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Vixen NA140SSf/EQ6 Pro
I purchased the Vixen NA140SSf a few months ago from Astro Optical and can only say it performs brilliantly, at least on star fields and nebulae as I haven't had a chance to observe the moon or planets as yet. In particular, when observing M42, the nebulosity is very apparent and contrasts well. I recall that the trapezium showed perfect pinpoint stars at 100x and the fifth member was well resolved. I wish I could say the same for my 10" LX200.
The OTA weighs in at around 6.5KG and looks like it was made for the EQ6 Pro. With the EQ6/V3 on special recently I thought this would make an ideal combination. It was originally going to be fitted to my HEQ5 Pro however it seems to sit and look better on the EQ6. The focuser is a rack and pinion affair and is very smooth with no apparent lash and can be locked in position. It feels stronger than some Crayfords I've used however it is a shame that no brass compression ring is fitted to hold your eyepieces, only two screws. I replaced the Vixen dovetail with a standard 20cm long dovetail as it wasn't suitable on the EQ6 (OK on the HEQ5). Only one counterweight is needed although if you need to use a camera, large eyepiece etc., you can easily add the other weight which comes with the mount.
When I get time, a full review will be forthcoming and I am sure it will be all positive. A quick pic is shown to give some idea of the OTA on the EQ6.
Cheers, Steve
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