Next step up form Skywatcher ED80 ?

Equipment Refractors Buying Advice
5 replies•208 views
HughP avatar
HughP avatar
The decision as what to be has nearly been made i.e. HEQ5 and Skywatcher ed80 pro until someone suggested an Altair Astro 102 semi-APO. Looking on the site I can not find too many images taken with it, that tells me a fair bit! Can anyone suggest what would be the next step up from the ED80.
A 100 with 700mm  focal length giving f7 without the flatener seems about the right size for about £800. The SW ED100 is out as it is f9 ads so a bit slow.
Main area of interest at the moment is DSO etc.Suggestion please.
Many Thanks
HughP
Miguel Morales avatar
Miguel Morales avatar
for visual or imaging?
HughP avatar
HughP avatar
Hi Miguel, thanks for the reply,  mainly for imaging.
Miguel Morales avatar
Miguel Morales avatar
Have you looked at the Astro-Tech refractors, they have a 115 and a 130 at reasonable prices and reducers to go along with them. Check them out but don't rush your purchase, research everything and then decide.

www.astronomics.com

I have my eye on the Sky-Watcher 120 Esprit. My mind says "yes" but my wallet says "are you nuts?".   smile
Engaging
Steve Milne avatar
Steve Milne avatar
I went back and forth on this issue several times.  I was really happy with my ED80 (and still am).  Eventually, I decided to upgrade my Skywatcher to …. a Skywatcher, by which I mean the Skywatcher Esprit range of telescopes.  I got an Esprit 120 and I couldn't be happier with it.
Well Written
HughP avatar
HughP avatar
Thanks Steve, after a lot of  thinking and deliberating I have just done a deal on a Atair Astro 102 ed triplet and HEQ5. There is just so much kit out there it is very difficult  decision to make. Although I will be using a DSLR both on the scope with a FF and piggy backed I hope the scope will lead me into CCD. smile
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