Orion UK Carbon Tube 16"

[telecasterguru (Frank)]

Just checked out the new series of Orion UK Newtonian scopes at http://www.orionoptics.co.uk/CT/ctrange.html. I haven't seen them before.

The 16" carbon fibre tube looks very interesting at f4. They look like they would make a great deep space or planetary imager on an EQ mount. Would love to see some images from them.

Frank

[DavidU (Dave)]

They look great. The stability and light weight of CF would be nice, the new coatings must be good,, and a report with each mirror,
rather $$$$$ though

[bmitchell82 (Brendan)]

Not bad though for a CF tube, would be interested in what the other specs aka Weight of the tube is as the 12" f4 at close to 5k is pricy, and most if its going to be 2k for the fibre tube and 3k for optics and parts (with no dovetail thrown in) ide rather go the option of a small RC as aperature isn't king when it comes to photography.

[Satchmo]

I think the Orion Newtonian models that are designed for serious deepsky astrophotograghy are called the "AG" series. The 16" F3.8 at 10,000 Pounds sterling would land over here for closer to AUD $30,000.

http://www.orionoptics.co.uk/AG/agrange.html

[Zaps]

There was a thread on a UK astro forum recently about the "quality of workmanship" of Orion UK telescopes, along with sample pictures. The ones displayed appeared to have been machined by blind four-month-old tree frogs. They were the worst looking instruments I've ever seen. But I'm sure the optics are better.

[telecasterguru (Frank)]

I thought it was interesting that a 16" carbon fibre was being produced for what seems to be use with an EQ mount.

The cost is high admittedly but still an interesting concept.

Frank

[TrevorW]

Very expensive not worth the money

[Satchmo]

The "AG" series with built in Wynne corrector , if they are sturdy and hold focus are surely a lot cheaper than a top end 16" RC and much wider field if thats what you are in to?