Big request (possibly not doable?)

[cpoc]

Ok... so I've been thinking a lot lately about getting a dobsonian telescope, price has been a bit of a challenge but I found one at Andrews http://www.andrewscom.com.au/site-section-10.htm that has my interest... it's a 10" but states the the mirror needs recoating... My enquiries locally suggest that I can get it recoated but it would cost me about $425 (this is a quote from (http://www.astronomyalive.com.au)... whereas I believe there is a service available in NSW that could do it for around $295.

So... my question is, would anyone be willing to go to Andrews to see if they can have a look at this telescope and determine if it is worth buying... if it is would they be willing to see if they could remove the primary mirror (to take/post to the recoating group) and have Andrews post the tube to me?

Naturally I would pay for the scope and the recoating and postage (and may be able to spare a few dollars for the trouble). I was quoted $20 postage by Andrews so for me/my proxy to purchase that should be $110 then I guess the recoating at around $295 plus whatever postage cost... would have me spending around $425 (plus maybe another $20/40 to post the mirror)... so total of around $465... does this sound like a reasonable amount to pay for a 10" dob or would I be better off getting something else? Also would someone be willing to do all the running around to help me out?

I currently have an old Tasco telescope that my grandfather had, it's a simple refractor and I'd like to get something bigger (aperture fever I guess) so that I can really explore the night sky. Am I at least thinking the right way in terms of going for a dob with a decent aperture?

[barx1963]

Given that this is probably an old GSO style dob it may have one or more of
- single speed focuser
- old style collimation bolts on primary
- old style alt mounting with springs

as against a new GSO that has
- Dual speed 10:1 Focuser
- Knurled collimation knobs on primary (these make a huge difference)
- adjustable tension and moveable alt axis

When you combine that with the mucking around to get an old mirror recoated, (plus what condition is the secondary in? and will it also need recoating?) and given that Bintel sell 10" mirrors to suit these anyway for $350 (see http://www.bintel.com.au/Accessories/ATM-Supplies/23/catmenu.aspx)
seems like a lot of fiddling around.

I would just buy a brand new one with free shipping from Andrews at $649. Get warranty, all latest improvements and no mucking about.

Unless money is really tight or you like a project!!:)

Malcolm

[cpoc]

barx1963- when I added things up that did occur to me... but money is a bit tight so the $649 would be a bit steep... maybe I'm better off just putting all the funds into an online saver and slowly add to it till I can afford a new 10" as you suggest.

[MrB]

Seconded.
$180 more might sound like a lot at first, but with all the advantages Malcolm points out, worth every cent in my opinion.

[cpoc]

And that would be why I figured I'd come here to float the idea... cut through the sales pitches etc and find out what the people who practice the craft/hobby/science what have you would do... So it looks like I will cool my heals and put the money aside until I can afford a new scope instead.
I presume waiting till I can afford a 10" over a 6 or 8 is a good move though? I'd rather wait a little (lot) longer and get a scope that will give me the nice views I hope for rather than get one that gives me good views... that I feel can be better (within reason).

[rogerco]

You only mention the tube and mirror. Have you also considered the eyepieces that are available. Then there is the finder scope as well. Go to Bintel in Melbourne and have a good look at what you get for $699 compared with the likely dubious refurbished scope you are considering. I made the mistake of buying cheap because I thought that was all I could afford. I have been forking out money ever since.

Also find a local club and have a look at the various sizes, maybe you will find an 8" will give you what you want.

[MrB]

Another thing worth considering, as you are new to the hobby, is impatience.
A scope that you have in your hands but needs work done to it to be usefull, will only be frustrating for you.
A new scope will, for the most part, be ready to use straight out of the box.

[Shark Bait]

Hook up with an Astronomical Society that hires telescopes to members. If you become a member you can try before you buy and have a scope while you get the cash together for your own. It is very low cost to hire. I loaned a scope for three months. It cost $20 and a refundable $50 deposit. :thumbsup:

There will be modest membership fees but the value of being involved in groups like this makes the small annual cost look like a bargain.

Astronomy Australia 2013 lists 11 Societies in Victoria. That must mean there are a few in Melbourne. This link will help you find a local group: http://www.quasarastronomy.com.au/society.htm

[cpoc]

Thanks for the list... nice to be able to see who may be more local for me :)