Celestron NexStar 5SE vs SkyWatcher SkyMax 127 SynScan

[mick912k]

Hello everybody, I'm new here and have only just joined, so I would like to take advantage of all your experience and knowledge.
I already own a Meade LX90 which I use on rare occasions here in the UK, but I also spend three months at a time, twice a year, in Cyprus.
There the skies are fantastic for astronomy, but my LX 90 is too big to get out there. Consequently I am looking to purchase a smaller, light-weight and more portable scope to take out with me, in about four weeks time. I plan to carry the OTA as 'hand luggage', with the tripod either going in a large suitcase or packaged for the hold.

I am down to a choice of two, (unless someone suggests something different), namely the Celestron NexStar 5SE or the SkyWatcher SkyMax 127 SynScan.

I know the Celestron is dearer, but perhaps you only get what you pay for? I would be interested in hearing from anyone who can offer a worthy opinion on these scopes, or knows of one being sold secondhand. Thank you.

[admin]

Hi Mick

They are two different scopes, the little mak will travel better than the sct but it has a longer focal length  (not so good for DSO-chasing). What sort of viewing were you thinking of doing because I get the feeling you are going to be much better off with one of the super-mini refractors like one of the WO ZS 66mm to 90mm range or their many clones.

Arthur

[mick912k]

Thanks for your info Arthur.
I'm trying to cover all types of viewing with one scope. Cannot be 100% succesful, I know, but that is why I need the best possible scope in my limited circumstances. Had a quick look at your suggestion for the WO ZS variants, but they seem a bit more expensive. Thanks again and I'll keep my options open for now, but I need to get it sorted in the next two weeks.

[mick912k]

OK, I've gone and done it. I've purchased a Celestron NexStar 6SE, which I managed to pick up second hand on e-bay for £480. I've also bought a Williams Optics Dielectric diagonal and will be using my Meade eyepieces. I've worked out that I can split the whole lot into 3 pieces and that the tripod will go in my suitcase, the OTA will go in my backpack (as hand luggage), and the mount will go in my holdall also as hand luggage. I am now looking forward to setting the whole lot up in Cyprus and taking advantage of the the fabulous night skies out there. Will report back when I return in December 2009.

[admin]

Interesting choice - and it will certainly cover your bases. With the bigger aperture though I wouldn't have thought of it as a travel scope! Would be interested to hear how you get on with it.  And off actually!

arthur