focuser upgrade

[nicnac]

will there be any "issues" regarding a focuser upgrade (the Dual speed 2" crayford for SkyWatcher) for a StarTravel 150?

[RichieP]

Is the finder shoe integrated into the focusser of the ST150 like it is with the ST102? From pictures it looks like it is.

Will the replacement focusser also have that? If not then you will have to fit your own finder shoe (they are quite cheap) onto the main tube when you replace the focusser.

Regards

Richard

[johninderby]

You can either add a Synta type finder foot to the OTA or use a William Optics type finder bracket that fits onto the focuser. Other than that its's a very easy job to fit the new focuser.

Here's a photo showing a Baader focuser being fitted to your type of OTA.

John

[nicnac]

thanks guys

which focuser would you say is the best buy? i have looked at synta and skywatcher upgrades so far.

not fussed about the prices as i have no problems paying up when quality is assured

[johninderby]

The Skywatcher focuser is good quality and will be fine for visual use, but if you're thinking of doing some imaging then a better focuser than can handle more weight would be a good idea. The William Optics is the next step up, in between the SkyWatcher and the top quality focusers.

If you want to spend more then a FeatherTouch or Moonlite or Baader Steeltrack are definitely better with a smoother feel and will handle a decent load. The FeatherTouch is the most durable, but the MoonLite has a similar feel and smoothness. I'd say the Baader Steeltrack is 95% as good as the FeatherTouch or MoonLite and will handle a bit more load and is a bit cheaper as well.

John

[nicnac]

could collimation be an issue?