TS Optics PHOTON 6" f/5 Advanced Newtonian Telescope

[Elp]

Hi, anyone got any experience with the above telescope? I'm looking for an OTA which isn't too large or heavy to use primarily within a bortle 7 zone whilst my AP rig is working away. So it'll be used primarily for visual with the potential for AP afterwards if I choose to make upgrades to the focuser/coma corrector etc.

Also does anyone know what I can expect to see visually (difference) from my 60mm refractor? Currently looking though a wide eyepiece at andromeda/orion nebula for example it looks just like a blank void in space, with averted vision you can just about make out the core/nebula.

Ideally I'd like an 8" newtonian/SCT but then there's the need for new mount, space to store it etc etc.

[John]

I've not used that particular scope but my first "proper" scope beyond my old 60mm refractor was a 6 inch F/6 newtonian and the difference in performance was frankly huge on both solar system and deep sky targets.

The bright globular clusters, for example, show quite a lot of resolved stars around the core of the cluster whereas with the 60mm refractor they were just fuzzy spots of light.

 

[Carbon Brush]

My first proper scope was an 8" newt. A real eye opener compared to earlier refractors. Very much as John said.

I haven't used the particular scope you mention. However, in general a shop bought newt will benefit from a bit of flocking and a dew shield.
These cost almost nothing (compared to the scope). They are easy to fit and much improve the stray light situation.
HTH, David.

[Clarkey]

I have the f4 version that I purchased recently for imaging. I would say it is on par with any other 'standard' newtonian such as the SW explorer. There are a few issues with it for AP, but none of these will affect visual use.

With regards to a 60mm refractor, you will certainly see much more. I have a an 80mm scope and the greater aperture is much better for DSO's. The only thing to be aware of is that newtonians can be a bit of a pain on EQ mounts due to the eyepiece positions.