5 replies to this topic

[Mmarett]

I have a ZWO ASI 1600mm-pro. Assuming my mount can handle anything.

I’d like to make an edition to my wife-field DSO scope with a scope that can capture more detail and a more narrow field. I assume this means something around 1000focal length?

I’m a nutshell what would be a good refractor to capture high quality subs of small DSOs

I was thinking the skywatcher 120?

[SeaBee1]

I have a ZWO ASI 1600mm-pro. Assuming my mount can handle anything.

I’d like to make an edition to my wife-field DSO scope with a scope that can capture more detail and a more narrow field. I assume this means something around 1000focal length?

I’m a nutshell what would be a good refractor to capture high quality subs of small DSOs

I was thinking the skywatcher 120?

 

Well... I am not into the AP thing... but I can tell you that the SW 120ED is one fine instrument for the money. One thing to note... I have read that AP with this scope will be a challenge due to the focal length... tracking errors become much more noticeable. What will you mount it on?

 

Good hunting!

 

CB

[Mmarett]

Thanks for the words. I will be putting it on a skywatcher EQ6-r unless people feel that isn’t ideal.

[MrRoberts]

I can tell you I am liking my new Esprit 80 here in AZ (just enjoying visual here while visiting others). But when I return home next week (Chicago area) there is a new Esprit 120 waiting for me to unbox. It is 840mm FL. The EVO120 is I believe 900mm fl. But I'm not sure FL is the primary answer to you quest for better DSO imaging. In ap a good refractor is a great start but a better mount is  more important. Although I have pondered putting my 120 on a CEM40, I suspect I am going to buy the CEM60/ipolar (non-ec) for it, and a CEM40 for the 80 and C-8/E. These days I rarely do subs greater than 3min's, and usually just use SC's "live stack" program. It's not often we get a night of good atmosphere here in NE Illinois to warrant longer subs. Plus I always have my MOD 3 for just visual enjoyment (prime and afocal). My plan is to take my 120, mount and 294 to AZ in the spring and bring the other 2 back to Illinois.

What area do you live?

Depending on average conditions....How about the Esprit 100 on an Ioptron CEM40/GEM45 or SW EQ6-R?

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[Mmarett]

I live in Houston, Texas. I have a dark(ish) sky spot I will travel to about 2 hours away that is about bortle 3-4. I like the Esprit 120 idea. I think a skywatcher EQ-6 will be fine. I calculate the whole payload at around 55% which should have no issues. 

[SeaBee1]

Thanks for the words. I will be putting it on a skywatcher EQ6-r unless people feel that isn’t ideal.

 

I live in Houston, Texas. I have a dark(ish) sky spot I will travel to about 2 hours away that is about bortle 3-4. I like the Esprit 120 idea. I think a skywatcher EQ-6 will be fine. I calculate the whole payload at around 55% which should have no issues. 

 

I have read many good things about the EQ6-R. I have an AVX, which is good for visual use... if I was to ever try AP, I would consider the EQ6-R to be the minimal requirement. It should handle the SW120 ED fine. However, I still believe the best AP 'scope would likely be a fast 80mm APO. I see too many recommendations to argue against it. So, if I were you, I would consider the Esprit 80mm on the EQ6-R if AP is where you want to land.

 

Good hunting!

 

CB