Dobsonian Telescopes

[Draig]

Hi all,
this is probably an easy one for everyone ( and I think I know the answer ). I am about to buy a new scope - proably a 8" or 10" dobsonian (depending on cost :) ). My question is - is it possable to convert a "donsonian" telescope to an Equatorial mount? Or am I better off selling the kids & house and just buying an equatorial mounted newtonian straight away?

Thanks Colin :Chessy_Smile:

[AstroTasmania]

If you want to do photography, fit digital setting circles and track an object with motor drive etc, I suggest you seriously look at an Equatorially mounted scope to start with. For an 8" or 10'' you will need a minimum HEQ5, better still an EQ6.

This puts the price up but will save you money in the long term.

A Dobsonian telescope is so named after American amateur astronomer, John Dobson, who came up with the simple boxy alt/az mount, it is still a Newtonian reflector, (named after its inventor, Issac Newton)

Clear skies...

[phoenix]

G day Draig.
welcome to the site.:thumbsupmate:
I agree 100% with AstroTasmania.



Cheers Jason.:pipethinker:

[Draig]

Hi Phoenix & AstroTasmania,

Thanks for the replies - I thought that would be the case. :hmm:

Now who wants to buy a house and kids ? :Chessy_Smile:

Cheers Colin

[Draig]

I am now the proud owner of a Skywatcher SKP2001 on a HEQ5 Mount.:Chessy_Smile:

This will do me for a twelve month or so then I will upgrade thr mount to a HEQ6.

Thanks again for your good advise :thumbsupmate:

Cheers Colin

[Tenacious Del]

Is it possible to put a wedge underneath a ALT AZ mount?

[phoenix]

Hey Draig
Congratulations on your new scope and clear skies




Cheers Jason :pipethinker:

[Tenacious Del]

I didn't notice that you had a new scope Draig. Good stuff mate. Let us know what your experiences are with it.

[Draig]

Hi Dellio,

I'll let you know what it's like - once the skies clear up. :duh:

It's typical - you buy a new scope in the middle of summer (well really at the end I suppose) and what happens.... It RAINS!!!! :ahh!: :crying23:

Cheers Colin