Quote:
Originally Posted by Mqrko
I'm looking at this article about the sampling : http://www.astropix.com/wp/2011/03/0...nd-pixel-size/
How do I determine the seeing ? Is it different for each DSO ?
In your experience, do you often use 2 telescopes or you pick one telescope and stick with it for the whole night ?
I also want to use my telescopes for visual, just a quick look. nothing special.
I think it will be better for me to get a modified canon DSLR. It's cheaper than buying a CCD camera.
Is it better to buy the telescope, then find a camera matching the telescope or the opposite ?
If I want to save time tweaking the mount, is it better picking a higher end mount ?
I also looked at the mach1GTO and 1100GTO, very expensive :/
How does it compare to the EQ8 or G11 ? is the difference obvious ? Can I have the same picture quality with a little bit of work ?
I also read about the Hyperstar which can be used with SCTs that are compatible. Is this a good alternative to RC ?
Where can I find second hand equipment (I found Astromart so far) ? It's a lot more cheaper to buy in the USA.
How much is the delivery cost and customs approximately ?
Concerning the warranty, if something bad happens, do I have to send it back to the country it comes from ? |
Hi Marko,
Seeing is location dependant, this is another reason why APers will travel. It depends on many things, your surroundings, the weather and the jet stream.
Typically most people spend several nights per target, sometimes you can get away with a target in a single night, but I'm used to shooting LRGB or narrowband, OSC may be different.
WRT your camera choice, a modded DSLR may be cheaper but undoubtedly a CCD camera is better for most targets. I've just had my CCD in for repair and was using my DSLR, I have to say CCD is the way to go, again find a 2nd hand CCD and it'll be cheaper than a DSLR and if you find you don't like AP, then selling it should not be a problem. Your camera choice will influence your scope choice and vice versa, look at a package, know what matches what and hunt around.
I have used my PMX away from home, it's best described as transportable rather than portable. I used a 4WD to transport it and the scope, but with a smaller scope a normal sedan would work. The AP1200 GTO that's on IIS classifieds at the moment is a steal, I considered buying it as a trade up from the PMX, then flogging the PMX, but I would class the 1200 GTO as a permanent mount, wouldn't think of going bush with it. Picture quality depends on many things, not having to "tweak" your mount just takes one variable out of the equation, I, personally think a premium mount is worth every cent.
Hyperstar SC's suffer from all the dewing problems of normal SCs and have a huge central obstruction. I've not seen that many great pictures produced with one, compared to other designs (Newtonian, RC etc).
Secondhand gear is cheaper in the US. You'll find a good selection here though, and not have to deal with customs. Astronomy gear does not attract a duty, but is subject to GST on the price including freight, so be careful that bargain may not be. I have just posted on IIS about a good experience with a local supplier.
Usually AP scopes are not that good for visual, SCTs are an exception though. I have a 14" goto Dobsonian mounted Newtonian for visual stuff.
HTH.
Cheers
Stuart