(Jason Martin) wrote in message . com...
Hi,

Browsing the Orion site shows that they now offer a Pier and pier
extension for their Skyview Pro mount. I have a SVP and actually like
it quite a bit, but I recently rejoined the refractor world with a 5"
Burgess / Chromacor combo, and need a bit more eyepiece height. The
Pier and extension combo seems like it would fit the bill nicely
(would put eq head height at 65") but at a combined price of $365
shipped, I would be spending close to half the price of an ATLAS/EQ6.
Has anyone had an opportunity to use a peir mounted SVP yet? If you
have, I would love to hear from you!

I looked at the pier in the Orion store (Cupertino CA) and it appears really
neat. But even with the extension it seemed too low (for me; I'm 6'); perhaps
two extensions would be better for refractor use but I don't know if two
extensions can be joined.

FWIW, I have an SVP (with dual drive) and am pleased with it driving my
Apex 127 Mak. I had an Atlas mount but no longer -- too many problems.

My only comment about the pier is that it'll have to be resting on a firm
surface given the small diameter bolts/legs -- they'd sink right into the
ground here.

You might also want to measure the weight of your 5" Burgess and see if it's
within the stated capability of the SVP. SVP (and other) manuals with the
specs are available at Orion's website www.telescope.com under, I believe,
"Support".