Telescope Reviews: Astro Physics 400 (non GOTO) Experience...

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Equipment Discussions >> Mounts

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buckeye_hunter
super member

Reged: 12/07/08

Loc: Ohio

Astro Physics 400 (non GOTO) Experience...
#2969406 - 03/07/09 10:58 AM

I have been searching for a reasonably definitive answer as to whether an AP400 mount can handle my 10" SCT OTA for visual use. The AP site lists the capacity of 18 lbs, but I also read that they use a load capacity for astrophotography, which I gather is about half of the load capacity for visual observation.

Any advice appreciated.

Bob

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davidmcgo
scholastic sledgehammer

Reged: 10/09/04

Loc: San Diego, CA

Re: Astro Physics 400 (non GOTO) Experience... new

[Re: buckeye_hunter]
#2969594 - 03/07/09 12:19 PM

Hard to say, I stupidly sold mine many years ago. I found that for astro-photography the 400QMD was a bit light for a 130EDT plus camera and guidescope which probably dressed out to nearly 28 pounds. Mostly I recall the degradation was tracking accuracy and not a huge amount of bounce although that was after switching to the 6" pier as opposed to the hardwood tripod which did start to add shakes with that load.

I only had the 130EDT then but I think it'd be light for a 10" SCT but should be lots better than a CG5 so depends on your standards and how windy it is where you observe.

Dave

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CHASLX200
Post Laureate

Reged: 09/29/07

Loc: Tampa area Florida

Re: Astro Physics 400 (non GOTO) Experience... new