[DJ N]

I am close to ordering myself a visual scope, and basically the choice is coming down to either a 10 inch or 12 inch dob. My question is, has anyone owned both of these scopes at any time, and are they able to provide input to whether there a significant difference in what you can see between the two. I know in theory, the 12 inch is capturing 1.44x the light, however I understand that you need to double the effective light gathering area to see a significant difference.

I have come up with a bit of a check list between the two to help me in aid in making a decision, but it isn’t really helping me. I am concerned that if I get the 10 inch, I will be always wondering why I did not go for the 12 inch.

The other scope which I suppose could be factored into the equation is the Skywatcher flex dob, but I have noted some comments on some of the overseas forums that there are issues with the slider bars being under-designed for the 12”.

Attribute...................... GSO 10"....... GSO 12" .......SW 12" Flex

Mass OTA...................... 14kg ............20kg
Mass Base .....................10kg ............12.5kg
Fit on back seat ..............Yes ...............No ...............Yes
Fit on EQ6 ......................Yes ...............No ...............Yes



Some points of summary from the above, the 10” dob in my mind would be a lot more “portable”, thus allowing me to take it in the car with all my imaging gear (EQ6, ED120, ED80 etc…) when I head off to dark skies. In addition, the 10 inch OTA can be mounted onto my EQ6 for lunar imaging, whereas I would not want to mount the 12” as it would exceed the limit on the mount. As for the Skywatcher version, you are paying quite a premium over the GSO variety (in addition the GSO includes a cooling fan and 10:1 focuser).

Does this make sense? Is anyone able to shed any more light? HELP!

Look forward to comments.

Cheers.