Right, so the first scope wasn't what I would call a success. Note to all beginners - the Chinese and eBay ones really are toys. I think if I can find an F9/150mm Saxon mirror, then I can fix it, but I won't hold my breath for it.
If anyone has a 150mm shorty OTA that is damaged with a good F/9 parabolic mirror, please let me know.
Instead, I have found my new scope, but it will take a little saving...
I was looking for a Newtonian that was truly massive in aperture, so I wouldn't be constantly looking for something with another 2 inches of light gathering power, but instead, I stumbled onto this :
http://www.obsessiontelescopes.com/t.../25/index.html
Now, including the ServoCat, Argo Navis, a few extra bits & bolts here & there, and delivery to Sydney ( I have to collect, or arrange a courier), at today's exchange rates, it comes in at a cool AUD$25000 plus GST and any applicable Duty.
I will be getting one, but the minister for finance says I will need to earn it. I figure I only have about $25000 to go in that case.
I have been going back each day to look at some of the imagery from the scopes in their range, and I am completely blown away by the detail. Have a look through the gallery, and you will see what I mean.
So I guess I will have to borrow light from others for a year or so, while I save. Then I can pay back with some serious light to my light-creditors when it turns up.
I think it resolves down to Magnitude 17.
Any takers on a bulk buy? Maybe we can get the price down for multiple orders ...
Apparently, they do a 30-inch too. Bad news is that you need a small truck to cart it around with. Seriously.