6 replies to this topic

[mike bacanin]

Hi Everyone,

Here’s my minimal eyepiece setup for my C8, a recent black tube model which possesses fine optics.

So I have,

 

Leica 8.9mm to 17.8mm ASPH zoom with 2” adapter.

SvBony 3-8mm planetary zoom.

Meade 56mm super plossl.

 

The 2 zooms provide all the possible focal lengths I need for lunar and planetary. The C8 is operating at approx 2250mm using the 2” Quartz diagonal and Baader sct Clicklock.

 

Having used many premium high end eyepieces over the years depending on the ota I had, I feel the Leica gives up very little if anything.

Recent views of Venus and Jupiter were superb. Especially notable were the lack of scatter and sharpness. 
I replaced the original Philips collimation screws with stainless cap heads and really worked to get as good collimation as possible. I feel the images reflect this.

 

I’ve just received the SVBony and yet to test.

I never gave serious thought to a zoom but the Leica is something special.

The ease of use is wonderful.

 

The Meade 56mm is my “finder” eyepiece.

It’s a current version. If a vintage Smoothside version came along I’d love it because I’m a big fan of the early Japan stuff!

If maybe the idea of a premium zoom appeals for planetary and lunar especially, maybe my post will be of interest.

 

Thanks

Mike

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[sevenofnine]

That looks like a terrific setup! I often use an ES 40/52 for a finder eyepiece plus a Baader 8-24 zoom & 2.25x barlow. It works most nights 

[Jay_Reynolds_Freeman]

Looks like a great combination. If the 3-8 mm zoom doesn't work for you, you might think about a TeleVue 3-6 mm zoom Nagler.

 

Clear sky ...

[mike bacanin]

Just had some time with the SVBony. At the 7mm and 8mm it’s very sharp. Due to seeing struggled at 6mm.
For the price it’s very good. The Leica, well just stunning.
Mike

[Brent Campbell]

My minimal eyepiece setup.

 

Antares .63 focal reducer.   Explore scientific 24mm 68.  Explore scientific 16 mm 68.  Astro tech 2x Telecentric Barlow.  Nagler 3 -6 zoom

 

Effective eyepieces.  38 mm (24 mm with reducer), 24 mm, 16 mm, 12 mm (24 barlowed), 8 mm (16 barlowed), 3-6 zoom.  I am also pairing this with a Baader T2 prism diagonal for better contrast.  I will let you know how this works

[azure1961p]

I found a 7mm plossl was -if I recall - 273x which was the higher end my C8 operated at effectively where needed.  200x to 273x was a nice range I found on moon and planets .

 

Pete

[Maximus001]

I do something very similar. I use a 28 UWA as a finder then my Leica followed by my newly acquired TV 3-6 zoom with a 12.5 dobsonian with Zambuto mirror. Heavenly !