Planetary Imaging

[Saturn488]

Looking to get back into planetary imaging. I havnt done it in about 6 years so a bit out of touch.

Currently have a Skywatcher Evostar 120/1000 Refractor that I am looking to use, I just need to purchase the appropriate colour camera. I also have a 12” Dob but doesn’t have auto tracking so not sure if that can be used as effectively.

I am currently looking at the Player One Neptune C II with the IMX464 sensor. What important features should I be looking at to find the most suitable camera for my telescope? Pixel size, resolution, sensor size?

Want to keep the budget low as I won’t be capturing planets as much as I do deep sky so please don’t recommend any camera that is approaching $500 or more. Second hand is a great option too.

Thanks!

[Saturnine]

The ZWO 462 for sale in the classifieds would be a good fit for your scope, though the Player One has a larger resolution, if you need larger FOV and the same pixel size. Have no idea if the Player is an superior camera compared to the ZWO, the do seem to be becoming more popular , so must be something good about them.

[Tulloch]

The 12" Dob will capture far greater resolution than the small refractor, but without tracking it will be harder. However, it is certainly possible to get very good images with an untracked Dob using a large sensor camera and let the planet drift across the sensor, for that the Uranus-C or ASI585MC would be the best, however the ASI678MC might also be an option.

Have a look at the Planetary AP FAQ here for more tips.
https://www.cloudynights.com/topic/812022-planetary-imaging-faq-updated-january-2023/

Andrew

[Saturn488]

Appreciate the replies, thank you.

I might give the 12" dob a go. I currently have a Neptune-M which I use for solar and see what I can capture. If i don't have any luck with the dob I will try with the refractor!

Great link provided with really good information.

[Tulloch]

Hope it helps :)

[Dave882]

Yes definitely try and utilise the 12” it’ll provide a much more satisfying experience visually and better results for imaging. But it will require some practice to keep the target in the fov. Larger sensor will let you drift a bit further but don’t forget the smaller the fov / roi selected the faster the frame rate. Stacking software can detect if the target is cut off or missing from the frame so not too hard to eliminate those. Try to match the pixel size to the optics as per link in Andrew’s post.