I am in the process of putting together a spec sheet for an Imaging Newt that I hope to build later this year. After my 127mm refractor build I think I am ready to take on the newt project. I am after some helpful advice on component selection from people that are involved in imaging with newts.
This newt will sit on my guided NEQ6Pro, so it could be a fair size and weight - if that's required; however as an old guy I'd prefer the scope to be light and easy to handle (certainly weigh no more than the mount head unit), and my tube is likely to be an open truss design similiar to that used on my 127mm refractor, to keep the weight down.
I would welcome advice on what experienced newt imagers see as the best size in terms of performance, and if there are deminishing returns in larger sizes. Is there a sweet spot in terms of mirror size, f stop, and focal length that gives great return on investment?
My initial ideas are as follows:
Scope design: An 8-10" imaging newt with an open truss tube (with shroud when necessary). Sufficient focus travel to enable use as both a visual and imaging scope when required. Imaging camera is a Canon 450D DSLR for now. I am leaning towards an f5 design to make coma easier to manage, and a minimum focal length of 1000mm. My main imaging target objects are DSOs, nebs, etc.
Primary: Zambuto 8-10" , or other sizes considered on performance merits.
Mirror cell: undecided
Secondary: Antares Quartz
Spider vanes: Antares
Focuser: Moonlight with motor
All suggestions welcome.
