[APML] Re: 8" Reflector decent enough for prime focus AP?

[Bruce Feagle <bruce@feagle.com>]

Hey Rex

I'm a lurker on APML, but I'm working my way up to AP with film. I too had a
hard cash restriction when I first bought my scope. I ended up getting a
Celstron G5 SCT and spent about $650. I needed to have the scope be very
portable. The only problem with it has been the mount being very shaky. I'm
in the process of saving for a CG-5 knockoff. Anything will be better than
the mount it came with. After I get the new mount, I'm going to start trying
some piggy-back wide field AP. Other than that, I've been very happy with
the optics as a beginner to astronomy and AP.

I then joined an email list for imaging with a webcam. The QCUIAG list has
been extremely helpful for me as a newbie AP'er to start to learn the basic
skills of AP on the cheap. The images coming from the members are
increasable considering the capture devices used. I recommend checking them
out here: 

http://www.astrabio.demon.co.uk/QCUIAG/

Here is an example of my humble beginning. It is no where near the level of
imagery found here on APML, it's just my baby steps towards grander imaging
based on the techniques I read and learn about here.

http://www.feagle.com/astro/m42.html

If I were to start over and didn't have to worry about size I would go with
something like a AstroView 120mm EQ Refractor from Orion with the dual-axis
drive for about $600.

http://www.telescope.com/cgi-bin/OrionTel.storefront/3c8edf2b03c804fe2719c0a
80a650690/Product/View/A026

HTH and good luck.

Bruce

On 3/12/02 7:29 PM, "Rex Moore" <RMoore@fool.com> wrote:

> Thank you all so much for your input... extremely helpful (though I am
> disappointed, of course ;)).
> 
> I'm sort of scratching my head right now because I just can't go over $600.
> So I may have to buy this Orion anyway. I'll certainly try some piggybacking
> now and then, and even an occasional prime focus if it's not *totally*
> impossible, but I definitely know not to expect much. Again, this will be
> mainly for visual use.
> 
> Thanks again, you guys are great...
> 
> Rex
> 


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