hi all -
we want casual, shallow sky observing of the planets and interesting periodic things like comets as a fun way for the family to get together and for camping trips, so the scope needs to be rather portable (grab n go). we currently have 10x50 binoculars but want more! i figure this scope is like 100x80 so its a reasonable upgrade.
i was sold on an 8" dob though - but have come to the conclusion the zenithstar is the scope for us (it is now a joint purchase with a relative who will take it bush a few times a year - and when thinking seriously we also need portability). does the zenithstar have decent aperture/resolving power for viewing and not just a massive camera lens?
im happy to spend more on this if it better suits our needs, but not if it needs a camera.
we have a solid video tripod already, so with a diagonal and a couple of eyepieces we would be underway. i like the idea of spending most of the budget on a quality OTA and then adding other quality parts over time like EP's, barlows and a mount.
incidentally, can you use any diagonal with this scope or do i have to buy the williams optics one? otherwise id be tempted to get a GSO one to begin with. we could just get an extender tube but i bet we would regret not getting a diagonal
thanks for reading
cheers
Mark
P.S. i know dob vs. small refractor is apples and oranges - like in a camera forum comparing SLR and point-and-shoot - but both have their benefits and weaknesses!