Newer Guide Train

[Bill R.]

Well I played around with the guide scope model long enough. The WO Petzval is a nice little scope, but I couldn't get the flexion out of the system (in time). I started playing with using a third guide ring on the focuser and had some success (this will work), but not until I had way too many frustrations.

I searched and searched for a good Off Axis Guider (OAG) and never found a good deal on one, plus I was scratching my head trying to figure out spacing and back focus, ad nauseam.

So I finally did what I wanted to avoid (due to cost) and bought the WSG cover for my QSI583. Yes it was expensive, and yes I do have a Williams Optics 66mm Petzval and two sets of 90mm rings for sale, but no more differential flexion. So far I’ve had no problem finding a guide star either so here’s to hoping this is the final configuration on the guide train.

[Bill R.]

Mark, I only used the Petzval for a guide scope so I never made a critical opinion of its optics other than I did fine as a guider. Except that the focuser is sloppy and requires its own ring to stabilize it.

I use a Meade DSI PRo mono for a quide scope and so far I have had no problems with it. I had a chance to buy a Lodestar recently, but passed because I couldn't justify spending the money when the DSI did just fine for less than a third of the price.