Maximum Exposure Without Autoguiding

[stevenc77]

Can anyone please tell me the maximum exposures they have had on the Eq6 pro mount using synscan. I have got up to about two minutes but is it possible to go longer without the autoguiding interface. Cheers Steve.

[peter_4059]

I think it depends of the focal length of the scope (ie magnification), the quality of the mount and how well polar aligned it is Steve.

If you do a really wide field shot you can get away with more mount error.

[stevenc77]

I'm talking prime focus using a Skywatcher 8" reflector using a Canon 40d SLR. I use the drift method of alignment but I find star trails start to appear at around two minutes or so. I use the PEC training function as well. I know that autoguiding is the way to go but I am still curious as to how long an exposure without this luxury, and using an SLR at prime focus, with the synscan Eq6 pro mount that people have attained without star trails. Thanks everyone. Steve.

[Bassnut]

Your doing well at 2mins at that FL as it is, youd be pushed to do better with even the best mounts. Eventually you will have to guide, its a given, bite the bullet and do it. Frustration will result if you dont :D.

[peter_4059]

If you can do 2 mins without guiding with that setup and have no star trails it sounds like you are doing well in my experience.

[Glenhuon]

The best I can get out of my Synscan EQ5 with a 150 F5 is 2mins, even with careful alignment. Autoguiding is the way to go.

Bill