Assistance please!

I currently have a TV85 and TV102 and my eventual intention is to have them mounted together preferably side-by-side on a GM mount using one for observing and the other for photography! My first question is, could I do this with a GM8 mount or does it have to be the G11? Secondly, can somebody who perhaps has a similar set-up advise me on exactly what Losmandy parts would I need to mount these scopes side-by-side? Thanks for your time!

Ian Mackinnon

I GM8 may not be big enough, a G11 would be though.

You need a Lonsmandy DSBS (Side by Side). If you had a GM8 you would need to get a G11 saddle for it (GM8 does not take the regular dovetails without this).

For the main scope you would want a Losmandy universal dovetail plate (DUP), for the guide scope you would need a losmandy male to male (DMM) plate and a pair of guidescope rings of the appropriate size, maybe DR-125s. Only about $450(?) worth of bits and bobs...

Alternatively, get 2 DUP plates and some regular rigs for the 101, mount each plate top and bottom, put the 85 on top with a pair of DR-125s. More economical.

Ian,

There are various ways to do what you are asking. (And the other respondents are making good suggestions) But why?

I cannot imagine using a mount for both visual and astrophotography at the same time. I do everything I can to avoid getting near my mount when it is taking an exposure.

Just what do you have planned?

Alex