Posts Made By: jeffrey pleines

Hi All,

Just received my 8" F-8 Mars Scope from Discovery. I'm planning on doing a review of this scope as soon as I can. The weather here in MD has not been cooperative this weekend--at least when I've had the opportunity to observe. I've been observing for a few years now, with all of the major types of scopes (refractor, mak-cass, newtonian) and have come to enjoy the newt's--they're klutz-proof!--and give great views. This scope is going to be used as my planetary/quick-look scope, to complement my 16" Nightsky Truss Dob.

I've had absolutely no problem with Discovery with my order. I placed my order on Tuesday, Aug. 19, and received the scope on Friday, Aug. 29. Everything was intact and in great condition--in fact the scope & base seemed over-packed, but I'm not complaining!

So far, the base is very well-made, and smooth to operate. The little amount of required assembly was a breeze. Just need to take her out and give her a spin. More to follow.

Jeff Pleines

Hi All,

I have a question--would it be a good move to upgrade from a Tak FC-60C to a Sky90 for widefield imaging? I'm interested in getting the most resolution possible in a nice wide field, and wondered what everyone thought about this--any real gains to be had, etc. Thanks!

Jeff

Nice shots! Are you using a eq wedge on your sct, or can you get away with using no wedge? Thanks!

Hi Ivan,

I recently purchased a CGE mount and have found it to be very reasonable--assuming you don't want to carry it as one piece! The mount is easy to disassemble and assemble, and will be easier with the ADM mount knobs. I've found it to be easier (a lot less nerve wracking) to set up than my older Nexstar 8 GPS with wedge, but not quite as easy as with no wedge. Best of luck.

Jeff Pleines

Very nice image!

Hi Ivan,

Beautiful shot as always. I look forward to your images. Got a question--do you think a Tak NJP is overkill for a c-8, with a piggybacked SV-85 and mounting hardware? Will be using a 20Da and an MX-7c guider--total weight right around 30 pounds. Thanks!

Jeff Pleines