I've enjoyed peering into space through LightBridge Dobs for just on three years (the last 2 being with the aid of encoders & Argo Navis), but I have now almost completed the painful and expensive metamorphosis into an amateur astro photographer. Yes, I've finally completed building my observatory!
I've still been using the LB on occasional clear nights during astro photography sessions ... or to show a few things to interested friends/kids.
However, having stumbled onto the slippery slope of astro photography, I'm now seeking more funds to divert toward that endeavor.
So offered for sale is my
12" Meade LightBridge Deluxe Dob which is 3 years old, in excellent condition, and has been very well pampered and cared for.
It has no discernible bumps or scratches, but does have a couple of small holes near the red-dot finder where a conventional finder scope was once fitted.
It does not come with the original 2" Meade QX 26mm eyepiece (which I chose not to retain), but includes the following extras and improvements which help to make sessions under the stars enjoyable:
1. Current model Argo Navis (computer, encoders/hardware, cables, etc)
2. Stalk/Mount for Argo Navis (for convenience while seated at the eyepiece)
3. Sealed 12v 7.2ah Battery for extended Argo Navis use (includes 240v charger)
4. Bobs Knobs on Primary/Secondary Mirrors (for easy collimation adjustment)
5. Bobs Knobs Upgraded Springs for Primary Mirror (to avoid mirror shift)
6. GSO Newtonian Laser Collimator
7. Kendrick Dew Heater for Secondary Mirror (avoids secondary fogging during the wee hours)
8. Magnetic Counter Weight (for balancing OTA at low elevations with heavy eyepieces)
9. Concrete Paver/Slab (60cm x 60cm x 5cm) for a clean/flat surface (local pickup only)
The original new costs for the entire setup was approximately $3000.
Some links with further details on base-scope and accessories:
Overview of scope details from Bintel (where scope was purchased):
https://www.bintelshop.com.au/Product.aspx?ID=7113
Meade LightBridge manual:
http://www.meade.com/manuals/Telesco...ightbridge.pdf
Argo Navis related links:
http://www.wildcard-innovations.com.au/
http://www.wildcard-innovations.com.au/gallery.html
http://www.iceinspace.com.au/forum/s...=35708&page=16
$1800 for the lot.
Reduced to $1700.
68% of current purchase/materials costs of $2500.
Local pickup preferred, but shipping can be arranged at buyers expense.
I estimate shipping to be $120 for Adelaide/Sydney, or $160 for QLD/WA locations.
Alternately, if a prospective buyer located in Adelaide, Canberra or Sydney is interested, I would be prepared to help deliver by meeting part way between (eg. Horsham for Adelaide, or Albury for Canberra/Sydney).
This has been a great scope for learning and appreciating the night sky.
It should suit someone who wants a good quality Dob with the ease of locating 1000's of deep sky objects, and the potential to occasionally transport to dark sky sites.
Some pics attached below.
Please send a PM if interested.
Cheers,
Jeff