Hi all,
Having viewed this forum for quite some time from the outer reaches, I've finally decided (no...find it necessary) to venture in as the forum's latest 'newbie', don't know nothin' much guy. But first let me say what a great group this is, not only knowleagable, but friendly and willing to help. (...well I'll find out I guess)
Now that the buttering up has been done, to my plight.
I have recently purchased an SW 8" reflector, mounted on an EQ5 stand and have only pointed it to the heavens about 6 times. My initial perception of this rig, is 'not too bad'. I think the mount is at its max with this OTA and the focusser could be a little smoother in operation inho. But I digress..
I have collimated the scope using a laser collimator, however when viewing Jupiter last night, and stars around 1st mag (15 - 20 deg. off zenith), I am seeing aberrations. Typical, orange along the left side and purple on the right.
The lenses that were used are Vixen LV 12mm, Meade 10, Super plossl 25 and shorty 2x Barlow.
The aberrations are more noticeable with the larger EP's, however the overall clarity of the targets, again imho, appears off. Buy that I mean not as crisp and sharp as I would have expected. Not pinpoint clarity.
I cannot fathom out what might be causing these ab's. Whether they are Chromatic or Spherical. The EP's, although not in the $300 range, should nonetheless give a reasonable quality view I would think.
Anyhow, does my scope need better collimating, is the SW 600 at it's max capability, is it my EP's? If someone can throw me a lifeline I'd be most appreciative. (I don't have a lot of hair and ill afford to lose more)
Thanks in advance, Phil