Finderscope for 130eq

[red eye]

Floater and Dave were bang on in their first responses. The Red Dot to get you in the ballpark, then a 9X50 RACI that matches your star chart for precise positioning. Many have used this simple 2 step system very successfully. For the first step, some use a Red Dot, some use a Rigel, and some use the Telrad. you already own the Red Dot, so abuse it.

Hope this helps.

David

[Dave In Vermont]

I see the Orion RACI with an illuminated cross-hair above. It's from the Orion-USA. It's cheaper over here in the US:

http://www.telescope.com/Accessories/Telescope-Finder-Scopes/Orion-9x50-Illuminated-Right-Angle-CI-Finder-Scope/pc/-1/c/3/sc/49/p/101449.uts

See what the VAT does? Geesh!

Dave

[employee2-4601]

When I first used my scope, I decided that the red dot finder was rubbish. Then I took a bit of time during daylight to check the alignment and found that, whilst it's not perfect, it can get you almost bang on target. However, I did make the mistake of forgetting to switch it off...

[Mak the Night]

When I first used my scope, I decided that the red dot finder was rubbish. Then I took a bit of time during daylight to check the alignment and found that, whilst it's not perfect, it can get you almost bang on target. However, I did make the mistake of forgetting to switch it off...

You can get dual finder brackets to mount two finders at the same time. I was considering getting one to mount my Orion RACI and Orion EZ II finders. The EZ II is only plastic and wouldn't be as heavy as the TS Optics RDAC. It might save me having to swap out the RDAC for the RACI when I try to find targets at high elevations, particularly near the zenith. That way you can get near it with the reflex sight and use the RACI to centre it. Although a green laser sounds more practical to replace the reflex. Either way, it's more weight hanging off a 102mm Mak. When I get the 9.25" Celestron SCT early next year it might be worth getting a dual bracket. I'd probably have to replace the Celestron shoe with a Baader Universal Quick Release Finder Base however. Forgetting to turn off reflex LED's is something I just know I'll do one day lol!

http://www.firstlightoptics.com/finders/baader-universal-quick-release-finder-base.html

[Starlord87]

I think i will buy a replacement probably an raci, but not yet, mainly because its to damn cloudy all the time! Think i purchased my scope at the wrong time haha

[MIDIManNI]

I agree with the comments aboce. I have the NexStar 6SE and use a 9X50 RACI but I use one of those mounted "Green Laser" Pen-type spotters for getting close initially.

If you do use a Laser Pointer though, remember not to point it a passing airplanes! People have been prosecuted for that apparently...!!!

[Mak the Night]

Apart from green lasers being hazardous to the occasional aeroplane I would worry about being a source of light pollution with one lol!