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Old 08-11-2006, 12:48 AM
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Gargoyle_Steve (Steve)
Space Explorer

Gargoyle_Steve is offline
 
Join Date: Mar 2006
Location: Caloundra, Sunshine Coast, Australia
Posts: 1,571
Well having owned a 10" dob for the last 7 months I can definitely recommend the Orion Stratus (price under $200 if you shop around) or the near identical Baader Hyperion range (about $210 to $260) - both "brands" come in the exact same sizes (3.5, 5, 8, 13, 17, 21) but I would recommend the 13mm as a great all round size and VERY useful! These ep's have a 68° apparent field of view, which is somewhat wider than a normal plossl. They represent very good quality at the price and there is little that compare with them at any similar price. (and if you read my sig down below you'll see I own 3 of the various sizes : 8mm, 13mm and 17mm)

As a recent beginner myself I would also suggest something very wide field, in order to help you find objects, and also to give a nice "wide field" perspective which is sometimes essential to really appreciate ertain nebulae, clusters, etc. I have a "cheapy" 30mm 80° Ultra Wide Angle (2" barrel) eyepiece but you may find you get some kind of 30, 32mm wide angle ep with your scope, in which case that will probably keep you going for some time.

Good luck with your new scope anyway, and if you feel like meeting a bunch of us in the Sunshine Coast hinterland for a viewing night, and a test out of some ep's, etc, before buying come along to a night at AstroRons place near Kenilworth (see here for details, and here for the map) ... next night is next new moon, Saturday 18th November. You'd be more than welcome I assure you and people often do come along from various parts of Brisbane as well as the Coast, and there's room to stay overnight if you want.


Cheers!

Steve
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