Flexitube tracking dobs - 12 inch

[markclaire50]

Hi

Anyone with experience of these tracking dobs from skywatcher? They look like a lot of scope for the money when combined with goto and tracking. 

Or for that matter, the 10 inch version ( I'm not going to ask about the 14" as it looks massive and expensive! But mainly, massive!) 

General comments on its abilities with various objects are welcome

Plus any stories of problems related to dewing up? Mechanics? Etc

Thanks 

Mark

 

[Ceramus]

Very pleased with the 300p GoTo. Good tracking and target accuracy if properly aligned (reticle EP helpful). Main issue is the weight. A platform on castors to move it around is a must, it's a big scope!

[markclaire50]

39 minutes ago, Ceramus said:

Very pleased with the 300p GoTo. Good tracking and target accuracy if properly aligned (reticle EP helpful). Main issue is the weight. A platform on castors to move it around is a must, it's a big scope!

Hi Ceramus

Do you have any interesting stories regarding what you've seen with it, to demonstrate the optics quality? ?

Thanks 

Mark 

[Ceramus]

What you see also depends of course on the quality of the sky above you. We have still fairly dark skies where we are based in Andalusia so good for DSO. My preference is for planetary nebulae and the 300p is excellent for that, coupled with a OIII or nebular filter when necessary. On a good seeing night components E and (once) F of the Trapezium were glimpsed, the great Nebula is spectacular. Also seen the Veil Nebula and Hubbles Variable Nebula several times. Ii'm quite happy with the optical quality of the 300p although for planetary surfaces a bit more contrast would be nice.