Premium 16-20" dobsonian telescope

[PeterWar]

Greetings,

I've been using an Orion XX14g with goto+skyfi+SkySafari app for a few years with good results. But the scope is quite heavy and difficult to setup. As I live in Europe I've been looking at the Skyvision T400C f4 or DocTelescope 20" f3.3 LaserMax II series.

What I would require at this point is a telescope that:

1- Has a bigger aperture than the Orion XX14g.
2- It is easier to setup by one person.
3- Fits into a Tesla Model 3
4- Has a higher quality optic than the Orion (Sthrel ratio of 0.9 or better would be nice).
5- Resists gusts of wind.
6- Eyepiece height should not exceed 171cm (67 inches).
7- Has a goto system compatible with SkySafari app or equivalent.
8- Has a Feathertouch focuser (I have a Paracorr type 2 but possibly I would buy SIPS unit if it supports my Nikon NAV HW 12 eyepiece).
9- Has a reasonable delivery time.


Any ideas would be appreciated.

[Mr Spock]

How about a David Lukehurst? https://www.dobsonians.co.uk/Ultra Portable.htm

He uses Nichol mirrors which are 0.95 Strehl or better.

[Guest]

https://www.taurustelescopes.com/en/telescopes/

[niallk]

Skyvision T400... drool!  Think they used to offer Mirrorsphere optics, but doing their own now?

Resisting gusts of wind is an interesting criterion:

I've a 15" Classic Obsession - well balanced, smooth motions with large bearings, decent weight to it, and the only way I get some immunity to wind is to omit the shroud.  When it's gusty, i do experience slight vibrations at the EP - not tolerable at high mags.  Tbh, I dont tend to observe in the wind - i generally target beautiful clear peaceful nights - all too rare though!

Edited July 1, 2023 by niallk