Hawkeye
super member
Reged: 06/10/04
Posts: 140
Loc: Melbourne, Australia
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I was interested to see how LX200 owners set up for an evening's viewing. In particular, how you arrange your viewing site and bits and pieces to make it functional and comfortable. Photographs and commentary would be most welcome.
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10" LX200GPS UHTC
Oberwerk 15 x 70
Canon 40D
Edited by Grizz (10/01/06 04:00 PM)
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Posaunist
super member
Reged: 09/17/03
Posts: 109
Loc: Arkansas, US
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Here's my setup:
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10" LX200GPS UHTC & Digital Rebel My Astro Home
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Anonymous
Unregistered
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And here is mine! 
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jrcrilly
Refractor wienie no more
Reged: 04/30/03
Posts: 25181
Loc: NE Ohio
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Here's mine:
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John C
Urban Observatory
A&M/Astreya 76mm F/6 APO
TMB/LOMO 80mm F/7.5 APO
Tak FSQ-106N F/5 APO
Meade 178ED F/9 "APO"
Meade ETX-125AT
C14
Teeter 20" F/3.8 truss Newt w/ServoCat
CI-700, NJP, GPDX/SS2KPC, CG5-GT
ST-10XME, DSI Pro
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LivingNDixie
Lord of Ferrets
Reged: 04/23/03
Posts: 16249
Loc: Hoover, AL
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Bonzo,
Nice refractor... Is that a FS78? or one of those shorty 60's that are kinda rare?
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Preston
Celestron 11" Nexstar GPS XLT
Tak FS 78
Tak Teegul-Lapides
Lunt LS60T/Ha 60mm f/8.33
Vixen Porta Mount
Edited by LivingNDixie (07/06/04 10:03 AM)
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Anonymous
Unregistered
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Hi LivingNDixie,
You are not only a horrible speller, but also a horrible reader! 
Just look at the bottom of the page!
It's a GIAND Sky 90!!  Yheeeeeee!
I'll add another picture! I hope you can read this one! 
Bonzo
Edited by Bonzo (07/07/04 01:54 PM)
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LivingNDixie
Lord of Ferrets
Reged: 04/23/03
Posts: 16249
Loc: Hoover, AL
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The sticker is on the left side  , but very nice, I bet the views are killer 
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Preston
Celestron 11" Nexstar GPS XLT
Tak FS 78
Tak Teegul-Lapides
Lunt LS60T/Ha 60mm f/8.33
Vixen Porta Mount
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Grizz
Carpal Tunnel
Reged: 04/24/03
Posts: 2176
Loc: Waldwick,New Jersey USA
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And mine
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Craig
LX200GPS 10" UHTC SMT
ETX90EC
Orion ED80 APO
Meade LPI Canon 10d Meade DSI
My Photo Gallery
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Awesomelenny
Carpal Tunnel
Reged: 05/02/04
Posts: 2795
Loc: Long: 81.42 W Lat: 41.21 N
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Well now this is a page I like. I love all you LX200 fans for I am one too! Here is my 12" LX200 GPS in my recently finished observatory!
Also visit my web pages starting at: Len Marek's Astronomy Page[/url]
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Len
Meade 178 ED APO
127mm Astro_Tech ED APO
4" f/15 Model 166 Unitron with UNIWITT Pier
Televue Genesis SDF 101mm f/5.4
2.4" f/15 Model 128C Unitron
Coronado Solarmax 90 DS Telescope
Losmandy Titan; G-11; all w/Gemini
All in a "Backyard Observatory"
Spilhaus Space Clock
"The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands."
Psalm 19:1
Edited by Grizz (09/25/04 02:06 PM)
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Hawkeye
super member
Reged: 06/10/04
Posts: 140
Loc: Melbourne, Australia
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Very nice!
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10" LX200GPS UHTC
Oberwerk 15 x 70
Canon 40D
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Benjamin B
Pooh-Bah
Reged: 06/21/04
Posts: 1092
Loc: Sweden
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Here are mine, I recived my LX200GPS 10" SMT UHTC a week ago! The smaler one is LX90 8" EMC  
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G11/Gemini
TMB 80/480 super apo
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jrcrilly
Refractor wienie no more
Reged: 04/30/03
Posts: 25181
Loc: NE Ohio
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Here's the one that just arrived today!
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John C
Urban Observatory
A&M/Astreya 76mm F/6 APO
TMB/LOMO 80mm F/7.5 APO
Tak FSQ-106N F/5 APO
Meade 178ED F/9 "APO"
Meade ETX-125AT
C14
Teeter 20" F/3.8 truss Newt w/ServoCat
CI-700, NJP, GPDX/SS2KPC, CG5-GT
ST-10XME, DSI Pro
Edited by Grizz (09/25/04 02:08 PM)
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LivingNDixie
Lord of Ferrets
Reged: 04/23/03
Posts: 16249
Loc: Hoover, AL
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Nice John, but whats up with that finder? Do ya really need a RACI on a LX200, its not like your going to use it. I understand if the scope came with it and all. Lets know how she star tests
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Preston
Celestron 11" Nexstar GPS XLT
Tak FS 78
Tak Teegul-Lapides
Lunt LS60T/Ha 60mm f/8.33
Vixen Porta Mount
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Anonymous
Unregistered
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Does anyone here know anybody who is planning on buying a 14" LX200? Please give me an email if you do.
averkamp@gmail.com
Thanks.
-Matt
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Anonymous
Unregistered
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Tonight is the first night since I got my wedge that the weather is looking good. So here is a shot of my rig out on the back deck. I plan to extend the deck to the South (the direction the scope is pointing towards), and then install a 16" concrete pier that will be about 12' tall and go through a hole in the new section. I get to attempt my first polar alignment tonight. Fortunately, Polaris is clearly visible from this location.
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jrcrilly
Refractor wienie no more
Reged: 04/30/03
Posts: 25181
Loc: NE Ohio
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I had the new (old) 12" Classic at a public field last night. I don't know whether the decal on the car will show clearly or not...
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John C
Urban Observatory
A&M/Astreya 76mm F/6 APO
TMB/LOMO 80mm F/7.5 APO
Tak FSQ-106N F/5 APO
Meade 178ED F/9 "APO"
Meade ETX-125AT
C14
Teeter 20" F/3.8 truss Newt w/ServoCat
CI-700, NJP, GPDX/SS2KPC, CG5-GT
ST-10XME, DSI Pro
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jrcrilly
Refractor wienie no more
Reged: 04/30/03
Posts: 25181
Loc: NE Ohio
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decal inset:
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John C
Urban Observatory
A&M/Astreya 76mm F/6 APO
TMB/LOMO 80mm F/7.5 APO
Tak FSQ-106N F/5 APO
Meade 178ED F/9 "APO"
Meade ETX-125AT
C14
Teeter 20" F/3.8 truss Newt w/ServoCat
CI-700, NJP, GPDX/SS2KPC, CG5-GT
ST-10XME, DSI Pro
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LivingNDixie
Lord of Ferrets
Reged: 04/23/03
Posts: 16249
Loc: Hoover, AL
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John,
Where did you get that sticker??? Thats awesome
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Preston
Celestron 11" Nexstar GPS XLT
Tak FS 78
Tak Teegul-Lapides
Lunt LS60T/Ha 60mm f/8.33
Vixen Porta Mount
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jrcrilly
Refractor wienie no more
Reged: 04/30/03
Posts: 25181
Loc: NE Ohio
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Quote:
John,
Where did you get that sticker??? Thats awesome
http://www.aliengraphix.com/Astronomy_Decals.html
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John C
Urban Observatory
A&M/Astreya 76mm F/6 APO
TMB/LOMO 80mm F/7.5 APO
Tak FSQ-106N F/5 APO
Meade 178ED F/9 "APO"
Meade ETX-125AT
C14
Teeter 20" F/3.8 truss Newt w/ServoCat
CI-700, NJP, GPDX/SS2KPC, CG5-GT
ST-10XME, DSI Pro
Edited by jrcrilly (08/08/04 03:56 PM)
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john
sage
Reged: 01/01/04
Posts: 310
Loc: ont,canada
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Quote:
Here's my setup:
Hi Mark :
I got the same setup as you(but no wedge yet), all photos using digital rebel and lx200gps 10" f/10(yet i use f/6.3 for deep sky stuff). I need some advice doing deep sky stuff(like M27). What camera settings did you use for M42, such as parameters .... contrast / saturation / sharpness / color tone ALSO what ISO setting did you use and the shutter speed. I am having trouble getting any decent photos.
Thanks
John
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john
sage
Reged: 01/01/04
Posts: 310
Loc: ont,canada
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Quote:
Here are mine, I recived my LX200GPS 10" SMT UHTC a week ago! The smaler one is LX90 8" EMC
LET ME GUESS ......... you are gonna piggyback the 8" onto the 10"(as a spotting scope) 
John
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Posaunist
super member
Reged: 09/17/03
Posts: 109
Loc: Arkansas, US
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Quote:
What camera settings did you use for M42, such as parameters .... contrast / saturation / sharpness / color tone ALSO what ISO setting did you use and the shutter speed. I am having trouble getting any decent photos.
Thanks
John
John,
The picture of M42 on my website was taken at ISO 1600 with an exposure time of 30". The white balance was on auto, and it probably would have turned out better with a lower ISO and longer exposure time. That picture was actually taken before I had the wedge, and besides reducing its size, I did not alter it.
I've been having problems getting pictures without severe star trails because of the weight of the Digital Rebel, Scopetronix Maxview DSLR, and eyepiece combination. I've ordered a balance kit from Scope Stuff, so I hope to have more luck soon. Also, I know the drift in the photos isn't caused by a bad polar alignment, because I use the drift method each night maintaining a split star for no less than five minutes.
I'm sure you'll be able to get a much better M42 than the one on my site if you fine-tune the parameters you mentioned. Since taking that picture, I've learned that the correct ISO and exposure time is greatly affected by transparency and light pollution of that particular night. It changes pretty often around here because of all the humidity in the summer air.
-Mark
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10" LX200GPS UHTC & Digital Rebel My Astro Home
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jrcrilly
Refractor wienie no more
Reged: 04/30/03
Posts: 25181
Loc: NE Ohio
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Finally got the new (old) 12" set up:
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John C
Urban Observatory
A&M/Astreya 76mm F/6 APO
TMB/LOMO 80mm F/7.5 APO
Tak FSQ-106N F/5 APO
Meade 178ED F/9 "APO"
Meade ETX-125AT
C14
Teeter 20" F/3.8 truss Newt w/ServoCat
CI-700, NJP, GPDX/SS2KPC, CG5-GT
ST-10XME, DSI Pro
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Benjamin B
Pooh-Bah
Reged: 06/21/04
Posts: 1092
Loc: Sweden
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john
Hehe, yea why not :-)
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G11/Gemini
TMB 80/480 super apo
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Anonymous
Unregistered
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How many of you guys got UHTC's? If I get a 12 inch there's no way I can get UHTC.
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Hawkeye
super member
Reged: 06/10/04
Posts: 140
Loc: Melbourne, Australia
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And... here is my setup in central Victoria.
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10" LX200GPS UHTC
Oberwerk 15 x 70
Canon 40D
Edited by Grizz (09/28/04 07:47 PM)
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Anonymous
Unregistered
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Looks nice Hawkeye!
Cute dog, but it looks like he/she has the same problem as my dog in that he loves to go lay in the mud to cool off!
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kruzmisl
member
Reged: 09/29/03
Posts: 76
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My 10" LX200GPS has been like Old Faithful.
John Shwope 
Edited by Grizz (09/25/04 02:11 PM)
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Hawkeye
super member
Reged: 06/10/04
Posts: 140
Loc: Melbourne, Australia
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Thanks Peter. Yes, the end of a busy day for Gemma; rolling in something that smelled really agricultural, moving the sheep out of the shearing shed, having a few dips in the creek with the platypus and tortoises, and growling at the electric fence that bit her on the nose.
Saw the Trifid and Swan nebulae, a host of GCs and OCs and 'found' the Tarantula nebula after trawling the LMC.
The dew shield is a glued up piece of grey sleeping roll.
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imjeffp
Aluminum Falcon
Reged: 09/30/03
Posts: 4902
Loc: Cedar Park, Texas
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Good night, John! Could you hang anything else off of there? And where's the wedge?
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kruzmisl
member
Reged: 09/29/03
Posts: 76
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Jeff;
This is not my normal observing mode. Not using the wedge right now, only time for visual. Actually my visual optical path is shorter than it was. The Van Slyke focuser is incredible and it also houses my .63 FR inside and adds zero to the length. I use the piggyback 85 every time I view to get an excellent wfov to help me learn the sky. I find it hard to see where thing fit into place when I can only see the object. I also use the 85 as a grab and go on it's own tripod. Right now I'm just starting using the 10D for Solar. I'm anxiously waiting for my new Siebert Elite binoviewer that uses 2" eyepieces. With 36 mm eyepieces and ability to use a focal reducer also, I'm looking forward to some nice WA two eyed viewing.
John
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rumples riot
Carpal Tunnel
Reged: 07/01/04
Posts: 2486
Loc: South Australia
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Nice setups people, lots of money spent on some of the those scopes.
Hawk, I just bought a block of land at Parsons Beach on York Peninsula, so anytime you want to come to SA for a really dark sky site and beach views just let me know. Takes about two hours to get there from Adelaide, can't wait till summer.
I'll take a shot of my setup soon with all the gear on it.
Paul
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EARTH AND COSMOS
How to peltier cool a C14 SCT
SOUTH CELESTIAL POLE
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Hawkeye
super member
Reged: 06/10/04
Posts: 140
Loc: Melbourne, Australia
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Well done! I was in that part of the country years ago, looking at the limestone jetty on the other side of the peninsula. I reckon you would throw a shadow from the milky way, over there. I'll let you know if I'm heading back to SA. Likewise, let me know if you're heading over to Melbourne.
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10" LX200GPS UHTC
Oberwerk 15 x 70
Canon 40D
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JerryWise
Postmaster
Reged: 12/26/03
Posts: 7833
Loc: Lexington, SC
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Here's my scope. 14" LX200 GPS. Had a 10 LX200 in there in the late 90s up to this year. It's up about 4 stories on top of a small warehouse at my business. Needed a warehouse to store medical CDs. Kinda overdid it. Here in the deep south you can sit in the observatory or out on the little balcony most of the year. Some light pollution from a city 20 miles away but mostly good skies. Lake has 700+ miles of shoreline and provides some good atmosphere.
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Jerry
Celestron C-11
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NJ Night Sky
Reged: 03/25/04
Posts: 833
Loc: Hillsborough, NJ
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Wow now we're talking.
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Jim
NJ Night Sky- J&T Telescope - MicroStock Photography - Shop4Scopes
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Astrodave
Pooh-Bah
Reged: 05/28/04
Posts: 1195
Loc: Manassas Park, Va. USA
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Ahh man meddyn, you are living my life with that setup! Wow what i'd give for that setup! Now if i can only convince my significant other to move to a nice darker area like that to support my hobby....yeah, and im a chinese jet pilot
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Northern Virginia
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JerryWise
Postmaster
Reged: 12/26/03
Posts: 7833
Loc: Lexington, SC
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Well, to tell the truth.... the warehouse and observatory are bigger than my house. My wife is convinced a small house and nice observatory are the way to go (that took some doing).
I heard her talking to a friend the other day. She said "..he is so obsessed with that thing since he got that Canon camera. I left him two months ago and he didn't even miss me until last week." I think she was joking but can't be sure. I really don't remember missing her last week, the skys were clear.
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Jerry
Celestron C-11
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Anonymous
Unregistered
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Quote:
I really don't remember missing her last week
There goes your only change of owning your own observatory!
I am only very jealous and frustrated!
It gives me the feeling I have started to look through a monocles glass to the sky ................ 
Well some have it, everyone else don't
Bonzo
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Jefferson1964
professor emeritus
Reged: 07/15/04
Posts: 570
Loc: Mansfield, Texas
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Meddyn, now thats a nice setup...im jealous, :-)
John, WOW...now thats a lot of stuff on there...Like Old Faithful...Now ive always wanted to take my scope to yellowstone as i go every year and its gets DARK....
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10x70 Binos
Astroscan 2000
8" LX200GPS UHTC
ETX-125EC
ETX-125PE
The ETX Travel Buddies.....
DSIProII DSIPro
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Grizz
Carpal Tunnel
Reged: 04/24/03
Posts: 2176
Loc: Waldwick,New Jersey USA
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Nice setups!
Lets try and keep the image size down to about 100k and 640x480 for folks using dial-up connections. I have edited some of the pics to a smaller size.
Thanks.
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Craig
LX200GPS 10" UHTC SMT
ETX90EC
Orion ED80 APO
Meade LPI Canon 10d Meade DSI
My Photo Gallery
Edited by Grizz (09/25/04 02:14 PM)
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LivingNDixie
Lord of Ferrets
Reged: 04/23/03
Posts: 16249
Loc: Hoover, AL
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Nice observatory!
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Preston
Celestron 11" Nexstar GPS XLT
Tak FS 78
Tak Teegul-Lapides
Lunt LS60T/Ha 60mm f/8.33
Vixen Porta Mount
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kruzmisl
member
Reged: 09/29/03
Posts: 76
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Grizz;
Thanks for taking care of mine. The instructions said 200k, and it was trial and error to get it there.
John Shwope
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rumples riot
Carpal Tunnel
Reged: 07/01/04
Posts: 2486
Loc: South Australia
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Well here it is Hawkeye.
Equipment:
10" Lx200 GPS UHTC
Field derotator
Off axis guider
LPI imager
reticular illuminated ep
26mm super plossel
20mm super plossel
12.5mm super plossel
40mm maxiview ep
2 x barlow
tube counter weight set
Nikon D70 DSLR
Waeco 12volt rechargable gel battery
Dew shield
JMI hard transport case
Phew spent a lot of cash  . Anyway I love it.
Paul
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EARTH AND COSMOS
How to peltier cool a C14 SCT
SOUTH CELESTIAL POLE
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ProfLemoi
sage
Reged: 09/26/04
Posts: 351
Loc: Ashburnham, MA
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Nice scope! I can't wait for mine to get here! say, what kind of luck have you had with your LPI? Do you have any pics you can show us?
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Prof Lemoi
10" LX200GPS UHTC
8x60 Pentax Binoculars
ToUCam ProII 840K
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Hawkeye
super member
Reged: 06/10/04
Posts: 140
Loc: Melbourne, Australia
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Very tidy.
And, it looks as though you have even given it a silk scarf!
Very nice setup, Paul - and in Aussie Dollars too. That, ladies and gentlemen is commitment!
I bet the weeks can't pass quickly enough for you to scoot down to the peninsula for some serious dark sky!
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10" LX200GPS UHTC
Oberwerk 15 x 70
Canon 40D
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rumples riot
Carpal Tunnel
Reged: 07/01/04
Posts: 2486
Loc: South Australia
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Dark skies, yeah, yeah, yeah (think of muttly doing his little dog laugh).
Paul
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EARTH AND COSMOS
How to peltier cool a C14 SCT
SOUTH CELESTIAL POLE
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ProfLemoi
sage
Reged: 09/26/04
Posts: 351
Loc: Ashburnham, MA
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John,
Great sticker! I went to the site and ordered the Planet hunter and the clear skies stickers... still waiting for those to arrive.
Kevin
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Prof Lemoi
10" LX200GPS UHTC
8x60 Pentax Binoculars
ToUCam ProII 840K
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Festus
sage
Reged: 01/07/04
Posts: 218
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This interesting picture is a combination of pics taken by my toshiba web cam, it was -6C notice the blue dew shield white with icy frost. I am still trying to figure out why I can't autoguide with the lpi you see stuck on the back, along with the digital rebel. On the bottom is a meade 12"lx200gps with a starmax 127 mounted on top. It has the special york iron 3d weight system I found in my garage.
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Grizz
Carpal Tunnel
Reged: 04/24/03
Posts: 2176
Loc: Waldwick,New Jersey USA
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Festus I don't think you have the LPI in the correct position. When I use the LPI inserted in my ETX90 to guide my LX200GPS the USB cable has to be facing forward in order for the LPI to guide correctly. For your setup I'm not sure if the USB cable should be facing front or back but I'm pretty sure facing sideways will not work.
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Craig
LX200GPS 10" UHTC SMT
ETX90EC
Orion ED80 APO
Meade LPI Canon 10d Meade DSI
My Photo Gallery
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Festus
sage
Reged: 01/07/04
Posts: 218
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Thanks Grizz, it is hard to tell from this picture because it is a composite of several. It is pointed ahead and stuck into a off axis guider. I have tried installing it in the starmax 127 mounted on top of the 12" with the cable pointing down (no diagonal) and the focal length adjusted in the software. It seems to track for a couple of seconds then guides the object right off the screen. It behave this way for both setups. If I leave the scope alone without guiding it does well for about 10 minutes (mind you the object tends to slide out of view).
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Grizz
Carpal Tunnel
Reged: 04/24/03
Posts: 2176
Loc: Waldwick,New Jersey USA
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Ah I see...well not really.
Couple of things come to mind. Firmware version? Have you tried checking and unchecking the Diag Mirr box and doing a reset cal after each attempt? I have had very good results using the LPI for guiding. I'm sure you will also.
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Craig
LX200GPS 10" UHTC SMT
ETX90EC
Orion ED80 APO
Meade LPI Canon 10d Meade DSI
My Photo Gallery
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John_Gillies
Vendor - Earthwin Optical
Reged: 04/23/03
Posts: 1405
Loc: Ontario, Canada
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Observalavatory Scope.
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John Gillies
12” LX200 GPS / Double Stacked PST
EarthWin Optical PFS-D Binoviewer System(s)
Skywatcher ST 80, 102 & 120
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ProfLemoi
sage
Reged: 09/26/04
Posts: 351
Loc: Ashburnham, MA
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Nice addition of the bi-noc viewers John! I immage that must help with looking at objects for a long time. Reduced eye strain and the like... sweet!
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Prof Lemoi
10" LX200GPS UHTC
8x60 Pentax Binoculars
ToUCam ProII 840K
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John_Gillies
Vendor - Earthwin Optical
Reged: 04/23/03
Posts: 1405
Loc: Ontario, Canada
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I wouldn't live without my Denkmeier's. Last Saturday night at the Observalavatory with the 12"/Denkmeier and a guest with his 12"/Denkmeier, four of us spent no less than 8 hours (7:30 pm to 3:30 am) at the ep's. And it only went down to -11 Celcius. You bet the binoviewer makes viewing easier!
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John Gillies
12” LX200 GPS / Double Stacked PST
EarthWin Optical PFS-D Binoviewer System(s)
Skywatcher ST 80, 102 & 120
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Strgazr27
Vendor - Deep Space Mods and Composites
Reged: 10/04/04
Posts: 6984
Loc: StonyHill Observatory
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Here ya go...
12" LX200 Classic with UHC
Bucks Gears
Version 4.32
Superwedge
9x50 Celestron Polar scope
Kendrick Dew Controller w strips for Corrector and Diag/EP
2" Diagonal
GFT shortened 12"
Just ordered a bunch of stuff from Bobs Knobs. Also just ordered the Meade Zero Image shift focuser and 2" Flip Mirror Assembly.
Plans call for an Orion 80ED this spring piggy backed.
UPS says my Rebel w remote/ grip and extra battery should be here by Wednsday morning
I know, 3 weeks of rain Lol.
A big thanks to Mark G. for giving me the deal of a lifetime and "Big" John C for answering all my questions and PM's.
Thanks Guys.
Bobby
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Bobby
StonyHill Observatory
Skywatcher EQ6 Pro (On it's way)
AT 130 F/6 Prototype
Royce 10" f/4 Astrograph (Under Construction)
Self Modded 40D
70-200 F2.8 L IS
SSAG
YAHOO TMB 130SS Group
Astronomy Technologies Yahoo Group
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Neil
professor emeritus
Reged: 11/21/04
Posts: 503
Loc: Nottingham, England
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Meade very poorly, at the eye surgeons..
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TMB 105/650, Meade LX200R 14", Pentax 75 SDHF
Paramount ME with version E power board,
Canon 450D unmodded,
And a patient wife!
Observatory 'Holmfirth' now built.
Clear skies people!
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Strgazr27
Vendor - Deep Space Mods and Composites
Reged: 10/04/04
Posts: 6984
Loc: StonyHill Observatory
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Let's try this one...
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Bobby
StonyHill Observatory
Skywatcher EQ6 Pro (On it's way)
AT 130 F/6 Prototype
Royce 10" f/4 Astrograph (Under Construction)
Self Modded 40D
70-200 F2.8 L IS
SSAG
YAHOO TMB 130SS Group
Astronomy Technologies Yahoo Group
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Strgazr27
Vendor - Deep Space Mods and Composites
Reged: 10/04/04
Posts: 6984
Loc: StonyHill Observatory
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My "Finderscope" Actually my 90mm F/11 Guider I just picked up.
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Bobby
StonyHill Observatory
Skywatcher EQ6 Pro (On it's way)
AT 130 F/6 Prototype
Royce 10" f/4 Astrograph (Under Construction)
Self Modded 40D
70-200 F2.8 L IS
SSAG
YAHOO TMB 130SS Group
Astronomy Technologies Yahoo Group
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R1200C
sage
Reged: 09/08/03
Posts: 371
Loc: Eastern Ohio
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Here's Mine:
*1998 10" LX200, with added bearings on focuser
*Stellarvue SV105 with 2" Feathertouch Focuser
*Robofocus with homeade bracket
*Ken Milburn Dovetails Top & Bottom
*Meade Superwedge with bearings and blocks on both axis, Mitty kit, teflon, rosette knobs.....
*JMI Wheely Bars
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Frank
Meade 10" LX200
Stellarvue SV105
Losmandy GM8
Canon 12 x 36 IS II
Meade 390
EOS 30D
EF 100 - 400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS USM
EF 16 - 35mm f/2.8L USM
EF 50mm f/1.4 USM
http://discoverthemeadows.com/
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Chris Graham
mmmm...Haggis
Reged: 04/01/04
Posts: 4883
Loc: Stirling, Scotland
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wow some people are so lucky!
Great setups all!
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-Skywatcher 8" Reflector on HEQ5 with Skyscan
-Orion ED80 Refractor
-70mm Guidescope/grab and go scope
-Canon EOS 350D
-Toucam Pro 2
Astronomy & Veggies
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Anonymous
Unregistered
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Wow very sharp! Do that roof open and shut?
Here's mine:
Edited by RLJSlick (01/12/05 01:10 AM)
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Dave LoPresti
Carpal Tunnel
Reged: 12/25/03
Posts: 1991
Loc: Preston, Connecticut
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Lots of nice gear posted so far.
Until I find a better one, here is a pic of my 10" LX200
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Dave L
Meade 10" SCT
TEC 140 SN291
Coronado SolarMax 90mm <.5Å
WO 80mm ZSFD (10th Ann. red)
Tele Vue Pronto
Coronado PST
Canon 18x50 IS
 Wonderful wife 
Edited by Dave LoPresti (01/13/05 10:48 PM)
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TeamGS
Post Laureate
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Reged: 01/20/04
Posts: 3073
Loc: Elk Grove, CA
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Here's my backyard observatory. I would kill for an area that I could build permanant structure. I keep her covered, and left outside most of the time, but it still takes a long time to set up the cameras, computer, etc.
Regards,
Gary
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Celestron 80ED
Losmandy G11
NexStar 80
Starlight Xpress SXV-H9
SXV guidehead, ToUcam 840
http://www.teamgs.org/astrophotography.htm
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Strgazr27
Vendor - Deep Space Mods and Composites
Reged: 10/04/04
Posts: 6984
Loc: StonyHill Observatory
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Gary,
I see you have a nice guider setup now Looks real nice. At least you can leave yours setup. I have to drag mine up and out a setup from scratch everytime I want to image/observe.
Again, Nice setup
P.S. So when does your RCX400 Show up
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Bobby
StonyHill Observatory
Skywatcher EQ6 Pro (On it's way)
AT 130 F/6 Prototype
Royce 10" f/4 Astrograph (Under Construction)
Self Modded 40D
70-200 F2.8 L IS
SSAG
YAHOO TMB 130SS Group
Astronomy Technologies Yahoo Group
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Astrodave
Pooh-Bah
Reged: 05/28/04
Posts: 1195
Loc: Manassas Park, Va. USA
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Ohh for a nice warm, dry, climate that i could relocate myself to.... That and the ability to actually leave my scope outside without fear of the local citizenry making off with it and it being on ebay within an hour of its disappearance!
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Northern Virginia
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TeamGS
Post Laureate
Reged: 01/20/04
Posts: 3073
Loc: Elk Grove, CA
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Thanks guys! Bobby; Actually that pic was taken before I hooked up your old scope in an attempt to capture more light and have a longer FL. The scope pictured is a 70 mm f/10.
David, I would never have pictured Manassas Park as a hotbed of crime!
Regards,
Gary
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Celestron 80ED
Losmandy G11
NexStar 80
Starlight Xpress SXV-H9
SXV guidehead, ToUcam 840
http://www.teamgs.org/astrophotography.htm
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NJ Night Sky
Reged: 03/25/04
Posts: 833
Loc: Hillsborough, NJ
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Here's mine nothing fancy yet but getting there.
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Jim
NJ Night Sky- J&T Telescope - MicroStock Photography - Shop4Scopes
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Scott Horstman
Vendor- Backyard Observatories
Reged: 03/11/04
Posts: 8074
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It's a 10" LX50 (hope I don't get booed). Got the forks here, tube there etc. and Frankenscoped it. I like it though.
Notice the Miracle Grow in the picture. I'm trying to grow it into a 12" LX200 GPS.
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TeamGS
Post Laureate
Reged: 01/20/04
Posts: 3073
Loc: Elk Grove, CA
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Quote:
Notice the Miracle Grow in the picture. I'm trying to grow it into a 12" LX200 GPS.
LOL!
Gary
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Celestron 80ED
Losmandy G11
NexStar 80
Starlight Xpress SXV-H9
SXV guidehead, ToUcam 840
http://www.teamgs.org/astrophotography.htm
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imjeffp
Aluminum Falcon
Reged: 09/30/03
Posts: 4902
Loc: Cedar Park, Texas
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They said in the email I could add two inches with this patch...
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Scott Horstman
Vendor- Backyard Observatories
Reged: 03/11/04
Posts: 8074
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Ya mean like the Enz*** stuff? In a patch?
I could just see it now.....
Hello, this is Bob. Bob now sees down to 16th mag and star tests like never before..... 
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Anonymous
Unregistered
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Well, here is my 12" LX200GPS, Just ordered a milburn deluxe Wedge for it, and awaiting it, 6-8 weeks left.
Edited by Grizz (03/02/05 12:57 AM)
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Scott Horstman
Vendor- Backyard Observatories
Reged: 03/11/04
Posts: 8074
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Hi Steve, Nice set up. It should be worth the wait on the wedge. They're really nice!
Welcome to C.N. It's a fun place to hang out.
C.S. Scott.
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Hawkeye
super member
Reged: 06/10/04
Posts: 140
Loc: Melbourne, Australia
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Hey Steve,
I like the snow effect on the railing.  Love the hardware too. How is the camera mounted?
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10" LX200GPS UHTC
Oberwerk 15 x 70
Canon 40D
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Anonymous
Unregistered
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Thanks for that comment , It always snows here and that is what usually keeps me from observing. The Camera is mounted by a Meade Camera Adapter, I might change that to a Milburn adapter later on, but I see you have an LX200gps too, if you look at the optical tube, at the end with the cast iron that is black, there are a few different types of screws on the rim, with this you unscrew those and the kit that comes with the adapter has longer screws, you place the adapter over the two screw holes, and lock it back in.
The only problem I have is that when taking widefield images the end of the tube is in the FOV because you cannot adjust the camera on this adapter which is a pain, that is why i am going to eventually change that camera adapter.
-Steve
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Hawkeye
super member
Reged: 06/10/04
Posts: 140
Loc: Melbourne, Australia
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The Milburn adaptor with the rail loods like a good proposition. Photography with my LX200 is something I will have to get into.
Now, for a bit of that snow to soothe my sunburn.
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10" LX200GPS UHTC
Oberwerk 15 x 70
Canon 40D
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pber2025
sage
Reged: 09/20/04
Posts: 301
Loc: Quebec, Canada
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My new setup, when not in use the scope will be stored on this kitchen kart from IKEA. To use the scope I will simply move the kart close to the patio door and set the scope on the tripod.
When stored, the scope is actually bolted to the kart using a 2 1/2" bolt for safety (I have kids!). For added protection my wife will make a dust cover to protect the scope.
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LX200GPS-SMT 10" UHTC, Meade UltraWedge
SkyWatcher 80ED Pro Series (Blue OTA)
Skywatcher 6" dobson + Telrad
Canon Digital Rebel XT (350D) stock
ADM mounting rings and counter weight
Soon ImagePlus 2.75 and DSLRFocus
Edited by pber2025 (03/13/05 07:55 PM)
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Anonymous
Unregistered
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What size is it? It looks like a 12".
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pber2025
sage
Reged: 09/20/04
Posts: 301
Loc: Quebec, Canada
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It's 10", looks bigger because the picture was taken slight up angle.
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LX200GPS-SMT 10" UHTC, Meade UltraWedge
SkyWatcher 80ED Pro Series (Blue OTA)
Skywatcher 6" dobson + Telrad
Canon Digital Rebel XT (350D) stock
ADM mounting rings and counter weight
Soon ImagePlus 2.75 and DSLRFocus
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southmike
Carpal Tunnel
Reged: 11/22/04
Posts: 2828
Loc: Fayetteville, NC
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a 12 wont fit with the ota down.
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group scope pic
my refractors
LX200 10"-St120
LX200 8" f6.3-Orion 80ed
LX200 8" f10-Orion 90 Mak setup pic
Meade 102ED LXD650
Sky Watcher 100 ED Triplet prototype
Nexstar 5
etx125
etx70's
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Anonymous
Unregistered
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Yeah your right.  I just never thought about the 12" fitting all the way down. I had to test mine to make sure.
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starman2
newbie
Reged: 09/07/04
Posts: 3
Loc: North West USA
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Sir,
I just bought a 12" LX200 GPS SMT and I would like to see if you would mind send ing me an e-mail on how you start you evening observing. I have not had a chance to really use it yet and I would like to know where to start. It is mounted on a pier with the heavy duty wedge and an observatory almost like yours. I have centered Polaris using a illuminated eypiece while waiting for my power supply to get here. Now which way should my OTA be pointed before I apply the power and then take me through a simple way if you don't mind. Please e-mail me at starman@pacific.net
Thanks,
Gary
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mtnmedic
professor emeritus
Reged: 11/09/04
Posts: 503
Loc: Nevada City, California
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And here's mine. I took it out again in Lucerne Valley, CA (just down the hill north of Big Bear Lake) last weekend with the wife. Gotta tell ya...M42 just made us faint! Never before did I see it actually FILL the field of view! GAWD...I have GOT to get 2" EPs and a bino viewer for this, my pride and joy! And to think, I spent all those years with a Dynamax 8" SCT!
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Michael
Meade 10" LX200 Classic
Celestron NexStar 5i
Canon EOS 450D Rebel XSI
"Let me explain the whole situation in a nutshell. There are five of us and four billion of them. They have Strategic Air Commands, nuclear powered submarines and John Wayne. We have this." - Lieutenant Giggywig
Edited by Grizz (04/06/05 07:14 AM)
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southmike
Carpal Tunnel
Reged: 11/22/04
Posts: 2828
Loc: Fayetteville, NC
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Ok finally took a quick pic of
my Lx200 8", with orion 90 mm mak with a flip mirror and 201xt.
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group scope pic
my refractors
LX200 10"-St120
LX200 8" f6.3-Orion 80ed
LX200 8" f10-Orion 90 Mak setup pic
Meade 102ED LXD650
Sky Watcher 100 ED Triplet prototype
Nexstar 5
etx125
etx70's
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mtnmedic
professor emeritus
Reged: 11/09/04
Posts: 503
Loc: Nevada City, California
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Nice! Binos........even 1.25" would be nice. Somehow, the midnight or royal blue our scopes are painted in is just the RIGHT colour (for me, anyway).
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Michael
Meade 10" LX200 Classic
Celestron NexStar 5i
Canon EOS 450D Rebel XSI
"Let me explain the whole situation in a nutshell. There are five of us and four billion of them. They have Strategic Air Commands, nuclear powered submarines and John Wayne. We have this." - Lieutenant Giggywig
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southmike
Carpal Tunnel
Reged: 11/22/04
Posts: 2828
Loc: Fayetteville, NC
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Thanks , I am rather un-impressed with walmarts film to cd service....it is grainy as heck..
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group scope pic
my refractors
LX200 10"-St120
LX200 8" f6.3-Orion 80ed
LX200 8" f10-Orion 90 Mak setup pic
Meade 102ED LXD650
Sky Watcher 100 ED Triplet prototype
Nexstar 5
etx125
etx70's
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mtnmedic
professor emeritus
Reged: 11/09/04
Posts: 503
Loc: Nevada City, California
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Yeah, it IS a bit grainy. Well, that's Wally World for ya. I haven't been there in almost 6 months and before that about a year. Of course, the fact that it's about 10 miles away and Target is eight blocks away might have something to do it. Besides, it just seems to me that Wal-Mart has gotten, well...cheap and junky, lately. That's my opinion and it's probably somewhat biased. But it HAS changed over the last few years, not to mention its desire to conquer the world...
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Michael
Meade 10" LX200 Classic
Celestron NexStar 5i
Canon EOS 450D Rebel XSI
"Let me explain the whole situation in a nutshell. There are five of us and four billion of them. They have Strategic Air Commands, nuclear powered submarines and John Wayne. We have this." - Lieutenant Giggywig
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ProfLemoi
sage
Reged: 09/26/04
Posts: 351
Loc: Ashburnham, MA
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Hey were did you guys get the Due Shields for your Meade scopes? I have a *bleep* one I would like to upgrade.
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Prof Lemoi
10" LX200GPS UHTC
8x60 Pentax Binoculars
ToUCam ProII 840K
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mtnmedic
professor emeritus
Reged: 11/09/04
Posts: 503
Loc: Nevada City, California
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Got mine from Scope City. Most Meade dealers can get one for you. They're really nice but they're heavy, rigid, don't store easily and are kind of bulky to cart around. However, they're a snap to put on, as they fit very snugly around the end of the OTA. Heck, I don't even use the screws on mine.
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Michael
Meade 10" LX200 Classic
Celestron NexStar 5i
Canon EOS 450D Rebel XSI
"Let me explain the whole situation in a nutshell. There are five of us and four billion of them. They have Strategic Air Commands, nuclear powered submarines and John Wayne. We have this." - Lieutenant Giggywig
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ProfLemoi
sage
Reged: 09/26/04
Posts: 351
Loc: Ashburnham, MA
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Do you need any counter weight with that one Michael?
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Prof Lemoi
10" LX200GPS UHTC
8x60 Pentax Binoculars
ToUCam ProII 840K
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mtnmedic
professor emeritus
Reged: 11/09/04
Posts: 503
Loc: Nevada City, California
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Well, so far I haven't had the need for counterweighting...yet. It's heavy but not terribly so. It's heavy enough to tip the scope down when the DEC lock isn't on but doesn't appear to cause any significant strain on the DECK lock when it's engaged. However, counterweighting isn't a bad idea. I remember my old Dynamax 8" SCT having a really neat (homemade!) counterweighting system on it that kept it very nicely balanced to the point where I never even needed to engage the DEC lock. 
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Michael
Meade 10" LX200 Classic
Celestron NexStar 5i
Canon EOS 450D Rebel XSI
"Let me explain the whole situation in a nutshell. There are five of us and four billion of them. They have Strategic Air Commands, nuclear powered submarines and John Wayne. We have this." - Lieutenant Giggywig
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southmike
Carpal Tunnel
Reged: 11/22/04
Posts: 2828
Loc: Fayetteville, NC
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I got mine on astromart for about 75 bucks...I found that it really made the front heavy.even with the binoviewer
I had to add weights.
I also have a astrozap with built in heater..but once I added the guide rail and counterbalance it doesn't fit any more..so no convienent fold flat dew shield for me..
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group scope pic
my refractors
LX200 10"-St120
LX200 8" f6.3-Orion 80ed
LX200 8" f10-Orion 90 Mak setup pic
Meade 102ED LXD650
Sky Watcher 100 ED Triplet prototype
Nexstar 5
etx125
etx70's
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faltered
super member
Reged: 04/01/05
Posts: 192
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MORE! Post more pictures! I love looking at these setups. I like to see how people are spending all their hard earned $$.
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Anonymous
Unregistered
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My new baby:
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mtnmedic
professor emeritus
Reged: 11/09/04
Posts: 503
Loc: Nevada City, California
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NICE! Where in the world are those nice GREEN yards? I think you'll be surprised how stable the scope is with the standard field tripod. Mine has done wonderfully with it.
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Michael
Meade 10" LX200 Classic
Celestron NexStar 5i
Canon EOS 450D Rebel XSI
"Let me explain the whole situation in a nutshell. There are five of us and four billion of them. They have Strategic Air Commands, nuclear powered submarines and John Wayne. We have this." - Lieutenant Giggywig
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Anonymous
Unregistered
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Iowa. No watering necessary.
I had it out for a very short amount of time the night I got it (Saturday. I was tired from the long drive to pick it up, plus it was cold as heck, so didn't feel like being out too long). But it seemed pretty stable. Didn't have a power cable for it yet so I just looked at Jupiter. It needs collimated badly. I didn't play with it that night (wish I had), so I've been trying to daylight collimate it. I think I got it significantly better but I'll have to wait for a clear night to find out and finish the job.
I took a really fuzzy, underexposed (and several overexposed) single exposure of Jupiter. I've got a Sony DSC-F717. It seems like people are getting really good results from stacking AVIs from webcams, would shooting 320x200 AVIs with the Sony and stacking them potentially be better than taking regular 5 megapixel photos? What about stacking full res photos?
Edited by Nicholas Loper (05/02/05 12:49 PM)
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BradH
Pooh-Bah
Reged: 06/19/04
Posts: 1039
Loc: Spencer, Indiana
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I got my LX200 12" in last week and finished my Skyshed. I put the scope on the Sunday. Now I need for it the clear up.
Brad
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BradH
Pooh-Bah
Reged: 06/19/04
Posts: 1039
Loc: Spencer, Indiana
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Here is one from inside
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Anonymous
Unregistered
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brad with a permanent house for your scope that 12" LX is screeming for a wedge. oh and mount that little 80ed on your lx too they compliment each other really well.
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BradH
Pooh-Bah
Reged: 06/19/04
Posts: 1039
Loc: Spencer, Indiana
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I may end up doing that one day. it something I have thought about.
Brad
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southmike
Carpal Tunnel
Reged: 11/22/04
Posts: 2828
Loc: Fayetteville, NC
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A blue night...with friends
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group scope pic
my refractors
LX200 10"-St120
LX200 8" f6.3-Orion 80ed
LX200 8" f10-Orion 90 Mak setup pic
Meade 102ED LXD650
Sky Watcher 100 ED Triplet prototype
Nexstar 5
etx125
etx70's
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Sky Captain
Metal Whisperer
Reged: 11/07/04
Posts: 7177
Loc: Issaquah, WA.
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Nice set up Mike, but don't you guys bump into each other when viewing? Or all those scopes yours?
Kerry.
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Equipment Overload!
Kerry
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mtnmedic
professor emeritus
Reged: 11/09/04
Posts: 503
Loc: Nevada City, California
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Looks like good little soldiers, marching off to a nice, dark site for an evening of most excellent reconnaissance. 
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Michael
Meade 10" LX200 Classic
Celestron NexStar 5i
Canon EOS 450D Rebel XSI
"Let me explain the whole situation in a nutshell. There are five of us and four billion of them. They have Strategic Air Commands, nuclear powered submarines and John Wayne. We have this." - Lieutenant Giggywig
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southmike
Carpal Tunnel
Reged: 11/22/04
Posts: 2828
Loc: Fayetteville, NC
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mine...
I wanted to gather the heard before i sell them..
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group scope pic
my refractors
LX200 10"-St120
LX200 8" f6.3-Orion 80ed
LX200 8" f10-Orion 90 Mak setup pic
Meade 102ED LXD650
Sky Watcher 100 ED Triplet prototype
Nexstar 5
etx125
etx70's
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Sky Captain
Metal Whisperer
Reged: 11/07/04
Posts: 7177
Loc: Issaquah, WA.
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Are you selling them all? You are going to keep the 10 in. at least?
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Equipment Overload!
Kerry
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southmike
Carpal Tunnel
Reged: 11/22/04
Posts: 2828
Loc: Fayetteville, NC
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no not all the ..nexstar 5 is the first to go ,the ed80 will become the grab and go. then depending on which 8 i like ,one is a f6 & one is f10. i will sell one to my sister....though the 90mm mak is a great size..it will probably go with the 8. right now i use it more for birding then anything.
I will keep the 10, I like the 10/120 setup even if my back doesn't.
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group scope pic
my refractors
LX200 10"-St120
LX200 8" f6.3-Orion 80ed
LX200 8" f10-Orion 90 Mak setup pic
Meade 102ED LXD650
Sky Watcher 100 ED Triplet prototype
Nexstar 5
etx125
etx70's
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LivingNDixie
Lord of Ferrets
Reged: 04/23/03
Posts: 16249
Loc: Hoover, AL
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wow thats alot of scopes... ok heres mine, don't laugh at the color of the walls, had to move the scope into the Bedroom last weekend when company came over for my graduation
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Preston
Celestron 11" Nexstar GPS XLT
Tak FS 78
Tak Teegul-Lapides
Lunt LS60T/Ha 60mm f/8.33
Vixen Porta Mount
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imjeffp
Aluminum Falcon
Reged: 09/30/03
Posts: 4902
Loc: Cedar Park, Texas
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Aaahh! My eyes!
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mtnmedic
professor emeritus
Reged: 11/09/04
Posts: 503
Loc: Nevada City, California
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Now I've got this BLUE spot that hovers in front of my eyes and it won't go away! OUCH! 
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Michael
Meade 10" LX200 Classic
Celestron NexStar 5i
Canon EOS 450D Rebel XSI
"Let me explain the whole situation in a nutshell. There are five of us and four billion of them. They have Strategic Air Commands, nuclear powered submarines and John Wayne. We have this." - Lieutenant Giggywig
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Anonymous
Unregistered
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Nice Avatar!
JPH
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Anonymous
Unregistered
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Congratulations on your graduation! What did you graduate with?
JPH
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meademan10
journeyman
Reged: 05/11/05
Posts: 5
Loc: East Hartford, Ct
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Here's my setup:
LX200GPS 10"
Milburn Deluxe Wedge
Antares Finder Scope
Celestron 102AT Guide Scope
Milburn Mounting rings
Milburn Counter weights
SAC7b on 102 for guiding
SAC10 on order
Kendrick Power
Just completed putting the pieces together and hope to start
imaging soon.
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Sky Captain
Metal Whisperer
Reged: 11/07/04
Posts: 7177
Loc: Issaquah, WA.
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That's a great looking set up Meademan!
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Equipment Overload!
Kerry
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meademan10
journeyman
Reged: 05/11/05
Posts: 5
Loc: East Hartford, Ct
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Thanks Sky Captain. Just finished putting the main pieces together and am awaiting the SAC10 camera. Just need it and some clear skies and then the fun can begin.
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ProfLemoi
sage
Reged: 09/26/04
Posts: 351
Loc: Ashburnham, MA
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Meademan,
Nice setup! When you get your SAC10 working I would love to see some pictures as I have been considering this camera for DSO work.
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Prof Lemoi
10" LX200GPS UHTC
8x60 Pentax Binoculars
ToUCam ProII 840K
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Anonymous
Unregistered
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Hey guys,
I've been looking for a scope and settled on one of the new CPC's from Celestron (most likely the 11") or the 10" LX200GPS. I'm leaning towards the LX200, but I read on another site that supposedly Meade uses aluminum for the worm gear, etc. instead of brass, steel, or bronze, which results in gear wear and metal shavings, etc. ? Is this actually true? Don't see that it would matter that much since they have a warranty and you can extend it, and also that if the gears ARE aluminum they wouldn't have such problems with it, because it wouldn't make sense to ship a product with those issues, but just curious about this. It was a pretty strong posting about the issue and I could see how it might be a concern.
Thanks!
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meademan10
journeyman
Reged: 05/11/05
Posts: 5
Loc: East Hartford, Ct
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Thanks ProfLemoi. I am number 39 on the SAC10 list and waiting for shipments to start. I will certainly post shots when I get the camera.
Sinthor here's a link to a web sight with internal photos of the LX200GPS. on the right bottom are the photos.
http://www.meadelx200gps.com/tips.html#
hope this helps you decide.
meademan10
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Anonymous
Unregistered
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Nice pics, but it doesn't say if the gears are aluminum or not. Any input on this? And if it's true IS it an issue to be concerned about?
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meademan10
journeyman
Reged: 05/11/05
Posts: 5
Loc: East Hartford, Ct
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Sinthor
Yes the main (Large) gear is aluminum but I am not aware of any issues caused by this. There is a kit to replace the two smaller gears from the drive motor which are plastic and the kit replaces them with steel gears. The kit is Buck's gears and I have installed it in my scope, not because of any problems but because it made me feel better having steel. Hope I answered your question.
meademan10
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Anonymous
Unregistered
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Yep, think that does it. So, like I thought, not a big concern at all. Just a posting from an overly concerned person. Know about the Bucks gears upgrade and really, that won't even be a necessary factor for me until well into my use of the scope since I'm planning on getting the 5 yr extended warranty.
Thanks a ton!
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LivingNDixie
Lord of Ferrets
Reged: 04/23/03
Posts: 16249
Loc: Hoover, AL
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Quote:
Congratulations on your graduation! What did you graduate with?
JPH
BS Accounting
and I have no motivation to get a CPA, I already have a job starting in June at American Express
--------------------
Preston
Celestron 11" Nexstar GPS XLT
Tak FS 78
Tak Teegul-Lapides
Lunt LS60T/Ha 60mm f/8.33
Vixen Porta Mount
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ProfLemoi
sage
Reged: 09/26/04
Posts: 351
Loc: Ashburnham, MA
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Sinthor,
I have the LX200GPS and I love it! I have never had any problems with the gears. The opics on Meade are the best. My vote is go for the Meade 10"LX200GPS! Let us know which one you go for!
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Prof Lemoi
10" LX200GPS UHTC
8x60 Pentax Binoculars
ToUCam ProII 840K
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pber2025
sage
Reged: 09/20/04
Posts: 301
Loc: Quebec, Canada
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Sinthor,
I went to the same thing and I believe this is quite normal. You don't want to spend that kind on money on a new scope only to find out you did buy the wrong one...
But let me tell you, so far my LX200 GPS has performed very well. The GOTO is amazing, very easy to setup and accurate. The Autostar controller is easy to use.
Don't forget for every problem you see on the web there are many happy users who never say anything.
I wish the weather would work as well as my LX200....
--------------------
LX200GPS-SMT 10" UHTC, Meade UltraWedge
SkyWatcher 80ED Pro Series (Blue OTA)
Skywatcher 6" dobson + Telrad
Canon Digital Rebel XT (350D) stock
ADM mounting rings and counter weight
Soon ImagePlus 2.75 and DSLRFocus
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Sky Captain
Metal Whisperer
Reged: 11/07/04
Posts: 7177
Loc: Issaquah, WA.
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Here is my setup for video to TV viewing, set up out side of course.
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Equipment Overload!
Kerry
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southmike
Carpal Tunnel
Reged: 11/22/04
Posts: 2828
Loc: Fayetteville, NC
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nice capt...
--------------------
group scope pic
my refractors
LX200 10"-St120
LX200 8" f6.3-Orion 80ed
LX200 8" f10-Orion 90 Mak setup pic
Meade 102ED LXD650
Sky Watcher 100 ED Triplet prototype
Nexstar 5
etx125
etx70's
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Sky Captain
Metal Whisperer
Reged: 11/07/04
Posts: 7177
Loc: Issaquah, WA.
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Thanks Mike. I need a better picture though, it's been updated with a lot of new items, isn't that the way it goes.
Kerry.
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Equipment Overload!
Kerry
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Hawkeye
super member
Reged: 06/10/04
Posts: 140
Loc: Melbourne, Australia
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Quote:
Here is my setup for video to TV viewing, set up out side of course.
Wow. You'll get booked by the Skyway Patrol for an overloaded vehicle!
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10" LX200GPS UHTC
Oberwerk 15 x 70
Canon 40D
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Sky Captain
Metal Whisperer
Reged: 11/07/04
Posts: 7177
Loc: Issaquah, WA.
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"booked by the Skyway Patrol".... I am the Skyway Patrol!!!
Kerry.
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Equipment Overload!
Kerry
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imjeffp
Aluminum Falcon
Reged: 09/30/03
Posts: 4902
Loc: Cedar Park, Texas
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"My hours are long, and my pay is low."
--------------------
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faltered
super member
Reged: 04/01/05
Posts: 192
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My 10" LX200 with ETX 90 riding on top.
Edited by faltered (06/02/05 02:06 PM)
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JAT Observatory
Got Cookies?
Reged: 02/20/05
Posts: 6782
Loc: Eastern PA
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Here a shot of my 10" LX200GPS configured with a ST80 and Maxscope40 perched on top. The setup is housed in a fully automated remote controlled dome.
http://www.jatobservatory.org/images/Photos/Img_2314.jpg
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-Marcus
The problem with free speech is even the stupid have a voice.
http://www.jatobservatory.org
Currently a SV102A, WO 66mm & 10" LX200GPS OTA on a Paramount ME
(these OTAs subject to change without notice)
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imjeffp
Aluminum Falcon
Reged: 09/30/03
Posts: 4902
Loc: Cedar Park, Texas
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Looks mighty cozy in there if you're doing any visual observing.
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JAT Observatory
Got Cookies?
Reged: 02/20/05
Posts: 6782
Loc: Eastern PA
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There is more room than it appears from the photo. There is room for a few folks.
--------------------
-Marcus
The problem with free speech is even the stupid have a voice.
http://www.jatobservatory.org
Currently a SV102A, WO 66mm & 10" LX200GPS OTA on a Paramount ME
(these OTAs subject to change without notice)
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imjeffp
Aluminum Falcon
Reged: 09/30/03
Posts: 4902
Loc: Cedar Park, Texas
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Blue telescope and matching blue motorized carrying case.
--------------------
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Anonymous
Unregistered
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Well-------here's my 2 cents worth----LX200 all the new stuff with a TV 85 Mounted piggyback in a roll off roof observatory (too lazy to set up everytime) Download pictures to my warm room (where the computer is)--------not really all that warm, but it does have a heater. (Thats Bandit looking in the door)
Edited by DrBuck (06/18/05 09:50 PM)
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Anonymous
Unregistered
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Well, it's taken me forever to get even this picure, so forgive the lighting. Nothing real special, just my killer stock LX200GPS that's giving me so much fun!
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southmike
Carpal Tunnel
Reged: 11/22/04
Posts: 2828
Loc: Fayetteville, NC
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nice scope...though you will have to call it modified stock with that scope saver tray...just kiddn
there is a lot to be said for a scope that sets up quick , and you dont have to assemble lots of add-ons and align them all
--------------------
group scope pic
my refractors
LX200 10"-St120
LX200 8" f6.3-Orion 80ed
LX200 8" f10-Orion 90 Mak setup pic
Meade 102ED LXD650
Sky Watcher 100 ED Triplet prototype
Nexstar 5
etx125
etx70's
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Anonymous
Unregistered
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Quote:
Sinthor,
I have the LX200GPS and I love it! I have never had any problems with the gears. The opics on Meade are the best. My vote is go for the Meade 10"LX200GPS! Let us know which one you go for!
Oh yes, I quit worrying about it. I have had nothing but fun so far. The goto is working great, it tracks good. Figured there couldn't be that many in use by real people and at observatories if they really had such an achilles heel. Just the panic attacks of a new scope owner! I got the extended service plan anyway so I'm not worrying. Thanks for the input though!
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Anonymous
Unregistered
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Quote:
Sinthor,
I went to the same thing and I believe this is quite normal. You don't want to spend that kind on money on a new scope only to find out you did buy the wrong one...
But let me tell you, so far my LX200 GPS has performed very well. The GOTO is amazing, very easy to setup and accurate. The Autostar controller is easy to use.
Don't forget for every problem you see on the web there are many happy users who never say anything.
I wish the weather would work as well as my LX200....
ANd also don't forget that Meade outsells Celestron about 7 to 1, so there are a lot more Meades out there, hence, the chances for a lot more Meades to have some issues...but on a percentile basis, I would assume that Meade has no more issues then Celestron.
Gary
10" LX200GPS
SV-130
ETX-125
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