EQ5 SynScan Upgrade Kit dilemma

[Peter_D]

Hi,

Background: I currently have a Vixen GP mount with the Skywatcher non-Goto Az and Dec Motor-set fitted. I've used it for unguided AP on bright DSOs in the past. I would like to progress to guiding on fainter DSOs. Due to light pollution, I need Goto. The scope to be used for AP at the moment would be a C6 (not ideal for AP I know). When funds allow, after the mount has been sorted, I would like to get a lighter refractor such as an Orion ED80 or such like to use on it. 

My current primary scope is a Meade 8 inch SCT so any mount would need to be able to handle it.

Question: Is it worthwhile to upgrade to the Goto kit when (if?) it becomes available again? I live in Germany and it is now just shy of €500 which seems a lot. Or would getting a EQ5 Goto head be a better idea? (€850)  Or neither and bite the bullet and (eventually) get a HEQ5? (€1395). 

Bottom line, I would really like to keep my GP mount if at all possible. I know I would regret selling it. 

Thanks for reading and for any advice!

https://www.firstlightoptics.com/astronomy-mount-upgrade-kits/synscan-pro-goto-version-3-upgrade-kit-for-eq5.html

 

 

Edited June 25, 2021 by Peter_D

[david_taurus83]

Hi Peter. If you really want to keep your current mount, and are going to use it for AP and perhaps can live without a hand controller, then what about this device as an alternative?

https://astro-gadget.net/gadgets/control-of-telescopes/eqstarproeq5-goto-drive-upgrade-kit-for-eq-5-cg-5-meade-lxd-lx-vixen-fr-gp-dx-gpd2-orion-skyview-and-bresser-eq-4-eq-5-mounts

 

There is a member review here:

https://stargazerslounge.com/topic/377411-full-eqstar-pro-review/

[Peter_D]

16 minutes ago, david_taurus83 said:

Hi Peter. If you really want to keep your current mount, and are going to use it for AP and perhaps can live without a hand controller, then what about this device as an alternative?

https://astro-gadget.net/gadgets/control-of-telescopes/eqstarproeq5-goto-drive-upgrade-kit-for-eq-5-cg-5-meade-lxd-lx-vixen-fr-gp-dx-gpd2-orion-skyview-and-bresser-eq-4-eq-5-mounts

 

There is a member review here:

https://stargazerslounge.com/topic/377411-full-eqstar-pro-review/

Thanks David, that looks a very interesting option!

[lenscap]

Hi Peter,

I think the SW Goto kit is very overpriced.

If you are into DIY you could build an Onstep Goto system with equivalent performance (and including new motors) for about  one third of that cost.

https://onstep.groups.io/g/main/wiki/3860

If you click on the "Showcase" section you will find  info on several Vixen GP conversions.