Re: [APML]:Mirror Flop

[RBissinger <RBissinger@aol.com>]

In a message dated 98-01-27 05:45:57 EST, bobbym@webwide.net writes:

> Jim wrote:
>  
>  > I would think the whole thing boils down to money.  The moveable mirror
>  in
>  > the SCT for one allows a larger range of focus than could be achieved
>  with a
>  > rack and pinion focuser short enough to allow the rear cell of the scope
>  to
>  > operate through the forks that most SCTs come with.  In other words, if
>  such
>  > a rack and pinion focuser were used, then the forks would have to be made
>  > longer and stronger.  This would also present problems with the drive
>  base
>  > which would have to be made stronger, etc. etc.  This adds up to more
>  > production cost, higher costs to the consumer and fewer sales.  My
>  opinion
>  > only.
>  > 
>  
>  
>  I think he hit the nail on the head.  Most of us would be willing to pay
>  more 
>  for a better instrument because we need precision. 
>  (up to a point; anybody priced a big Takahashi sct lately?)
>  The majority of telescope buyers are
>  going to look at cost more closely than precision, so if Meade or Celestron
>  get their cost
>  higher than the competitor's, they loose sales. 
>   
>  Bobby Middleton

This has been mentioned before, but there appears to be a niche market for
upgrades to both the Celestron and Meade SCT lines, primarily for those doing
imaging.  Some upgrades that could be offered include:
       --  Upgrade (metallic spur gears, higher torque motors, higher
precision worm                  and spur gear) for DEC drives (and perhaps RA
as well)
       --  Replacement primary mirror cell that eliminates mirror flop
       --  2D counterweight system with vibration dampening capability
       --  etc.
It is somewhat surprising to me that a 3rd party out there hasn't explored
this opportunity and come forth with a product or two.  Many of us in the
imaging field would be willing to pay hundreds (but not thousands) of dollars
to upgrade our Celestron and Meade fork mounted equipment.

Any takers?