Here I go again, a new project. I am interested in an 8" f/5 reflector set up on an equitorial mount. This would be for visual use and I am quite happy with only an RA drive for tracking. I would like people's opinions on the most cost effective and sturdy mount for this purpose.
Equitorial Mount for 8" f/5 Reflector
Started by mte1955, 07/27/2008 01:26PM
Posted 07/27/2008 01:26PM
Opening Post
Posted 07/27/2008 02:30PM
#1
Michael Tencza said:
Here I go again, a new project. I am interested in an 8" f/5 reflector set up on an equitorial mount. This would be for visual use and I am quite happy with only an RA drive for tracking. I would like people's opinions on the most cost effective and sturdy mount for this purpose.
Orion/Synta Atlas/EQ6.
Uncle Rod
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Posted 07/27/2008 06:35PM
#2
The atlas mount is a bit large for portable visual use with one of the import 8" F5 newtonians. I would consider one of Sirius mount on a portable pier rather than the stock tripod. For simple visual use one of the Meade Starfinder 1" shaft mounts would be fine as long as it's in good shape and the drive works well (only available used). I use a CI-700 and a heavy duty Gibraltar for my 8" F6 25lb homebuilt newtonian which is rock solid but that's over 100lbs of mount and counterweights - hardly very portable.
Joplin
Joplin
Posted 07/27/2008 10:56PM
#3
Michael Tencza said:
Here I go again, a new project. I am interested in an 8" f/5 reflector set up on an equitorial mount. This would be for visual use and I am quite happy with only an RA drive for tracking. I would like people's opinions on the most cost effective and sturdy mount for this purpose.
I find that a CG-5 ASGT handles my early Konus 8 inch F/5 Newtonian quite well. I even have a set of Antares Rotating rings which pushes the OTA even further off center and adds about 4 pounds as well, I am quite happy with the results.
In my experience, the stability of the tripod is a big factor in the stability and freedom from vibration of a mount. The ASGT uses 2 inch diameter stainless steel legs, I believe this is the same as the Atlas. I am sure that the Altas would carry the scope in a more robust manner but will cost more and be more cumbersome as well.
As far as Newtonians on EQ mounts go, I think there is a lot to be said for the Pier mount. With a tripod, the observer often tangles with the legs when trying to get to a reasonable eyepiece position. The Telescope itself often tangles with the legs as well. With a Pier, the scope has few clearance problems and the observer's only obstacle is the counter weight. Just a whole lot nicer.
For some, (myself included), one of the old style mounts might be preferable. They are simple, normally have a 110volt RA drive with a slip clutch so they can be used much like a DOB but when you are done pointing, they start tracking. Simple and sweet, no knobs to find and fumble with in the dark...
Jon
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