TS Photoline 115mm APO f7 has arrived

[glend (Glen)]

My new TS Photoline 115mm APO has arrived from Teleskop Express, along with a TS flattener for use at native f7 (800mm) and a Photoline Reducer 0,79x and Corrector for use at f5.5 and 632mm fl. With the rain due to stop things for awhile I rushed it out to the observatory last night to try and at least setup the flattener, work out the focus with the camera, and try a few test images to verify the field. TS supplied the flattener with the correct spacers for my ASi1600 and QHY filter wheel, and a nice T-Thread focuser adaptor. Working distance at f7 is 110mm, and my micrometre confirmed the spacer but I had to add a 1mm shim for the filter and cover glass effect. I had to crank the focuser out to 61.5 on the scale to achieve precise focus (with the flattener inserted in the focuser barrel). I have not tried focal point without the flattener, nor did I try the scope visually, as I will be imaging.

Pretty impressed with the overall quality of the construction and finish of the scope. The 2.5" focuser is a beast and i will never have a problem with my imaging equipment, and I like the fact that they use brass screws on all the adjustable places on on tube attachment and focuser adjustment points. The objective is spotless and nicely coated. I will need to get a bar for the top of the rings to mount my guidescope but that's all that is needed. The test shots I did last night indicate the TS Flattener is doing a good job, nice round star right into the corners all the way around the field and no evidence of tilt. I did a star test as well and the collimation looks perfect, and given the way that TS packed the scope for shipment I am not surprised. The box was massive, and inside the external box was a see of green EVA foam bowtie like nodules, in which the internal box was buried. I filled two large garbage bags with those foam things before I could get the inner box out. Inside the inner box was more shaped foam padding (which looks suitable for a carry case). Easily the best shipping protection I have seen so far.

Some photos are attached. I will try and get some test shots up here soon, when the weather co-operates again.

[MortonH]

Looks good. There's some nice baffling in that tube.

[casstony]

Nice looking setup Glen and not as heavy as the 130.

[bismark (Klaus)]

I have the same scope since 10 month but with the SkyRover tag very happy with the scope but it need for AP the field flattener

[brian nordstrom (As avatar)]

Nice looking scope , how does the price you payed compare to the SkyRover AA are selling their 115 ? , I have a mate with one and it is a very good performer in all ways. .
Brian.

[Wavytone]

Glen perhaps we should hold a family gathering LOL...

I've just ordered http://www.apm-telescopes.de/en/tele...refractor.html and http://www.apm-telescopes.de/en/tele....5-rpa-focuser

... the beasties are on the way.

[glend (Glen)]

Originally Posted by Wavytone

Glen perhaps we should hold a family gathering LOL...

I've just ordered http://www.apm-telescopes.de/en/tele...refractor.html and http://www.apm-telescopes.de/en/tele....5-rpa-focuser

... the beasties are on the way.

Haha, i was tempted by the 130mm but was trying to keep the weight down and stay within my budget. I also bought the TS Flattener for native f7 and the Photoline 0,79x reducer/corrector to take it to f5.5. That 3" Photoline reducer/corrector is a significant attachment and very nicely made. All together i was able to stay under budget.