Posts Made By: Edward Tuinstra

January 13, 2003 02:58 AM Forum: Equipment Talk

Best deal on a 80mm Refractor?

Posted By Edward Tuinstra

I'm looking at the new Stellarvue Nighthawk (at1010), the WO Megrez, the Borg 76 (ED and Achro) and maybe the Apogee 80mm ED scopes. I can't seem to make up my mind...any help? This will replace my Orion ST80 and be a widefield counterpoint to my 6" f12 Intes MCT. Thanks in advance.

October 27, 2004 05:56 PM Forum: Equipment Talk

Pentax 40 XW?

Posted By Edward Tuinstra

I've tried to find an affordable maximum-field 2" eyepiece. It seems that I
either get field curvature or astigmatism in the ones I've used, even at f8
and higher. These include the Widescan III, the MK-70 and the Pentax XL
40mm. So, maybe its time to try a more complex design.
I'm thinking the 40mm XW is the next step up. Agreed? Have you tried it or
know of a decent review?

November 4, 2004 01:57 AM Forum: Eyepieces

Re: anyone using Pentax XF eyepieces?

Posted By Edward Tuinstra

Six Elements in four groups. 18mm of eye relief. Sounds pretty intriguing to me.

March 10, 2005 09:15 PM Forum: Equipment Talk

After Market drive motors and controllers?

Posted By Edward Tuinstra

I've been considering a vintage Japanese mount for my FS-128. Its the old Nikon pier mount for the 10cm ED. The price is fair and the mount is very nice. But I am concerned that if the drive motors fail I'll own a white elephant! Does anyone supply retrofits for old EQ mounts?

Thank you!

March 13, 2005 05:33 PM Forum: Takahashi

Budget mount for an FS-128?

Posted By Edward Tuinstra

Hey Taksters! I'm looking for an EQ for my FS-128. I'm trying to balance the cost with the load capacity and features. I know the EM-200 is awesome but for visual use only would I be happy with one of these:
Vixen Sphinx, EM-11 (10), GM-8, G-11

I'd like to have DSCs or Go-to as an option or available upgrade.

Thanks for your expert opinoins!

March 17, 2005 02:06 AM Forum: Takahashi

Re: FS-78 Collumation

Posted By Edward Tuinstra

Larry, I have no idea, but you should call Art C. at Texas Nautical. Those guys can trouble shoot anything.

April 3, 2005 03:50 PM Forum: Equipment Talk

Celestron on the Block

Posted By Edward Tuinstra

Uncle Rod just posted this to SAA:

http://www.ocregister.com/ocr/2005/04/02/sections/business/business/article_466106.php

You have to sign in but the process is painless.

Essentially, it seems Celestron is in rough shape financially and if the feds don't let Meade and Celestron merge then Synta is likely to step in.

March 7, 2007 12:45 AM Forum: Birding Optics and Photos