Skywatcher Stargate 18/20"

[geolindon (Lindon)]

G day,
I'm currently travelling north in NE NSW and as I get closer to Astro Pete's my aperture fever is increasing
I live permanently in my van and need a scope that i can pull out n set up in 5/10 mins (easy with my 16"), the 30 mins posted about the Stargates wouldn't cut it. I presume it is 'from the box on delivery' and am hoping that owners have found faster ways to get viewing.
Also would LURVE to try one with my ep's before I splurge the bucks.
thanks, Lindon.
Bundaberg

[gaseous (Patrick)]

A chap on IIS called Rickster has recently bought the 20" Stargate and I asked him about setup times - his response:

"I'd say once familiar with the setup, it should take an average of 20 mins to complete and be ready for viewing. Less if you leave the mirror cradle on the base.
I did this on my own, but would be easier with two people. The base and mirror cradle are quite heavy."

FYI I believe tomorrow may be the last day that AstroPete operates out of his Mt Gravatt store - I believe he's set up shop in the Queen Street Mall as of Saturday (or thereabouts).

[geolindon (Lindon)]

Thanks Patrick