Re: [APML] update: need help getting round stars

[dtlocke <dtlocke@flex.net>]

Some updates:

My testing last night appeared to indicate some improvement in my apparent
flexure problem after adding another set screw to hold the STV nosepiece.  It
wasn't perfect, and I'm going to work on the ST80's focuser next.  An APML digest
reader provided some useful info to me in direct email that others might be
interested in.  Excerpts below, with some minor edits from me.  -Dick
...
I am using an st-80 with an st4 without problems.  Like many have
suggested, additional locking screws help, but as you are thinking,
adding extension tube(s) so the focuser tube is only 'out' a little ways
was the measure that really made the difference for me.  Like you I tried
the L couplings from my TAK (a 128) but did not like the fact that I could
only screw them in part way.  I could get them tight enough but didn't
like the idea that I would sooner or later damage the threads.

My solution: I found some extension tubes very similar to the TAK L
couplings with the perfect thread for the short tube 80 focuser.  I found
them at the Riverside star party from Don Rothman (TELETRADE).  They were
marked: "#597 43.2mm extension tube for celestron refractors".

You may be able to get them directly from Celestron, or go to his page at:
 http://www201.pair.com/resource/astro.html/teletrade/

and do a find on:  43.2
and you will see he still has these listed.

I no longer use them for this purpose as I added a flip mirror which
accomplishes the same thing while making it easier to center a guide star.
Course with the STV you don't need this feature - you lucky sod ;-)

 I *think* I used 2 of them but as  they are about 1 1/2 inches long, one
may be enough (I think the 43.2mm refers to diameter ).




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