Need some advice on equipment sellers
- chris_g
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Need some advice on equipment sellers
Hello folks,
I'm looking for some equipment sellers besides Amazon.com. I found optcorp.com but would like to try and find some more, their site says everything is on extended back order of 4 to 6 months. I know covid has put a damper on a lot of equipment manufacturers so waiting is the new norm but I wold like to have some choices. I live in the U.S. but would not mind purchasing international if the prices were right on the shipping and what not. Any recommendations would be very much appreciated!
I'm looking for some equipment sellers besides Amazon.com. I found optcorp.com but would like to try and find some more, their site says everything is on extended back order of 4 to 6 months. I know covid has put a damper on a lot of equipment manufacturers so waiting is the new norm but I wold like to have some choices. I live in the U.S. but would not mind purchasing international if the prices were right on the shipping and what not. Any recommendations would be very much appreciated!
Image Cam: Canon 6D (Ha mod), 600D (Stock), SVBony SV405CC
Image OTA: EvoStar ED80, WO Z73, C8-A XLT
Mount: EQ6-R Pro Pier, AZ-EQ5 Pro Pier
Guide OTA: Orion 60mm, WO 32mm, ZWO OAG, SV501P
Guide Cam: ZWO 120mm, 290mm mini
EAA OTA: Orion ST80
EAA Cam: SVBony SV705C
EP: Baader Hyperion Modular Set
Filters: L-Pro Canon EOS C, L-eNhance, L-Pro, Optolong Ha 7mm, Optolong Oiii 6.5mm, Optolong Sii 6.5mm, ES H-Beta
Session Control: Mini PC/Win11 Pro, APT 4.1, PHD2 2.6.10
Processing: PixInsight, DSS 4.2.6, Adobe PS CC, Astronomy Tools Action Set, Star Spikes Pro
Image OTA: EvoStar ED80, WO Z73, C8-A XLT
Mount: EQ6-R Pro Pier, AZ-EQ5 Pro Pier
Guide OTA: Orion 60mm, WO 32mm, ZWO OAG, SV501P
Guide Cam: ZWO 120mm, 290mm mini
EAA OTA: Orion ST80
EAA Cam: SVBony SV705C
EP: Baader Hyperion Modular Set
Filters: L-Pro Canon EOS C, L-eNhance, L-Pro, Optolong Ha 7mm, Optolong Oiii 6.5mm, Optolong Sii 6.5mm, ES H-Beta
Session Control: Mini PC/Win11 Pro, APT 4.1, PHD2 2.6.10
Processing: PixInsight, DSS 4.2.6, Adobe PS CC, Astronomy Tools Action Set, Star Spikes Pro
- kt4hx
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Re: Need some advice on equipment sellers
Hi Chris and welcome to the site. Some well known and respected vendors for astro equipment in the U.S., besides OPT are:
https://agenaastro.com/
https://www.highpointscientific.com/
https://www.skiesunlimited.com/
https://www.astronomics.com/
https://www.eyepiecesetc.com/Default.asp
https://www.telescope.com/
https://telescopes.net/store/
Hope that helps and I know that right now, stock issues seem to be common, depending on what one is looking for.
https://agenaastro.com/
https://www.highpointscientific.com/
https://www.skiesunlimited.com/
https://www.astronomics.com/
https://www.eyepiecesetc.com/Default.asp
https://www.telescope.com/
https://telescopes.net/store/
Hope that helps and I know that right now, stock issues seem to be common, depending on what one is looking for.
Alan
Scopes: Astro Sky 17.5 f/4.5 Dob || Apertura AD12 f/5 Dob || Zhumell Z10 f/4.9 Dob ||
ES AR127 f/6.5 || ES ED80 f/6 || Apertura 6" f/5 Newtonian
Mounts: ES Twilight-II and Twilight-I
EPs: AT 82° 28mm UWA || TV Ethos 100° 21mm and 13mm || Vixen LVW 65° 22mm ||
ES 82° 18mm || Pentax XW 70° 10mm, 7mm and 5mm || barlows
Filters (2 inch): DGM NPB || Orion Ultra Block, O-III and Sky Glow || Baader HaB
Primary Field Atlases: Uranometria All-Sky Edition and Interstellarum Deep Sky Atlas
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
"Astronomers, we look into the past to see our future." (me)
"Seeing is in some respect an art, which must be learnt." (William Herschel)
"What we know is a drop, what we don't know is an ocean." (Sir Isaac Newton)
"No good deed goes unpunished." (various)
“Some people without brains do an awful lot of talking, don't you think?” (Scarecrow, The Wonderful Wizard of Oz)
Scopes: Astro Sky 17.5 f/4.5 Dob || Apertura AD12 f/5 Dob || Zhumell Z10 f/4.9 Dob ||
ES AR127 f/6.5 || ES ED80 f/6 || Apertura 6" f/5 Newtonian
Mounts: ES Twilight-II and Twilight-I
EPs: AT 82° 28mm UWA || TV Ethos 100° 21mm and 13mm || Vixen LVW 65° 22mm ||
ES 82° 18mm || Pentax XW 70° 10mm, 7mm and 5mm || barlows
Filters (2 inch): DGM NPB || Orion Ultra Block, O-III and Sky Glow || Baader HaB
Primary Field Atlases: Uranometria All-Sky Edition and Interstellarum Deep Sky Atlas
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
"Astronomers, we look into the past to see our future." (me)
"Seeing is in some respect an art, which must be learnt." (William Herschel)
"What we know is a drop, what we don't know is an ocean." (Sir Isaac Newton)
"No good deed goes unpunished." (various)
“Some people without brains do an awful lot of talking, don't you think?” (Scarecrow, The Wonderful Wizard of Oz)
- Bigzmey
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Re: Need some advice on equipment sellers
Agenaastro.com
HighPointScientific.com
Astronomics.com
Bhphotvideo.com
are good reliable options in US.
HighPointScientific.com
Astronomics.com
Bhphotvideo.com
are good reliable options in US.
Scopes: Stellarvue: SV102ED; Celestron: 9.25" EdgeHD, 8" SCT, 150ST, Onyx 80ED; iOptron: Hankmeister 6" Mak; SW: 7" Mak; Meade: 80ST.
Mounts: SW: SkyTee2, AzGTi; iOptron: AZMP; ES: Twilight I; Bresser: EXOS2; UA: MicroStar.
Binos: APM: 100-90 APO; Canon: IS 15x50; Orion: Binoviewer, LG II 15x70, WV 10x50, Nikon: AE 16x50, 10x50, 8x40.
EPs: Pentax: XWs & XFs; TeleVue: Delites, Panoptic & Plossls; ES: 68, 62; Vixen: SLVs; Baader: BCOs, Aspherics, Mark IV.
Diagonals: Baader: BBHS mirror, Zeiss Spec T2 prism, Clicklock dielectric; TeleVue: Evebrite dielectric; AltairAstro: 2" prism.
Filters: Lumicon: DeepSky, UHC, OIII, H-beta; Baader: Moon & SkyGlow, Contrast Booster, UHC-S, 6-color set; Astronomik: UHC.
Observing: DSOs: 3106 (Completed: Messier, Herschel 1, 2, 3. In progress: H2,500: 2180, S110: 77). Doubles: 2437, Comets: 34, Asteroids: 257
Mounts: SW: SkyTee2, AzGTi; iOptron: AZMP; ES: Twilight I; Bresser: EXOS2; UA: MicroStar.
Binos: APM: 100-90 APO; Canon: IS 15x50; Orion: Binoviewer, LG II 15x70, WV 10x50, Nikon: AE 16x50, 10x50, 8x40.
EPs: Pentax: XWs & XFs; TeleVue: Delites, Panoptic & Plossls; ES: 68, 62; Vixen: SLVs; Baader: BCOs, Aspherics, Mark IV.
Diagonals: Baader: BBHS mirror, Zeiss Spec T2 prism, Clicklock dielectric; TeleVue: Evebrite dielectric; AltairAstro: 2" prism.
Filters: Lumicon: DeepSky, UHC, OIII, H-beta; Baader: Moon & SkyGlow, Contrast Booster, UHC-S, 6-color set; Astronomik: UHC.
Observing: DSOs: 3106 (Completed: Messier, Herschel 1, 2, 3. In progress: H2,500: 2180, S110: 77). Doubles: 2437, Comets: 34, Asteroids: 257
- Ylem
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Re: Need some advice on equipment sellers
Welcome Chris,
Sadly so many vendors are out of stock
It's not their fault of course and it may take a few more months for the supply chain back to normal.
I do see binoculars seem to be available, don't over look a decent pair of 7,8 or 10x50's.
They will last a lifetime.
In fact, I spend more time with my binos than my scopes.
Sadly so many vendors are out of stock
It's not their fault of course and it may take a few more months for the supply chain back to normal.
I do see binoculars seem to be available, don't over look a decent pair of 7,8 or 10x50's.
They will last a lifetime.
In fact, I spend more time with my binos than my scopes.
Clear Skies,
-Jeff
Member; ASTRA-NJ
Orion 80ED
Celestron C5, 6SE, Celestar 8
Vixen Porta Mount ll
Coronado PST
A big box of Plossls
Little box of filters
-Jeff
Member; ASTRA-NJ
Orion 80ED
Celestron C5, 6SE, Celestar 8
Vixen Porta Mount ll
Coronado PST
A big box of Plossls
Little box of filters
- Lady Fraktor
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Re: Need some advice on equipment sellers
International Sites:
First Light Optics, 365Astronomy, Altair Astro, Teleskop-Express, APM Telescope, Astroshop.eu, Baader Planetarium, Bresser, Omegon
These are all excellent retailers, there are many more but it would be a very large list.
First Light Optics, 365Astronomy, Altair Astro, Teleskop-Express, APM Telescope, Astroshop.eu, Baader Planetarium, Bresser, Omegon
These are all excellent retailers, there are many more but it would be a very large list.
Gabrielle
See Far Sticks: Elita 103/1575, AOM FLT 105/1000, Bresser 127/1200 BV, Nočný stopár 152/1200, Vyrobené doma 70/700, Stellarvue NHNG DX 80/552, TAL RS 100/1000, Vixen SD115s/885
EQ: TAL MT-1, Vixen SXP, SXP2, AXJ, AXD
Az/Alt: AYO Digi II, Stellarvue M2C, Argo Navis encoders on both
Tripods: Berlebach Planet (2), Uni 28 Astro, Report 372, TAL factory maple, Vixen ASG-CB90, Vixen AXD-TR102
Diagonals: Astro-Physics, Baader Amici, Baader Herschel, iStar Blue, Stellarvue DX, Tak prism, TAL, Vixen
Eyepieces: Antares to Zeiss (1011110)
The only culture I have is from yogurt
See Far Sticks: Elita 103/1575, AOM FLT 105/1000, Bresser 127/1200 BV, Nočný stopár 152/1200, Vyrobené doma 70/700, Stellarvue NHNG DX 80/552, TAL RS 100/1000, Vixen SD115s/885
EQ: TAL MT-1, Vixen SXP, SXP2, AXJ, AXD
Az/Alt: AYO Digi II, Stellarvue M2C, Argo Navis encoders on both
Tripods: Berlebach Planet (2), Uni 28 Astro, Report 372, TAL factory maple, Vixen ASG-CB90, Vixen AXD-TR102
Diagonals: Astro-Physics, Baader Amici, Baader Herschel, iStar Blue, Stellarvue DX, Tak prism, TAL, Vixen
Eyepieces: Antares to Zeiss (1011110)
The only culture I have is from yogurt
- Greenman
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Re: Need some advice on equipment sellers
I would add Rother Valley Optics in the UK, but not for US manufacture products or you will be paying two sets of import duty.
Of course now we have Brexit finally with us we pay import duty on European products too.
Of course now we have Brexit finally with us we pay import duty on European products too.
Cheers,
Tony.
Smart Scope: Dwarf II - Club and outreach work.
AP Refractor: Altair 72EDF Deluxe F6;1x & 0.8 Flatteners; Antares Versascope 60mm finder. ASIAir Pro.Li battery pack for grab & go.
Celestron AVX Mount; X-cel LX eyepieces & Barlows 2x 3x, ZWO 2” Filter holder,
Cameras: main DSO ASI533MC; DSO guide ASI120MM; Planetary ASI224MC; DSLR Canon EOS100 stock.
Filters: Astronomik IR cut; Optolong L-Pro; Optolong L-Enhance.
Binoculars: Celestron 15 x 70.
Latitude: 52.219853
Longitude: -1.034471
Accuracy: 5 m
Bortle 4 site. https://maps.google.com/?q=52.21985,-1.03447
Tony.
Smart Scope: Dwarf II - Club and outreach work.
AP Refractor: Altair 72EDF Deluxe F6;1x & 0.8 Flatteners; Antares Versascope 60mm finder. ASIAir Pro.Li battery pack for grab & go.
Celestron AVX Mount; X-cel LX eyepieces & Barlows 2x 3x, ZWO 2” Filter holder,
Cameras: main DSO ASI533MC; DSO guide ASI120MM; Planetary ASI224MC; DSLR Canon EOS100 stock.
Filters: Astronomik IR cut; Optolong L-Pro; Optolong L-Enhance.
Binoculars: Celestron 15 x 70.
Latitude: 52.219853
Longitude: -1.034471
Accuracy: 5 m
Bortle 4 site. https://maps.google.com/?q=52.21985,-1.03447
- pakarinen
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Re: Need some advice on equipment sellers
I've read some negative reviews of OPT, but don't recall any details. You could check Cloudy Nights for discussions.
I've had good luck with Orion (ST120 scope), Highpoint Scientific, Eyepiecesetc.com, Woodland HIlls, Agena Astro, SkyWatcher (Mak 90mm) here, and First Light Optics in the UK. Truthfully, I've been most impressed with First LIght and how fast purchases have arrived via DHL.
I've had good luck with Orion (ST120 scope), Highpoint Scientific, Eyepiecesetc.com, Woodland HIlls, Agena Astro, SkyWatcher (Mak 90mm) here, and First Light Optics in the UK. Truthfully, I've been most impressed with First LIght and how fast purchases have arrived via DHL.
=============================================================================
I drink tea, I read books, I look at stars when I'm not cursing clouds. It's what I do.
=============================================================================
AT50, AT72EDII, ST80, ST102; Scopetech Zero, AZ-GTi, AZ Pronto; Innorel RT90C, Oberwerk 5000; Orion Giantview 15x70s, Vortex 8x42s, Navy surplus 7x50s, Nikon 10x50s
I drink tea, I read books, I look at stars when I'm not cursing clouds. It's what I do.
=============================================================================
AT50, AT72EDII, ST80, ST102; Scopetech Zero, AZ-GTi, AZ Pronto; Innorel RT90C, Oberwerk 5000; Orion Giantview 15x70s, Vortex 8x42s, Navy surplus 7x50s, Nikon 10x50s
- seigell
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Re: Need some advice on equipment sellers
Adding to the list:
USA:
OPT - https://optcorp.com - San DiegoCA - probably largest USA Retailer - home of TPO Brand (yet another GSO )
Starizona - https://starizona.com - Tucson AZ - Makers of the HyperStar system
Deep Space Products - https://www.deepspaceproducts.com - Home of the HyperTune Kits forEQ Mounts
Anacortes Telescope & Wild Bird - https://www.buytelescopes.com - home of AstroMart
ADM Accessories - https://www.admaccessories.com - its how you get your Scope to stay atop your Mount
Precise Parts - https://www.preciseparts.com/ppmain/index.html - for when you need something milled to precision-fit
ScopeStuff - https://scopestuff.com - for all the "Little Bits" you never knew you needed
Canada:
O'Telescope - https://otelescope.com/store - Ottawa ON - Author of BackyardEOS / BackyardNIKON - and purveyor of high-end Astronomy gear
Brandon Optics - https://brandonoptics.com - Burnaby BC
Khan Scope Center - https://khanscope.com - Toronto ON
KW Telescope - https://kwtelescope.com - Kitchener ON
AstronomyPlus (aka Lire la Nature) - https://astronomyplus.com - Longueuil, QC
All-Star Telescope - https://www.all-startelescope.com - twixt Calgary and Red Deer (yes, I've been there...)
Online Used:
AstroMart - https://astromart.com - assoc Anacortes Telescope & Wild Bird
CloudyNights - https://www.cloudynights.com/classifieds - assoc Astronomics
AstroBuySell - https://astrobuysell.com - CAN/UK/AUS
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/groups/1873482632865645 - one of several Buy-Sell Groups
USA:
OPT - https://optcorp.com - San Diego
Starizona - https://starizona.com - Tucson AZ - Makers of the HyperStar system
Deep Space Products - https://www.deepspaceproducts.com - Home of the HyperTune Kits for
Anacortes Telescope & Wild Bird - https://www.buytelescopes.com - home of AstroMart
ADM Accessories - https://www.admaccessories.com - its how you get your Scope to stay atop your Mount
Precise Parts - https://www.preciseparts.com/ppmain/index.html - for when you need something milled to precision-fit
ScopeStuff - https://scopestuff.com - for all the "Little Bits" you never knew you needed
Canada:
O'Telescope - https://otelescope.com/store - Ottawa ON - Author of BackyardEOS / BackyardNIKON - and purveyor of high-end Astronomy gear
Brandon Optics - https://brandonoptics.com - Burnaby BC
Khan Scope Center - https://khanscope.com - Toronto ON
KW Telescope - https://kwtelescope.com - Kitchener ON
AstronomyPlus (aka Lire la Nature) - https://astronomyplus.com - Longueuil, QC
All-Star Telescope - https://www.all-startelescope.com - twixt Calgary and Red Deer (yes, I've been there...)
Online Used:
AstroMart - https://astromart.com - assoc Anacortes Telescope & Wild Bird
CloudyNights - https://www.cloudynights.com/classifieds - assoc Astronomics
AstroBuySell - https://astrobuysell.com - CAN/UK/AUS
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/groups/1873482632865645 - one of several Buy-Sell Groups
ES AR152 / ES 80ED Apo / Orion 8in F/3.9 / C9.25-SCT / C6-SCT / C10-NGT / AT6RC / ST-80 / AstroView 90 / Meade 6000 APO 115mm
CGEM (w HyperTune and ADM bling) / 2x CG5-AGT / Forest of Tripod legs / Star Adventurer / Orion EQ-G
550D (Modded-G.Honis) / 60D / 400D / NexImage / NexGuide / Mini 50 SSAG / ST-8300C / ASI120MM-S / ASI1600MM-Cool
Dark Skies in SW CO when I can get there, and badly light polluted backyard when I can't... (Currently Self-Exiled to Muggy Central Florida...)
CGEM (w HyperTune and ADM bling) / 2x CG5-AGT / Forest of Tripod legs / Star Adventurer / Orion EQ-G
550D (Modded-G.Honis) / 60D / 400D / NexImage / NexGuide / Mini 50 SSAG / ST-8300C / ASI120MM-S / ASI1600MM-Cool
Dark Skies in SW CO when I can get there, and badly light polluted backyard when I can't... (Currently Self-Exiled to Muggy Central Florida...)
- gregl
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Re: Need some advice on equipment sellers
I'll suggest Orange County Telescope. I was loitering around the store and I was impressed when the owner talked a customer out of buying a telescope after determining that the customer was not ready for it. That struck me as some high integrity.
I've also had good customer service from the previously mentioned Explore Scientific and High Point Scientific.
I've also had good customer service from the previously mentioned Explore Scientific and High Point Scientific.
- chris_g
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Re: Need some advice on equipment sellers
Thanks for all the suggestions folks, awesome group here. Gives me plenty of choices and I've got plenty of time now with the delays and waiting for tax return and making sure I make the right choice in equipment, a lot to learn!!!
Image Cam: Canon 6D (Ha mod), 600D (Stock), SVBony SV405CC
Image OTA: EvoStar ED80, WO Z73, C8-A XLT
Mount: EQ6-R Pro Pier, AZ-EQ5 Pro Pier
Guide OTA: Orion 60mm, WO 32mm, ZWO OAG, SV501P
Guide Cam: ZWO 120mm, 290mm mini
EAA OTA: Orion ST80
EAA Cam: SVBony SV705C
EP: Baader Hyperion Modular Set
Filters: L-Pro Canon EOS C, L-eNhance, L-Pro, Optolong Ha 7mm, Optolong Oiii 6.5mm, Optolong Sii 6.5mm, ES H-Beta
Session Control: Mini PC/Win11 Pro, APT 4.1, PHD2 2.6.10
Processing: PixInsight, DSS 4.2.6, Adobe PS CC, Astronomy Tools Action Set, Star Spikes Pro
Image OTA: EvoStar ED80, WO Z73, C8-A XLT
Mount: EQ6-R Pro Pier, AZ-EQ5 Pro Pier
Guide OTA: Orion 60mm, WO 32mm, ZWO OAG, SV501P
Guide Cam: ZWO 120mm, 290mm mini
EAA OTA: Orion ST80
EAA Cam: SVBony SV705C
EP: Baader Hyperion Modular Set
Filters: L-Pro Canon EOS C, L-eNhance, L-Pro, Optolong Ha 7mm, Optolong Oiii 6.5mm, Optolong Sii 6.5mm, ES H-Beta
Session Control: Mini PC/Win11 Pro, APT 4.1, PHD2 2.6.10
Processing: PixInsight, DSS 4.2.6, Adobe PS CC, Astronomy Tools Action Set, Star Spikes Pro
- OrigamiBat
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Re: Need some advice on equipment sellers
I recommend Agena Astro. 90% of my equipment has been acquired from them. Had an issue that was resolved in no time. I have tried a few more but couldn't recommend them.
Always keep an eye out for new stock and call to make sure their inventory is accurate.
I would say, Amazon is not the place for astronomy gear but they sure got a nice return policy.
Always keep an eye out for new stock and call to make sure their inventory is accurate.
I would say, Amazon is not the place for astronomy gear but they sure got a nice return policy.
- Bigzmey
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Re: Need some advice on equipment sellers
AgenaAstro is hard to beat. They go extra mile to keep the customers happy. Free bolt case with everyOrigamiBat wrote: ↑Wed Jan 27, 2021 9:15 pm I recommend Agena Astro. 90% of my equipment has been acquired from them. Had an issue that was resolved in no time. I have tried a few more but couldn't recommend them.
Always keep an eye out for new stock and call to make sure their inventory is accurate.
I would say, Amazon is not the place for astronomy gear but they sure got a nice return policy.
The only thing to keep in mind is that Agena and most of other astro retailers will charge you restocking fee and you also have to cover the shipping back if you want to return non-defective items.
Amazon keep offering more astronomy stuff and if you have Prime, fast shipment and free returns are nice. I bought a few astro items from them and can't complain.
Scopes: Stellarvue: SV102ED; Celestron: 9.25" EdgeHD, 8" SCT, 150ST, Onyx 80ED; iOptron: Hankmeister 6" Mak; SW: 7" Mak; Meade: 80ST.
Mounts: SW: SkyTee2, AzGTi; iOptron: AZMP; ES: Twilight I; Bresser: EXOS2; UA: MicroStar.
Binos: APM: 100-90 APO; Canon: IS 15x50; Orion: Binoviewer, LG II 15x70, WV 10x50, Nikon: AE 16x50, 10x50, 8x40.
EPs: Pentax: XWs & XFs; TeleVue: Delites, Panoptic & Plossls; ES: 68, 62; Vixen: SLVs; Baader: BCOs, Aspherics, Mark IV.
Diagonals: Baader: BBHS mirror, Zeiss Spec T2 prism, Clicklock dielectric; TeleVue: Evebrite dielectric; AltairAstro: 2" prism.
Filters: Lumicon: DeepSky, UHC, OIII, H-beta; Baader: Moon & SkyGlow, Contrast Booster, UHC-S, 6-color set; Astronomik: UHC.
Observing: DSOs: 3106 (Completed: Messier, Herschel 1, 2, 3. In progress: H2,500: 2180, S110: 77). Doubles: 2437, Comets: 34, Asteroids: 257
Mounts: SW: SkyTee2, AzGTi; iOptron: AZMP; ES: Twilight I; Bresser: EXOS2; UA: MicroStar.
Binos: APM: 100-90 APO; Canon: IS 15x50; Orion: Binoviewer, LG II 15x70, WV 10x50, Nikon: AE 16x50, 10x50, 8x40.
EPs: Pentax: XWs & XFs; TeleVue: Delites, Panoptic & Plossls; ES: 68, 62; Vixen: SLVs; Baader: BCOs, Aspherics, Mark IV.
Diagonals: Baader: BBHS mirror, Zeiss Spec T2 prism, Clicklock dielectric; TeleVue: Evebrite dielectric; AltairAstro: 2" prism.
Filters: Lumicon: DeepSky, UHC, OIII, H-beta; Baader: Moon & SkyGlow, Contrast Booster, UHC-S, 6-color set; Astronomik: UHC.
Observing: DSOs: 3106 (Completed: Messier, Herschel 1, 2, 3. In progress: H2,500: 2180, S110: 77). Doubles: 2437, Comets: 34, Asteroids: 257
- John Fitzgerald
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Re: Need some advice on equipment sellers
Add Land, Sea, and Sky (Takahashi America) in Houston, TX. They are very reputable, AFAIK. I have ordered in the past year or so, with great results, from Explore Scientific, Astronomics, Agena Astro, High Point, L.S.S., and Woodland Hills. I have ordered in the past from OPT, but recent reviews of OPT have turned towards negative.
Double and multiple star observer. Over 3,500 unique pairs logged.
No good deed goes unpunished.
No good deed goes unpunished.
- mikemarotta
- Orion Spur Ambassador
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Re: Need some advice on equipment sellers
You got a lot of good suggestions. EXPLORE SCIENTIFIC founder Tom Roberts spoke to our local astonomy club (via Zoom) last autumn. He said that the international market in astronomy instruments is so small that less-than-quality does not survive. Everyone competes fairly well for customer service.
(Here https://explorescientificusa.com ). For himself, Roberts sponsors global star parties and otherwise supports the hobby. (Roberts estimated the global market at $250 million which pales compared to cosmetics, for example. Explore is the second-largest firm.)
As for sellers being out-of-stock, the impacts (plural) of Covid-19 were not just that China stopped shipping, and most stuff is made in China, but that stuck at home, millions of hobbyists took their telescopes out of the closets and attics and get involved again and others took the option to give themselves a new hobby.
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Michael E. Marotta
Astro-Tech 115 mm APO Refractor Explore Scientific 102 mm f/6.47 Refractor Explore Scientific 102 mm f/9.8 Refractor Bresser 8-inch Newtonian Reflector Plössls from 40 to 6 mm Nagler Series-1 7mm. nonMeade 14 mm. Mounts: Celestron AVX, Explore Twilight I Alt-Az, Explore EXOS German Equatorial
Michael E. Marotta
Astro-Tech 115 mm APO Refractor Explore Scientific 102 mm f/6.47 Refractor Explore Scientific 102 mm f/9.8 Refractor Bresser 8-inch Newtonian Reflector Plössls from 40 to 6 mm Nagler Series-1 7mm. nonMeade 14 mm. Mounts: Celestron AVX, Explore Twilight I Alt-Az, Explore EXOS German Equatorial
- SkyHiker
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Re: Need some advice on equipment sellers
I have been waiting on OPT to deliver a 12" astrograph since Oct 1, over 5 months ago. Not saying that they are to blame or that other vendors would be quicker, given the Covid circumstances. I put in another order for imaging gear a few weeks ago, the order status is still unchanged. They have been inaccurate in their predictions when I called them (3x so far) so it is good if they now post a message that you can expect 4 to 6 months delay. I would not expect other vendors to magically be faster but one thing to check is if they have the gear that you ordered in stock. Ask them before you order. Also, if you are a member of an astronomy club, ask for a discount before you order if they have a program for that. It is harder to get a discount after the fact.
... Henk. Telescopes: GSO 12" Astrograph, "Comet Hunter" MN152, ES ED127CF, ES ED80, WO Redcat51, Z12, AT6RC, Celestron Skymaster 20x80, Mounts and tripod: Losmandy G11S with OnStep, AVX, Tiltall, Cameras: ASI2600MC, ASI2600MM, ASI120 mini, Fuji X-a1, Canon XSi, T6, ELPH 100HS, DIY: OnStep controller, Pi4b/power rig, Afocal adapter, Foldable Dob base, Az/Alt Dob setting circles, Accessories: ZWO 36 mm filter wheel, TV Paracorr 2, Baader MPCC Mk III, ES FF, SSAG, QHY OAG-M, EAF electronic focuser, Plossls, Barlows, Telrad, Laser collimators (Seben LK1, Z12, Howie Glatter), Cheshire, 2 Orion RACIs 8x50, Software: KStars-Ekos, DSS, PHD2, Nebulosity, Photo Gallery, Gimp, CHDK, Computers:Pi4b, 2x running KStars/Ekos, Toshiba Satellite 17", Website:Henk's astro images
- pakarinen
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Re: Need some advice on equipment sellers
Did anybody mention eyepiecesetc.com?
I've had good service via Web order, but he does have a smaller selection of gear than some others.
I've had good service via Web order, but he does have a smaller selection of gear than some others.
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I drink tea, I read books, I look at stars when I'm not cursing clouds. It's what I do.
=============================================================================
AT50, AT72EDII, ST80, ST102; Scopetech Zero, AZ-GTi, AZ Pronto; Innorel RT90C, Oberwerk 5000; Orion Giantview 15x70s, Vortex 8x42s, Navy surplus 7x50s, Nikon 10x50s
I drink tea, I read books, I look at stars when I'm not cursing clouds. It's what I do.
=============================================================================
AT50, AT72EDII, ST80, ST102; Scopetech Zero, AZ-GTi, AZ Pronto; Innorel RT90C, Oberwerk 5000; Orion Giantview 15x70s, Vortex 8x42s, Navy surplus 7x50s, Nikon 10x50s
- JayTee
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Re: Need some advice on equipment sellers
And the final two are
Adorama and
Telescope Warehouse.
Cheers,
JT
Adorama and
Telescope Warehouse.
Cheers,
JT
∞ Primary Scopes: #1: Celestron CPC1100 #2: 8" f/7.5 Dob #3: CR150HD f/8 6" frac
∞ AP Scopes: #1: TPO 6" f/9 RC #2: ES 102 f/7 APO #3: ES 80mm f/6 APO
∞ G&G Scopes: #1: Meade 102mm f/7.8 #2: Bresser 102mm f/4.5
∞ Guide Scopes: 70 & 80mm fracs -- The El Cheapo Bros.
∞ Mounts: iOptron CEM70AG, SW EQ6, Celestron AVX, SLT & GT (Alt-Az), Meade DS2000
∞ Cameras: #1: ZWO ASI294MC Pro #2: 662MC #3: 120MC, Canon T3i, Orion SSAG, WYZE Cam3
∞ Binos: 10X50,11X70,15X70, 25X100
∞ EPs: ES 2": 21mm 100° & 30mm 82° Pentax XW: 7, 10, 14, & 20mm 70°
Searching the skies since 1966. "I never met a scope I didn't want to keep."
∞ AP Scopes: #1: TPO 6" f/9 RC #2: ES 102 f/7 APO #3: ES 80mm f/6 APO
∞ G&G Scopes: #1: Meade 102mm f/7.8 #2: Bresser 102mm f/4.5
∞ Guide Scopes: 70 & 80mm fracs -- The El Cheapo Bros.
∞ Mounts: iOptron CEM70AG, SW EQ6, Celestron AVX, SLT & GT (Alt-Az), Meade DS2000
∞ Cameras: #1: ZWO ASI294MC Pro #2: 662MC #3: 120MC, Canon T3i, Orion SSAG, WYZE Cam3
∞ Binos: 10X50,11X70,15X70, 25X100
∞ EPs: ES 2": 21mm 100° & 30mm 82° Pentax XW: 7, 10, 14, & 20mm 70°
Searching the skies since 1966. "I never met a scope I didn't want to keep."
- SkyHiker
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Re: Need some advice on equipment sellers
After 5+ months of waiting for my 12" F/ 4 TPO astrograph from OPT I checked out Agena Astro yesterday morning, lo and behold they had a 12" F/ 4 GSO astrograph in stock. I ordered it, it will arrive this afternoon according to UPS!
I canceled the OPT order, they were kind and refunded me right away, no questions asked. I am not the kind of person to cancel orders but after the ETA was changed 3 times I felt justified. It is unusual, all astro vendors I dealt with are extremely good. OPT is no different as far as I know, they must just be having a hard time.
I canceled the OPT order, they were kind and refunded me right away, no questions asked. I am not the kind of person to cancel orders but after the ETA was changed 3 times I felt justified. It is unusual, all astro vendors I dealt with are extremely good. OPT is no different as far as I know, they must just be having a hard time.
... Henk. Telescopes: GSO 12" Astrograph, "Comet Hunter" MN152, ES ED127CF, ES ED80, WO Redcat51, Z12, AT6RC, Celestron Skymaster 20x80, Mounts and tripod: Losmandy G11S with OnStep, AVX, Tiltall, Cameras: ASI2600MC, ASI2600MM, ASI120 mini, Fuji X-a1, Canon XSi, T6, ELPH 100HS, DIY: OnStep controller, Pi4b/power rig, Afocal adapter, Foldable Dob base, Az/Alt Dob setting circles, Accessories: ZWO 36 mm filter wheel, TV Paracorr 2, Baader MPCC Mk III, ES FF, SSAG, QHY OAG-M, EAF electronic focuser, Plossls, Barlows, Telrad, Laser collimators (Seben LK1, Z12, Howie Glatter), Cheshire, 2 Orion RACIs 8x50, Software: KStars-Ekos, DSS, PHD2, Nebulosity, Photo Gallery, Gimp, CHDK, Computers:Pi4b, 2x running KStars/Ekos, Toshiba Satellite 17", Website:Henk's astro images
- turboscrew
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Re: Need some advice on equipment sellers
Watch out if you plan to order abroad. I ordered from England (kind of had to), and ended up paying about double of the list price: The shipping, customs and taxes. And it took some time, because the goods lingered in the customs a while.
goods: 228€
shipping: 64€
VAT: 59€
customs: 93€
total: 444€
goods: 228€
shipping: 64€
VAT: 59€
customs: 93€
total: 444€
- Juha
Senior Embedded SW Designer
Telescope: OrionOptics XV12, Mount: CEM120, Tri-pier 360 and alternative dobson mount.
Grab 'n go: Omegon AC 102/660 on AZ-3 mount
Eyepieces: 26 mm Omegon SWAN 70°, 15 mm TV Plössl, 12.5 mm Baader Morpheus, 10 mm TV Delos, 6 mm Baader Classic Ortho, 5 mm TV DeLite, 4 mm and 3 mm TV Radians
Cameras: ZWO ASI 294MM Pro, Omegon veLOX 178C
OAG: TS-Optics TSOAG09, ZWO EFW 7 x 36 mm, ZWO filter sets: LRGB and Ha/OIII/SII
Explore Scientific HR 2" coma corrector, Meade x3 1.25" Barlow, TV PowerMate 4x 2"
Some filters (#80A, ND-96, ND-09, Astronomik UHC)
Laptop: Acer Enduro Urban N3 semi-rugged, Windows 11
LAT 61° 28' 10.9" N, Bortle 5
I don't suffer from insanity. I'm enjoying every minute of it.
Senior Embedded SW Designer
Telescope: OrionOptics XV12, Mount: CEM120, Tri-pier 360 and alternative dobson mount.
Grab 'n go: Omegon AC 102/660 on AZ-3 mount
Eyepieces: 26 mm Omegon SWAN 70°, 15 mm TV Plössl, 12.5 mm Baader Morpheus, 10 mm TV Delos, 6 mm Baader Classic Ortho, 5 mm TV DeLite, 4 mm and 3 mm TV Radians
Cameras: ZWO ASI 294MM Pro, Omegon veLOX 178C
OAG: TS-Optics TSOAG09, ZWO EFW 7 x 36 mm, ZWO filter sets: LRGB and Ha/OIII/SII
Explore Scientific HR 2" coma corrector, Meade x3 1.25" Barlow, TV PowerMate 4x 2"
Some filters (#80A, ND-96, ND-09, Astronomik UHC)
Laptop: Acer Enduro Urban N3 semi-rugged, Windows 11
LAT 61° 28' 10.9" N, Bortle 5
I don't suffer from insanity. I'm enjoying every minute of it.
- pakarinen
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Re: Need some advice on equipment sellers
I've ordered from FLO in the UK twice and the shipping wasn't much more than within the US. Granted, some US vendors don't charge shipping at all if it's within the US. Had to consider the exchange rate when comparing to US vendors. No customs hold-up AFAIK - maybe because I was buying less expensive items?
Probably best to ask any vendor(s) for a breakout of ALL the charges.
Probably best to ask any vendor(s) for a breakout of ALL the charges.
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I drink tea, I read books, I look at stars when I'm not cursing clouds. It's what I do.
=============================================================================
AT50, AT72EDII, ST80, ST102; Scopetech Zero, AZ-GTi, AZ Pronto; Innorel RT90C, Oberwerk 5000; Orion Giantview 15x70s, Vortex 8x42s, Navy surplus 7x50s, Nikon 10x50s
I drink tea, I read books, I look at stars when I'm not cursing clouds. It's what I do.
=============================================================================
AT50, AT72EDII, ST80, ST102; Scopetech Zero, AZ-GTi, AZ Pronto; Innorel RT90C, Oberwerk 5000; Orion Giantview 15x70s, Vortex 8x42s, Navy surplus 7x50s, Nikon 10x50s
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