Orion 80mm guidescope OTA

[cybereye]

Hi!

I'm buying an Orion 80mm guidescope (OTA only) and was wondering if I need an extension tube to achieve focus with my eyepieces (25mm & 10mm plossl) when using it as a travel scope?

Mario

PS I know I should really get a diagonal but the finances will only stretch so far!

[[1ponders]]

Yes you will Mario. I suggest you get the diagonal and forget about the extension. Its just too awkward to view through an extension when you are trying to look at anything remotely in the upward direction

[[1ponders]]

https://www.bintelshop.com.au/Catalog.aspx?Category=telescope%20a ccessories

[cybereye]

Thanks Paul for the advice. I've just realised I've got an extension tube with my camera adapter so I'll give that a go for the time being. I know it'll be a pain in the bot-bot (and neck and back) but as I said, finances!

Cheers,
Mario

[cybereye]

I'm assuming I could also use my Barlow as an extension tube... is this correct?

[[1ponders]]

sure, just screw the front element off and don't slide it all the way in. Whether it will be long enough? :shrug: Won't know unless you give it a go.

[toryglen-boy]

yeah, you can. i have done this with one of my Orion ST80's


;)

[cybereye]

Paul,

I've taken your advice and bought a diagonal to go with the Orion ST80. I had no problem with the setup as it was except for the odd angle I had to get my body into to view any higher than the horizon!

I think the clincher was when my wife came out to say goodnight on Wednesday night (the only clearish night we've had here in Brisbane for about a month) and found me kneeling in the mud looking at the Moon! She suggested there had to be a better way and hence the diagonal!!

Thanks once again to you and Duncan for your help,

Cheers,
Mario