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Message: <blockquote data-quote="Binastro" data-source="post: 3548472" data-attributes="member: 111403">The problem with really fast large lenses is that many are not civilian and written details sometimes don't exist.Sometimes even the maker's name is missing from the optics.In fact some don't officially exist. So one has to actually see them.I had to leave my camera at reception at one facility and was not allowed to take notes, although I was able to closely inspect some amazing lenses.However, photos taken with some of them are classic and have been widely reproduced re. the space programme.The Celestron 300mm f/1.5 Schmidt camera turns up sometimes and should have Epoch modifications.I think that prices are reasonable.See.J. Dragesco JBAA 1994.Celestron Schmidt cameras15 lbs weight.Hypered TP 2415 Film best.Not sure if they can be used with digital sensors.Regarding Nikon.I would advise Nikon Aculons and Action VII binoculars as the first choice in low price binoculars.Wide fields, very useful and only about one in ten seem to have alignment problems.Similarly, other lower price Nikon binoculars in Europe are good choices, despite my disappointing 8x42 Monarch HG.</blockquote>