[StephenRH (Stephen)]

I have been following this thread with much interest. Right now, Peter Read, SDM Telescopes is building my 28" f/3.3. Among other factors, it depends on what you observe as to whether a big dob is for you. I observe variables and look forward to getting down to mag 16.5+. Most of the stars I observe are in the South to West quadrant. Because stars move in a westerly direction as the night proceeds, I don't need to look directly overhead. I have a small ladder and may need to go to the second step. But not often.

From what I read above, two of the disadvantages with a big dob are transporting it and the set up time. These are not an issue for me. I have an observatory at my place, about 100 metres up the hill from the house. I won't be moving it around as it will be set up permanently.

One big advantage in getting one made by SDM is that Peter contours it to your specific needs and he is doing just that for me. When it arrives, I will post pictures and give a report.

Stephen Hovell
Pukemaru Observatory
341 Snelgar Road, RD 2
Kaitaia, New Zealand 0482
+173° 20' 07.67" -35° 05' 39.52"