Quote:
Originally Posted by Ross G
Hello,
I have a Vixen R200SS 8" F4 Reflector that has sat in my garage unused for over a year.
I am currently using a WO 110mm refractor (M110).
I am now thinking of upgrading.
My choices are either sell the Vixen and WO and buy a WO 132mm refractor or save the money ( I do not have) and start using the Vixen R200SS.
My question is, will I see a difference between the 8" Newtonian and the 132mm WO refractor and if so, will the difference be enough to justify the $3,500 difference between the two?
The scopes will be used to photograph DSO's through a QHY8L ccd camera.
Thank you.
Ross.
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I have seen some excellent images taken with the 110, the 200ss do tend to have fat spikes. An 8 inch reflector can deliver fine images.
I have a 132 FLT and am very happy with it, the color on even the brightest stars shows no blue halos, there is a slight amount of flaring but I have seen this even on astrophysics refractors. The difference between F4 and F7 Is substantial, I do 20 min exposures with mine and a qhy8 so you will need a mount that can dish up long exposures plus mount a suitable guidescope.
Which would I pick given the choice..... The 132. I've had reflectors and just prefer a refractor now, no spikes, no collimation, less physical surface area for wind to affect, plus personal taste I guess.
As for your situation, use the 200 and exploit it's low f4, see if you can hook up with someone who has a large refractor for a night and test drive it, see if it is really where you want to be.