LukeSkywatcher

I really do want to. Not sure just yet about spending 2-3K. I would only want a basic model for browsing and general every day non heavy use. Suggestions

No cardboard boxes today for me. Im expecting a 3D printed Moon light. Something like this:

An Alienware Lappy is next on my list.

Specs?.

Shame the Quark is a different shade of burnt orange. Im knit picking. If i ever get to go abroad again, i'm thinking my new Bresser ar102 xs/Az5 mount and tripod combo will be a good travel buddy.

I honestly think that's the sexiest scope ive ever seen.

Strathspey 10x50 bins is all i ever take on holidays.

If i like the view, its a keeper. I couldnt care less about the tech side of things.

Have a Continuum filter. Ill let you all know how it performs day and night (the scope......not the continuum).

Not expecting anything really. Simply because i am not technically minded. I just read so much about ED glass and scopes.......it has to be a good thing. The scope will be mainly for Ha.

When I bought the scope, it said Moon map included. Instead I got a little planisphere about yay big. I think it works off of Hours,mins and degrees and declination etc........so i aint got a clue how to use it.

Not sure why i'm so excited about a 102 mm scope when i own a 130 mm mini Dob and a 200 mm Go-To SCT. Guess i'm old school. Its not all about aperture...........its about the view.Hell, i don't even know what ED glass is, but i know i've always wanted an ED scope. Seriously thinking of selling the 8se on the Irish market (for collection only). Downsizing my house was the best thing i ever did, so why shouldnt the same rule apply to scopes. Still have my Heritage 130P (that's a keeper), and my 90 mm (1000 mm FL) refrac may get resurrected. The AZ5 could be a good way to go for the 90 mm. I'll have to try it. Love that scope. Its an absolute planet killer (amazing views of planets). Been observing for nearly 40 yrs............... I think ive just come of age (astro wise). Im now sure, that like many others...............im a refrac (and bins) kind of person. This is one of the many things i love about SGL: (ok 3 things) Fountain of knowledge, honesty and nobody is above anyone else. I now feel like i have a quality scope/tripod/mount at a very good price (about 600 euros). My 1st scope, 90mm EQ back in 2007 cost me about 450 euros.

Woohoo... More cardboard boxes. Scope looks and feels brilliant. Its a hefty little guy. Diag and finder are naff (wont be using those.........never have used either a RDF or finder). 26mm superwide EP seems at a glance to be pretty good (60 degrees FOV and almost 20mm eye relief). The two adapters i am not sure what they are for, but one of them (if not both) have a T-thread, so thats for attaching camera to scope. Not liking the red stripe around scope. I thought it was painted on but its only sticky tape. I might remove it and put Skywatcher green on to match my AZ5 mount. R&P focuser is smooth as a babies behind. The dust cap is great. It fits really snug and doesnt drop off if you look at it the wrong way (dont you hate that). Nice little carry bag and dovetail can be used as a handle. Great for me as a wheelchair user. I'd HATE to drop this baby.

Postman brought 2 Father's Day cards (yeah its news to me too). Waiting for DHL guy to bring something lovely. No, im not sat staring out the window. Honest. *Father's Day cards are from my Goddaughter*

Let's have a looksy:

AZ5 arrives Thursday. Scope on Friday. Bet its gonna snow all weekend.

Boaty Mc Boatface.

Its my favourite EP

I have a 32mm GSO

Stu............ You did say id need a better scope for the Quark. The ar102 seems to be getting the thumbs up by everyone on SGL.

Its a bit of alright. Better than this:

Incoming: Bresser ar102xs and AZ5 mount and tripod.

This is on its way: Bresser ar102xs along with an AZ5 tripod and mount.

Woohoo!!!!! Look what arrived just now. My Lunt 8x32 WL Solar Bins. Mark@beaufort (whom I bought them from) was not telling fibs when he said they are as new. These bins look like I've just gone to a shop and bought them. There isn't even a scratch on the box. Sun's out, so time to go see what these puppies can do. Full report later in the review section.

I had the Omegon out tonight for a bit as its crystal clear (apart from the Moon washing out part of the sky). What to say about these little 2.1x42 bins!!!!!!!. Brilliant!!!!. I can pinpoint focus on stars with or without my glasses (i never wear glasses when observing). The view is absolutely crystal clear and bright. They really do show you a nice wide FOV. I was looking at Virgo, and i got about 3/4 of it in the same FOV. The Moon was close by to the right, so i didnt manage to see it all. I need more time with them to get to know them, but 1st impressions are very impressive. Next up.......the Lunt 8x30. They are on the way.