Hi everyone just wanting some opinions, I currently image using a ed80t on a c5gt mount and I'm very happy with the results. But I'm thinking I need something to do while I'm imaging. I have a c8 that I use for visual usually I have this on my mount Doing visual befor imaging I then swap it for the ed80t for imaging. I'm considering selling my c8 to help fund a 10" dob, my thinking is that wen i go star gazing I can set up my imaging gear and whilst I'm imaging use the dob to do visual. Sort of maximizing my time out doors.
Also I'm finding I just can't be bothered setting up my eq mount and gear in my backyard cos of the light pollution I have. If I have a non goto dob I can just wheel it out and in in minutes.
I'm just in 2 minds cos I will be going low tech for visual and I must admit I'm enjoying the added satisfaction of star hopping.
It's what I do.
I set up an NEQ6 for imaging, takes about 20 seconds to roll out, and lock down. Once I have acquired the target, focused, calibrated the auto-guider, and framed the subject, the dob/newt has cooled. I can then image while observing. Every now and then peek back at the screen to ensure all is well.
It to me maximizes the time spent.
My observing scope is either a 10" dob, or lately a 12.5" truss dob. Either will keep you happy. Low-tech star-hopping is fine, and if at a later stage you need more, slip an Argo Navis on. Perfect.
Gary
Hi , From a visual observer's point of view ( pun intended) the only point of conflict would be you dark adaptation , Flicking between your equipment and the dob. This can be over come though with red gel .
Thanks guys sounds like the go.
I may have to just do it. Mite see a prestine 6 month old c8 for sale soon
Lol. Just gotta work out how to remove the telrad base or I mite just leave it. Don't wanna risk damaging the c8.
WOW I was thinking about getting a C8 from Andrews ... its like over $2000.00 ... a couple of hundred over ... with mount ... I was even thinking about using a web cam on it, but after hearing you talk about it like this..........
I'm thinking its going to be a waste if all you want is a 10"Dob???????? Even just the C8 by itself ??? Brand New Dob at Andrews 599 with accessories...what about mounting on a Heavy duty AZ?
Hi
Just an update i ended up getting a 12" dob
Holy crap it's huge but the light grasp can't be beat
I'm loving it, it's got wheels and a handle I can wheel
It out and be set up to go in minutes.
After cooling
As stated before I'm enjoying the low tech point and shoot style of a dob.
And when I feel the need for heaps of gadgets I set up my imaging gear.
Dave I suppose you could go that way but doing that wouldn't suit my needs. I suppose it depends on what you want?
Hi Jason,
Yes of course. You are right ... I meant no disrespect. I am struggling to make sense of what it is that I want myself. I know what a 12" can do under dark skies and know that your going to be impressed whatever the viewing conditions. Congrats on your choice.
Hi Dave
No dramas there was non taken, I know how hard it is when choosing equipment there's just so much out there and some of it is super expensive.
Tell you the truth if I were to do things again with the knowledge I have now, I would do the following.
Buy a C8 and a decent goto EQ mount.
Use this until you suss everything out including good polar alignment
Get a focal reducer and t ring for DSLR
This is enough to do a good amount of semi long exp imaging
When you feel you need longer exposure get guide scope setup
Then your basically using the same gear for everything and swapping different parts depending on if you want to image or observe.
