Sky Watcher Explorer 200p - EQ5 | Stock Levels and Advice

[Gary23]

Hi All,

I'm looking to purchase my next scope, previously had a 4" Reflector, now I want to upgrade and I'm thinking the Explorer 200p maybe for me. 

Currently, I'm mostly a visual observer, however, I am hoping to start dipping my toes into photography. I'm mostly interested in Lunar and Planetary stuff but would certainly try with the more common DSO (Orion Nebula, Andromeda etc.)

I've seen a couple of people mention about there being issues with the size of the scope for the mount - is that opinion widely held? I'm just concerned that a lot of retailers are selling this combo and don't want to fall into a trap. 

Most, if not all sites I'm going to at the moment are saying they're out of stock. Do you guys think this is likely due to increased demand in people wanting something to do during lock down?

If anyone has any advice based off what I've described above, I'd appreciate it. Also, if anyone is aware of places that have stock that would be appreciated too. 

Thanks,

Gary

 

[SmokeyJoe]

Hi Gary, 

I bought the sw200p + eq5 as my first scope and while it is great for visual I wouldn't recommend it for AP.  Once you start adding cameras, guide scopes etc it soon becomes too much for the mount.   Now my 200p is languishing in the loft waiting for a bigger mount and I am using a Ed80 which works fine with the eq5 although I'm not guiding yet so limited to 2min subs.

I have heard some good things about the smaller newts in the SW range, 130 & 150 maybe that's the direction to go in. 

Clear skies

Dom

[Gary23]

Ah, okay - thanks for the feedback Dom - appreciate it. 

Back to the drawing board. I've heard it said many times about there being no perfect scope - maybe I should just finally accept that and realise I need to pick a direction. 

[Mr Spock]

The 200 is a good scope but I's probably want it on an HEQ5. An EQ5 is just a bit light.

I think deliveries of Skywatcher stuff aren't due until the end of October. Everywhere will be the same.