If you could choose any visual set up what would it be ? 

Welcome 🤗 

I would say the Astronomik UHC is the number 1 

I’m not an AP enthusiast- just visual 

The IDAS D2 and D3 - for visual use? 

Just now, VNA said:

Hello, is there a filter for light pollution from LEDs lighting? (I don't think for this kind of lighting?)

Nothing will really stop LED lighting effectively- most will vs sodium yellow lights but LED are too bright - some of course will make it slightly better in terms of overall sky flow but I’m afraid the best solution is to go to a darker sight 

Thanks Geoff - just wanted a view on that specific filter 👍🏼

Ok that answers that one ! Thanks I think I’ll go for the Neodymium Moon & Skyglow Filter instead- it was recommended but it so expensive 

On 20/11/2021 at 17:16, Bazz said:

After a five year absence I am back and still very much a beginner. Looking forward to posting again.  🙂

 

Welcome 🤗 

Has anyone ever used one of these https://www.firstlightoptics.com/light-pollution-reduction/light-pollution-filter.html

be good to know if any good for that price point 

On 01/02/2024 at 12:21, Monzilla said:

Hi all

Would anyone be able to tell me what would be best out the 2 scopes?

I'd like to be able to see planets in detail and the odd bit of deep space.

Im looking at the:

Sky-Watcher SKYMAX-127 (AZ-Go2)

Or

Skywatcher EXPLORER 130PS AZ-GTi 

Many thanks 

Chris 

HI - out of those 2 if i had to choose i would go for the 130.  the 127 Mak is good for the moon and planets but not much else. I have the 127 Bresser version and i prefer using my 102 4" frac.  If i had to choose an all rounder as a scope i'd personally pick an SCT.  But that's just my personal opinion.

thank u

 i use the Sky-Watcher Stainless Steel 1.75" Tripod for HEQ5, EQ5 | First Light Optics for my AZI GTI - i think this is 3/8"

hi does anyone know if the Seestar will fit onto a standard 1.75" tripod?

The only other one I’ve ever used is this - it’s smaller but also very good 

https://www.rothervalleyoptics.co.uk/celestron-powertank-lithium.html

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Sky-Watcher-17Ah-Rechargeable-Power-Tank/dp/B0039ZPCYW
 

Hi Mozilla - this is what I use for my AZI GTI mount. Not cheaper but does the job well.

Thanks Lee. Will look into it - the problem is my lack of local geography knowledge- I wasn’t thinking of Bodmin the town though but asking really about access to the moor and towns around it that had a decent dark sky - 3 or less. Launceston looks a good bet too 👍🏼

13 hours ago, AstroNebulee said:

I have lived in Delabole all my life, about 18 miles from Bodmin. Personally couldn't live in Bodmin 😬.  To built up with LP (for Cornwall) and a bit iffy. 

There are lots of dark skies around here I'm bottle 3 according CO but more like 2 I think. 

Bodmin Moor is only a stones throw away for very dark sites. 

As long as you head out of the big towns anywhere in Cornwall is pretty good for dark skies. 

Lee 

Interesting..I heard Bodmin was nice , where’s good for access to the Moorss if not Bodmin ? Any suggestions 

2 hours ago, Mr Spock said:

There's a nice bungalow for sale in Crackington Haven. A nice firm Bortle 2 area 

Bungalow 😂😂 how old do you think I am 

7 hours ago, NGC 1502 said:

It sounds like the first reply from Lee has good advice.

One thing you could try is joining a local astronomy club, it’s likely they will know of good observing sites. You may find somewhere good by searching yourself, however it’s possible you will actually find a lover’s lane with people arriving and leaving with headlights blazing, and wondering what on earth you’re up to!

A local astronomy club may have a more secure site behind locked gates.

I’m not envious of Cornwall skies, I’m VERY ENVIOUS INDEED😊

Ed.

Not my scene - not a club kind of person but appreciate the idea 

seriously considering a move to live in Cornwall (closer to family) I hear Bodmin is super for dark skies - has anyone ever done any observations around there ? 

The Startravel 102 superb scope for the price 

I’ve owned a 130p reflector, an 8” SCT which is a close second and a Mak 127 

if I had to keep one which I have it’s the 102 refractor, light , easy to store set up and use and great for wide views 

Highly recommend for visual use 

yes i think something from the 15-18mm range would be better.

As the SCT is highly accepted as the best all rounder for visual i wondered if anyone had every mounted the DX6  or indeed the SCT from the SLT series onto the AZI GTI MOUNT?

i dont have one - just interested in something that wont break the bank if its out there.