Whats the least and cheapest mount i can get away with? (i dont have the money for a HEQ6) for acurate guiding on long exposures?
I started out with DSLR camera and lens on an EQ3 mount (motorised RA drive only) which allowed 30-60sec exposures depending on accuracy of polar alignment. Next came the EQ5 GoTo mount with autoguiding capabilities and astroimaging opened up to 5-10minute exps!!! All of the pics in my signature link below were taken with this mount.
Whats a good scope to use to begin with? a 4" refractor maybe?
ED80 all the way - cracking scope for the price, like this one...
http://www.iceinspace.com.au/forum/s...ad.php?t=42421
Otherwise, try camera lenses to start with.
Remember, as you increase the focal length of the scope (+ weight of accessories/camera etc) you also increase the need for a more stable and accurate mount.
Whats a good camera (i know i already asked this, please feel free to ignore) to begin with, and whats a good method for begginers?
Anything Canon - modded or unmodded!! Probably a 450D for the live view capability - I have found that invaluable for focusing. I wish I had it when I first started. If you use lenses though, the camera will autofocus on brighter stars which is very helpful too!
Cheers
Doug
