Quote:
Originally Posted by thegableguy
If it's the same US forum I tried at first, I had a similar experience; when I suggested I wanted to go from an 8" Dobsonian to the exact imaging rig you're suggesting, ie the one I have now, ie 8" f/5, everyone leapt down my throat and told me it's WAY harder than I think and that basically there was absolutely zero chance I would have any success ever. There were a few more friendly & helpful people, but they seemed to be the exception rather than the rule - the opposite of IIS!
Totally get it about wanting an all-rounder. I started with a Dob so knew the small frac would be a big step down, but only a temporary one. If you're patient, know your way around Google and enjoy problem solving, there's no reason you won't have a lot of success fairly quickly.
Re 800mm vs 1000mm, yep - shorter focal length is more forgiving, which is why a 600mm frac is usually where most people start. However you'll be getting considerably more light than an ED80 so it's actually a fantastic place to begin. You may miss the extra focal length, but that's what upgrades are for!!
Be in no doubt - no matter how well you choose your first telescope, it's absolutely 100% guaranteed to not be your last...
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Thanks Chris. Certainly sounds like the same US forum.
I'm now sold on dropping down to an 8". I understand I'm not making it easy but I love a challenge and enjoy problem solving so it should eventually work out.