saxon 70mm telescope

[des948@ozemail.]

I have only just started to star hop and I have brought a Saxon 70mm refractor scope.
My problem is that i have been looking into the milky way but it is mostly straight up and i have great dificuty in getting down to look through the eye peice.
Is there a way around this problem or would i need to buy another scope what would be better reflector or cassergrain and what size would i need to start with, I would apreciate any help i can get
Thanks
Des

[Johno]

Des,

Do you have a 'star diagonal'? ie. a device that reflects the light at 90 degrees to the main axis of the scope. It doesn't make the eyepiece any higher but at least you don't have to lie on your back on the ground to look into the eyepiece.

The other thing is of course is to somehow mount the scope/tripod higher when you want to observe objects near the zenith (straight up). Just sit the legs of the tripod on a few bricks or something as solid as possible. The problem with this is to not make the whole show unstable.

...and welcome to the forum! You'll find heaps of very helpfull and experienced people here.

John.

[h0ughy]

DES, your in luck. if you wish to find out more then please attend the Newcastle Astronomical SOciety the last Friday night of this month www.nas.org.au several society members have heaps of different scopes and with a viewing night you can get to see several as well

[janoskiss]

Wecome Des! It does sound like you need a 90-degree star diagonal. Around $40 will buy you a new decent one.

[ving]

hi des, like what everyone else said.... and welcome abaord :)