crazyqban
Carpal Tunnel
Reged: 12/16/08
Loc: Miami, Florida
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First Light Astro-Physics 175 EDF
#5653597 - 01/31/13 04:30 AM Attachment (382 downloads)
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I wish that this was a first light report of MY AP 175 EDF but instead it is of my friend's AP 175 EDF that was just delivered Monday, Jan 28. He does not have an account here on Cloudy Nights (not sure why he does not) so he told me to go ahead and post a report if I wanted. The scope is very imposing and impressive. The scope is mounted on an AP 900 mount and you know that it means business just by looking at it. The seeing conditions here in Miami, Florida today were not all that great since a cold front is starting to work its way down. We observed Jupiter, Sirius, M42, M31, M46, M47, M41, NGC 869/884 & NGC 457. This was just a quick first light and not a very involved session since my friend was sick as dog, had to get some work done at home, we were observing in Greater Miami and the incoming cold front. The best object of the night was Jupiter at the beginning of our session, we were observing it with Mark V binoviewers and various eyepiece pairs (Naglers & Zeiss Abbe IIs). The views were crisp, sharp and full of contrasty detail. My only complaint is the the binos were about 2 feet off of the ground since Jupiter was at zenith. M31 was very disappointing because it was very dim due to the light pollution. I am sure the in a dark site this will be a view to behold!!! This was also the case for M42 and the dimmer star clusters. The brighter star cluster were very enjoyable and we were able to see Sirius B even though the seeing was not very good. All in all an amazing scope both visually and mechanically. Astro-Physics's 4 inch focuser is a pure joy to use. It is beefy and works flawlessly. I cannot wait until we take this puppy out to the Everglades and get it to perform under some dark skies.
Photo #1, Angel the proud papa and his new addition to the family.
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crazyqban
Carpal Tunnel
Reged: 12/16/08
Loc: Miami, Florida
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Re: First Light Astro-Physics 175 EDF
[Re: crazyqban]
#5653599 - 01/31/13 04:31 AM Attachment (256 downloads)
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Photo #2 - my friend Maykel and Angel's new baby
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crazyqban
Carpal Tunnel
Reged: 12/16/08
Loc: Miami, Florida
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Re: First Light Astro-Physics 175 EDF
[Re: crazyqban]
#5653600 - 01/31/13 04:32 AM Attachment (236 downloads)
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Photo #3 - The Crazyqban & the Beast
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JJK
scholastic sledgehammer
Reged: 04/28/08
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Re: First Light Astro-Physics 175 EDF
[Re: crazyqban]
#5653608 - 01/31/13 04:55 AM
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Trips to a dark sky site will be highly rewarding with that telescope. At the Cherry Springs park (Black Forest Star Party Site), mine nearly kept up with a Tak Mewlon 300 on many faint fuzzies (to be sure, there was a difference in the limiting magnitudes, but not as much as I thought there'd be). The brighter DSOs were pure eye candy. M42, which was about 38 * off the horizon, offered a high contrast and nearly 3-dimensional appearance.
The Swan nebula displayed a detail-ridden bright body contrasting the charcoal black space at the neck - a truly stunning site. That same object obviously looked much brighter in John Vogt's 32" Dob-Newt (in his wonderful scope, the object looked brighter and nearly fluorescent) but the contrast between the darkest and brightest portions of the Swan seemed reasonably similar.
Jupiter was magnificent, with pure white bands contrasting slate blue, brown, and orange features. I was fortunate that the seeing was really good for about an hour and a half. You guys should really take advantage of the better seeing in FL and the higher placement of Jupiter in the sky.
Enjoy the scope!
Edited by JJK (01/31/13 05:03 AM)
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johnnyha
Postmaster
Reged: 11/12/06
Loc: Sherman Oaks, CA
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Re: First Light Astro-Physics 175 EDF
[Re: JJK]
#5653652 - 01/31/13 06:10 AM
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Nice report Sergio you lucky dog! Your friend needs to add an extension to his mount.
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crazyqban
Carpal Tunnel
Reged: 12/16/08
Loc: Miami, Florida
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Re: First Light Astro-Physics 175 EDF
[Re: johnnyha]
#5653666 - 01/31/13 06:29 AM
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Tell me about it, I had to get on my side on the floor to view Jupiter!!!
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t.r.
Post Laureate
Reged: 02/14/08
Loc: Upstate NY
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Re: First Light Astro-Physics 175 EDF
[Re: crazyqban]
#5653769 - 01/31/13 08:06 AM
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Sergio, nothing wrong with piggy backing off someone elses good fortune! My largest instrument views have been through others scopes as well. Luke Legee and I attended a local summer seminar. It was first light of his TEC 180FL that night. I pushed him out of the way and looked through it more than he did!!! 
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bilgebay
Post Laureate
Reged: 11/06/08
Loc: Türkiye - Istanbul and Marmari...
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Re: First Light Astro-Physics 175 EDF
[Re: t.r.]
#5653776 - 01/31/13 08:11 AM
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Luke is a good guy!
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bilgebay
Post Laureate
Reged: 11/06/08
Loc: Türkiye - Istanbul and Marmari...
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Re: First Light Astro-Physics 175 EDF
[Re: crazyqban]
#5653779 - 01/31/13 08:14 AM
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Great scope Sergio! Enjoy the views!
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R Botero
sage
Reged: 01/02/09
Loc: Kent, England
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Re: First Light Astro-Physics 175 EDF
[Re: crazyqban]
#5653799 - 01/31/13 08:33 AM
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Great new scope! Make sure you keep that friend - Sergio! 
I know what you say about the 4" focuser being a joy to use. My AP152 EDF is 22 years old and its 4" focuser is as smooth as butter - fantastic craftsmanship. 
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Paul Hyndman
sage
Reged: 07/13/04
Loc: Connecticut Shoreline USA
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Re: First Light Astro-Physics 175 EDF
[Re: R Botero]
#5653825 - 01/31/13 08:47 AM
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Nice report, Sergio... but just WAIT until you guys put that puppy to work under some stable dark skies: wow-a-ka-zowwa ka-bam!
Enjoy!
Paul
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Madratter
professor emeritus
Reged: 01/14/13
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Re: First Light Astro-Physics 175 EDF
[Re: R Botero]
#5653840 - 01/31/13 08:53 AM
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I've never looked through one of their 175s, but I have observed with one of the 6" Starfires. While it wasn't the best planetary views I have ever had (that was through my 20"), the views were absolutely stunning and the mechanicals were great. I would absolutely love to have one. A seven inch version would be awesome! Enjoy using it.
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Darren Drake
Carpal Tunnel
Reged: 10/09/02
Loc: Chicagoland
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Re: First Light Astro-Physics 175 EDF
[Re: Madratter]
#5653865 - 01/31/13 09:08 AM
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Are there many 175s left to be delivered? I heard somewhere that AP may soon stop offering the bigger apos and only make the smaller ones...
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t.r.
Post Laureate
Reged: 02/14/08
Loc: Upstate NY
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Re: First Light Astro-Physics 175 EDF
[Re: Darren Drake]
#5653897 - 01/31/13 09:26 AM
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Oh, this is it for the large apos. The glass for these 175's is from old stock Roland had. TEC is able to get large blanks still, but it is becoming less likely that these large sizes will be produced much longer. Yuri has stated that the rejection rate is getting higher with each glass shipment he receives.
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vahe
professor emeritus
Reged: 08/27/05
Loc: Houston, Texas
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Re: First Light Astro-Physics 175 EDF
[Re: t.r.]
#5654050 - 01/31/13 10:41 AM
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Quote:
Yuri has stated that the rejection rate is getting higher with each glass shipment he receives.
TEC is making 180s at this time and there is also word on restarting 200FLs using different glasses.
Check out tec-ug Posts # 23384 & #23391.
Vahe
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Scott in NC
Mad Hatter
Reged: 03/05/05
Loc: NC
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Re: First Light Astro-Physics 175 EDF
[Re: vahe]
#5654175 - 01/31/13 11:45 AM
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Wow that's huge! I enjoyed reading your report--you're a lucky guy. I wonder if I could talk any of my friends into buying an AP175? That might actually be preferable to owning one myself (as I wouldn't have to worry about it, someone else could set it up for me, someone else could explain to their spouse why they spent so much money on a scope, etc., etc.).
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Joe C
sage
Reged: 11/29/08
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Re: First Light Astro-Physics 175 EDF
[Re: Scott in NC]
#5654229 - 01/31/13 12:22 PM
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Great first light report Sergio.
Darren, I know of at least one person waiting on their 175. But from what I have seen reports on, there are not many are remaining to be delivered.
Scott, there are no more AP175's left to be had. The production run has been filled and it appears there will be no more in the future. However, you never know what Roland has in in old stock ready for something bigger.
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vahe
professor emeritus
Reged: 08/27/05
Loc: Houston, Texas
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Re: First Light Astro-Physics 175 EDF
[Re: Joe C]
#5654283 - 01/31/13 01:00 PM
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When AP announced lottery for the last remaining 175s I gave it a serious thought but at the end decided not to participate for two reasons:
1 -I have a 155 F/9EDT with refigured optics, I am strictly visual and this scope offers spectacular performance for its aperture, but paying nearly $17,000 extra for 20mm increase in aperture just did not make sense to me.
And,
2 - In the last fifteen years anything that I tried to purchase from AP ended up going to someone else, no complains here, that is just my luck so why bother?
Vahe
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Darren Drake
Carpal Tunnel
Reged: 10/09/02
Loc: Chicagoland
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Re: First Light Astro-Physics 175 EDF
[Re: vahe]
#5654318 - 01/31/13 01:23 PM
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Vahe,
To put in in perspective if you subtract the leftover aperture of a 175 mm has over a 155mm and make a scope out of it it would only be an 81mm scope. So the 175mm has the aperture of that of a 155mm plus an 81mm. Good decision not to shell out the extra huge amount of $. Most 80mm apos are only about $500.
Edited by Darren Drake (01/31/13 01:26 PM)
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Tank
Carpal Tunnel
Reged: 07/27/09
Loc: Stoney Creek, Ontario, CANADA
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Re: First Light Astro-Physics 175 EDF
[Re: Darren Drake]
#5654353 - 01/31/13 01:42 PM
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Sergio
Nice scope!
Wonder how the 16" Zambuto would stack up against it in great seeing on Jupiter?
Enjoy
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Darren Drake
Carpal Tunnel
Reged: 10/09/02
Loc: Chicagoland
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Re: First Light Astro-Physics 175 EDF
[Re: Tank]
#5654357 - 01/31/13 01:44 PM
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Quote:
Sergio
Nice scope!
Wonder how the 16" Zambuto would stack up against it in great seeing on Jupiter?
Enjoy
Would be fun but no contest. I've done those to many times and the laws of physics always wins out...
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Dwight56
member
Reged: 04/17/10
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Re: First Light Astro-Physics 175 EDF
[Re: Darren Drake]
#5654379 - 01/31/13 01:55 PM
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A great place to go with this 175 since your in Miami would be the Winter Star Party in the Key's.  If your friend has a DSLR it would be fun to do some Astro Photography with this AP.  I've had my AP 175 only to the Wickenburg Star party last Nov and Jan and I've started the beginnings of my M31 with my Hutech Modified 60D got some more work to be done before I can assemble a complete picture.  I can tell you this is going to be a fun scope to take to really dark skies and with really good seeing the planets are fun to observe with this instrument. BTW what is the serial number on the lens.
Edited by Dwight56 (01/31/13 02:45 PM)
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Bill Barlow
Carpal Tunnel
Reged: 12/03/07
Loc: Overland Park KS
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Re: First Light Astro-Physics 175 EDF
[Re: crazyqban]
#5654452 - 01/31/13 02:41 PM
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Was that Angel Gomez and his new AP 175? I have delt with him on AM and by phone and he is a real nice guy. Would love to have some observing time with that AP scope!
Bill
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crazyqban
Carpal Tunnel
Reged: 12/16/08
Loc: Miami, Florida
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Re: First Light Astro-Physics 175 EDF
[Re: Bill Barlow]
#5655056 - 01/31/13 08:51 PM
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Bill, yes, that is Mr. Gomez.
Dwight, believe it or not, my friend is strictly visual guy and he does not plan to do any astrophotography with his scope. Also, since he is only able to go to the WSP for one night, he is not going to take a scope.
Tank - That will be fun and it is definitely something that we have discussed.
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Mike Harden
Vendor - ISTAR Optical
Reged: 05/11/11
Loc: Fort Myers, Florida
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Re: First Light Astro-Physics 175 EDF
[Re: crazyqban]
#5655200 - 01/31/13 10:24 PM
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Sergio, ready for the WSP? Can't wait! Only 4 more days. See you there Buddy!
Mike
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crazyqban
Carpal Tunnel
Reged: 12/16/08
Loc: Miami, Florida
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Re: First Light Astro-Physics 175 EDF
[Re: Mike Harden]
#5655288 - 01/31/13 11:13 PM
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Very ready Mike, I will be there Monday, Tuesday, Friday & Saturday. Gotta head back to Miami on Wed & Thurs. See you there 
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Bill Barlow
Carpal Tunnel
Reged: 12/03/07
Loc: Overland Park KS
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Re: First Light Astro-Physics 175 EDF
[Re: crazyqban]
#5658280 - 02/02/13 02:36 PM
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Sergio,
How far/long of a drive is it from Miami to Key West? Is the WSP near Key West?
Bill
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Julio
sage
Reged: 01/18/07
Loc: Pembroke Pines ,FL
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Re: First Light Astro-Physics 175 EDF
[Re: crazyqban]
#5658470 - 02/02/13 04:43 PM
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Awesome setup, i live in West Pembroke Pines and the skies are a bit darker up here. But really the best place is off alligator alley, nice and dark!
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Mike Harden
Vendor - ISTAR Optical
Reged: 05/11/11
Loc: Fort Myers, Florida
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Re: First Light Astro-Physics 175 EDF
[Re: Julio]
#5658616 - 02/02/13 05:57 PM
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Hey Bill, The drive for Sergio is only about an hour and 45 minutes. The WSP is west of Marathon on the other side of 7 mile bridge. You would say the middle keys still a good distance from Key West. Dark and very steady skies. About 4 to 5 hours for me coming from Fort Myers.
Mike
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northernontario
scholastic sledgehammer
Reged: 07/01/09
Loc: Porcupine, Ontario Canada
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Re: First Light Astro-Physics 175 EDF
[Re: Mike Harden]
#5658668 - 02/02/13 06:19 PM
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That's a huge telescope....
and you are wearing shorts and sandles......
jake
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Mike Clemens
Frozen to Eyepiece
Reged: 11/26/05
Loc: Alaska, USA
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Re: First Light Astro-Physics 175 EDF
[Re: northernontario]
#5658792 - 02/02/13 07:44 PM
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> and you are wearing shorts and sandles......
I know... wth... it can be dark, OR, you can wear shorts and sandles, but it can not be dark AND you wear shorts and sandles.
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crazyqban
Carpal Tunnel
Reged: 12/16/08
Loc: Miami, Florida
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Re: First Light Astro-Physics 175 EDF
[Re: Mike Clemens]
#5658820 - 02/02/13 08:02 PM Attachment (46 downloads)
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Hi Bill, like Mike said. Here is a map to give you a better idea...
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crazyqban
Carpal Tunnel
Reged: 12/16/08
Loc: Miami, Florida
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Re: First Light Astro-Physics 175 EDF
[Re: crazyqban]
#5658823 - 02/02/13 08:03 PM
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The distances are not long but the speed limits are slow and STRICTLY ENFORCED!!!
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crazyqban
Carpal Tunnel
Reged: 12/16/08
Loc: Miami, Florida
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Re: First Light Astro-Physics 175 EDF
[Re: Mike Clemens]
#5658835 - 02/02/13 08:07 PM
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Quote:
> and you are wearing shorts and sandles......
I know... wth... it can be dark, OR, you can wear shorts and sandles, but it can not be dark AND you wear shorts and sandles.
That was just for a quick peek. One of my dark sites, Anne's Beach, in Islamorada, I would not only be wearing shrots and sandles but observing right on the beach and have pizza delivered!!! Oh of course, this is all after I stuffed my face with stone crabs!!!  LOL!!! It's a rough life but someone's gotta live it.
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Paul Hyndman
sage
Reged: 07/13/04
Loc: Connecticut Shoreline USA
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Re: First Light Astro-Physics 175 EDF
[Re: Julio]
#5658867 - 02/02/13 08:27 PM
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..But really the best place is off alligator alley, nice and dark!
A chill runs up my spine when I think of being at a dark location that goes by the name "alligator alley"!
Years ago while having the pleasure of visiting David and Wendee Levy in Arizona, I noticed some chicken-wire like fencing running behind the house. I asked if it was to protect a garden from varmints, and he responded without missing a beat "Nope, its to keep scorpions out of the observing area". Double yikes!
Maybe I'm just a wuss, but now consider myself fortunate to share my backyard observing area with nothing more intimidating than the occasional raccoon, skunk, or flatulent deer! 
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crazyqban
Carpal Tunnel
Reged: 12/16/08
Loc: Miami, Florida
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Re: First Light Astro-Physics 175 EDF
[Re: Paul Hyndman]
#5658912 - 02/02/13 08:53 PM
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Paul, it's not as bad as it sounds. I have observed at a place called Area 51 which is right off of Alligator Alley and has a canal running next to it. In the canal you can see alligators poking their heads out but they really don't bother anyone. Of all of my observing experiences in wild Florida locations, I have not had any issues with wildlife whatsoever. The only animal that concerns me is if I would run into a raccoon with rabies.
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jrbarnett
Eyepiece Hooligan
Reged: 02/28/06
Loc: Petaluma, CA
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Re: First Light Astro-Physics 175 EDF
[Re: northernontario]
#5660105 - 02/03/13 02:32 PM
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You think so, eh?
I'll try and get you a shot of an Astro-Physics 206mm in action. There will be one in these parts shortly. The 175mm looks big enough. I can only imagine how huge the 206mm will be.
Even the 175mm, though, is too big for routine travel, IMO. Love these big scopes, but over 6" for me begs for a permanent installation - or a kayak rack on top of the car and missle nose-cone shaped dust caps.
One day I'll have an observatory...*sigh* Until then, I'll admire folks with more gumption than I have for transporting truly large refractors.
Regards,
Jim
Edited by jrbarnett (02/03/13 02:39 PM)
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junomike
Pooh-Bah
Reged: 09/07/09
Loc: Ontario
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Re: First Light Astro-Physics 175 EDF
[Re: jrbarnett]
#5660281 - 02/03/13 04:19 PM
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Jim, The 206mm seems quite un-photogenic. I was curious after your post, but could only find one with a person in the pic as reference. Second pic from the bottom!
Mike
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Paul G
Post Laureate
Reged: 05/08/03
Loc: Freedonia
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Re: First Light Astro-Physics 175 EDF
[Re: junomike]
#5660682 - 02/03/13 08:39 PM Attachment (87 downloads)
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Quote:
Jim, The 206mm seems quite un-photogenic. I was curious after your post, but could only find one with a person in the pic as reference. Second pic from the bottom!
Mike
Here's Marty's 206 on the showroom floor at Company 7. I'm 6' 2" for reference, it's definitely a two person setup and takedown scope.
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JJK
scholastic sledgehammer
Reged: 04/28/08
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Re: First Light Astro-Physics 175 EDF
[Re: jrbarnett]
#5661156 - 02/04/13 06:03 AM
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Quote:
You think so, eh?
I'll try and get you a shot of an Astro-Physics 206mm in action. There will be one in these parts shortly. The 175mm looks big enough. I can only imagine how huge the 206mm will be.
Even the 175mm, though, is too big for routine travel, IMO. Love these big scopes, but over 6" for me begs for a permanent installation - or a kayak rack on top of the car and missle nose-cone shaped dust caps.
One day I'll have an observatory...*sigh* Until then, I'll admire folks with more gumption than I have for transporting truly large refractors.
Regards,
Jim
I have the 175 f/8. It never complains about traveling in my station wagon.
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Starhawk
Post Laureate
Reged: 09/16/08
Loc: Tucson, Arizona
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Re: First Light Astro-Physics 175 EDF
[Re: JJK]
#5661396 - 02/04/13 09:52 AM
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I have dearly enjoyed the views is my little AP 130 EDFGT I waited 9 years for. I have only seen the AP 175 when Roland had it on display at NEAF and at ASAE. He wasn't giving out views at either event- NEAF due to a history of lousy seeing (which Markus was unfortunately able to verify) and at ASAE they had a compressed schedule. He claimed it had better color correction than the current 130, which is quite a claim.
My old Ford Bronco was going to go to help fund it if I had been picked up on the lottery.
Thank you for reporting on viewing with it. It is good to see it has an owner who supports AP's vision such instruments need to get used.
As for observing in the Keys, Marathon, half way down the string, has seemed to me to be a really good place for a star party. Key West is very touristy in comparison. And Marathon is a much shorter drive.
-Rich
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Paul G
Post Laureate
Reged: 05/08/03
Loc: Freedonia
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Re: First Light Astro-Physics 175 EDF
[Re: jrbarnett]
#5661407 - 02/04/13 09:58 AM
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Quote:
You think so, eh?
I'll try and get you a shot of an Astro-Physics 206mm in action. There will be one in these parts shortly. The 175mm looks big enough. I can only imagine how huge the 206mm will be.
Even the 175mm, though, is too big for routine travel, IMO. Love these big scopes, but over 6" for me begs for a permanent installation - or a kayak rack on top of the car and missle nose-cone shaped dust caps.
One day I'll have an observatory...*sigh* Until then, I'll admire folks with more gumption than I have for transporting truly large refractors.
Regards,
Jim
The 175 fits in my wife's SUV without any problems, but it is the largest scope I would feel comfortable setting up by myself.
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Paul Hyndman
sage
Reged: 07/13/04
Loc: Connecticut Shoreline USA
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Re: First Light Astro-Physics 175 EDF
[Re: Paul G]
#5661591 - 02/04/13 11:38 AM Attachment (85 downloads)
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Quote:
... One day I'll have an observatory...*sigh*
Jim,
For years, this had been the basis of my "observatory", though eventually "upgraded" with a canvas sailcloth covering in lieu of Hefty Bags... oh the ignominy!
Though now more able to acquire heavy-weight gear, I'm increasingly less enthusiastic to schlep it around. 
Paul
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Bill Barlow
Carpal Tunnel
Reged: 12/03/07
Loc: Overland Park KS
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Re: First Light Astro-Physics 175 EDF
[Re: crazyqban]
#5661893 - 02/04/13 02:23 PM
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Sergio and Mike,
Thanks for the helpful information. Maybe some day I will get to come down to the WSP..probably after I retire in about 4 years.
Bill
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peleuba
professor emeritus
Reged: 12/01/04
Loc: Southern PA
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Re: First Light Astro-Physics 175 EDF
[Re: Paul G]
#5663792 - 02/05/13 03:37 PM
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Quote:
:
The 175 fits in my wife's SUV without any problems, but it is the largest scope I would feel comfortable setting up by myself.
Why on Earth set it up by yourself?! I could be in your neck of the woods in a couple of hours to help you set the scope and mount up! I'd probably buy dinner, too.
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Scott99
Carpal Tunnel
Reged: 05/10/07
Loc: New England
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Re: First Light Astro-Physics 175 EDF
[Re: peleuba]
#5664239 - 02/05/13 07:49 PM
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Nice photos guys, thanks for posting, always enjoy hearing about the views through one of these beauties. I am also 100% visual, the longer focal ratio of the AP 160 and 175's are great for us.
Sergio I'm glad to see that your friend knows how to dress for Astro-Physics viewing - I know I always go with AT LEAST business casual for my sessions
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M13 Observer
professor emeritus
Reged: 12/09/06
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Re: First Light Astro-Physics 175 EDF
[Re: crazyqban]
#5665187 - 02/06/13 12:48 PM
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Any serial numbers of these latest 175 OTA's? Anyone know for sure if the production is complete?
Just wondering.
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mgwhittle
scholastic sledgehammer
Reged: 08/24/11
Loc: Chattanooga, TN
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Re: First Light Astro-Physics 175 EDF
[Re: M13 Observer]
#5665198 - 02/06/13 12:52 PM
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Production is not complete, there are still some waiting on theirs.
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Joe C
sage
Reged: 11/29/08
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Re: First Light Astro-Physics 175 EDF
[Re: mgwhittle]
#5665357 - 02/06/13 02:09 PM
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I can confirm that production has not been completed. It will be at least a few more weeks.
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Dwight56
member
Reged: 04/17/10
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Re: First Light Astro-Physics 175 EDF
[Re: Joe C]
#5688638 - 02/19/13 10:45 AM
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Looks like 5 more AP 175's are being delivered over the original allotment. I hope to see pictures and stories soon an CN
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aztrodog
journeyman
Reged: 09/06/10
Loc: South Florida
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Re: First Light Astro-Physics 175 EDF
[Re: Dwight56]
#5743500 - 03/19/13 05:20 PM Attachment (82 downloads)
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Hello,
Love the AP175, hate moving its bulky case around. Here is my solution in case anybody is interested:
- Two Penn-Elcom W8375K outriggers about $40 shipped.
Happy to report that after a few weeks of usage it works extremely well.
Regards,
Angel
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aztrodog
journeyman
Reged: 09/06/10
Loc: South Florida
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Re: First Light Astro-Physics 175 EDF
[Re: aztrodog]
#5743506 - 03/19/13 05:25 PM Attachment (64 downloads)
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Here is another photo.
Angel
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Paul G
Post Laureate
Reged: 05/08/03
Loc: Freedonia
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Re: First Light Astro-Physics 175 EDF
[Re: aztrodog]
#5743538 - 03/19/13 05:41 PM
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Great idea. The case is a beast for one person.
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Joe C
sage
Reged: 11/29/08
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Re: First Light Astro-Physics 175 EDF
[Re: Paul G]
#5743678 - 03/19/13 06:35 PM
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Thanks for posting Angel. I just ordered a set. They should be here about the same time my 175 arrives. I was not looking forward to lugging the case and scope by myself.
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johnnyha
Postmaster
Reged: 11/12/06
Loc: Sherman Oaks, CA
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Re: First Light Astro-Physics 175 EDF
[Re: Joe C]
#5743811 - 03/19/13 07:20 PM
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Very nice! I wonder if there is something similar but a bit larger for a dob. With those I could just tilt the whole scope up and go without having to attach wheelbarrow handles with huge tires.
Here's a $12.72 version with roller blade wheels btw...
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aztrodog
journeyman
Reged: 09/06/10
Loc: South Florida
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Re: First Light Astro-Physics 175 EDF
[Re: johnnyha]
#5743969 - 03/19/13 08:47 PM
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Johnny - Those are it, $12.72 x 2 + $13.44 shipping to Florida. I did look for something a little larger, but came up empty.
Joe - Congratulations on your scope and looking forward to a first light report. Now that the mobility issue as been resolved I really don't see myself using any of my other scopes. As others have mentioned before, this scope really shows you what it can do when you feed it a nice dark sky. I took the scope out to the Florida Everglades with my observing pals Sergio and Maykel. Sergio has a superb 16" Zambuto dob and while there is no substitute for aperture I was quite surprised (aside from image scale) at how well the 7" refractor kept up with the dob on most objects. From my urban backyard double stars, planets and deep sky via video imaging are a joy night after night, despite some sessions with less than optimal seeing conditions. I doubt there will be many of these coming up for sale unless it involves some kind of financial distress. It truly is a very special telescope and one that years from now (has to earn its stripes ) will dovetail nicely into my collection of venerable antique telescopes.
When you get ready to mount the wheels you will have to pull the two corner protectors. No big deal, just pull them out slowly to prevent damage to the vinyl covering. Once you get the wheels you will see why, but I flipped the bolt that holds the tire in place. I used liquid nails between the wheels and the case. Just wanted to make sure these were never coming off. Wood screws sizes #8 x 1/2" and #8 x 5/8" were used depending on proximity of their placement relative to the OTA. However, neither screw size penetrated the box all the way. I made the decision to put the wheels on the lens side. This just happens to work better for me given where I store the scope. If you have any reservations about the screws penetrating the case stick the wheels on the focuser side of the case.
Clear skies,
Angel
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mgwhittle
scholastic sledgehammer
Reged: 08/24/11
Loc: Chattanooga, TN
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Re: First Light Astro-Physics 175 EDF
[Re: aztrodog]
#5744095 - 03/19/13 09:56 PM
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Angel, great to hear you are enjoying that 175! And thanks for posting this solution and the mounting tips. I am ordering a set of these tonight.
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mark8888
Pooh-Bah
Reged: 09/24/10
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Re: First Light Astro-Physics 175 EDF
[Re: mgwhittle]
#5744290 - 03/20/13 12:54 AM
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Joe - Congratulations on your scope and looking forward to a first light report. Now that the mobility issue as been resolved I really don't see myself using any of my other scopes. As others have mentioned before, this scope really shows you what it can do when you feed it a nice dark sky. I took the scope out to the Florida Everglades with my observing pals Sergio and Maykel. Sergio has a superb 16" Zambuto dob and while there is no substitute for aperture I was quite surprised (aside from image scale) at how well the 7" refractor kept up with the dob on most objects. From my urban backyard double stars, planets and deep sky via video imaging are a joy night after night, despite some sessions with less than optimal seeing conditions. I doubt there will be many of these coming up for sale unless it involves some kind of financial distress. It truly is a very special telescope and one that years from now (has to earn its stripes ) will dovetail nicely into my collection of venerable antique telescopes.
Thanks for the cool report. FWIW reports about this scope and other big refractors are always interesting and great to read, including how they compare to dobs!!
Out of curiousity, how was the sharpness of the image compared to the Zambuto? How about the overall, uh, "gorgeousness" of the image in comparison? (I assume the Zambuto was better/much better on contrast...)
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crazyqban
Carpal Tunnel
Reged: 12/16/08
Loc: Miami, Florida
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Re: First Light Astro-Physics 175 EDF
[Re: mark8888]
#5744366 - 03/20/13 02:06 AM
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Angel, welcome to Cloudy Night buddy. It was about time!!!
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aztrodog
journeyman
Reged: 09/06/10
Loc: South Florida
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Re: First Light Astro-Physics 175 EDF
[Re: crazyqban]
#5745392 - 03/20/13 03:26 PM
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Of course the AP KILLED the Zambuto in all objects!
Kidding aside, comparing two very different scopes on any given night is meaningless. Refractors yield very high contrast images which is what allowed it to do as well as it did. For instance we looked at M1 and it was very close (aside from image scale) to the Zambuto. M81 and M82 was gorgeous in the same field of an 31 Nagler. 50 feet away the Zambuto was showing awesome detail in the core of M82 due to its larger aperture. Sergio's scope also gave us great views of the Horsehead and Thor's helmet.
I would not rank one scope as better than the other, just a different visual experience. I'm just thankful for the great privilege to hang out with Sergio and Maykel enjoying the views provided by these great instruments.
Sergio - I hear you, but hanging out here takes time away from other stuff. So, doubt I can devote too much time to the forums. Hey, now that I have wheels on the AP we can have a telescope race like the bed races in Coconut Grove.
Clear skies,
Angel
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crazyqban
Carpal Tunnel
Reged: 12/16/08
Loc: Miami, Florida
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Re: First Light Astro-Physics 175 EDF
[Re: aztrodog]
#5746015 - 03/20/13 07:13 PM
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Hey, now that I have wheels on the AP we can have a telescope race like the bed races in Coconut Grove
Sounds like a plan
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plav1959
sage
Reged: 05/10/07
Loc: Central Florida
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Re: First Light Astro-Physics 175 EDF
[Re: crazyqban]
#5746192 - 03/20/13 08:35 PM
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Sorry Angel but the fat tires and fancy rims on Sergio's Starstructure will leave you in the dust! 
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mark8888
Pooh-Bah
Reged: 09/24/10
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Re: First Light Astro-Physics 175 EDF
[Re: aztrodog]
#5746331 - 03/20/13 09:23 PM
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Quote:
Sergio has a superb 16" Zambuto dob and while there is no substitute for aperture I was quite surprised (aside from image scale) at how well the 7" refractor kept up with the dob on most objects.
Quote:
Kidding aside, comparing two very different scopes on any given night is meaningless. Refractors yield very high contrast images which is what allowed it to do as well as it did. For instance we looked at M1 and it was very close (aside from image scale) to the Zambuto. M81 and M82 was gorgeous in the same field of an 31 Nagler. 50 feet away the Zambuto was showing awesome detail in the core of M82 due to its larger aperture. Sergio's scope also gave us great views of the Horsehead and Thor's helmet.
I would not rank one scope as better than the other, just a different visual experience.
Actually that is a meaningful comparison, thanks.
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Napersky
Carpal Tunnel
Reged: 01/27/10
Loc: Chicagoland
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Re: First Light Astro-Physics 175 EDF
[Re: mark8888]
#5761277 - 03/27/13 08:48 PM Attachment (31 downloads)
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The last two Astrofests in Kankakee I was priviledged to look thru an old 1987 6" AP f/12 Superplanetary and no telescope has beaten the views of Neptune in that thing. It makes our club's 12" SCT in our observatory seem like junk.
From what I've been told AP has only improved their optics over the years and I can't see how anything could be an improvement over the scope I looked thru. Astro Physics in my opinion is the closest thing to perfection.
I was lucky to buy my 6" AP for a song last year but my eye's were really bad until my heart surgery corrected the problem of high blood pressure and blood vessels bursting.
I saw one of these beautiful scopes at NEAIC last year and the folks at AP were very friendly.
Mark
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Paul Hyndman
sage
Reged: 07/13/04
Loc: Connecticut Shoreline USA
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Re: First Light Astro-Physics 175 EDF
[Re: aztrodog]
#5764218 - 03/29/13 10:58 AM
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Quote:
Love the AP175, hate moving its bulky case around. Here is my solution in case anybody is interested:
- Two Penn-Elcom W8375K outriggers about $40 shipped.
Angel
Thanks for the great suggestion, Angel!
I plan to plonk them on two of my larger AP cases, and was pleasantly surprised to find the shipping charges are waived for orders exceeding $50 (the extra set brought the tab to just over $50; only ten bucks more to add the second set... WooHoo!)
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timmbottoni
Pooh-Bah
Reged: 08/25/05
Loc: W Chicago suburbs, IL USA
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Re: First Light Astro-Physics 175 EDF
[Re: crazyqban]
#5764558 - 03/29/13 12:31 PM
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Amazing telescope - great pictures!
Enjoy!!!
Timm
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