Naemeth

In my experience, observing with small scopes in urban skies can be pleasing as long as you adjust your expectations. For example, my 66mm ED refractor is never going to show me M31 in it's full glory from my heavily light polluted skies, but it does show me M31. Small refractors are perfect for widefield - the occasional cluster (probably shown almost as a smudge) and brighter nebula. Looking southwards towards the horizon however is off with the 66mm for me - it's the direction of the city centre. The main advantage with these small refractors is that they are light and easy to set-up which is especially good if you're tired from work ;).

My NELM is probably around 4.1, maybe 3.7 ish when looking southwards (where I do most of my observing!)

That is what a budget is though, isn't it?

Oops, at least it still comes under budget :). It should give you an idea of amount you need to save up for the next one too.

22kg isn't at all bad. Much lighter than I thought it would be considering the C14 is 25kg.

I initially ruled out anything above a 24" mirror due to weight - but apparently it doesn't need to be as heavy as I thought :D - I was thinking more like 40-50kg for a 30" mirror :rolleyes:.

I think everyone should have a go at grinding at some point,it a really interesting experience but hard work.I know that when I look through that eyepiece for the first time with a mirror that I've ground will be a great experience.

Might have a think about it

Oh and to add,my next one will be a 26" f3.something :)

How much will the mirror weigh?!!?!

Somehow I missed your reply.

Well, one step isn't too bad - I was considering getting a 24" F/3 as my final scope. However, I'm not going to be doing the grinding ;).

Really good job Rich, can't remember if I've asked before, but what focal length are you going for? Presumably less than 1.8m?