This is a repost from cloudynights. I’m trying to make a decision of a scope purchase for remote imaging.
I would appreciate any feedback.
Im currently debating between the Askar SQA 106 and 130 scopes. I have secured a pier at a remote observatory and to stay in the $200 a month class I need to have my rig setup under 35". I will be setting up at this new remote location https://deathvalleyobservatories.com/
A flat panel like the wanderer which lays at about 180 against the ota when open does not impact the 35" length.
the sqa 106 is 23" with dew shield extended
the 130 is 25" with it retracted and 30" extended
I am also planning to use an asi 6200mm pro with a 7x2 efw and a wanderer rotator
A quick chat gpt assessment indicates the following with everything connected including usb cables.
SQA106
Dew Shield Retracted: 20.3" + 6.7–7.8" = ~27.0–28.1"
Dew Shield Extended: 23.1" + 6.7–7.8" = ~29.8–30.9"
SQA130
Dew Shield Retracted: 25" + 6.7–7.8" = ~31.7–32.8"
Dew Shield Extended: 30" + 6.7–7.8" = ~36.7–37.8"
What that means in plain English
SQA106 still looks comfortable.
SQA130 is still borderline retracted and over a 35" cap with the dew shield extended.
What Id like now is some real world feedback.
Im using a strainwave so the distance from RA to the top of the scope is very compact compared to an eq mount.
I would prefer to use the bigger 130 but Im just not sure its going to work especially when I need to focus the scope.
I can ask them to just partially extend the dew shield by maybe 1"
What would be huge is if you can remove the manual rotator from the focuser of the SQA130 and retain the focuser itself.
That would shave a good bit off of the scope. Im sure the focuser itself will be fine for my setup.