Skywatcher 102 F5

[TheThing]

Does anyone have any thoughts about this scope at all? I'm looking for something to use as a quick 'grab and go' and have been offered one of these as a OTA with rings, diagonal and finder.

I could either mate it up with my SLIK birding tripod for a really quick set up or on the EQ2 that the Soligor came with.

Any thoughts about the scope optically? Anyone own one of these?

Ta!

[GazOC]

I've owned a Skywatcher and currently have a Helios 102mm f5, they are good enough scopes for the spec/ price. There is false colour but its fine for low powered work or quick looks at the moon.

[Doc]

I've heard they are very good optically. And being F5 should be ok AP as well.

I think it might be borderline for a EQ2.

[TheThing]

Thanks gents.

I think I will go for it.

The soligor actually came withan EQ3, but I have (hopefully!) sourced an EQ2 for the Skywatcher as well.

Cheers,

[Darren B]

I use to have one and used an EQ1 mount with it with no problems (visual use only). It work better than expected on planets. Yes there was colour, but views of mars(2003) and jupiter were quite good.

[TheThing]

Thanks Darren, that's good news. :cheers:

I'm getting the one offered to me now and a nice chap in Basingstoke (who posts on this forum and 3.6 and Beamer in his name) has offered me an EQ2 mount for a decent price, so I'm well happy!

Expect cloudy skies in early December!

Now, if I could just source a cheap motor drive...!

[lightspeed05]

im thinknig of buying this looks a good scope for its price

[A McEwan]

I had one of these. I thought it was a good scope, but found some basic improvements made it even better. Invest in a decent 2" diagonal and use good eyepieces with it - it will reward you with much improved views, in my experience. a better visual back will improve the grip on the diagonal too (if you can find one second hand, that is), and relubing the focuser is a good project to do too.

Had some great views through mine!

[ringz]

I have mine on a Celestron SLT mount. I had great views at the Salisbury star party in August.

I was using it with a 2" diagonal and a moonfish 30mm ultrawide eyepiece.

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Martyn