portable tripod recommendations for a 130mm refractor

[gregbradley]

I would like to use my AP130 on a quick and easy tripod setup so I can do visual with it whilst my other scopes are being used for imaging.

Its not a heavy scope for a 130mm aperture. Probably about 12kgs.

So a lighter tripod. Or perhaps even a lightweight tracking mount that can do go-tos would be nice.

Are there any reviews of the ZWO harmonic drive mount yet?

Greg.

[rustigsmed (Russell)]

hi greg,

i have been thinking about this for my 130mm refractor (mostly for basic tracking for solar). And was thinking about an Skywatcher/Saxon AZEQ5 - will give the flexibilty for viewing in alt-azi rather than equatorial (quicker setup) as i understand it. But was looking to do a bit more research first.

cheers

russ

[gregbradley]

Originally Posted by rustigsmed

hi greg,

i have been thinking about this for my 130mm refractor (mostly for basic tracking for solar). And was thinking about an Skywatcher/Saxon AZEQ5 - will give the flexibilty for viewing in alt-azi rather than equatorial (quicker setup) as i understand it. But was looking to do a bit more research first.

cheers

russ

That looks adequate for visual only. Not so sure it would be good enough for imaging though.

EQ6R seems to be the imaging platform of choice. But its heavy.

So its either a good grab and go setup for visual or a tracking mount for imaging or solar.

Greg.

[Peter Ward]

Nah..get a Mach2 and do it properly.