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View Full Version here: : Still not sure of what I want???


DJ N
27-09-2006, 11:10 AM
Hi all,

The more I have been researching and visiting ‘star parties’, the more confusing it is becoming.

I have made the decision that I am getting rid of the 10” dob and looking at replacing it with an 8” SCT (shock horror – going down in aperture). I have really made up my mind that I do want go-to, tracking and improved portability. I initially considered Argo Navis for the dob, but just can’t get the dob to fit in the car together with my darling 4 year old and her booster seat (hence the reason for improved portability – and I just can’t bring myself to give away my little princess - ;) LOL).

Anyhow, I initially was very interested in the LX90, but now that I have managed to take a couple of shots of the moon with the dob, I now foresee that I would like the capability of a bit of astrophotography therefore I am now considering a GEM (in addition this would allow for other OTAs down the track). One I have been looking into is the C8 – SGT (downside is the CG5 does not have PEC). Alternatively I am considering purchasing an 8” SCT OTA and the HEQ5 Pro mount (but I suppose it would be better to wait for version 3 hand controller, assuming it would be available on the HEQ5).

Any thoughts (HELP!)

From a budgetary point of view, I was thinking around the 3k mark (give or take).

Cheers,

Daniel

wavelandscott
27-09-2006, 12:14 PM
While I can't offer advice with the SCT choices, I do want to reinforce/endorse your thought process...

The right scope for you is the one that you will use...by trying a variety of scopes (including your current one) you are in a better position to make an "informed" selection. Good Job!...

Also, I too think it is a good idea to "keep your child" :D ...

ving
27-09-2006, 12:19 PM
you are right not getting the cg5, its a eq5 with goto and wont be strong enough for yours scope and astrophotography.

ps. you could get roof racks for your daughter ;)
i dont recomend this tho :P

h0ughy
27-09-2006, 01:05 PM
simple EQ6 with the new v3 hand controller coming out in december(don't hold me to that just wanting to start vicious rumours), with a meade 8"SCT (mirror lock) and scope rings piggy back mounting plate for putting and ed80 on top for later. look to this as an example

DJ N
27-09-2006, 01:21 PM
h0ughy I think I will need one of those jump starters once my wife realises the path that I want to follow!!

Lee
27-09-2006, 02:24 PM
Have you got enough battery packs there Houghy? :P

h0ughy
27-09-2006, 02:54 PM
One is never enough, two is comfortable but 4 is wonderful - no dew, drive scope, make martinis, save the world and ionise the atmosphere - especially for all nighters over a few days. :thumbsup:

DJ N
28-09-2006, 01:30 PM
Quick query........not sure who actually supplies Meade OTA's. Couple of place here in Adelaide that do Celestron, but does anyone knowwho does Meade OTA specifically???

Cheers

h0ughy
28-09-2006, 02:21 PM
bintel, astro optical, star optics,