HEQ05 OR NEQ06 Mount

[The storm fisherman]

Hi All

I am after some guidance  as to which mount to get either the Heq05 or the more weighty Neq06. My observation site is in the local park which is 200 meters round the corner from my front door. I do have a hand cart in which I carry or should the be pull my equipment to the observation site. Although I  just purchased A SW ED80 PRO I do intend to complement  my set up in the future with a bigger or different telescope type.

[craigg]

I have the HEQ5 Pro.  There are pros and cons to both.  The HEQ5 is lighter, less bulky, the NEQ6 is able to take more weight.  Since you're not transporting it too far, you could use either.  I find the HEQ5 is fine for AP with guiding.

The HEQ5 will easily handle your 80mm refractor (about 4Kg?).  Max load weight on the HEQ5 is around 16Kg I believe.  I'm using a SW200P with various mods, a guide camera and DSLR, and the total weight comes in at around 13-14Kg, so I'm more or less at the limit.  If you expect to be carrying more than this with your expected setup, particularly if you expect to be using a greater than 8" newtonian, I'd go with the NEQ6, otherwise the HEQ5 Pro will be sufficient.  I'm quite happy with my setup.  I take it out to various events and out of town for imaging and I for one wouldn't fancy trying to lug an NEQ6 around.

Regards,

Craig

[brantuk]

I agree with Craigg - what he says above is sound, accurate, advice.

[The storm fisherman]

Hi all

and thanks to  Craigg and Brantuk

After some exhaustive research  and advice I think I will go for the  NEQ 6 while I am fit and active and if it all does became to heavy to handle I can always sell it and get a lighter mount if needs be.

[brantuk]

Good move - at least you'll be future proof if you do go for a good imaging scope and camera in the end.