Which Webcam

[Crusader]

Hi guys. I'm thinking of hooking up a Webcam to my 10" Orion XT10 Dob to try my hand at some planetary imaging. The problem is that I don't have an idea which webcam to choose. Those most often recommended aren't available over here in South Africa.

Anyone got any suggestions for some more commonly available webcams?

[cookie8]

Hi Crusader,Welcome to IIS:welcome:
I was told the best one is the Philips SPC900nc. I just bought one 2 weeks ago from eBay for around USD$60. I also bought an eyepiece adaptor from this site for $40:
http://webcaddy.com.au/astro/adapter.htm with full instructions.
Cheers

[iceman]

Hi Crusader, :welcome: to IceInSpace!

The ToUcam 900nc is the best one to start with if you don't want to spend much. You should be able to get it off ebay or other online sites if you can't pick one up locally.

Does your dob sit on an EQ platform or are you going to do the dob planetary imaging dance watching the planet whizz thru the FOV as you capture? :)

[AdrianF]

Have a look webcams and adaptors

http://search.ebay.com.au/spc900nc_W0QQcrlpZ1055226975Q5f55QQ dfspZ1QQfromZR34QQfsooZ1QQfsopZ34QQ gbrZ1QQkeywordZspc900ncQQsbrsrtZd

Adrian

[hikerbob]

When you are doing the maths on this factor in an IR/UV filter $75+
The IR filter in most webcams is in the original lens assembly which is removed for imaging. I'm using the Philips SPC900NC and working my way through the long exposure mods and thinking about redoing how I've mounted it.

A number of web cam modifiers seem to use old SLR fittings so that they can attach normal SLR lens to the webcam if desired and to simplify swapping fittings. I've currently got a 2" to 1.25" eyepiece adaptor fitted over the purchased screw in eyepiece adaptor to provide greater rigidity. Works well except that I can't use the camera in a 1.25" focusser.

Bob

[AlexN]

I'll agree with everything so far, the SPC900NC is a great little starter camera, and is quite capable of great results.

A IR/UV filter whilst it isnt "needed" (I myself went a few months without one) It is recommended. Since getting one a couple of weeks ago I've found it much easier to focus, and detail in images is much clearer... Worth every cent of the $70 I spent.