Total Solar Eclipse 2008 - Russia

I intend on going anyway! An etx 70 is really the only scope you can bring. or maybe a WO refractor!

I have a 4" celestron refractor which has proven itself as a good eclipse scope, so I'd be bringing that if I can get there.
Seanie, you're ending up on a BBQ for the local bears if you go :lol:
Anthony, I'd be worried about security using tents.

One more thing, what is getting past Russian customs like, would we have hassle getting in and out of the country.

I will be armed with my Tak FSQ-106, AP Mach1GTO and Canon EOS 300D.

WHAT? How are you going to manage that Anthony? Stupid irish 15 kilo weight restrictions! :oops: :evil:

The Tak and EOS will be with me as carry-ons whereas the AP Mach1GTO will be checked in as luggage. I would like to bring my laptop as well so to be able to submit photos immediately thereafter.

Jay! Pity the skylux tube is so long!

Seanie, you're ending up on a BBQ for the local bears if you go :lol:

Poor guy gets no respect! Watch the bears turn away. :lol:

Anthony, I'd be worried about security using tents.

I though about this as well ... maybe (?) there is strength in numbers?

One more thing, what is getting past Russian customs like, would we have hassle getting in and out of the country.

Given that there will be thousands of foreigners in the same predicament (equipment), I suspect it will be relatively easy for this one-time event.

Stupid question Anthony,
why bother with such an expensive mount for an eclipse?, its not like you need to be taking long exposures that require a great mount.
I'd be using a 50 euro skylux manual mount, although I would like an electric motor just for convenience, I wouldn't bring an expensive mount, although an NP101 OTA would be nice

Jay! Pity the skylux tube is so long!

I have seen some excellent work produced by these LIDL scopes in relation to the moon and I would expect similar results with the sun!