Quote:
Originally Posted by Allan_L
Firstly, just to be clear, the Newtonian reflector is the same scope as a Dobsonian.
The only difference generally is the way it attaches to a mount.
The Dobsonian base is the alt az mount system for a Newtonian.
Don't get an equatorial mount - you will regret it. These are only really good for Astro photography. (IMHO)
Did you see a collapsible DOB? Doesn't sound like it. This seriously eases the BIG and storage problem as discussed earlier.
If you really don't want a dob base, then maybe an SCT on an alt az mount may suit you better. They are compact and the tripod folds. Something like an 6SE or better still a CPC may be what you are after, but they are much more costly for the convenience.
Again, suggest you get to an observing session.
If you are north shore Mangrove mountain is pretty close.
Do you have access to a car?
I have had 6" and 8" Newtonians on EQ mounts.
Then upgraded to a goto EQ5.
Then an 9.25 SCT on EQ mount.
Then CPC1100 (11" SCT on integrated goto Alt az)
Then 10" DOB collapsible
and now 12" DOB collapsible goto.
Plus several other smaller scopes along the way so I can speak from experience.
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my first scope about 14 years ago was a 6" reflector on an equatorial mount like you have mentioned.
I would not recommend this, and I would go as far as go with Allan and suggest a collapsible 8" dob. it is possible to get these with a goto function also at extra cost. if you can afford the goto I would highly recommend it. eq mounts are really only useful for photography and you won't be able to do that with those particular versions.
I notice bintel's website has had many of their goto dobs and collapsible dobs shown as 'sold out' for many months
http://www.bintel.com.au/Telescopes/...3/catmenu.aspx which is a shame.
here are a couple of examples
collapsible 8" truss
http://www.myastroshop.com.au/produc...sp?id=MAS-041E
goto version
http://www.myastroshop.com.au/produc...sp?id=MAS-041J
also available from Andrews
http://www.andrewscom.com.au/optical-telescopes
all the best
Russ