Goto mount for Meade 8" 203sc/500 SCT

pikpakboom · #1 14-12-2006, 07:15 AM

I am wondering what kind of mount can i get for a Meade 8" 203sc/500 SCT. I checked bintel and they have an LXD75 with autostar and it costs $1500. Do i have other choices? Is there anyone who could help me? also if anyone is selling a goto mount for my meade please advise me...Thanks!

ving (David) · #2 14-12-2006, 09:22 AM

i'd go for the new heq5 pro or if you have the money the eq6 pro.

have you been welcomed to the forum yet?
welcome aboard anyhow

[1ponders] (Paul) · #3 14-12-2006, 09:54 AM

pikpakboom

Are you considering visual use only or do you want to combine it with a bit of AP (Astrophotography)

Robert_T · #4 14-12-2006, 11:18 AM

Hi there, wondering what if any mounting hardware you have attached to the optical assembly - e.g. does it have a dove-tail x-section plate running along it's base or is it taken off a fork mount? Most common EQ mounts accept the dove-tail plate.

The LXD75 would handle it fine for most purposes - I put a larger C9.25 SCT on this from time to time and it works no problems. If you shop around you may find these cheaper than $1500. I bought mine also with autostar earlier in the year for ~$1300 from star optics on the Gold Coast.

Other alternatives are the CG5 celstron GT mount which is much the same as the LXD75. You should get this for less than $1500 too. I know Andrews Communications have these. And then as Ving mentioned the HEQ5 Pro which would be great too (don't think you'd want to go to EQ6 for an 8in SCT as they're VERY heavy). After these options the cost starts to ramp up with thinks like the Losmandies etc.

cheers,