SkyWatcher ED80

[acropolite (Phil)]

Andrews had an ED80 (complete with rings) so I've ordered, so if anyone else is after one they may be worth a try.

[Striker (Tony)]

Congrats Phil....just sit that 20d on the back of it and you will be amazed.

[acropolite (Phil)]

Originally Posted by Striker

Congrats Phil....just sit that 20d on the back of it and you will be amazed.

That's exactly what I want it for, and for HRH Liz to browse the heavens. She finds the LX ("that big ugly thing") a bit intimidating and I suspect that with the ED she will venture out and explore a little more. One night after viewing Saturn on the LX she slipped outside with the old bushnell refractor to find it herself for a private peek, so I know the interest is there. The Skywatcher has of course has the Royal seal of approval because it looks like a "Proper Telescope".

BTW Thanks to Rod for the tip on Andrews.

[RB (Andrew)]

Originally Posted by acropolite

The Skywatcher has of course has the Royal seal of approval because it looks like a "Proper Telescope".

Wow that's what my wife says too Phil.

Well, congrats, you're gonna LOVE the 80ED

[Rodstar (Rod)]

I picked up the mount for Noah's ED80 today - an EQ3-2. Lovely solid mount for the modest size of the scope, and perfect for my 4 year old! It is kinda interesting getting used to an equatorial set-up, having been a forkmount man up until now.

All I need to do now is pick up the Bintel mounting plate to hoist the ED80 onto my LX200 when Noah isn't looking!

[acropolite (Phil)]

Rod, I'll be interested to hear how easy the eq is to handle. I have ministerial approval for a mount as well, but have some doubts as to the suitability.

[Rodstar (Rod)]

Originally Posted by acropolite

Rod, I'll be interested to hear how easy the eq is to handle. I have ministerial approval for a mount as well, but have some doubts as to the suitability.

We're all clouded up tonight, but when I get a clear night, I'll take it through its paces, and let you know.

I did some terrestrial viewing with it this afternoon, and it was very smooth and solid.