Back with questions

[Aces High]

Hello everyone, it's been a while since I was here, my hobby took a down turn over the last few years due to poor health. I'm back, at least in spirit anyway. LOL

Ive gone from the world of reflectors to the world of refractors. I never got into the astro photography I planned a few years ago. If my health holds I may try my luck this year.

I now own a Skywatcher 80ED and the 100ED but I have a few issues and need to ask if there are any refractors gurus around these days. Or if you own a 100ED and know it backwards so to speak. :)


So a hello to all and as Arnie says, "Ill be back!" :) to stay I hope.

[Stonius]

I'm sure there are heaps here. What are your issues?

[Aces High]

The mount I want to buy for astrophotography is the Skywatcher GoTo HEQ5 pro with the steel legs. But so many friends insist its a over kill and the new Goto EQM35 or a EQ5 or 3 would be fine.

with a 80Ed all ok
With the 100ED not so sure.
With a heavier 8" 200mm short tube reflector , a worry.

The other question about my 100EDs health would be better via a personal message.

[casstony]

I'd say the HEQ5 is competent rather than overkill; if you can handle the weight it's the safe option. I'd be wary of the lesser Skywatcher mounts trying to do AP with a 500mm focal length.

[glend]

The HEQ5 would be ok. And don't skimp spending on your mount, it is an investment.
Btw, the 100ED is ok, even though it is a Doublet objective, it did use FPL-53 glass I believe, so it is ok for colour correction. Not as great as a FPL-53 triplet but ok, imho, especially to start out with. Have fun.

[Ukastronomer]

https://www.firstlightoptics.com/user/Sky-Watcher_EQM-35_review_Sky_at_NightReview.pdf

I had both the scopes you now have, they are VERY good scopes

In fact I re bought the 72ED for my solar work