Here he is , the man with more connections than a BT switchboard. You get sent stuff because your reviews are top notch, honest and informative. You deserve the success Luke, come along way from the AZ-GTI. Well done mate.
Haha, that genuinely gave me a giggle :-D seriously though I really appreciate that a great deal Andrew!! All the very best mate and thank you for your support 👍👍
Luke this is amazing 🤩 so happy you got the opportunity to try this scope out and as always a fantastic review Cant wait for your follow up and some clear skies 🌌 👍👌
Thanks so much Callum mate! :-D I'm really happy to be testing it out, it's seeming like a really great scope now that focuser is changed! Clear skies my friend!
what a beautiful scope! and an excellent review to go with it, it’s clear the effort you put into it and it doesn’t go unnoticed or unappreciated :) clear skies!
Great review! I did exactly the same relative focusser change for my Stellalyra RC6. The other advantage with TS focusser is I can screw OAG directly on to back of it so zero deflection. Look forward to seeing more images!
Great review, my rc10 is from GSO, identical to the one you reviewed and I immediately changed the focuser with a PrimaluceLab 3" and everything is more stable even with heavy loads, a piece of advice, invest in a good focuser it will change your life. Great Lukomatico continue like this 🤗
Thanks so much mate! I've changed the focuser for the TS optics unit I showed a bit later in the video, a huge upgrade for sure!! I'd love to test one of the primalucelab focuser units some day, they look great!
I thoroughly enjoyed that Luke!! A proper analytical first look, and great that you covered collimation of RC's so clearly with the Metaguide software to aid things along :) I'd be tempted to mention RC collimation in the title;!? I'm sure it would help those searching for info and long term traffic for the video. Congratulations! and Enjoy the scope now you have that luverrly TS focuser upgrade :)
Thanks so much Chris mate!! :-D I took your advice and added it to the title haha, good plan! - I've actually just finished my second night of imaging with the scope and I have to say I'm really impressed so far! Plenty more to come in future vids when I've got some more to report for sure :-D Clear skies mate!
This is a rebadged GSO scope, right (it would be helpful to mention this if so)? Are there any significant differences between the different brands of this scope (the focuser being the most significant)? I've been interested in one of these so looking forward to optical tests, and good to know about the focuser issues and will have to keep that in mind when budgeting.
Hey mate! - I think they are all GSO rebrands basically, but some small differences exist as far as I know, baffle tube length etc and focuser as you mention! :-) I can't wait to report more on this scope, clear skies my friend!
Great tutorial on R-C collimation! That's how I used to do it in my old job where I ran a bunch of R-C scopes, particularly the part you covered for primary tip-tilt about getting the small doughnut close to focus to be symmetric once you've got it roughed in. Looking forward to this series, I'm interested to see what you think of these and appreciate your insights. The design seems quite similar to the scopes I used to run, which were made by RC Optical Systems. Like most professional scopes they focused by moving the secondary mirror back and forth, that focuser had great performance but I imagine it added quite a bit to the cost. The secondary focusers had a lot of moving parts and needed regular maintenance, so I can see why most of the newer RC scopes omit this particular feature. Would be interested to see if you have issues with the baffles and scattered light, this seems to often be the downfall of Cassegrain systems. The biggest problem on the RCOS was a lot of the parts in the light path were finished in shiny black anodize, which was used on parts of the baffle tubes, secondary mirror shroud, primary mirror doughnut hole, and the extension tubes on the back. That stuff was quite reflective, particularly at grazing incidence, and had to be covered with black flock material to get the scattered light under control enough for flat fielding to work properly. Thankfully it was an easy fix. It was easiest to see where the flock material needed to go by putting my eye or phone camera lens where the telescope's focal plane is and looking back toward the secondary, it should be completely black outside the circle of light coming from the secondary.
Hey there mate, sorry about the late reply to this! I'm really interested to hear you've had a lot of experience with running these types of systems, - those RCOS scopes really look like beautiful pieces of equipment! (a shame to hear there were a few oddities in the design though as you mentioned!) It'll be interesting to see if I do have issues with baffle length & scattered light - I hear mixed reports about these very latest ones, some folk say they have been extended on the primary baffle which should solve a lot of issues hopefully. Hope you've had a great week! All the best Luke
You know it mate, haha! - I'd love to see the package come with a better focuser right out of the box, even with a small price inflation, it's better than having waste laying around really!
I own the iOptron version of this scope... What a fantastic scope; it looks identical to the one you have, unfortunately, the focuser was also identical. The stock focuser also had a bizarre 4.2mm shaft meaning none of my AF bushings quite fit properly. Needless to say, I replaced it with a TS 3'' Focuser (short version), not cheap, but absolutely rock solid now. I also added a ClickLock for good measure. Finding a focuser with the required M117 thread hugely limited the options as I didn't want to have to go down the M90 to M117 adapter rout. You would expect a better focuser on a £3k scope, but not going to lose much sleep just because of how amazing these RC10 scopes are. 🙂
Hey there mate! - ah I totally agree, it's a weird situation to see such a focuser on what is otherwise a truly top tier telescope, but like you say - I won't lose much sleep over a bad focuser when the scope is this good 👍👍
@@lukomatico It's rather than the "Don't look at the Sun" tag, this scope should have a "Don't use this focuser" tag. Trying to coax any images out of this focuser drove me insane, it was like trying to use a hammer with a rubber handle.
Awesome scope review, i was just looking at that one too as an upgrade. Which laser collimator would you recommend? The Howie glatter is sold out everywhere.
Hey mate! - That's a great question, I'd highly recommend the farpoint astro 2" laser, they are a good unit - I've not had great luck with the hotech SCA lasers, their adapters are not good IMO. - the other main contender, the baader laser I have not tried, so can't really comment!
Hey mate! - I gave it a go without any heat etc, dewed up both primary & secondary - now I'm using a dew strap around the primary body, at the end of it and keeping the fans running all night, - zero issues with dew :-) Cheers!
So what happened to this scope? It quietly disappeared and was replaced with the Edge 11 HD. Why did you end up not keeping it and using the edge instead? (I'm about to buy one of these and would very much appreciate your insight)
Hey there! :-) It was time to send it back really, the opportunity came up to purchase the edgeHD used for a better price than I could have paid to keep the rc10 once the review was over, so I went with the Edge (closed design worked better for me anyway I feel) The rc10 is a great scope overall, but do budget for a focuser, the included one is absolutely horrible I hope it's not too cheeky to say but if you're thinking of purchasing one of these then I do have some affiliate links below if you'd like to help support me and my channel in a big way at no extra cost to yourself too! :-) Clear skies mate! Luke
I think in that scenario it would be adequate if well adjusted to achieve enough friction - that said, I always feel like this focuser doesn't belong on such a nice scope, it's a mismatch! Cheers! :-)
@@lukomatico thanks mate. When I retired in 12 years, funds allowing, I hope to get 1 of these beauties. Probably not much use as I own a C9.25 (sure, it doesn't have the flat field, but 1 scope and can be switched between planetary and narrow FOV DSOs is more cost effective and would allow me to pursue my other hobby, photography, which in all honesty, is what I am more interested in as it's easier to use, quicker to deploy and affects my health problems less). I foresee a Canon EOS R1II and EF600f4 II on the shopping list LOL. Birding photography is very enjoyable, albeit very addictive.
You mentioned you had to collimate the smaller RC Telescopes? I just got a 8" RC Its one of the Apertura Carbonstars. Its acually very good . How did you collimate the smaller ones? Thanks
Hey mate! Glad to hear you're having a good time with yours! 👍👍 I collimated my smaller RC scopes with the 'hall of mirrors' method to get close, then finished on a star - but it never held for very long due to the poor focusers on them unfortunately
Great review. It looks like a rebranded GSO scope and the focuser looks exactly like my GSO RC 6" focuser which is garbage. I had to dismantle it and 3D print a new shim where the focus axle sits to reduce some of the slop. Still has issues locking off/loosening that screw too!
Hey mate! - Good job on getting the issues mostly fixed, that's good work! - I think they all are quite similar, probably very minor differences between brands if they request slightly different specs? Cheers!
Great video, i have the TS Optics version which is just another "Rebranded" version from GSO, and i didn't test it yet, it is still in the shipping box since last year because i can't risk it with my AZ-EQ6 mount, i found it as brand new i believe for nice offer price so i couldn't resist and that time i got the budget for it, i didn't think about mount as this offer will go forever which was the case, now i have to save for long time to get a proper future proof mount and change the focuser as all suggested to, i hope it can serve me well under Bortle 8/9, and also i have to think about which corrector or reducer to use with it and which camera.
Hey mate! - sorry about the late reply to this! It's a good thing that you've got the scope waiting for you when you're ready to mount it! :-) I'm sure that when the day comes, you'll be very happy with it indeed my friend. Clear skies to you!
@@lukomatico I hope so, i can wait and keep waiting, and once that time comes then i couldn't be happier, you are right, keep that scope for you and don't return it 😂😁
Cannot wait to see the images. Am also looking myself for a longer focal scope in the 1300-1800mm range, the model you have is manufactured by GSO (multiple brands sell this model, just the sticker is different), ....but you got sent the wrong version :-). They usually also have a RC 10" with F6.4 version featuring a full frame corrector (x0.8) and a much better focuser manufactured by Askar (you can find it on their website as well). Another interesting model I am also looking at is the Askar SCA260 F5 which seems very ionteresting. Would also be interesting to see if you have des build up on the secondary or-and the primary mirrors.
Hey Paul! - I'm really glad to say after some more testing there's been no issues with dew after I fitted a strap around the primary housing :-) Prior to that, I had a dewed primary & secondary quite quickly! I can't wait to share more from this soon! Thank you for watching :-)
@@lukomatico Thanks Luke for the feed back. A bit surprised to see you see des build up on the primary,….a bit surprised to see you manage to get rid of it by strapping a resistance at the primary level around the tube,…..I would have thought the “transmissibility” of the heat to the mirror to by almost nil since you are far from being in direct contact with the glass,….but as we say, your empirical test validate what we say:’’the proof is in the pudding” . Cannot wait too see more experience sharing on the topic. Hope you enjoy and have fun too.
Good question! I've had both types of scopes many times, - by design it's far easier to collimate a Newtonian than a 6/8" RC, the smaller RC's have a bit of a design flaw really, the primary mirror and focuser are coupled as one unit - they need to be decoupled like the bigger 10/12/14"+ models to be easy to collimate Newts are very easy to get to grips with after a little practice 👍 Good luck!
A Moonlite Nightcrawler or something similar is what it needs for a focuser. In all honesty, IMO none of the stock focusers are up to the weight of today's imaging trains with APS-C size and larger sensors. By the time you hang an OAG-L and 2"x7 EFW, ASG Photon cage (for camera sensor tilt/back focus fine adjustments), a ASI 2600, 2400, or 6200 (or larger) camera at the end of the image stack and there is just a lot of leverage that the OEM focuser's just aren't capable of handling without some deflection/droop. The issue was evident on my much smaller Esprit 100ED once I went to the 2600MC camera, so I went to the Nightcrawler after a year and haven't regretted it. I really don't expect the telescope manufacturers to address this, after all it makes no sense to make such a robust focuser assembly for visual viewing or even for the smaller cameras like the ASI294. Even for the dedicated astrophraphs, there are so may excellent 3rd party focusers available that the telescope manufacturers likely don't see a benefit of in trying to sell an OTA with an OEM focuser on par with that like the Nightcrawler or others. They just don't say that outloud and I've yet to see anyone say that the OEM focuser wasn't really up to the task of a long/heavy imaging train until now.
Hey mate! - Sorry about the late reply here! I totally agree that a lot of OEM focusers just aren't up to the job for a full-size image train! - many are probably fine for a smaller setup, OSC & filter drawer etc, but really struggle with heavyweight camera rigs. Very glad to hear the nightcrawler has been a great solution for you! :-) Thanks for watching and clear skies!
What a fantastic telescope Luke. I suppose the only issue was the focuser but given with a refractor you need to buy a field flattener or a good coma corrector with a newtonian upgrading the focuser is no more expensive than those scenarios. Your information on collimation will be invaluable to anyone buying one of these scopes. Great video 👍
Hey mate! - That's a good point Paul, I'm using this scope completely 'as is' (apart from the focuser) and it's performing great, I know some folks like to use field-flatteners and reducers etc but I've not seen the need to yet with my small mono camera, probably would be an issue with a large sensor though! :-) Kevin makes a good point here too, I guess it's not a unique situation being stuck with a crappy focuser out of the box haha!
Really enjoyed the video Luke. I have been seeing a 10" truss RC or CDK in my future. Most of the relatively inexpensive truss scopes come with the same focuser. It's probably a GSO or equivalent. Most that get a new scope replace the focuser first thing. Looks like the new one will fill the bill. Looking forward to seeing some fine images from it. When it's finished, please make sure to show it well in one of your videos. I want to see the finished product. I would also like to know the final weight if you get a chance.
Hey there Mike! - Sorry about the late reply to this mate! I'll hopefully have much more to share about this scope in the near future, with some completed projects to offer also as a data share for evaluation! :-) Hope that will be useful for you when the time comes! Clear skies my friend!
Its crazy you post this, this is exactly the scope im looking into right now. Whats actually necessary for imaging? Im coming from a refractor and have an asi533, guide scope, etc. is there any backfocus requirements or adapters needed?
That's awesome to hear Ben! I hope you've found this useful :-) As to what's actually needed for imaging, you'll need good collimation tools for sure at least, probably a longer focal length guidescope (more on this in a future video) ideally an upgrade to the focuser, and then you can use it as-is without any reducer/flattener etc quite comfortably with the 533, I'm doing it right now! :-)
Really nice review. For the followup, it would be interesting to know your thoughts comparing this with an SCT of a similar aperture, pros & cons, etc. Thanks!
Such a good honest and in-depth review Luke on what looks like an awesome scope, shame about the supplied focuser! I’ve got to be honest, collimation scares me🤣 That’s why I’ve only got refractors! Looking forward to seeing more on this mate, your reviews are always exactly what people want to know, the good and the bad! Keep them coming Luke👍 Clear skies!
You're too kind Simon mate! :-D I'm really pleased to be able to bring views & reviews that people seem to be enjoying, it's a lot of fun! Really hope you've been getting some clear skies mate! (just had two nights myself!!)
Looks like a great new scope to play with. That stock focuser looks like the same crappy Crayford focuser I initially made the mistake of pairing with my Meade 10" but it now sits in a draw somewhere ready to be thrown away. Not sure why manufacturers do that.
Hey Logan! - Ah mate I totally agree, it really isn't in keeping with the rest of the scope! Luckily it's an easy enough fix, hah - just further costs! All the best mate :-D
Nice review mate,,When I saw it I thought it would be quite a wide field but you said you might use it for planets ! That through me a bit. Any way ,,looks great 👍
Excellent review so far, looking forward to seeing its limits pushed, and how sharp nebulas, galaxy and planets are resolved. Against the quattro would be a good idea, being that the price gaps are considerable
Great review mate suck a pity about the focuser though, it'd be good if they shipped in the scope without the stock focuser then do a package with the uprated version you have. I always fancied an RC but the smaller ones that you've mentioned are a nightmare to collimate & there's no way I have the budget for a larger one & then there's lifting the thing up being a short arse like myself lol. Look forward to seeing what you get with it mate clear skies.
Thanks so much Tich mate! - agreed aye, the scope and it's own mechanics are fantastic so it's screaming out to be offered bundled with a focuser to match, - I can see why they don't do it though I guess, with so many options for focuser upgrades on the market there'd be no way to please everyone so you're back where you started I guess haha!! 😅
Hey Paul mate! Hope you're well 👍👍 I'm really enjoying this scope already I must say, after a few good projects I'll get a better feel for everything too which will be helpful for future videos - can't wait!
What is weight? 40Lb? How long does it keep collimation? In observatory, you will never need collimating it again. Right? What are advantages of RC over Edge SCT? What are disadvantages?
Hey Ana! - Great questions, all to be determined in time through usage! :-D I'll do my best to figure it all out and bring further details in the next video about this scope, cheers!
Hi Luke, Looks like a great scope, but yes, that focuser is a big negative. I too am having issues with the focuser on my Orion ED80, particularly when the target is near zenith ... not able to autofocus while in that position. Great M42 image. You cleanly resolved the Trapizium. NICE. Looking forward to seeing other targets with it.
Thank you Pat! - sorry to hear you've had similar issues with the ED80 my friend, crayfords can really be a pain in the rear end! I'm happy to say I've caught some more data with this scope and I'll be looking to present it soon! :-D
Congrats man, you definitely have the sky conditions to use that beast! Not sure why sometimes quality scopes still come with a crayford style focuser that can slip under a heavy load. I think telescopes that size should come with a beefy R&P focuser but maybe they expect this to be more for visual? I look forward to some amazing pictures from you observatory! Clear Skies - soon I hope for you 🙂 Cheers mate!
Thank you Dave!! I'm highly anticipating putting this thing through its paces now, I'm thinking it'll be a heck of a scope in the right conditions! :-)
Good stuff Luke, looking forward to seeing your results with this scope. I've been trying to talk myself out of getting one of these for ages now (currently still deciding between this and the Sharpstar SCA260). The focuser is definitely the weak part of the package unfortunately. A common modification is to use the TS Optics 3" Short focuser in combimation with the TS Optics 3" 0.8x reducer/flattener which brings the scope down to F6.4.
Hey Pete mate!! Oof that's quite the decision to make! As soon as possible I'll be getting this thing further tested and making some data available for people to play with, so maybe that'll be useful!! :-D can't wait to see what it'll do!
@@lukomatico Looking forward to it Luke, there's nothing better than getting to play with some data to see how good a scope is👍One thing that has always concerned me is the size of the secondary on RC scopes, especially with less than ideal sky conditions. A lot of the images I have seen taken with one tend to look very 'soft', although that might just be down to me being so used to refractors!
@@petesastrophotography I hear you Pete mate! It's a concern I shared, not too worried now having used it some more these past few nights though :-D I'm seeing nice sharp data! Definitely need to do more experiments though to make sure it's not just a fluke!
Hey mate, I'm really not sure what's going on there!! Is there a chance your image is inverted, debayered in the wrong pattern or combined in a non-standard order? I'm sorry I couldn't be more help
The RC10 looks a lot like produced by GSO Taiwan. Build quality is pretty good, but you are right, the focuser is junk. I replaced my one with a Moonlite. The difference is like day and night.
Thanks mate!! I really think this scope should be able to get me some personal best images, I can't wait either way - it's exciting to see what it'll do! :-D
That is one cool scope Luke, I'll be excited to see the images that come from it. I have been thinking about maybe getting one of those 6" RCs for when I do want a longer focal length during galaxy season or when imaging planetary nebulae. Some people tell horror stories about collimating them and some people say they aren't too bad but you definitely need a tilt adapter. I'm okay with collimating as I do it with my Newt all the time (not the same I know but the point remains). Did you find that you had to re-collimate the 6" RCs much? Also, does that program you showed for collimation work with Newts as well? If so, that could make my life a lot easier.
Hey mate! Sorry about the late reply to this 🙏 I did find that I had to recollimate the rc6's I had frequently - not because of the scope itself but because of the focuser, with a good focuser it'd probably hold a lot better :-) As to metaguide, I'm sure it'd work with newts too yeah!
@@lukomatico all good man! I didn't think anything of it considering the thousands of miles that separate us. That's quite interesting and makes me wonder if it would be worth replacing the focuser on an RC6 after I got it... I have this huge debate between an RC6 or a C6 SCT especially since there isn't a huge difference in price.
@@iamjessieray That's a tough one to answer mate! My advice would be to go with the C6, closed tube design so won't get dirty inside after a season, far easier collimation and a better focuser out of the box too 👍 Hope that's helpful mate!
Oh no, I have a 6 inch RC Stella Lyra , 8 inch CC Altair f12, 8inch newt Stella Lyra.... (Gso) All with those ace focusers.... *Quietly sits on the floor sobbing* 😭
Hey Luke - Crikey mate that looks a beast for sure. I know if you're saying its a handful to lift on(I remember your Eq6/Esprit lifts) it must be. Im a bit flummoxed on the focusser (Kinda like putting some just OK speakers on a quality hifi). Looks like an easy change though. Have fun with it pal. :)
Hey Ollie mate!! It's a real beast of a scope for sure haha, you'd think all those poles would make it easier to hold but it kinda works against you at certain angles 😂 I like the analogy to hi-fi haha!!! - I've swapped the focuser over to the one that FLO sent now and it's night and day luckily 👍 Hope you've been keeping well mate! P.s - the old eq6&esprit carry outs, now there's a throwback memory for me haha!! 😂
Thanks so much mate!! I agree, the focuser that they choose to put on these things from factory is mad, I'm sure people would be happy to spend just a little more and get a bundled rack & pinion unit at least hey! Can't wait to hit some more targets now!
@@lukomatico hope you managed to get out last night. I got out but paying the price abit now. Sleepy but got relatives popping over. And could be clear again tonight! Im not moaning tho. Could be worse could be a work day. Clear skies bud
I did mate! Well, sort of 😂 I got everything up and running then left it imaging while I went indoors to spend some time with my friends who'd came over!
What a beautiful telescope and an absolute shame about the focuser. Especially at the price point. Would love to see you put it on more targets and see how well it performs over time. Thanks for sharing Luke! 👊🏽🍺
What a beautiful tube. By the way, in a video I saw you pass through a door and I got the impression that you are very tall, but 1.95 m tall is very, very tall 😅
Haha!! Doorways are often a nemesis of mine 😅 Thank you so much my friend, I appreciate your support as always and hope you are well!! :-D Clear skies!
Thank you so much for watching mate! - I'd certainly love to see these bundled with a better focuser as standard, even with the hike in price that would cause, it'd really set them apart from the competition 👍👍
Exciting videos. But a bit annoying that you do 60fps which makes skipping slow. I don't know why, but the video actually doesn't as smooth as 60 fps normally does.
@@lukomatico awesome. I can't afford it, but always wanted 1. However, my EQ6pro hasn't been used since 2010 and is probably full of dried up gunky lube and needs a rebuild, which is probably beyond me now. My heq5pro was used a year ago with the Lunt60 but is too small for the RC10 imho. And I don't have the ability for a permanent observatory (long story short, 2/3 of our small backyard is taken up by an easement and unusable...a pier might be an option, but we live in a dodgy area so....that would still mean brining out the mount every time I want to use it...coupled to worsening lower back, shoulder, Left hand/lower forearm/wrist problems with arthritis, lifting things is an issue now.
The metalign is keeping the star centered with software and therefore you will be collimating the star which is off axis if it has drifted. Not for me thanks.
I've never understood why these and even more so the 8" RC's are supplied with such rubbish focusers. They are all appalling quality. It's a shame the 8" doesn't have a decoupled mirror as that would be a great scope.
Agreed Andy!! - I'd absolutely love to see rc's across the range being offered with proper focusers and decoupled mirrors as standard, what a lineup that would be 👍
Thank you for this Luke, although I’m loyal to my current rig, it’s nice to vicariously explore other setups. What amazes me most are your analytical skills to provide us with all this information. Great job.
Here he is , the man with more connections than a BT switchboard. You get sent stuff because your reviews are top notch, honest and informative. You deserve the success Luke, come along way from the AZ-GTI. Well done mate.
Haha, that genuinely gave me a giggle :-D seriously though I really appreciate that a great deal Andrew!! All the very best mate and thank you for your support 👍👍
Luke this is amazing 🤩 so happy you got the opportunity to try this scope out and as always a fantastic review
Cant wait for your follow up and some clear skies 🌌 👍👌
Thanks so much Callum mate! :-D I'm really happy to be testing it out, it's seeming like a really great scope now that focuser is changed!
Clear skies my friend!
what a beautiful scope! and an excellent review to go with it, it’s clear the effort you put into it and it doesn’t go unnoticed or unappreciated :) clear skies!
Ah mate that's really kind of you to say, thank you ever so much!! :-) I'm really glad you like the videos!!
Great review! I did exactly the same relative focusser change for my Stellalyra RC6. The other advantage with TS focusser is I can screw OAG directly on to back of it so zero deflection. Look forward to seeing more images!
Excellent to hear it Bob! I too got the threaded adapter, well worth it! :-)
Clear skies my friend!
Great review, my rc10 is from GSO, identical to the one you reviewed and I immediately changed the focuser with a PrimaluceLab 3" and everything is more stable even with heavy loads, a piece of advice, invest in a good focuser it will change your life. Great Lukomatico continue like this 🤗
Thanks so much mate! I've changed the focuser for the TS optics unit I showed a bit later in the video, a huge upgrade for sure!! I'd love to test one of the primalucelab focuser units some day, they look great!
@@lukomatico If we were close I would have already brought you my RC to test with the PrimaluceLab focuser very willingly 🤗
I also quite fast switched to the PLL 3" ... that's the quality focuser this scope deserves!
I thoroughly enjoyed that Luke!! A proper analytical first look, and great that you covered collimation of RC's so clearly with the Metaguide software to aid things along :) I'd be tempted to mention RC collimation in the title;!? I'm sure it would help those searching for info and long term traffic for the video. Congratulations! and Enjoy the scope now you have that luverrly TS focuser upgrade :)
Thanks so much Chris mate!! :-D I took your advice and added it to the title haha, good plan! - I've actually just finished my second night of imaging with the scope and I have to say I'm really impressed so far! Plenty more to come in future vids when I've got some more to report for sure :-D
Clear skies mate!
Another great video Luke. Very informative as usual. Thanks. :)
Glad you enjoyed it mate!! Thanks ever so much for watching 👍👍
This is a rebadged GSO scope, right (it would be helpful to mention this if so)? Are there any significant differences between the different brands of this scope (the focuser being the most significant)? I've been interested in one of these so looking forward to optical tests, and good to know about the focuser issues and will have to keep that in mind when budgeting.
Hey mate! - I think they are all GSO rebrands basically, but some small differences exist as far as I know, baffle tube length etc and focuser as you mention! :-)
I can't wait to report more on this scope, clear skies my friend!
Great tutorial on R-C collimation! That's how I used to do it in my old job where I ran a bunch of R-C scopes, particularly the part you covered for primary tip-tilt about getting the small doughnut close to focus to be symmetric once you've got it roughed in.
Looking forward to this series, I'm interested to see what you think of these and appreciate your insights. The design seems quite similar to the scopes I used to run, which were made by RC Optical Systems. Like most professional scopes they focused by moving the secondary mirror back and forth, that focuser had great performance but I imagine it added quite a bit to the cost. The secondary focusers had a lot of moving parts and needed regular maintenance, so I can see why most of the newer RC scopes omit this particular feature.
Would be interested to see if you have issues with the baffles and scattered light, this seems to often be the downfall of Cassegrain systems. The biggest problem on the RCOS was a lot of the parts in the light path were finished in shiny black anodize, which was used on parts of the baffle tubes, secondary mirror shroud, primary mirror doughnut hole, and the extension tubes on the back. That stuff was quite reflective, particularly at grazing incidence, and had to be covered with black flock material to get the scattered light under control enough for flat fielding to work properly. Thankfully it was an easy fix. It was easiest to see where the flock material needed to go by putting my eye or phone camera lens where the telescope's focal plane is and looking back toward the secondary, it should be completely black outside the circle of light coming from the secondary.
Hey there mate, sorry about the late reply to this!
I'm really interested to hear you've had a lot of experience with running these types of systems, - those RCOS scopes really look like beautiful pieces of equipment! (a shame to hear there were a few oddities in the design though as you mentioned!)
It'll be interesting to see if I do have issues with baffle length & scattered light - I hear mixed reports about these very latest ones, some folk say they have been extended on the primary baffle which should solve a lot of issues hopefully.
Hope you've had a great week!
All the best
Luke
Agreed. First thing you should do is toss that focuser in the junk pile. Maybe save the screws.
You know it mate, haha! - I'd love to see the package come with a better focuser right out of the box, even with a small price inflation, it's better than having waste laying around really!
@@lukomatico or even sell it without a focuser for a reduced price. I think 99% of buyers toss the focuser anyway.
Great review Luke. I'm considering buying a 6 or 8'' RC next year (probably from the same supplier) so this info has been really useful. Thank you.
Glad it was helpful my friend, thank you so much for watching! :-)
I own the iOptron version of this scope... What a fantastic scope; it looks identical to the one you have, unfortunately, the focuser was also identical. The stock focuser also had a bizarre 4.2mm shaft meaning none of my AF bushings quite fit properly. Needless to say, I replaced it with a TS 3'' Focuser (short version), not cheap, but absolutely rock solid now. I also added a ClickLock for good measure. Finding a focuser with the required M117 thread hugely limited the options as I didn't want to have to go down the M90 to M117 adapter rout. You would expect a better focuser on a £3k scope, but not going to lose much sleep just because of how amazing these RC10 scopes are. 🙂
Hey there mate! - ah I totally agree, it's a weird situation to see such a focuser on what is otherwise a truly top tier telescope, but like you say - I won't lose much sleep over a bad focuser when the scope is this good 👍👍
@@lukomatico It's rather than the "Don't look at the Sun" tag, this scope should have a "Don't use this focuser" tag. Trying to coax any images out of this focuser drove me insane, it was like trying to use a hammer with a rubber handle.
Hi, I am purchasing a 10 inch RC truss, I am wondering if the TS focuser upgrade worked with the telescope and with the ZWO EAF
It did indeed my friend :-) you need the correct size focuser though, just worth double checking before order - I believe this one is m117 👍
Awesome scope review, i was just looking at that one too as an upgrade. Which laser collimator would you recommend? The Howie glatter is sold out everywhere.
Hey mate! - That's a great question, I'd highly recommend the farpoint astro 2" laser, they are a good unit - I've not had great luck with the hotech SCA lasers, their adapters are not good IMO. - the other main contender, the baader laser I have not tried, so can't really comment!
I have an 8" truss telescope. I'm looking forward to how you use dew heaters on your primary mirror.
Hey mate! - I gave it a go without any heat etc, dewed up both primary & secondary - now I'm using a dew strap around the primary body, at the end of it and keeping the fans running all night, - zero issues with dew :-) Cheers!
So what happened to this scope? It quietly disappeared and was replaced with the Edge 11 HD.
Why did you end up not keeping it and using the edge instead?
(I'm about to buy one of these and would very much appreciate your insight)
Hey there! :-)
It was time to send it back really, the opportunity came up to purchase the edgeHD used for a better price than I could have paid to keep the rc10 once the review was over, so I went with the Edge (closed design worked better for me anyway I feel)
The rc10 is a great scope overall, but do budget for a focuser, the included one is absolutely horrible
I hope it's not too cheeky to say but if you're thinking of purchasing one of these then I do have some affiliate links below if you'd like to help support me and my channel in a big way at no extra cost to yourself too! :-)
Clear skies mate!
Luke
Luke - how would the original focuser go with just a small OSC (no filters, filter wheel etc). No EAF, just manually focused using a bahtinov mask.
I think in that scenario it would be adequate if well adjusted to achieve enough friction - that said, I always feel like this focuser doesn't belong on such a nice scope, it's a mismatch! Cheers! :-)
@@lukomatico thanks mate. When I retired in 12 years, funds allowing, I hope to get 1 of these beauties. Probably not much use as I own a C9.25 (sure, it doesn't have the flat field, but 1 scope and can be switched between planetary and narrow FOV DSOs is more cost effective and would allow me to pursue my other hobby, photography, which in all honesty, is what I am more interested in as it's easier to use, quicker to deploy and affects my health problems less). I foresee a Canon EOS R1II and EF600f4 II on the shopping list LOL. Birding photography is very enjoyable, albeit very addictive.
I highly recommend trying a Takahashi Collimation scope, they make RC collimation very simple.
I've heard so many good things about them! I'd love to try one some day :-) Clear skies!!
You mentioned you had to collimate the smaller RC Telescopes? I just got a 8" RC Its one of the Apertura Carbonstars. Its acually very good . How did you collimate the smaller ones? Thanks
Hey mate! Glad to hear you're having a good time with yours! 👍👍
I collimated my smaller RC scopes with the 'hall of mirrors' method to get close, then finished on a star - but it never held for very long due to the poor focusers on them unfortunately
Great review. It looks like a rebranded GSO scope and the focuser looks exactly like my GSO RC 6" focuser which is garbage. I had to dismantle it and 3D print a new shim where the focus axle sits to reduce some of the slop. Still has issues locking off/loosening that screw too!
Hey mate! - Good job on getting the issues mostly fixed, that's good work! - I think they all are quite similar, probably very minor differences between brands if they request slightly different specs? Cheers!
Great video, i have the TS Optics version which is just another "Rebranded" version from GSO, and i didn't test it yet, it is still in the shipping box since last year because i can't risk it with my AZ-EQ6 mount, i found it as brand new i believe for nice offer price so i couldn't resist and that time i got the budget for it, i didn't think about mount as this offer will go forever which was the case, now i have to save for long time to get a proper future proof mount and change the focuser as all suggested to, i hope it can serve me well under Bortle 8/9, and also i have to think about which corrector or reducer to use with it and which camera.
Hey mate! - sorry about the late reply to this!
It's a good thing that you've got the scope waiting for you when you're ready to mount it! :-) I'm sure that when the day comes, you'll be very happy with it indeed my friend.
Clear skies to you!
@@lukomatico I hope so, i can wait and keep waiting, and once that time comes then i couldn't be happier, you are right, keep that scope for you and don't return it 😂😁
Cannot wait to see the images. Am also looking myself for a longer focal scope in the 1300-1800mm range, the model you have is manufactured by GSO (multiple brands sell this model, just the sticker is different), ....but you got sent the wrong version :-). They usually also have a RC 10" with F6.4 version featuring a full frame corrector (x0.8) and a much better focuser manufactured by Askar (you can find it on their website as well). Another interesting model I am also looking at is the Askar SCA260 F5 which seems very ionteresting.
Would also be interesting to see if you have des build up on the secondary or-and the primary mirrors.
Hey Paul! - I'm really glad to say after some more testing there's been no issues with dew after I fitted a strap around the primary housing :-) Prior to that, I had a dewed primary & secondary quite quickly!
I can't wait to share more from this soon!
Thank you for watching :-)
@@lukomatico Thanks Luke for the feed back. A bit surprised to see you see des build up on the primary,….a bit surprised to see you manage to get rid of it by strapping a resistance at the primary level around the tube,…..I would have thought the “transmissibility” of the heat to the mirror to by almost nil since you are far from being in direct contact with the glass,….but as we say, your empirical test validate what we say:’’the proof is in the pudding” . Cannot wait too see more experience sharing on the topic. Hope you enjoy and have fun too.
What would you get for dso's(assuming you have a dslr and a good tracking mount)
A 6 inch f5 newt or a 6 inch rc
6" f5 newt myself! :-)
@lukomatico is collimation not a problem ?
Good question! I've had both types of scopes many times, - by design it's far easier to collimate a Newtonian than a 6/8" RC, the smaller RC's have a bit of a design flaw really, the primary mirror and focuser are coupled as one unit - they need to be decoupled like the bigger 10/12/14"+ models to be easy to collimate
Newts are very easy to get to grips with after a little practice 👍
Good luck!
A Moonlite Nightcrawler or something similar is what it needs for a focuser. In all honesty, IMO none of the stock focusers are up to the weight of today's imaging trains with APS-C size and larger sensors. By the time you hang an OAG-L and 2"x7 EFW, ASG Photon cage (for camera sensor tilt/back focus fine adjustments), a ASI 2600, 2400, or 6200 (or larger) camera at the end of the image stack and there is just a lot of leverage that the OEM focuser's just aren't capable of handling without some deflection/droop. The issue was evident on my much smaller Esprit 100ED once I went to the 2600MC camera, so I went to the Nightcrawler after a year and haven't regretted it.
I really don't expect the telescope manufacturers to address this, after all it makes no sense to make such a robust focuser assembly for visual viewing or even for the smaller cameras like the ASI294. Even for the dedicated astrophraphs, there are so may excellent 3rd party focusers available that the telescope manufacturers likely don't see a benefit of in trying to sell an OTA with an OEM focuser on par with that like the Nightcrawler or others. They just don't say that outloud and I've yet to see anyone say that the OEM focuser wasn't really up to the task of a long/heavy imaging train until now.
Hey mate! - Sorry about the late reply here!
I totally agree that a lot of OEM focusers just aren't up to the job for a full-size image train! - many are probably fine for a smaller setup, OSC & filter drawer etc, but really struggle with heavyweight camera rigs.
Very glad to hear the nightcrawler has been a great solution for you! :-)
Thanks for watching and clear skies!
What a fantastic telescope Luke. I suppose the only issue was the focuser but given with a refractor you need to buy a field flattener or a good coma corrector with a newtonian upgrading the focuser is no more expensive than those scenarios. Your information on collimation will be invaluable to anyone buying one of these scopes. Great video 👍
Some Newts (especially the cheaper ones) have rubbish focusers as well!
Hey mate! - That's a good point Paul, I'm using this scope completely 'as is' (apart from the focuser) and it's performing great, I know some folks like to use field-flatteners and reducers etc but I've not seen the need to yet with my small mono camera, probably would be an issue with a large sensor though! :-)
Kevin makes a good point here too, I guess it's not a unique situation being stuck with a crappy focuser out of the box haha!
Really enjoyed the video Luke. I have been seeing a 10" truss RC or CDK in my future. Most of the relatively inexpensive truss scopes come with the same focuser. It's probably a GSO or equivalent. Most that get a new scope replace the focuser first thing. Looks like the new one will fill the bill. Looking forward to seeing some fine images from it. When it's finished, please make sure to show it well in one of your videos. I want to see the finished product. I would also like to know the final weight if you get a chance.
Hey there Mike! - Sorry about the late reply to this mate!
I'll hopefully have much more to share about this scope in the near future, with some completed projects to offer also as a data share for evaluation! :-)
Hope that will be useful for you when the time comes!
Clear skies my friend!
Its crazy you post this, this is exactly the scope im looking into right now. Whats actually necessary for imaging? Im coming from a refractor and have an asi533, guide scope, etc. is there any backfocus requirements or adapters needed?
That's awesome to hear Ben! I hope you've found this useful :-)
As to what's actually needed for imaging, you'll need good collimation tools for sure at least, probably a longer focal length guidescope (more on this in a future video) ideally an upgrade to the focuser, and then you can use it as-is without any reducer/flattener etc quite comfortably with the 533, I'm doing it right now! :-)
Really nice review. For the followup, it would be interesting to know your thoughts comparing this with an SCT of a similar aperture, pros & cons, etc. Thanks!
Thanks so much for the feedback and suggestion mate!! I'll take it on board for sure :-D
Such a good honest and in-depth review Luke on what looks like an awesome scope, shame about the supplied focuser! I’ve got to be honest, collimation scares me🤣 That’s why I’ve only got refractors! Looking forward to seeing more on this mate, your reviews are always exactly what people want to know, the good and the bad! Keep them coming Luke👍 Clear skies!
You're too kind Simon mate! :-D I'm really pleased to be able to bring views & reviews that people seem to be enjoying, it's a lot of fun!
Really hope you've been getting some clear skies mate! (just had two nights myself!!)
Looks like a great new scope to play with. That stock focuser looks like the same crappy Crayford focuser I initially made the mistake of pairing with my Meade 10" but it now sits in a draw somewhere ready to be thrown away. Not sure why manufacturers do that.
Hey Logan! - Ah mate I totally agree, it really isn't in keeping with the rest of the scope! Luckily it's an easy enough fix, hah - just further costs!
All the best mate :-D
What's the name / brand of this laser collimator?
Farpoint is the brand 👍👍 Great bit of kit!
Nice review mate,,When I saw it I thought it would be quite a wide field but you said you might use it for planets ! That through me a bit. Any way ,,looks great 👍
Thanks so much for watching mate!! :-) There's a few of these RC's available at a shorter F/L but I opted to test the normal long focal one! :-D
Excellent review so far, looking forward to seeing its limits pushed, and how sharp nebulas, galaxy and planets are resolved. Against the quattro would be a good idea, being that the price gaps are considerable
Thank you so much for the suggestion!! I'll give it some thought as to how I could compare these :-) Clear skies!
Great review mate suck a pity about the focuser though, it'd be good if they shipped in the scope without the stock focuser then do a package with the uprated version you have. I always fancied an RC but the smaller ones that you've mentioned are a nightmare to collimate & there's no way I have the budget for a larger one & then there's lifting the thing up being a short arse like myself lol. Look forward to seeing what you get with it mate clear skies.
Thanks so much Tich mate! - agreed aye, the scope and it's own mechanics are fantastic so it's screaming out to be offered bundled with a focuser to match, - I can see why they don't do it though I guess, with so many options for focuser upgrades on the market there'd be no way to please everyone so you're back where you started I guess haha!! 😅
Nice scope some day I would like to get one. I have too much invested in my current scopes.
Hey Paul mate! Hope you're well 👍👍
I'm really enjoying this scope already I must say, after a few good projects I'll get a better feel for everything too which will be helpful for future videos - can't wait!
What is weight? 40Lb? How long does it keep collimation?
In observatory, you will never need collimating it again. Right?
What are advantages of RC over Edge SCT? What are disadvantages?
Hey Ana! - Great questions, all to be determined in time through usage! :-D
I'll do my best to figure it all out and bring further details in the next video about this scope, cheers!
Thanks Luke!
Thank you for watching mate! :-D
Hi Luke,
Looks like a great scope, but yes, that focuser is a big negative. I too am having issues with the focuser on my Orion ED80, particularly when the target is near zenith ... not able to autofocus while in that position. Great M42 image. You cleanly resolved the Trapizium. NICE. Looking forward to seeing other targets with it.
Thank you Pat! - sorry to hear you've had similar issues with the ED80 my friend, crayfords can really be a pain in the rear end!
I'm happy to say I've caught some more data with this scope and I'll be looking to present it soon! :-D
Great review, wish I had an observatory!
It's a blessing and a curse haha! :-D thank you for watching!
Woahh congrats bro!
Thanks! 😁 It's gonna sting having to give this one back haha 😅😂
Congrats man, you definitely have the sky conditions to use that beast! Not sure why sometimes quality scopes still come with a crayford style focuser that can slip under a heavy load. I think telescopes that size should come with a beefy R&P focuser but maybe they expect this to be more for visual? I look forward to some amazing pictures from you observatory! Clear Skies - soon I hope for you 🙂 Cheers mate!
Thank you Dave!! I'm highly anticipating putting this thing through its paces now, I'm thinking it'll be a heck of a scope in the right conditions! :-)
Good stuff Luke, looking forward to seeing your results with this scope. I've been trying to talk myself out of getting one of these for ages now (currently still deciding between this and the Sharpstar SCA260). The focuser is definitely the weak part of the package unfortunately. A common modification is to use the TS Optics 3" Short focuser in combimation with the TS Optics 3" 0.8x reducer/flattener which brings the scope down to F6.4.
Hey Pete mate!! Oof that's quite the decision to make!
As soon as possible I'll be getting this thing further tested and making some data available for people to play with, so maybe that'll be useful!! :-D can't wait to see what it'll do!
@@lukomatico Looking forward to it Luke, there's nothing better than getting to play with some data to see how good a scope is👍One thing that has always concerned me is the size of the secondary on RC scopes, especially with less than ideal sky conditions. A lot of the images I have seen taken with one tend to look very 'soft', although that might just be down to me being so used to refractors!
@@petesastrophotography I hear you Pete mate! It's a concern I shared, not too worried now having used it some more these past few nights though :-D I'm seeing nice sharp data! Definitely need to do more experiments though to make sure it's not just a fluke!
hello Luke , I'm going crazy dude , every time i apply scnr to remove greens the image turns to pink color..
Hey mate, I'm really not sure what's going on there!!
Is there a chance your image is inverted, debayered in the wrong pattern or combined in a non-standard order? I'm sorry I couldn't be more help
The RC10 looks a lot like produced by GSO Taiwan. Build quality is pretty good, but you are right, the focuser is junk. I replaced my one with a Moonlite. The difference is like day and night.
Awesome to hear the Moonlite worked for you Tom! - they're great units :-D I had a moonlite CHL for my old EdgeHD which was lovely!
Very nice looking scope Luke such a shame about the focuser, looking forward to your next videos with this scope mate expecting some awesome results
Thanks mate!! I really think this scope should be able to get me some personal best images, I can't wait either way - it's exciting to see what it'll do! :-D
That is one cool scope Luke, I'll be excited to see the images that come from it. I have been thinking about maybe getting one of those 6" RCs for when I do want a longer focal length during galaxy season or when imaging planetary nebulae. Some people tell horror stories about collimating them and some people say they aren't too bad but you definitely need a tilt adapter. I'm okay with collimating as I do it with my Newt all the time (not the same I know but the point remains). Did you find that you had to re-collimate the 6" RCs much? Also, does that program you showed for collimation work with Newts as well? If so, that could make my life a lot easier.
Hey mate! Sorry about the late reply to this 🙏
I did find that I had to recollimate the rc6's I had frequently - not because of the scope itself but because of the focuser, with a good focuser it'd probably hold a lot better :-)
As to metaguide, I'm sure it'd work with newts too yeah!
@@lukomatico all good man! I didn't think anything of it considering the thousands of miles that separate us. That's quite interesting and makes me wonder if it would be worth replacing the focuser on an RC6 after I got it... I have this huge debate between an RC6 or a C6 SCT especially since there isn't a huge difference in price.
@@iamjessieray That's a tough one to answer mate! My advice would be to go with the C6, closed tube design so won't get dirty inside after a season, far easier collimation and a better focuser out of the box too 👍
Hope that's helpful mate!
@@lukomatico All good points! It would also give me the option to use it with a reducer or even a hyperstar setup.
What a beast
It's a heck of a scope it seems!! :-D
Oh no, I have a 6 inch RC Stella Lyra , 8 inch CC Altair f12, 8inch newt Stella Lyra.... (Gso) All with those ace focusers.... *Quietly sits on the floor sobbing* 😭
Ahh nooo! I'm sorry mate haha, maybe I'm a bit of a focuser snob these days LOL :-D Thank you for watching!
Hey Luke - Crikey mate that looks a beast for sure. I know if you're saying its a handful to lift on(I remember your Eq6/Esprit lifts) it must be. Im a bit flummoxed on the focusser (Kinda like putting some just OK speakers on a quality hifi). Looks like an easy change though.
Have fun with it pal. :)
Hey Ollie mate!! It's a real beast of a scope for sure haha, you'd think all those poles would make it easier to hold but it kinda works against you at certain angles 😂
I like the analogy to hi-fi haha!!! - I've swapped the focuser over to the one that FLO sent now and it's night and day luckily 👍
Hope you've been keeping well mate!
P.s - the old eq6&esprit carry outs, now there's a throwback memory for me haha!! 😂
Nice review Luke. Shame about the focuser. A lot of telescopes are let down by the focusers. Looking forward to more test images. Clear skies bud
Thanks so much mate!! I agree, the focuser that they choose to put on these things from factory is mad, I'm sure people would be happy to spend just a little more and get a bundled rack & pinion unit at least hey!
Can't wait to hit some more targets now!
@@lukomatico hope you managed to get out last night. I got out but paying the price abit now. Sleepy but got relatives popping over. And could be clear again tonight! Im not moaning tho. Could be worse could be a work day. Clear skies bud
I did mate! Well, sort of 😂 I got everything up and running then left it imaging while I went indoors to spend some time with my friends who'd came over!
Bring out the Big Guns.. (captain america style) this is gonna be interesting.. wishing you clear skies soon sir
Haha!! 💪 thanks ever so much for watching my friend, I can't wait to get it under some crystal clear nights soon! :-D
What a beautiful telescope and an absolute shame about the focuser. Especially at the price point.
Would love to see you put it on more targets and see how well it performs over time.
Thanks for sharing Luke! 👊🏽🍺
Thanks so much for watching bud, I'll be sure to hit more targets ASAP! Hope you're recovering well! 🙏
What a beautiful tube. By the way, in a video I saw you pass through a door and I got the impression that you are very tall, but 1.95 m tall is very, very tall 😅
Haha!! Doorways are often a nemesis of mine 😅 Thank you so much my friend, I appreciate your support as always and hope you are well!! :-D
Clear skies!
You'd think they would supply a decent focuser considering they acknowledge theirs is rubbish, great video mate thanks
Thank you so much for watching mate! - I'd certainly love to see these bundled with a better focuser as standard, even with the hike in price that would cause, it'd really set them apart from the competition 👍👍
Exciting videos. But a bit annoying that you do 60fps which makes skipping slow. I don't know why, but the video actually doesn't as smooth as 60 fps normally does.
So when are you buying it?? 😉
Haha!! Ah mate it'd be lovely to own it as it really is beautiful, I would have to do some serious coppering up though to make it work! 😅
Like your Conan picture.
Thank you haha :-D "what is best in life?!"
Beautiful scope but it screams for a Feathertouch focuser!
Agreed mate haha! That said, the TS optics unit that's on it now is very nice! :-D
I presume t hat this is the same as the GSO 10" truss...
That's right! :-)
@@lukomatico awesome. I can't afford it, but always wanted 1. However, my EQ6pro hasn't been used since 2010 and is probably full of dried up gunky lube and needs a rebuild, which is probably beyond me now. My heq5pro was used a year ago with the Lunt60 but is too small for the RC10 imho. And I don't have the ability for a permanent observatory (long story short, 2/3 of our small backyard is taken up by an easement and unusable...a pier might be an option, but we live in a dodgy area so....that would still mean brining out the mount every time I want to use it...coupled to worsening lower back, shoulder, Left hand/lower forearm/wrist problems with arthritis, lifting things is an issue now.
The metalign is keeping the star centered with software and therefore you will be collimating the star which is off axis if it has drifted. Not for me thanks.
Hey mate, it keeps the star centered by driving the scope, thus keeping it truly on axis - it's great!
99.9% of the people have never heard of this brand
All of these RC's are really just GSO, which almost everyone has heard of! :-) Cheers!
I was interested in this scope until you pointed out the bad focuser. There is always something. I give up.
I hear you mate, the upgrade focuser I fitted really sorted things out though, so not all is lost! :-) Clear skies to you!
I have to disagree. It's you that put you in this position, we're just along for the ride.
That's so kind of you to say Paul mate, thank you 🙏 I really wouldn't be here doing this without you guys though!
I've never understood why a company will build a great scope and put a shitty focuser on it.
It's a mystery to me too, wish they came as standard with a good one!
@@lukomatico I agree 100%. I've had to get new focusers for 2 of my scopes, it's not right. The OEM's should know better.
👀👀👀👀
Thanks for watching mate!!
I've never understood why these and even more so the 8" RC's are supplied with such rubbish focusers. They are all appalling quality. It's a shame the 8" doesn't have a decoupled mirror as that would be a great scope.
I use an 8" and for how much it cost I'm very happy. Of course it needs a focuser but it's useable.....just 😉
Agreed Andy!! - I'd absolutely love to see rc's across the range being offered with proper focusers and decoupled mirrors as standard, what a lineup that would be 👍
@@Alan-vk6bk yes but that 10" is £3000! It should have a quality r&p focuser on it with zero flex.
The focuser is very bad quality
Agreed mate, I'd love to see the package come with a better one right out of the box! :-)
Thank you for this Luke, although I’m loyal to my current rig, it’s nice to vicariously explore other setups. What amazes me most are your analytical skills to provide us with all this information. Great job.
Is this one a rebranded GSO scope?
I believe so mate, yes! :-)