Post by Chicago Astronomer - Astro Joe on Dec 3, 2023 4:21:36 GMT -6
VariMax II Camera adapter for Astrophotography
Although I had solid results with imaging with my 1.25" eyepieces, (sometimes that is the only option), I have often desired to shoot through my 2" eyepieces with my larger scopes, taking advantage of the larger FOV and quality of glass. And taking out and setting up a laptop and electronic imager has it's place, but it's mood dependent and usually I go for the direct DSLR route, which I think is more honest and real.
I have utilized a generic 1.25" adapter for many years with really solid success and my solar images/planetary single exposure captures are accomplished is such a manner...
An opportunity presented itself on this larger format Camera adapter and I grabbed it. And it was a hit item back in 2015...I think it still is.
Waiting for me on my doorstep....It's huge...the size of a well salted can of Tomato Soup!
The ads show the connection of the adapter to a camera and, yes, it adds weight to the optic train, but I don't care.
Here are the specs and description:
Threaded on the scope end, it can accept full sized expensive 2" astro filters, or one can scale it down to 1.25" to utilize those smaller more economical filters. The added benefit of these types of adapters is the ability of of increasing the magnification of the selected eyepiece just by sliding the collar "up" or away from the seating eyepiece inside the adapter...increasing the available focal length, hence those engraved numerals along the tube.
On the next clear evening, (won't be for awhile), I'll try it out and share the results, but I like the options of using my 2" eyepieces, as well as the 1.25" and electronic imager.
The Chicago Astronomer is always versatile.
Astro Joe