Hi Folks;
I’m looking for advice from those who can take mercy on a beginning astrophotographer. Visual observation is nothing new to me - been doing that for years - but astrophotography is. And I’m looking to test the waters. Setting up, balancing, polar alignment and the basics hold no fears for me; however I have two questions and while I realise that there is no firm 100% answer, I’m looking to ease my way into things as much as possible.
I have a HEQ5 Pro (Dual) mount, and an EB55 power bank that powers it (as well as dew heaters, and whatnot). I have a Canon 60D that has been modified for astrophotography work, and am the recent owner of a Williams Optics RedCat 51. Obviously, the 60D and RedCat are going to be the main workhorses while I get used to things, and they’ll be mounted on the HEQ5.
My questions are…
1 – Guiding equipment. I’m looking to add a small guidescope and camera, and am considering the Williams Optics Uniguide 32, paired with perhaps a ZWO ASI 120MM Mini. While I’m not locked in to these, they seem like a good pairing. What are the thoughts of the folks out there on these items?
2- Guiding Software. There is a lot of information out there, and no two people seem to go about things exactly the same way, with everyone having different requirements and preferences. As someone who understands which end of the telescope to look through but is a bit bedazzled by the many choices and setups, what’s the best beginner-friendly setup in terms of software? PHD2 seems to be the mainstay.
Any advice / comments / critique would be welcome.
