[Paul Haese]

Ok, this is my first chance to have made any real tests of this scope. One thing that bugged me was that when I opened the box and pulled out the OTA I discovered a small scratch about 1 inch long on the carbon fibre. Probably nothing to complain.

Anyway, I have done my first check of the optics. I placed an EP on a diagonal and focused on the tree tops not far from my home at Blackwood. The image when focused is sharp and good detail can be seen in the leaves (veins). The view is very near refractor quality. Certainly promising signs from such a budget OTA. My main purpose here was to see if it would focus. I had read that some of the OTA's reviewed would not focus properly. Given that focus is sharp, this is a step in the right direction.

My next step in testing will be the star test. I will be looking for rough surfaces and turned down edges. Collimation will also be on my list of tests too.

I was going to try tonight but the cloud has moved in unexpectedly and may prevent me testing further at present.

My final test will be imaging, that is expected to take place in the next two weeks, but you never know what the weather is gong to be like.

I will add to this thread as I complete my testing regime.