6 replies to this topic

[SpoonCA]

Hi everyone,

 

Currently I am using Askar SQA55 (264mm FL, f/4.8) paired with ASI2600MM and ASI533MC. While the wide field is nice for larger nebula, I am looking for more reach for smaller nebula and larger galaxies (M51, M101). I also have a C9.25 (2350mm FL, f/10), but the set up time with collimation and very narrow FOV is more frustating than I anticipated for imaging, so I am saving that for visual on planetary objects. 

 

For narrowband imaging, I am using 3nm Antlia SHO filters, and the ASI533MC is usually paired with just UV/IR cut and L-Ultimate.

 

Mount is AM5 with counterweight. Seeing is average and I do most NB imaging at Bortle 9 at a park right in front of house. Since I am going back and forth during setup and breakdown, I would like to keep the rig to a reasonable weight. My backyard is covered by trees, may be what I really need is a new house . For OSC galaxies I would travel to a Bortle 4 area overnight.

 

Not too worried about tariff since I travel frequently and could carry back the scope purchase at a major discount as well.

 

I am looking for advice on what's a good FL to jump into, and based on my FOV simulation on SkySafari I am considering the following scopes. Would like to get your advice on the selection of any thing else I should consider. 

 

Askar PHQ 107 (749mm FL, f/7) - could double as visual 

Askar SQA 106 (509mm FL, f/4.8) - much faster so benefits for NB, but not much more reach than the SQA55

Sky-Watcher Esprit 100mm (550mm FL, f/5.5) - tried and true, but requires field flattener and calculating back focus while swapping cameras)

Sky-Watcher Esprit 120mm (840mm FL, f/5.5) - longest reach, but approaching what I would be comfortable in carrying with all accessories attached

WO Ultra-Cat 109 WIFD (518mm FL, f/4.8) - just released with little hands-on infomation

 

Thanks!

[SilverLitz]

Of your list, Esprit 120 would be my choice, as it is the best compliment to your short FL SQA55.  Though the Esprits are heavy relative to their aperture.  I would expect you would need to add a CW to your AM5, though I have zero experience with the AM5.  The Esprits have typically been the safest mass produced OTAs for AP.

 

Even better would be if you can find a good, used SVX130T, which would give even more reach and better optically/mechanically, as well as better QC and support.

[Eric H]

I opted for the Pleiades 111 on an AM5N mount. 528mm focal length. Can pick up the whole assembled unit and move it around. probably very similar in spec to the UltraCat 108.

[Eddie_Concatenate]

I just purchased a ZWO FF107 (Same as the Askar PHQ 107). I am moving on from a Redcat 51 so feeling the itch for more reach like you. For the PHQ and FF107 you can add the .7 reducer and get more wide field views and speed it up (524mm f4.9). My thought was I would not give up much of the wide field view by getting the reducer and it gives more flexibility. 2 scopes in 1!

[Darkblade48]

I just purchased a ZWO FF107 (Same as the Askar PHQ 107). I am moving on from a Redcat 51 so feeling the itch for more reach like you. For the PHQ and FF107 you can add the .7 reducer and get more wide field views and speed it up (524mm f4.9). My thought was I would not give up much of the wide field view by getting the reducer and it gives more flexibility. 2 scopes in 1!

Spot diagram for the 0.7x reducer on a 107PHQ is pretty bad though. It's much better suited for the 130PHQ

[Eddie_Concatenate]

Spot diagram for the 0.7x reducer on a 107PHQ is pretty bad though. It's much better suited for the 130PHQ

Is there a unique spot diagram for the FF107 online somewhere? It seems that every site online shows the same diagram which is for the FF130.

[Sacred Heart]

I'd look at the SVX130T.  An extremely nice scope, a friend of mine owns one.  He bought it used.

 

Joe