Quote:
Originally Posted by Robbos30
Hi Rodstar,
My names Peter,i just noticed your purchasing a 20 inch f/5 sdm telescope from Peter Read vic.I'd just like to let you know from personal experience you have made a wise decision in choosing a vendor to purchase from .Peters workmanship is superb to say the least.I have Peters first commercial scope made SDM number 1, 30 inch f/4.8 dobsonian.I took possession of my baby in September 2005.It a big bugger.Since then i've had the servocat, kendric dew heaters added and all works magnificiently.Peter has an eye for extreme detail and knowing him for over 2 years is a genuine guy who loves the art of atm.BTW he's not paying me to say this.Nothing is too much trouble for him.A rare thing today.
I had a 20inch obsession f/5 from 1997 to mid 2005, and it worked great but the finish on Peters SDM scopes i must admit is superior to obsession in my opinion.They make a very nice scope but on getting my 30inch straight away the finish on Peters is noticably superior.He is also very invative.He adds his personal touch which is nice.Sdm's move very smoothly and Peter personally star tests every scope before he delivers.The 20 inch is an all round deep sky scope.The f/5 focal length produces very little coma so i've never needed a coma corector.You do need a step ladder to reach the eyepiece though.the 20 inch catagory show galaxy structure which is my passion and allows you about 15000 galaxies to view.Most things in the Urametria are visible.Best of all you dont need a 10 foot trailor like mine,it fits into most station wagons.The best i found was the late commodore wagons.It just freely wheeled in and heaps of room for the poles and a ham sandwich.My very best wishes for your future purchase and viewing.You'le fall in love it i'm sure.
Clear skys Peter Robbins.
PS.If you get a chance use the Roles Royce of eyepieces,in my oppinion use the Nagler series and televiews binoviews.A real space walk experience.
Cheers. 
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Peter,
Welcome to the forum. You will find plenty to inspire you here.
15,000 galaxies to view sounds mighty fine to me. Through my 10" scope I have really enjoyed some of the brighter galaxies and planetaries, but I would like a deeper view, and to see more structure with direct vision. I am expecting an awesome experience when I take delivery of 20"!
As for transportation, I have it all sussed. I have an Odyssey (people mover) with fold down seats in the rear, and removable middle row of seats for a clear area with a depth of 1.9m and height of about 90-95cm. That is more than enough room for the 20", which at its highest point (side bearings) reaches approximately 86cm, and to fit in a 1.8m ladder. I just have to organise a ramp!
Your comments about the quality of Peter Read's scopes accords with everything I have heard. He is a quality craftsman, as well as a nice bloke to deal with.
Where do you go observing? One day I would love to sneak a look through your scope!