Where to buy astro gear for good prices in Aus?

[troypiggo]

Anyone know where to get astro gear for good prices in Aus? I'm in Brisbane. At the moment I'm looking at a budget setup something like this Orion EQ-1M mount and motor (http://www.amazon.com/Orion-EQ-1M-Electronic-Drive-System/dp/B0000XMWBW/ref=pd_bxgy_p_text_b) recommended as a good starting point for lighter gear and wider shots. I'm just looking for something I can mount my 30D and 100-400 or 10-22 camera lenses on and it will track stars rotating for longer exposures. Or is Amazon as good a price as any?

[Marnault]

Here are a few stores that are located in Brisbane, might get a better price, and not have to pay for shipping & customs.

http://www.sirius-optics.com/
http://www.yorkoptical.com.au/


Also here is a page with some other Australian vendors:

http://www.sas.org.au/alinksbottom.htm



One thing I would suggest though, is the EQ-1 will be fine for the 10-22, since its so wide it is very very forgiving of tracking errors, but the 100-400 will probably have trouble, especially at the long end for exposures over 1min. For the 100-400 I would suggest at least a EQ-3, with that you might be able to get two minute exposures at 400mm which is usually the most you can get without guiding. And 2 min exposure work great for stacking.

[troypiggo]

Hi Marnault! Thanks for the links. Are you based in Brisbane?

And thanks for the heads up on the EQ-1 vs EQ-3 etc. Understand what you're saying. I need to investigate some more.

[springer]

If you're looking for used gear, look here:

http://www.astromart.com/classifieds/

It is really great, and usually people are willing to ship anywhere (if you pay of course;))

Luke

[troypiggo]

Thanks mate. Will look around that site for sure. Cheers.