(Viewed 1,426 times)

[-=CROMAN=-]

I really want to utilize my C8 for astrophotography this year. I have zero experience and would like your opinion on my choices. My goal is to take decent pics of DSO and some minor planetary work

Scope: Celestron C8 ( already have )

Mount Choices: CG5 or Atlas EQ-G

www.telescopes.com/telescope-accessories/mounts-and-tripods/celestroncg5computerizedmount.cfm

www.telescope.com/Mounts-Tripods/GoTo-Mounts-Tripods/Orion-Atlas-EQ-G-Computerized-GoTo-Telescope-Mount/pc/-1/c/2/sc/36/p/24338.uts


Autoguiding: Orion package

www.telescope.com/Astrophotography/Astrophotography-Solutions/Orion-Awesome-AutoGuider-Refractor-Telescope-Package/pc/-1/c/4/sc/59/p/24770.uts#tab-6

DSLR Camera: Canon T2i

www.amazon.com/Canon-T2i-3-0-Inch-Body-Only/dp/B0035FZJI0


What do you think? Can I get away with a cheaper camera? Is the Atlas overkill?

Please chime in!

[atomant]

Hi Croman,

You can get away with using a less expensive dslr from Canon like the 1000D/XS or the 450D/XSi.
One thing to look for is live view feature.
This allows you to focus on bright star or moon by zooming on the lcd screen.
I think Canon also has software to allow focusing objects and control exposures with laptop.

The Atlas goto mount is definitely not overkill.
It is a proven imaging platform that will solidly hold your high powered f/10 scope and accessories.
You might want to check with Robbw. He has 8in SCT on CG5 goto mount for imaging.

The high powered 8in f/10 SCT is nice for imaging solar system stuff.
However, for DSOs, you will find the scope "slow" and requiring longer exposure times which will require excellent tracking and polar alignment.

Most folks recommend a short APO refractor or imaging newt for starting off DSO imaging.
Fast optics, shorter exposures, less stress on tracking.
Overall, a lighter imaging package and smaller budget requirements.

[-=CROMAN=-]

atomant.... do you think an 8" Orion imaging newt would suffice?

[atomant]

For DSOs, the 8in imaging newt should work well.

But due to finicky collimation needs, awkward stress load of the focuser on side and very fast optics aka short focal length, it is not an easy scope to use for solar system stuff.
You'll need to barlow big time to magnify planets.

Right now, I'm using Orion's 6in imaging newt strictly for DSOs.
It is lighter [easier on the tracking mount] and slower at f/5 [less stressful on collimation].

I had used the cheaper, shorter AstroTech's faster 6in imaging newt at F/4.
Too touchy on collimation and too much coma for visual.

[lanshan75]

Guys,do you love cats, i am a girl who love cats very much,i just want to find some new friends to share the happiness of keeping cats.
__________________________________
share love,share happy,share useful information about Strip clubs, cold sores and 2am bars