Being a BAA member comes with many perks, and one of the better ones is being able to take advantage of our telescope loaner program. Over the years we have acquired a variety of scopes that have a permanent home at the observatory and can be temporarily loaned to members. Want to test a telescope of a similar type or brand before you buy? Maybe you’ve got a telescope already, but want to try something new? Members who have been active for a period of 3 months may borrow — all you need to do is get in touch and make a request! Initial loan periods are for two months. A valid government issued ID is required with up to date contact information.
Here are some pictures of the loaners, along with some info below about each. Click on any photo to enlarge it:
[UNAVAILABLE – CURRENTLY ON LOAN – earliest available date is Jan. 2021]
Celestron NexStar SE 6 – This is a computerized Schmidt-Cassegrain compound scope that was graciously donated to the club by the family of a former member. Its mirror diameter is 6 inches. What really makes this scope stand out as a loaner is that it is a “Go-To” scope — meaning that you can tell the telescope where to go in the sky using the number pad. A great choice for a beginning member.
Meade LX 200 – This is another Schmidt-Cassegrain Go-To scope, and is on a German equatorial mount. Its mirror diameter is 10 inches, which makes it a better option if you are looking to explore deep-sky objects. If you wanted to learn about equatorial mounts and had a bit of existing experience with telescopes, this would be a good one to borrow.
Homemade Custom BAA Dobsonian – This is a custom, handmade scope that was graciously donated to us and features a handsome wooden frame. Its mirror size is (estimated to be) 6 inches.
Celestron Starhopper Dobsonian – This is a Celestron Starhopper 10 inch reflector on a Dobsonian mount. This is a wonderful scope to use with deep-sky objects, but be warned, it’s big. You’ll need to take it home in a vehicle that can fit it. As with all telescopes, think about the time and effort it will take to transport the equipment when considering your decision to borrow or buy.
Konusuper 120 – This is a refractor telescope with a 120mm/4.7 inch mirror. Refractors, especially like this one, are great to use if you live in more of an urban area and would like to view planets, double stars, or the Moon. However, keep in mind that this scope is on a German equatorial (GEM) mount like the LX 200 above, and may be suited for members who have some existing experience or are willing to devote some time to learning/setup.
Meade 395 – This is a refractor telescope with a 90mm/3.5 inch mirror. Like the Konusuper and LX 200, this is on a GEM mount too.
Any scopes catch your eye? Reach out to Ernie Jacobs in the member forums and mention which one you’d like to borrow. We are actively loaning telescopes despite COVID-19. Any member wishing to borrow will need to meet social distance and mask wearing measures when meeting at the BAA observatory for equipment pickup. All borrowed telescopes are disinfected when returned, and left for a period of time before the next member may borrow.
There’s no better time to take advantage of our program and your membership!