ED127 APO
After experiencing some limitations with the MN152 and WO 72 telescopes, I was looking around for new primary imaging scope. The main contenders on my shopping list were
- the 8" GSO RC scope for 2699 AUD
- Skywatcher ED120 Back Diamond for 2999 AUD
- Skywatcher PRO ED 120 for 1799 AUD
I carefully reviewed the results others were getting with the above scopes. Each has it's own issues such as field curvature, price, availability etc. Then I came across the ED127, and the amazing results achieved by Gary Honis. My mind was made up and I placed the order. With amazing speed the scope arrived safe and sound in less than a week.
After some research it seems this scope is made in the same factory that makes the MN152 : Jinghua Optics & Electronic Co, you can view the OEM version here. This scope has been marketed under several brand names such as Maxvision, Prostar, Explore Scientific, Meade and North Group / Hioptic.
Specifications:
- Aperture : 127mm (5")
- Design: 3-element Apochromatic Refractor
- Focal Length : 952mm
- f/ratio : f/7.5
- Dew Shield : Built-in Extendable ( Recently there has been an upgrade to the scope - the main difference is that the dew shield is now reversible in the newer scopes.)
- Focuser : Machined Aluminum Crayford
- Weight : 8.5 kg
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On the advice of other users and the vendor, I elected to order a more advanced focuser. From my perspective, it's perfectly adequate focuser for imaging. So far I have not had any problems with it supporting the weight of my Nikon D50 cameras. Stars are nice and tight all the way to the edge of the field, although there is some slight curvature noticeable at the very edge of the image, but it's not a big deal. The light gathering power is impressive and there are no diffraction spikes or collimination to worry about. I have posted some results from CCD Inspector below. Overall I'm very happy with this telescope. One day I will upgrade to a FSQ, but for now I'm enjoying using this scope when I don't want the hassle of a long focal length.
CCD Inspector Report:
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