Takahashi FS-78

4.0 Takahashi FS-78 Quite the performer!

Great optics that can handle high power without breakdown.

Dewshield does not retract and accessories are expensive.

Flourite and superb optical quality is what makes Takahashi's FS series a great purchase in the second hand market. I found the FS-78 provided me with amazingly sharp high contrast images, great for planetary and double star work. Takahashi focusers are very smooth and the scope is very robust. This scope easily handled x50 per inch under steady skies giving beautiful views of Saturn and Jupiter. The 810mm focal length did hamper widefield views to some degree. With my Celestron 35mm Ultima I could squeak out just over 2 degrees. I think there is a 2 inch adapter available (Noveleski?) to add a 2 inch diagonal. Under dark skies I did manage to view a few 11th magnitude edge-on galaxies. I would lean toward a sturdy mount like a CG-5 for stable views at high power. Unfortunately accessories are expensive for Taks but some smart secondhand shopping should provide you with some goodies. Clear skies!!! David