounts are found both in the simplest amateur telescopes and in high-end models with electronic auto-guidance systems.