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Old 26-10-2006, 01:10 AM
jase (Jason)
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Join Date: Sep 2006
Location: Melbourne, Victoria
Posts: 3,916
John
No problems at all, I'm just giving you some thoughts for you to consider. Searching the net, you will find many resources and interesting information on mounts. Matching your OTA focal length and weight with a mounts capabilities is simply the beginning. No single focal length will cover all DSOs. Many astrophotographers will have a telescope for each desired focal length to match the object they wish to shoot. A cheaper alternative is to use a focal reducer or barlow, but purists will continue to have multiple telescopes. Perhaps you'd like a mount capable of operating two large OTAs and a guidescope.

Sounds like you might be moving around a bit to different locations. Portability and setup/teardown times could possibly be a major consideration.

Off-topic - If you do decide on a permanent setup at a remote location, verify broadband internet comms are readily available. Some remote locations with tin shed telephone exchanges are not broadband capable. Satellite maybe an option. I've tried remote focusing and imaging over a 56k line, and it’s near impossible, even when using remote terminal software such as ms term srv or vnc.

Many of the Paramount MEs in use today are for research programs. There are some exceptions. Take for instance Rob Gendler and Russ Croman, professional astrophotographers who obtained grants from RCOS and Bisque. I doubt much came from their individual pockets as they promote the manufactures through their sensational images. Those that have dug deep into their pockets such as Aussie Brad Moore have started a business in selling telescope time so they write the Paramount ME and other equipment off on tax. Many others in the US have done the same. While still privately owned, operating this as a business takes away the fun/hobby. If you are going to invest serious money, make sure it works for you.


I'm sad to say, that I haven't heard of a mount on the market that provides a "turn-key" solution. I'd be happy to be corrected. All mounts need some fine tuning, some more than others. Wouldn't surprise me if the Takahashi EM-3500 valued at A$108,000 (US$82,000) required some tweaks to perform.


Let me know if you have any further questions regarding the Titan. I've been using the mount for approx 18 months.


Certainly, don't rush into anything...
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