skywatcher 150p or 200p dobsonian and portability

[Psychology]

Hi All

 

Posted this question in the welcome section but was advised to post here.

 

I would like some advice, I am looking for my first scope after using binoculars and I have decided on either a skywatcher 150p dobsonian or the 200p dobsonian. I have a motorhome and  visit Cornwall every year and North Wales and the lake district quite often so was wondering how portable these scopes are? How easy to assemble and disassemble etc? I also have a shed at the end of the garden, can the scope be stored in it without any problems?

 

Thanks

[Tinker1947]

Sheds are fine for storage although you wouldn't want water dripping on it, maybe a breathable cover to stop dust getting on the mirrors, you would need measure the access to the Motorhome to get it inside, in a storage box on the outside might be ok, as it would need collimating before its used...

[Sirius Starwatcher]

Hello Psychology I started with the 200 Dob. I also have a motor home and decided it was too cumbersome to travel with me camping. So I decided to buy a smaller refractor for travelling with. You really need to see the scopes before you buy and where you live that is not easy. I am over the water in North East Wales and my front garden looks onto the Wirral. If you want you are welcome to come over and see the 200 p in all its glory before you decide to buy. Send me a PM if you are interested.

[Psychology]

Hello Psychology I started with the 200 Dob. I also have a motor home and decided it was too cumbersome to travel with me camping. So I decided to buy a smaller refractor for travelling with. You really need to see the scopes before you buy and where you live that is not easy. I am over the water in North East Wales and my front garden looks onto the Wirral. If you want you are welcome to come over and see the 200 p in all its glory before you decide to buy. Send me a PM if you are interested.

Cheers for the offer, I'll let you know.

I was thinking it could have fitted in the overcab bed, but yeah, I can see what you mean! 

[SpoonyPizzas]

I have a SW 250px Dobsonian (10").  The assembly is very easy, unscrew the two handles and just lift the tube from the base.  Whilst quite heavy I can fit the tube on my own across the backseats of my little Renault Clio Extreme and the base fits into the boot.  (This car doesn't have rear doors so makes it slightly more awkward!)

That's what I love about Dob's, being able to setup in about 2 minutes from parking (not including waiting time for tube to cool - 30 mins)... also so far... I've not had to collimate the scope which is remarkable considering how bumpy some of the roads are when heading out!

Therefore I imagine a 200 or 150 would be a breeze to lift and assemble!  

I store my scope in the shed when I have to... (have guests over etc.) and put a cover over it.

[Psychology]

Thanks SpoonyPizzas

[Cornelius Varley]

This is a video review of the SW Skyliner range. The first telescope shown is the 150P, the 200P is approximately the same length and about 2" greater in diameter and the base for each is the same size.

[ScottS]

You'll find it's the base that takes up the space.