Skymax 127 and nexstar 5

[steve_bham]

Are these too scopes similar in terms of optics etc? which is the better scope?

Steve

[Whippy]

They're both similar in terms that they're both the same aperture and use the same basic optical design (2 mirrors and a corrector plate) but there are differences.

The NS5 is a SCT design whilst the Skymax is a Mak-Cass. The SCT has a slightly faster focal ratio (f10) than the Skymax (f11.8). I think there's probably not a great deal of difference at all between the two in terms of actual views though.

Tony..

[John]

Are these too scopes similar in terms of optics etc? which is the better scope?

Steve

They are slightly different optical designs although both from the cassegrain "family". I've tried both and found the 5" SCT a bit more versatile although if planetary observing is your main interest the Mak might be a better choice because of it's smaller central obstruction and slightly longer focal length.

Here is a review comparing the 2 designs (The Orion scope mentioned is the same as the Skymax):

Orion 127 Mak Cass Vs. Celestron C5 SCT - Shootout

John

[crepitis]

I used to own the Orion 127 mak, and it was a great wee scope, I wish I had never sold it now.