[GeoffW1 (Geoff)]

Hi Juan,

I have just this setup as a grabitandgo scope for use on holiday trips, as my large scope cannot be fitted in along with a suitcase and other stuff.

It is very suitable although not a top line refractor (what else for that price). I use it just as you plan to, for terrestrial viewing as well as astronomy.

I found that results are very noticably improved by use with a good quality eyepiece (duh), but you will not be so bothered with that refinement I think, as it is mainly something which is apparent on stars and nebulae and so forth.

I discovered that on the light weight AZ3 mount, focussing is difficult as the image leaps about and wobbles for a long time when you turn the focus knob. I fixed that with an electric focusser attachment, about $100. So if this wobbling irritates you, there is a cure.

When you buy it make sure you mention you want to view daytime terrestrial things, so you are supplied with the correct prism on the viewing end.

Best price is at Andrews Communications for $399 on sale. Bintel in Sydney and Melbourne have this scope at the moment for $600 plus post, and Telescope & Binocular Specialists have it for $575.

Cheers