Mount

[Visionary]

The Grand Plan was to build an Observatory, it's contingent upon half a dozen other plans coming together. In truth an Ob is a fast retreating possibility. This combined with my alarming reduction in visual function, well I am questioning the merits of an Ob and the consumption of scarce $ in building an Ob.
My question is this.... what's the best value and most reliable mount EQ under $2,500? Ideally I would like the mount to operate as both an EQ and Altaz in addition something on a pier type mount would suit me best.
What are your thoughts?
Given the combination, I think I maybe forced onto the New rather than 2nd hand market.

David

[glend]

The Skywatcher AzEq6 would be the obvious choice and just fits your budget but if your thinking a lighter payload capacity the AzEQ5 is available. Eithrr can sit on a pier if required. My NEQ6 sits on a pier mostly and you can still use the tripod for field use.

As someone who has visual problems I can suggest that imaging can be very rewarding and keep you involved. If your going to eventually wind up imaging the NEQ6pro might be a better choice for a mount and save a little money up front.

[Visionary]

Glen, thanks for that, it vindicates my thinking. Cheers

[ZeroID]

Same thing here with eyes. Visually it's almost but not quite a waste of time, floaters and lens damage so imaging is my option. I don't bother with AZ and it is all set up in the Ob. Don't rule the Ob idea out if you can do it as it maximises your use of your gear. I can be functional in 10 mins max and grab an hour or so then shut down and retire to bed. If I was setting up each time I think I would probably get only about 10% of the use I get with my tinshed Ob. I admire these folks who setup night after night, too hard for me these days. The Ob is brilliant. Keep it simple, keep it cheap.

[Thacphan]

I used to have the AZEQ6 . It is bell driven so very smooth. It could carry 15 kg easily. I think this mount is very good value for money
Good Lucy
Tom

[DavidLJ]

Love of Astro + failing eyesight = imaging
Imaging requires good, reliable equipment + consistent setup which indicates permanent mounting
Permanent mounting is best housed in an observatory
Observatory allows on-site control of camera, telescope, etc. etc. via a dedicated laptop
Laptop + electronic link to Home computer (say via TeamViewer) = comfort
Comfort increases the chances of obtaining decent results
Decent results reinforce love of Astro.

If you can afford it, definitely go the imaging route via an observatory.

[Atmos]

:thumbsup::thumbsup::thumbsup:
Wish I was at this point now!

[ChrisV]

Another approach ?

I don't have failing eyes, but I get a sore back etc from peering down an eyepiece. So I've gone video astronomy, or as some say "electronically assisted astronomy". Instant (well within a few secs to a minute or so depending on what you are looking at) colour images, all on a small portable monitor. Or if you want a little bit of on-th-efly processing on a laptop. All from the comfort of inside - or pass the monitor around the scope.

I'll never touch an eyepiece again ! See
http://ballaratman.wix.com/videoastronomy

Cheers, Chris