Celestron CG-5 vs. Vixen GP2

[renderwerks]

Hi all,

I posted asking about using a Celestron CG-5 mount for AP.

I asked the same question over at cloudynights.com.

Got some great answers in both places, thanks to everyone.

One thing that I've learned is that the CG-5 is one of the better quality "clones" of the Vixen Great Polaris (GP) mount. I have had replies that have stated that none of the clones can match the quality of materials or machining tolerances that Vixen holds on their mount.

I got to thinking, how about looking for the original? I've discovered that I can get a Vixen GP2 head (barebones) for about $400 new with a 5 year warranty and I have seen several tripods for them on AM and CN. You can add motors or even GOTO to the mount later.

On the Vixen website they specifically state that it can be used for AP. It's a bit light duty, stating a 25 pound loading capacity (the CG-5 states 35 pounds). Their next heavier head is nearly triple the price... (35 pound capacity)

My head is spinning, so many choices...

[Nighthound]

I really can't comment on the Vixen mount, I have no hands on experience with one. I do regard Vixen products as very good and have had great customer service response. I wouldn't hesitate to buy more of their products.

Don't be misled by manufacturer weight capacities. The max. capacity number for visual use may be 35 pounds but for photography use you realistically should reduce that by about 1/3(their may be exceptions out there but likely at a higher price point than we're talking about). Pushing this quality level of a mount to it's maximum tolerance is not a good idea when trying to track as precisely as is required for long exposure work. As an example, my G-11 is said to have an instrument capacity of 60 pounds. It performs much better with around 1/2 that load and could be pushed a bit more but I've found a comfort zone with it and I have a lot more fun now that I've accepted that fact. That's the main reason I switched from the LX200R(approx. 39 pounds) to the Vixen R200SS(12 pounds).

Also, remember to total in all items that will be in place when imaging when figuring the total load you will have sitting on your mount, dove tail plate(s), camera, possible piggy back hardware, guide scope, etc.

[evhap]

I believe the Vixen GP2 is comparable in load capacity to the Celestron CG-4. The Celestron CG-5 is more like the Vixen GPD2, which is quite a bit heftier than the GP2 and costs about 50% more.

Evan