Quote:
Originally Posted by Blue Skies
Really? That's why I got the MTpro, to handle the extra weight. But I don't intend to run them all together, just one at a time. And I've heard of others running an 8" on just the MT without problems as well.
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You may be right, I have put a number of large scopes on mine over time, including an 8 inch Neut. (think I once saw a photo of JJJ's mount with one of those on it too) but I am under the impression that the Meade is at the heavy end of the 8 inch range though.
(BTW I do carry 2 scopes at the same time, because my wife and I observe together, and we have a choice of hi-mag or widefield without EP changes. (and I can't see the point of carrying a counterweight if you can put a scope on instead).
Like most Alt/Az mounts, one affect that you need to be aware of with the ioptron is that accessories and long EP/barlows have an effect on the balance of these mounts if they extend above the plane of the Alt axis.
So, if you have finder-scopes, cameras or other accessories attached to the TOP of the scope, don't balance the scope when it is horizontal because it will be very back heavy as it approaches vertical. That places unnecessarily strain on the motors.
The best compromise seems to be balancing with the scope about 45-55 degrees up at the front. that way it will be slightly nose heavy when pointed at the horizon, and a bit back heavy closer to the zenith. - after balancing, just take the clutch off and move the scope up and down to check overall balance.