Quote:
Originally Posted by Intergage
Awesome, thanks man! I think I will go PushTo at the moment.. I would rather learn how to map and track stars manual before I start using software haha! 
Also, will an 8" DOB be good enough? at the moment im only using a reflector scope (****!) the picture in my DP. |
There is no 'software' as such, just a hand controller, you do a quick align, then choose what you want to see and it slews the scope to the objects of choice. It can also take you on a tour of interesting objects. It is a nice option, and can be a pain to try and add later.
A collapsible scope is an option, it lets you take a bigger scope out and about, like the 16".
Viewing height can be an issue though, I prefer SCTs as the eyepiece is usually in a comfortable position, so go see a dob in action at the sizes you are interested in, and see what you think about portability and viewing comfort, it will make it easier to choose the size that suits you best.
Viewing between an 8" and 10" isn't all that different to me, a 16" is a big difference though.
I'd get an 8 or a 12 or a 16 depending on how keen you are to move it around. I wouldn't bother with a 10 or a 14. For a 10, I'd rather go to a 12, and at 14 it is huge anyway, so I'd rather go to a 16.
An 8 is so portable and you will see heaps through it.
Get to a star party/viewing night and get a look through some scopes, it is the only way to really know what you want, there are plenty of folk in Brisbane with gear who are very helpful.