Eyepieces for Vixen 103 ED apo

lookupnotdown · #1 27-01-2008, 05:00 PM

Hi there, I'm a newbie looking for some advice on eyepieces for a Vixen 103 ED apo (due to arrive in a week or 2). I have no eyepieces so am starting from scratch. I decided to purchase the Vixen telescope for its quality optics, and I don't want to compromise on the eyepieces so am looking mid-high price range. I've had one recommendation to get a zoom 8-24 and also perhaps a LV5 and 30mm. I was wondering what you guys think - what would you recommend? Thanks... and look forward to hearing your thoughts!

Dennis · #2 27-01-2008, 05:47 PM

Hi Lubnd

I have the Vixen ED102S, their older 102mm F9 refractor and although I do relatively little visual observing, I have found that my most used eyepieces for this ‘scope are a Pentax XW14 and a recently acquire Panoptic 24mm.

I would strongly recommend attending a local star party where you can get the opportunity to perhaps try a few different eyepieces. I have found that owners are more than happy to lend them out for a few minutes, explain their strengths and weaknesses and recount their experiences.

You’ll enjoy the 103 – Vixen make superb ‘scopes. Whilst it’s not a light bucket, it is a wonderful all purpose ‘scope. I’ve had mine for almost 10 years now and it is definitely a keeper for its versatility and it never goes out of fashion and is maintenance free.

Cheers

Dennis

lookupnotdown · #3 28-01-2008, 08:03 AM

Thanks for that!... especially interesting to hear what eyepieces you use most on yours. I was wondering how a 5mm performs? I found a vixen package with the 103ED that is offered overseas includes 5 and 20mm eyepieces. Maybe these are a sensible high and mid range to start with?

33South (Chris) · #4 28-01-2008, 09:49 AM

In the Mid price range ($300-350) the VIXEN LVW series should suit. I don't have any but wish I did, Dave47Tuc kindly let me try a selection of his in my ZS110.

As Dennis said if you can try before you buy, highly recommended.

Dennis · #5 28-01-2008, 12:03 PM

The 102 F9 has a focal length of 918mm and so my Tak LE 5mm (x184) only gets used on nights of better than average seeing. Using this combo, I have easily split Antares in moments of steady seeing.

I understand the 103 is an F7 system? If so, then a 5mm would give you a magnification of around x144.

I have found that the 102 F9 holds up to high magnifications very well when the seeing is good. As expected, even on brighter DSO’s such as NGC 253 and M83, all you get to see is a greyish smudge, so don’t expect too much on faint galaxies.

Cheers

Dennis