The 8” f5 is to big and heavy for the HEQ5 particularly if you intend to do long exposure AP ( 3 to 10 minute subs ) If you are only going to do short exposures up to 1 minute then the 8” f5 should be OK. If you are buying a second hand HEQ5 then it will be more subject to periodic error so with more weight you just multiply the problem so guiding will struggle a bit , plus add poor seeing conditions and frustration looms
The 8” is more prone to wind than the smaller scope that’s why you would need the bigger mount EQ6-R
Don’t underestimate the 6” f6 it’s a great scope
I bought the 8” f5 to chase after galaxies amongst everything else down at my dark location
3 to 4mm spacers or packers will give you an extra 2 to 3 turns of your focuser , plenty
Here’s some of my images taken this year with the 6” F6 and HEQ5 mount
All the best !!
|