130p requires EQ3?

[Tlawrence84]

Hi Guys,

N00b question here, I bought a Skywatcher Explorer 130p, very happy with the visual results I get (not particularly interest in astro photography yet), however when focusing the whole scope shakes so much, I have to focus a small amount, wait a few seconds for it to settle, then focus a little more until it is ok.

My actual question is, the EQ2 mount is just the mounting bracket? So the tripod is a seperate item? If I buy an EQ3, then will I get exactly the same tripod, but a more substantial mount? Or to make use of the EQ3 mount, should I have a heavier tripod also?

[nephilim]

As far as I know the tripod for the EQ3/2 is sturdier than the one with the EQ2 (you cant buy mount heads seperately) my EQ2 on my old 130m also has the same problem as u & upgrading to the EQ3/2 will make a difference.

Steve

[gthomas]

I've run both my 130p and 200 on an Eq3 with very good results. Very substantial tripod and mount but if you need the motors then they are not really built-in and can catch the scope at certain angles. The newer GOTO versions are probably better. I've just upgraded to an AZ-EQ6 GT but thats because my needs have outgrown the EQ3.

Glyn