scope advice

Started by dgshrum, 12/12/2008 03:53PM
Posted 12/12/2008 03:53PM Opening Post
Hello Group,

I have a canon XSi and looking for advice on a 60-90mm refractor to mate with. It'll ride piggyback on a 8"lx200 gps. Here the catch.....I need to stay close to $500. I'm pretty sure I need one with a fine focus focuser....any advise would be very helpful on your experience with one.

Thanks to all and clear skies
Gary
Posted 12/12/2008 06:47PM #1
Wow, that's going to be a bit tricky with that budget. Typically you will want a field flattener too. William Optics' line of scopes come close, but $500 will be difficult as FF elements are $200+. $800 or so in the used market will get you some decent stuff.

Good luck!
Ivan
Posted 12/13/2008 04:20AM #2
The Orion ED 80mm is about $479. It is an apochromatic refractor with ED or extra dispersion glass for better color rendition. This is the most economical refractor I can think of with high quality optics under $500. This is the model that brought serious astrophotography for those with a budget in that range. I own it and very happy with. It is a longer scope.

If you wish to stay more compact since you are going on top of a SCT, then you may want Orion's Short Tube scopes with Apochromatic and ED glass properties. But those will set you back $600-$700. Hope that helps.