Dobsonian Telescope

[justlookup (Glenn)]

I have a Nexstar 5SE and think that want to get a Dobsonian 8, 10 or 12. I was wondering if there were any thoughts on the following:

Go to models.
Collapsible models.

The 5SE is great but i often take it to schools and camping and invite people to view objects - i thought that a bigger light bucket may provide more for them to see without breaking the bank.

cheers

[glend (Glen)]

The Dob is the most cost effective aperature you can buy, but collapsing ones and Goto systems can add $ quickly. If you have it setup with azimuth circles and altitude measurement with an inclinometre then they can be very percise in locating objects. Make sure you make or buy a leveling base as well. Uo to 12" can be transported fairly easily, especially if you keep the tube shipping box. Very happy with my 12" GSO - good optics at a budget price.

[Allan_L (Allan)]

I agree there will be a huge difference in what you will be able to see with even the 10" DOB.

Collapsible makes it ever so much easier to transport and store.

And GoTo will be an advantage if you are showing the Public as its tracking will keep the item in the eyepiece. (Not to mention easier to find dim targets).

I have a skywatcher 10" collapsible DOB (not goto) and I am very happy with it.

So if you can afford it, definitely go for it.

[justlookup (Glenn)]

Thanks to you both for your comments. I like both options but for ease i might try down the goto version. Any suggestions on best vendors?

[StarVoyager]

Are you going with a Sky Watcher or an Orion GOTO dob? All else being equal, the ‘best’ option may be to go for the outlet that has the lowest advertised price for the scope you are considering. So, on pricing, I believe Andrew’s Communications offers the cheapest Sky Watcher GOTO dobs at the moment (http://www.andrewscom.com.au/site-section-10.htm; see from about halfway down the page) and Bintel offers the cheapest Orions (http://www.bintel.com.au/Telescopes/Orion-GoTo-Dobsonians/146/catmenu.aspx). Just keep in mind though, not everything is equal, so remember to check warranty info and shipping costs.