Buying an AstroTrac

[robisintas]

I was wondering, if I were to dig deep and buy myself an AstroTrac, just what bits would I have to by other than the AstroTrac and Polar scope?(which I see come as a package).

Any recommendations on where to buy?

[rogerg]

I'd suggest:
- the AT wedge (you can use a tripod head but the wedge is built really really nice and super useful).
- a sturdy tripod (Manfrotto 055XPROB or more sturdy)
- a battery (I use a 6ah mainly because it hangs nicely off the tripod to add weight for stability, not because the power is needed)
- a green laser with custom made fitting instead of polar scope (see my site, link below)
- a case to carry it all in (wait until you accumulate the appropriate gear and decide what size fits)

I bought mine from Astronomy365 UK via their ebay products such as this advert:
http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/NEW-ASTROTRAC-TT320X-AG-TELESCOPE-MOUNT-WITH-POLARSCOPE-/270860233981

OPT or buying direct from AstroTrac are the other logical options I'd consider.
http://www.optcorp.com/manufacturer/astrotrac/

Re polar scope alternative:
http://rogergroom.com/astronomy-resources/my-astronomy-and-photographic-equipment/astrotrac-portable-telescope-mount/

[robisintas]

Thanks Roger. Sounds like clear advice. You have been happy with the AstroTrac then? It is a lot of money to lay out on something that has such a specific role.

[rogerg]

The AstroTrac is excellent, I've been happy with mine. Each mount has its purpose and the AstroTrac doesn't suit every purpose, so it depends exactly what you’re wanting to use it for.

I use my Polarie for super wide field and super portable. If you’re doing 50mm or wider you don’t need more than the Polarie.
I use my AstroTrac for wide field and narrow, and heavier payloads (400mm – 800mm, 2.5kg+) or longer exposures (more demanding tracking).

[h0ughy]

yeah i bought two, one second hand (liked it very much) then bought the AG one brand new with the wedge and portable pier. the wedge is still set for Qld Astrofest. I will be putting it up soon for sale to finance the DOghouse 2.

the improvements that Roger has done may or may not work for you. i used mine with 50mm to 200mm lens and a cooled 40D . the pier is a work of art, but may need some weight added within if you have a larger lens on and its a windy night. generally if its like that i use a 50mm lens or wider like a 10mm fisheye

[robisintas]

How much were you thinking of selling the AstroTrac for h0ughy?

And, general question. Anyone have any thoughts on the Star Adventurer? I was just looking at some shots on Flickr which look pretty decent (to my untrained eye).

[h0ughy]

sorry for the late reply, look i will get it out of storage during the week or next weekend and get everything together then look at how much i paid and the current prices. i will pm you or send me your email address so i can send some pics. the kit would be up over the 2K mark with all the bits. shipping would be another issue - probably a realistic price 30% off current, maybe, but not cheaper than that? you might need to look at a polar finder

[pyro]

You still want to purchase an Astrotrac? I'm selling one.

[Meru]

Following this thread closely, as I am also in the market for a portable tracker for my (rather heavy) D800 (http://www.iceinspace.com.au/forum/showthread.php?t=135640)

David with your 50-200mm lens, what sort of exposure lengths did you manage? I quite liked Roger's laser pointer technique, something I will keep in mind if I get one.

Cheers