nexstar 130 slt v nexstar 127 slt

[redfox1972]

possibly a simple question

which do u guys recommend as a all round go-to starter scope

thanks in advance

clarke

[redfox1972]

Should of said nexstar 130 v nexstar 127

[ronin]

To an extent very little between, really it is the scope design that differs and the characteristics of each.

The 130 will have the wider field of view so making the initial alignment easier, just a bigger chance of anything ending up in view.

The 127 will have the narrower field of view but will deliver a possible higher magnification.

There are not many "big" things out there but getting a view bigger then 1 degree will not be so easy with the 127, so you will get most of M42 and M45 in view but not I suspect all of either. Forget all of M31 in either.

Both are claiming magnifications that are impractical, they seem to be stating about 2.5x dia now, was 2x not long back and a few years ago was 1.5x. In real terms you may get 180x or 200x but not that often.

The 130 will need occasional collimation.

Do you intend any imaging ? (Planetary)

If so then the 127 may be the better option, drop webcam in and aim at Jupiter/Saturn.

I am not sure if fully correct, if you get either find out which handset version is supplied, it should be V4. There are likely V3's still around and they cannot be updated to V4. The not sure bit is that maybe these models come with V3 and nothing else.

Getting eyepieces for the 127 is easier, reasonable plossls will do, but as mentioed you will never really get a "wide" view,  Equally the 130 is f/5 so plossls should be OK until you are looking at a bit of magnification when the short eye relief can be a problem. However BST or X-Cels will take care of that.

As said not a great deal in it. The 127 should be a bit easier to transport - more compact.

[redfox1972]

Thanks ronin

For a fantastic n speedy review this really helps