EQ Mounts

[Tom_88]

Hey Guys,
Just some decision problems.

Im upgrading my 6" Dob to an EQ mounted rig. The question is which mount? The OTA is only about 2.5kg (if that) so weight isnt a real problem.

The budget is about $400 so I was thinking maybe an EQ5? I know the tripods that come with may be "dodgy and unstable" but being a Boilermaker/ Welder I will knock up my own portable Pier or heavy duty tripod.

Mainly for observational use and occasional Lunar/ Planetary photography. I think Celestron have a entry level EQ5?
Any suggestions welcome!

[mldee]

I'd go the EQ5, Andrews also have one for 499 including good steel tripod. You can also later upgrade to motorized drives for it, which would be good for photography.

Tip, you said you have a Dob, so I presume a Newt scope. Think about investing in a <$100 skywatcher motorised focusser if you can, that way you'll eliminate the other major cause of frustration when viewing. Your metalwork skills should make it easy for you to fabricate a bracket for it if you have a non-skywatcher focuser.

Cheers,

[Tom_88]

Thanks heaps, problem solved!:D
I'll have more questions around somewhere lol