Argo Navis, worth the purchase?

[MattyD]

G'day Everyone!

I was contemplating furthering my range of toys, and have seriously considered a push-to computer for my dob. I have had my dob for over a year now and don't mind the hunt, but I suppose I feel I have much to learn about where objects are in the sky from this kind of computer (not really into the go-to).

I have read many a rave review about the Argo Navis, however I felt it would be wrong to take the plunge (they are pricey) without first consulting the estemmed forum folks.

Perhaps does someone have, had, or used an Argo Navis on a Dob mount? Open to recommendations on other dob push-to computer setups.

Cheers.

[Vermin]

Absolutely worth it.

[Starkler]

If you like DSO's , it is the single best investment one can make on their dobsonian.

When Iceman asked about DSC's thats what I told him and now that he has one, he wholeheartedly agrees.

You will see soooooo many more objects in a nights viewing with one.

[RB]

The Argo Navis is superb.
I've seen it in use, have used it myself on other people's scopes and now have one myself.
I have yet to mount the unit to my mount because I don't have the encoders yet but it won't be long.

In my opinion you will not find a better Digital Telescope Computer on the market.
The newest version has a host of new features that make it stand out and it will give the DOB a whole new dimension of functionality.

Well worth it.

[Starkler]

On the surface it sounds expensive in comparison to the scope, but when you consider that for under 2k you will have a scope that can find and see everything that a 10" LX200 can (at about 5k cost) , its not so expensive after all.

[spacezebra]

Hi there Matty D

As soon as the Argo encoders are ready for the Lightbridge - that's what I'll be heading for;) . I agree, I have seen them in action at SPS14 and see the value. In the interim - just getting to know the sky is keeping me busy.

Cheers Petra

[[1ponders]]

I'm not using a dob but I have them on my Losmandy mount rather than the Gemini System that would normally go on a Losmandy mount. Worth every penny. Plus you are supporting a home grown industry. :thumbsup:

[Dave47tuc]

In a word "YES"

[iceman]

Yes, it's worth it. Any DSC is worth it, but ArgoNavis is the best. It has many more features and functions that the others don't, it's regularly updated, the support is 1st class (just check out their yahoo group), it's a locally designed and made product and Gary Kopff (and Mai Tran) are huge supporters of amateur astronomy in this country.

Gary is a member of this forum (member name "gary"), and while the guidelines say he can't talk sales speak on the forum, if you have any technical questions he's always more than willing to help you out.

I've got SkyCommander DSC's, and it was the best investment I've made for visual observing on my 10" dob. I'm planning to upgrade to ArgoNavis when I can afford it - it'll plug straight into my existing encoders.

[MattyD]

WOW! I only made that post before I left work and came home to find numerous replies! Thanks everyone for your input.

It's now on the list! ;)

Ive read so much about how great it is, and knew that it was made locally.
Your replies have sealed it for me.

Now all i need to do is to get out there and use my scope more and more. (Ahh life!! Gets in the way). Anyway i'm off to check out the clear sky, hope the seeing is good.
Thanks again!

[Miaplacidus]

Summer nights are short. Winter nights are cold. Observing lists just keep getting longer...

A digital telescope computer is the best accessory you can buy.
The Argo Navis is the best digital telescope computer on the market.

(Keep repeating this mantra as you hand over the money.)

[danielsun]

I'll throw in my 2 bobs worth.
An Argo Navis would be the one of the best investments you could make on your scope!!
If you go MODE IDENTIFY it tells you a detailed description of what your looking at, or if you need to find an object use MODE CATALOGUE.
Just two of many features. Or you can tour a constellation and find anything you want.
Very easy to set up and use and the service that Gary provides is spot on. :thumbsup:

[Photon]

Hi MattyD, I fitted an Argo Navis to my 8" GS Dob 2 months ago and like the other replies have mentioned its a great device and has added a new dimension to my viewing. The support from Gary Kopff is amazing, he replies promptly to emails, and is helping me with a specially modified pivot bolt for the azimuth encoder due to having a 'lazy susan' bearing on my Dob. I suppose some of us should present some pictures of how we have mounted the unit on our Dob bases! Thoroughly recommended.

[wavelandscott]

Double Ditto the positive comments...if you are serious about this hobby it is worth it...

[barees63]

I love my Argo Navis to bits.. the accuracy even with my bumpy un-modded dob base is just astounding, I'm certain I would have lost interest without it..

[Miaplacidus]

This is getting a bit ridiculous, people. Hasn't anyone got anything bad to say about the AN????

[iceman]

I didn't win it at Lostock!

mumble mumble Rocket Boy mumble grumbe :evil:

[ving]

go for it... yeah hunting is great but there are times that i wish i had dsc :)
lots of times actually :)

[[1ponders]]

I think this is enough discussion about AN. Gary has a big enough smile normally without all this gratuitous advertising of his product:lol:

[gary]

We very much appreciate everyone's support.

Best Regards

Gary Kopff/Mai Tran
Wildcard Innovations Pty. Ltd.
20 Kilmory Place
Mount Kuring-Gai NSW 2080
Australia
Phone +61-2-9457-9049
Fax +61-2-9457-9593
sales@wildcard-innovations.com.au
http://www.wildcard-innovations.com.au

[ving]

lol!
wait till you get the bill gary :P

[vespine]

Hi Gary.

I didn't have to do much searching around to learn how great your Argo Navis is. Gives me (and I'm sure a lot of others) a little sense of patriotic pride to come across not just a world class product, but a world leading product such as your unit, completely produced in Australia!

So my question is, can you share any inside news as to how the Light Bridge Mounting Hardware kit is coming along? :)

[gary]

Thanks for your kind comments which we do appreciate.

Indeed, we're proud to say that Argo Navis is designed and manufactured in Australia
and is exported the world over. Suffice to say, we have a lot of world-leading
expertise right here in Sydney regarding DTC/DSC systems.

The LightBridge Mounting Hardware kits are well into development.
One of our independent kit suppliers also has a kit in a very advanced stage for
the 12" LightBridge, with 10" and 8" solutions in the pipeline.
So LightBridge owners may have some alternative solutions to consider. The same
supplier has also announced to us today that light shrouds for the LightBridge
will also be available. We will provide more information as it comes to hand.

We wish a great weekend to all IceInSpace forum members.

Best Regards

Gary Kopff
Managing Director
Wildcard Innovations Pty. Ltd.
20 Kilmory Place
Mount Kuring-Gai NSW 2080
Australia
Phone +61-2-9457-9049
Fax +61-2-9457-9593
sales@wildcard-innovations.com.au
http://www.wildcard-innovations.com.au

[spacezebra]

My question too - I heard a whisper that the encoders would be ready June 06 - so my savings are on target, as long as no other tempting goodies come along.;)

Cheers Petra

[gary]

Thanks David :)

Well, with such wonderful support from all you great people here,
I certainly don't think even high-flying Manhattan advertising executives
could come up with copy as flattering as was posted above. Thank you.

We might have to put you all on payroll if this keep up!

Best Regrads

Gary

[gary]

Hi Petra,

Hope you have been well. We probably posted at the same time, so
please see above for an update on the LightBridge.

Have a great weekend.

Best Regards

Gary