Where to buy 24" + Mirrors in Australia? - Page 3

Ian Robinson · #41 23-12-2008, 08:18 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Satchmo

The Universe ?

so you've researched the market in Oz extensively then.

Paddy (Patrick) · #42 23-12-2008, 09:05 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by skies2clear

Oh dear, if only the truth was apparent!

Funny and sad!

Still relevant it seems.

JethroB76 (Jeff) · #43 23-12-2008, 10:13 PM

AstroJunk (Jonathan) · #44 24-12-2008, 12:52 AM

Just a few years ago, an 8” scope was as big as one could afford. All of a sudden, a 16” monster can be had for less than 3 grand. How amazing is that?! The difference between mass produced and hand made is reducing dramatically, and it would be lovely if one day even bigger mirrors were available on the cheap.

But right now, I doubt it – I am lucky enough to own a superb 20”, and more so, in a position to use it on every cloud free night. Most of my Astro-mates however are more than content with much smaller scopes for astrophotography and the like. Also, beyond 16”, these scopes become a real handful. It’s not that one person can’t handle a big dob, it’s just that most are unwilling to. Especially if they have to travel with the beast every time they want to use it. I doubt if there will ever be a mass market for big dobs, so get used to the prices as there is no such thing as an OK large mirror – all are premium grade.

Don’t be put off though, if you have Aperture Fever, then only a big dob will do. Start saving up for a grade A mirror set (and yes, it’s going to cost you ten grand or more) and get building your Dob. You will soon find that the difference in price between a custom made SDM and your own build will be much smaller than you expect, so unless to are very handy at woodwork, think again.

Which ever way you chose, BIG IS BETTER.

Biased as ever,

Jonathan.

Garyh · #45 24-12-2008, 07:40 AM

Oh dear!

How about this guy, he knows what he is talking about!

http://users.tpg.com.au/masuch/dso/

Really I don`t think you can compare a mass produced 16" mirror to a hand figured premium mirror and would be worth every cent extra. I would incline to get a smaller premium mirror if your budget doesn`t stretch far enough.

my few cents worth anyway.
cheers Gary

Davekyn (David) · #46 31-12-2008, 09:31 AM

Hi again guys,
I understand on the premium debate now...well it's no debate really. Good post Johno...thanks man, i got a lot out of that.

I know the follwing site may not be premium enough for some here...BUT...I was stoked to find antoher place the sells larger than 16" and thought I would ask what some of you thing about this place...like I know they are great to deal with in the phone and all...what do you think about the large mirrors for a bugdet large app to apease the notion?

17.7" $2270.00AUD Larger sizes available...
http://www.telescopes-astronomy.com....escopes036.htm

This was the place I found ages ago...but could not find the link...anyways I hope this link will help others also find thier budget on the lower end for now......Let me know what you think?
Dave

Omaroo (Chris Malikoff) · #47 31-12-2008, 12:11 PM

Quote:

so you've researched the market in Oz extensively then.

I'd say he has.... yup, I'd say he has. He's the one bloke here who's in the business, so to speak.

Do your research before you want to argue with someone here. It helps.

theodog (Jeff) · #48 31-12-2008, 12:33 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Omaroo

I'd say he has.... yup, I'd say he has. He's the one bloke here who's in the business, so to speak.

Do your research before you want to argue with someone here. It helps.

Have owned a few "local bloke" mirrors myself.
Time was a letter of quality from the "local bloke" was something to have for your mirror. I believe it is still so.

All being well it will be a "local bloke" mirror for Project 24. Not yet though.

AstroJunk (Jonathan) · #49 31-12-2008, 01:33 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Omaroo

LOL! It's so funny that one bloke here doesn't have the foggiest idea who he's arguing with - yet claims to have dealt with them all.

This thread is getting a bit mean spirited

Omaroo (Chris Malikoff) · #50 31-12-2008, 01:43 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by AstroJunk

This thread is getting a bit mean spirited

Sorry - just tired of inaccurate "guesswork" statements that are written to appear as gospel from someone who keeps rattlling off ill advice off the top of their head.

AstroJunk (Jonathan) · #51 31-12-2008, 02:44 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Omaroo

Nah - just tired of know it alls. Anyway - I changed my post and it was quoted before I got to commit the changes.

Maybe it would be easier to compare if "the local guy" put some prices on his website like the other mirrror makers do. Then we could be all be know it all's together.

Nah, what was I thinking, its much easier to just take the piss.

Davekyn (David) · #52 31-12-2008, 11:20 PM

Is this the way people carry on at star parties? I guess this thread has been highjacked. Pretty encouraging lot?

AstroJunk (Jonathan) · #53 31-12-2008, 11:44 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Davekyn

Is this the way people carry on at star parties?

Yes.

If you want the thread back, then ring the only known (to me) maker of large mirrors in Australia. He is called Mark Suchting, and his work is of the highest quality. If you can't find his number then PM Satchmo, 'cos he is the same person.

Ian Robinson · #54 31-12-2008, 11:49 PM

Good points Astrojunk ....

.... that reminded me why I stopped being in astroclubs and going to starparties all those many many years ago.

Davekyn (David) · #55 01-01-2009, 06:27 AM

Um.......Happy New Year everyone...Thankfully I have met some people, really worth knowing on this site

Later all...Have to work today

Dave

iceman (Mike) · #56 01-01-2009, 08:04 AM

This thread has reached its end.