Quote:
Originally Posted by pgc hunter
THose 16" Meades seem to be a hit and miss. Some had excellent mirrors while others were reported to be lemons. Also there are some stability issues with the spider, atleast with the dob version-I'm assuming the EQ model is identical, due to too thin vanes being stressed by the weight of the secondary, causing some vibration/movement. Also, I wouldn't trust those straps to hold that beast of a tube  |
Hi Rob,
The spider issue can be fixed,
, as can the coupling between the tube and mount. Can you have a good test of the mirror before purchasing the 16"?
From what I know, what is important with Planetary imaging is the focal length. The larger diameter apeture will give better resolution. The good thing here is that if the mirror of the 16" IS a good one, coupled with good quality barlows you will have outstanding capacity for planetary imaging which a smaller diameter instrument just can't give. No buts.
The boon here is that the 16" is an extraordinary DSO, as you already know.