C8 SGT vs Nexstar 8SE opinions please

[mickqueensland]

Hi all,

First I would like to say hi to everyone here. :hi:

Just like TheCrazedLog, who also posted a question today regards the C8, I had my mind made up when I noted that the price difference between the two scopes & mounts wasnt that great. I have seen them for ~$2400 & ~$2800 respectively.

I need portability as I will be putting this setup in my 4x4 for trips to the outback (I have roofrack and camper trailer also) but I do not want to skimp on quality and usability. My budget was ~$3000 but could be stretched a touch further if I was pushed.
Astronomy and scopes are new to me, this is my first purchase and first lash at this as a hobby. I want to get the kids interested and it will give us something to do in the evenings when we are "far from the madding crowd" (as TH once said) I have a nice shiny new laptop and I want to use it with the scope and a ccd.

So, what are your expert opinions? Is the slight weight advantage & slightly better light gathering of the 8SE worth the extra $400? Is the Equatorial mount better than the AltAz mount? I will be using the laptop to guide the scop or my newly ordered toy, the Skyscout to point it as well.

I will very much appreciate any and all opions. I have been sifting through this site for a few days now, and found lots of useful handy hints. Thanks for that.

Cheers Mick

[mickqueensland]

Hi Guys,

hasnt anyone seen these two scopes? I am trying to see which one is better value?

cheers
Mick

[Robert9]

Hi Mick,
I have a Nexstar 6SE which I have carried in the back of my Forester with 'van in tow on vast distances through the outback (Across Nulabour and back; Tenant Creek-Mt. Isa; Lighning Ridge etc etc). Its quick and easy to set up, and the GOTO works a treat. On returning home a check on collimation - hasn't budged! I'm very impressed. I can't see why the 8SE should be any different.
Robert

[sheeny]

If you just wan to use your scope for visual stuff, I'd recommend you go with the 8SE, it'll be easier to set up and use and therefore you'll use it more.:)

However, if you ready do want to do some imaging then the C8 SGT is the way to go. No field rotation, but it will take a little bit more time and effort to setup and polar align for AP. A simple compass alignment will suffice for visual work.:thumbsup:

I don't understand the "slightly better light gathering" comment for the 8SE... they are both 8" SCTs we are talking about aren't we?:shrug:

Al.

[mickqueensland]

Hi guys,
thanks for the replies.

Robert, your experience with the 6se sounds just like what I plan to be doing so thats great info. I was wondering about collimation with the gear in the back of the 4x4. I have nice soft suspension and a good case for it, so I think it should be ok.

Sheeny, the slightly better light gathering I got form reading the specs on both scopes and the 8SE has a slightly smaller area of blockage by the secondary mirror. C8 11.4% & 8SE 9.8% area. I reckon you wouldnt notice it. I agree that the primary mirror will be identical though.

I am leaning toward the ease and weight advantage of the 8SE (14.97Kg to 24.72 Kg) even though it is an extra $400.

Cheers n beers
Mick

[mickqueensland]

Price just dropped on the 8SE so price difference is now only $300. :D

me thinks I may purchase one very soon.

[Robert9]

Mick,
If you have a good case for the scope then you should have no problems. I have a 3ply plywood-lined aluminium case which fits the original packing foam. The scope thus fits snugly and travels well in the back of the Suby.
Robert