Having taken a break from the hobby since last Christmas due to family and health issues, I have slowly returned to the hobby which has been a part of my life since the early 1980's (including a new username). With no astro gear to my name for a while, I contemplated my next move and decided to jump in the deep end and buy my next scope. Being primarily a visual observer over the years, there was only one choice for me. S.. D... M...
After a drive to the secluded and remote SDM workshops a few weekends ago (honestly, International Rescue are easier to locate
), overshooting the turnoff twice and nearly hitting a wombat I finally arrived in the pouring rain. The discussions with Peter were very productive and by the end of the afternoon preliminary plans were coming together for a new Dob. Originally I was aiming for a 16" but when it became clear that it was not going to fit into the boot of our new car without some serious panelbeating, it was looking like the new scope - whatever size - wouldn't fit in the current family car, so any transporting of said scope would have to be in the back of my ute. So an 18-incher was looking realistic.
A few days later after some more emails it was official:
SDM#059 is now officially on order!
It will be a
Classic 18" f4.5 with Galaxy Optics primary mirror, the usual Astrosystems secondary, Feathertouch focuser etc. No AN or Servo fitted at this stage, but I may retrofit an AN system down the track. Expected delivery 9-12 months, so all fingers and toes crossed for a completion by SVAA camp in March
I have a nice raised part of our newly completed garden set aside for a small timber deck.
Regards,
Stephen