Reflector on a Dob mount?

[CantWait]

Hi

I have a reflector languishing in storage while its eq mount is otherwise employed. Are there Dob mounts (kits) that would enable my reflector to find some use?

Thanks
CW

[ZeroID (Brent)]

I presume you mean a solid tube OTA ?
I don't know of any kits but it would pretty easy to make a simple box to enclose the tube at the balance point, add bearings and build a base for it.
Sounds like a fun afternoons project to me..

[glend (Glen)]

Yes there are. Orion UK offers knock down aluminium dob bases and tube rings to fit.

http://www.orionoptics.co.uk/MOUNTS/dobsonianmount.html

Better check the shipping costs.

As Brent said, you can make your own as well.

Dobstuff may also have knock down bases that are reasonable, email Dennis over there.

[hickny (Peter)]

CW...
Why don't you check out http://gondwanatelescopes.com/
Alex makes Dob mounts to fit your reflector.
He can also add digital setting circles like Nexus.

[Wavytone]

I'd suggest something like these

http://ejamison.net/refractordobmounts.html

- the dobsonian principles apply, in respect of the bearings, but:
- needs to be raised considerably to put the eyepiece at a useable height hence a tripod or similar is required;
- needs to offset the telescope from the altitude axis so the scope can reach the zenith without hitting the tripod legs. This can be done by offsetting the scope to the rear as shown in those images, or to one side. In either case a counterweight will be needed if using a sliding bearing surface.

As Peter suggested Gondwana could make one if you don't have the skills or time.

A theodolite tripod from Bunnings would suffice for smallish scopes up to 150mm.

The Orion product won't be tall enough to accommodate a refractor and the eyepiece will be so low you'd have to put the whole thing on a table, which will be wobbly.

[CantWait]

Lots of good suggestions - I'll do some digging.

Thanks all!

[brian nordstrom (As avatar)]

Plus one on Alex,s mounts , he does a superb job .
Brian.

Originally Posted by hickny

CW...
Why don't you check out http://gondwanatelescopes.com/
Alex makes Dob mounts to fit your reflector.
He can also add digital setting circles like Nexus.

[LewisM]

Originally Posted by Wavytone

I'd suggest something like these

http://ejamison.net/refractordobmounts.html

- the dobsonian principles apply, in respect of the bearings, but:
- needs to be raised considerably to put the eyepiece at a useable height hence a tripod or similar is required;
- needs to offset the telescope from the altitude axis so the scope can reach the zenith without hitting the tripod legs. This can be done by offsetting the scope to the rear as shown in those images, or to one side. In either case a counterweight will be needed if using a sliding bearing surface.

As Peter suggested Gondwana could make one if you don't have the skills or time.

A theodolite tripod from Bunnings would suffice for smallish scopes up to 150mm.

The Orion product won't be tall enough to accommodate a refractor and the eyepiece will be so low you'd have to put the whole thing on a table, which will be wobbly.

The OP said REFLECTOR Wavy

[Wavytone]

Originally Posted by LewisM

The OP said REFLECTOR Wavy

Aaargh you're right - in which case the Orion product would be fine... or one from Gondwana.

Apologies !