Re: ATM COST: Big Dob vs. Just the Optics?

[andydtg@phoenix.net]

David Sleeter wrote:

>Several people have asked just how someone building a 20" or larger scope 
>should mount it; stating that a big wooden Dobsonian seems the only 
>solution. 

I'm one of those people & I don't remember saying anything
about wood. My astrographic mounts are all steel angle conmstruction
with wood added where needed for damping.

Wood is good but turns into *rubber* and then *Jello* at increasing
levels of precision.

I don't think this should be 'equatorial' vs 'alt-az' as in one is better
than the other, it's possible to combine the best features of both
with today's technology.

Andy Saulietis / DTG Alt-Az-Fp Drive Systems
HDPE Worm Gears, Custom designs & Machine work
12617 Harriet Ln
Santa Fe, TX 77510 USA
409-925-8854 Voice/Fax
e-mail: andydtg@phoenix.net