Hi all,
I own a Meade LX-10. For those who aren't familiar with this type of scope, it's a '90s era 8 inch Schmidt Cassegrain mounted on a basic wedge and field tripod. Motors are fitted and functioning but sometimes need the odd 'nudge'. The OTA is a good starting point but if I'm being honest the rest could do with a bit of a make over!!
I'm not a fan of the wedge (well, this type at least!) and so I'm looking to defork the OTA and purchase an equatorial mount. I'm keen to future proof and would like the option of GoTo, either immediately or later via an upgrade. From what I'm reading Skywatcher seems to be the way to go. Any views on whether an EQ5 would suffice or should I hold out for an HEQ5? In terms of mounting the OTA, what's likely to be better in this case, a dovetail bar or tube rings? ?
I should also mention that at some point in the future I'd like to invest in a faster scope - I was initially thinking Newtonian but I can see lots of advice on here for APO refractors. Again, the name Skywatcher keeps popping up. Further down the line I would also like to try imaging.
At present I have 9.7mm and 26mm Meade 4000 series Super Plossl eyepieces and a x2 Orion 'Shorty' Barlow lens. It seems the Meade eyepieces have a sound and steady enough reputation but I understand I may need to upgrade if I go significantly faster than F10 with my next scope. Are there brands and eyepiece focal lengths that I should be looking out for? At the moment I'm uncertain whether I should look out for something in-between the above or something longer?
In summary - I'm thinking of upgrading my mount first, then investing in other / 'better' eyepieces but I'd appreciate views on any of the above!
Thanks!
Jim