The Astro Photography Journey Begins - Lagoon

[Wookie]

Hi Guys,

After 4 years I've decided to get back into Astro.

I've slowly been acquiring my gear and researching software/integration over the past 6 months.

Last night I decided to get out there and do a field test.

I managed to work out polar alignment and guiding which is positive.

Unfortunately my battery pack wasn't up to the challenge and died after 20 mins of use - rendering my dew heaters and camera cooler out of action and ending my imaging session almost as soon as it started.

Time to get my power sorted and I'll get back out for a second test.

Managed to get 3 x 3min exposures through the 102 @f6 and QHY163C (No calibration)

Thought I'd share the start of my journey.

Cheers

230743

[Stonius]

I'm at a similar stage. That's a great start right there though! Wow!

Mind if I ask what your battery solution was and what you're going to?

Cheers

Markus

[Wookie]

Hiya Marcus,

Thank you for commenting.

I have an old jump starter pack that I've had for years but haven't kept topped up and it's not holding charge properly now.

I run my other equipment off 12v transformers from mains power so I'm looking at getting a 240 -> 12v Cigarette. I believe JayCar sell 7.5A versions for about $45.

I'm sure there are other solutions available

I'll need to consider battery packs when I want to go portable away from the back yard.

I hope this helps.

Ryan

[carlstronomy]

Really nice image nice colours and very sharp :)

[PKay]

Nice image Ryan, well done.

Regards running out of power:
I think it has happened to most of us at least once.
If you plan to head out into the boonies, don't skimp on Amp Hours ( I have 12V 200Ahr lead acid deep cycle & inverter. It weighs a ton).
This is a well discussed topic here at IIS.
Always better to have something left in the 'tank' than run out.

[xelasnave]

Great effort Ryan.
I use two batteries 100 and 80 amp with a back up genny a d a 120 watt solar panel.
When I go narrow band I think I will add a other 100 amp battery.
One for tbe mount, one for the lappy and one for the cooled xamera which I expect will draw a decent amount of power.
Anyways you are doing very well keep at it ...it is by pushing the limits of your set up that helps one improve in my view.
Alex