Quote:
Originally Posted by bigbod
So I've had a chance to put it together now and overall I'm pretty impressed. Build quality is solid... pretty much what you'd expect from Celestron for this level of scope. I wont dwell on features, as the instruction manual is available from download from Celestron's website for anyone interested.
The tripod is solid, whilst not being as rock solid as what I'm used to (Deluxe CPC 800, 1100). I think it will be sufficient for this scope's main purpose - visuals. Note that the OTA appears to be Fastar compatible, something which I had not noticed on Celestron's website for the 8.
Setup was straight-forward, and connection to an iPad Air using Direct Connect mode WiFi using SkyPortal went without any hitches (I haven't tried Access Point mode). The Evo does come with a NexStar+ hand controller.
The drive motors are a little noisy, but it's all relative. Perhaps noisier than the CPC fork drives, but way less noisy than my Meade DSM mount for my Coronado PST.
All in all, I'm very pleased. I cant wait to get it outside, but alas that wont be tonight as it's bucketing down in Newcastle.
I've had a few PMs asking how much it cost. Without being supplier specific, it cost US$1599 + US$305 shipping (UPS) + A$270 (Customs). So around A$2320. Ordered on Monday, arrived today.
Few photos attached.
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Hi bigbod,
Just bought an Evolution 8" from US and awaiting arrival next week.
Are you still happy with yours? I'm new to this forum and new to Astronomy
