After getting back into astronomy in 2003, I found it was time to upgrade. At the time, I owned a Meade ETX-125EC, a 5" Maksutov-Cassegrain scope. While the optics were nice, the Go-To tended to be a bit frustrating. So I decided to sell it and upgrade to the most sophisticated scope I could afford. Physical limitations made weight a problem, so I selected an 8" Meade LX-200GPS with UHTC. It is just barely manageable, which means I don't get out with it much, but it's worth it when I do.

• Meade 8" f/10 LX200GPS with UHTC
• Meade Super Plössl Eyepieces (6.4, 9.7, 12.4, 15, 20, 26, 32 and 40 mm)
• Meade 771 Eyepiece Case
• Opt OP-Table
• Kendrick Dew Removal System with heater for corrector plate
• Portable custom 12V power system & accessory case (see it here)
• JMI telescope case
• Meade Moon Filter
• Meade Variable Projection Camera Adapter - also functions as a prime focus adapter
• Tele Vue Flat-Top 2"/1.25" Adapter - much better at holding things than the standard Meade adapter
• Meade Piggyback Adapter
• T-Ring for the Canon EF mount

• Starry Night Pro Plus 5.0
• DSLR Focus

I decided to purchase a digital SLR for astrophotography, as well as regular photography. I selected the Canon Digital Rebel, which hadn't been out very long at the time, based on features and, of course, price. You can see that on my Photography Equipment page (back on-line soon!). Focusing can be a challenge, and I use a home-made Hartman mask as well as a notebook PC with DSLR Focus.

Most of my equipment has been purchased from Oceanside Photo and Telescope. They are a great bunch of people and I highly recommend them. I've bought a few things from ScopeStuff - mostly things Opt doesn't carry. I've got nothing but good things to say about them, too.