8" refurb Meade Starfinder project?

Greetings All,

I've been into the hobby for about a year and a half, using a 60mm refractor that I bought from a buddy for $50. At least it has gotten my feet wet. Also have some nice 9x63 binos and have been learning/reading a ton.

I have run through some of the improvements on my 60mm:
http://www.geocities.com/sftonkin/tutorials/junkscope.htm

I'll drop in some pics now, just for fun

the "Jason", post-improvements:


Olympus D380 "Jason" afocal


But my ep's are somewhat lacking and I hesitate to spend the cash to upgrade focuser and EPs; although I do enjoy the challenges/satisfaction of finding dso's with such a small scope. I've logged ~20 or so M objects with my binos and scope.

Now I wish to piece together a 2nd scope to provide some better views. The "Jason" will remain in my arsenal for quick looks and moon stuff (and probably upgrade of focuser and ep's someday).

So, on to my first [real] scope purchase. My plan is to purchase a refurbished 8" Meade Starfinder, and build a Dob Base for it; keeping the option of someday switching to EQ mounting.

Is a Refurbished scope from Meade-factory-outlet a bad idea?

The initial dobsonian base doesn't have to be anything great. Just wanting to be up and viewing quick and cheaply. Another option I'm considering is the "pipe-fitting" w/ 90 degree elbow and plywood base that I saw elsewhere on this forum.

Which DIY mounting would be preferable?

Please share your comments and relevant experiences.
Thanks,

Jaron

Hi Jaron,

If you are at all handy with wood, then go the traditional Dob mount. If you are like me, than the pipe mount may tide you over until you can get a real mount. The one I built was very fast to make, and required almost no skill. Those Refurb Meade 8" scopes look like a good deal. Although there may be someone on AM here that would sell a whole 8" dob for nearly the same price. I think (re-)building scopes is half the fun of this hobby though

Post some more pictures of whatever you come up with!

David Simons

Thank you both for your comments!

If you have time to comment further on my 60mm setup, check out my post over in Refractors.

clear skies!

Question:

How much is the refurbished Meade 8 inch?

Jon