[APML] Guidescope Options

[Grant <GB1029@inter-linc.net>]

Hi List,

I'm hoping I could get some opinions on guiding my recently acquired Ap 
traveler.
I currently have an 8" sct mounted on my g-11.  So..I figure I can
take a few different approaches.

1. Mount the traveler directly to the saddle plate.  And add a guidescope 
to the
traveler

2. Buy a side by side plate (term?), and mount the traveler/guidescope.

3. Throw the traveler (not literally of course) on top of my SCT and guide
through the 8".

Option 3 would be the most inexpensive route to go as funds are tight after 
my recent
purchase.  But could present some problems regarding mirror 
shift/flop.  I've attained
pinpoint stars in the past using a 200mm lens piggybacked.  But will the 
traveler, at 600mm,
be a bit to much Fl for this setup?  Also, if I go with opt 1 or 2, do you 
think a meade DS-70
refractor would make a sufficient guidescope?  Particularly in the area of 
flexure in the focuser?
Has anyone out there used this refractor as a guidescope?  Thanks for any help.

Regards,
Grant Blanchard


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