: I recently purchased this scope, along with the new Autostar Computer control, the field tripod and an extra eyepeice (9.7mm) thus spending slightly over $1,000.00 for the system. I love the Autostar "go-to" system, and the fine Maksutov optics. However, the scope is incredible for Moon, planetary and star viewing (using the 26 mm eyepiece), but when using the 9.7 mm eyepeice (129X)the viewing is slightly distorted and has a "soft" or hazy focus. Views are great with the provided 26mm (48X) eyepiece, but the scope will not resolve any deep-sky (Messier, Caldwell, etc.) objects. The Scope is advertised to have a practical power limit exceeding 250X; I DON'T THINK SO! Now, I'm wondering if I might have been better off spending the money on an 8" SCT of some kind sacrifing the computerized control and just using setting circles. Opinions, anyone? Thanks.

Good at 26mm, fuzzy at 9.6mm? Have you tried a known eyepiece on the new scope or the 9.6mm on a known-good scope. Soft focus (to me) would sound like the eyepiece isn't doing it's job.

... just a thought from a neophite.