Auto guider questions - ST-i kit

[lazjen (Chris)]

Originally Posted by naskies

I think this is what you want (i.e. get it to the same configuration):

http://www.teleskop-express.de/shop/...---AKTION.html

You basically just need to get the equivalent adapter that goes from the OAG9 to the EOS bayonet - without using a T2 adapter.

Yes, indeed what you link is what I SHOULD have got, not the TSOAG9T2, so now I'm trying to correct the mistake by replacing the camera side adapter in the TSOAG9. I can't find a specific item on their site that is just the OAG EOS Bayonet (since I've got the OAG already). I'll have a good hunt around again though in case I missed it.

But it's not the end of the world - using the 2 items I mentioned previously sorts it out - I think. And it allows me to potentially connect other items in the future at M48.

Originally Posted by naskies

If you're ordering from TS, the additional shipping might be negligible to just add in the spacer. Depending upon how it works out, you might be in one of three situations:

* no spacer needed - the differential focus adjustment of the OAG is enough to get it and the main camera to focus simultaneously,
* spacer needed for the OAG (T2), or
* spacer needed for the main camera (M48).

Yes. I might do that depending on exchange rates and shipping.

I think I've found a better source for the M28 to T2 adapter: SR28T <-- at least I've dealt with them before with no problems.

Originally Posted by naskies

Doesn't the TSOAG9 come with a 2" nosepiece with M48 thread? I'm referring to the pictures under the "telescope side adaptation" section:

http://www.teleskop-express.de/shop/...ial-Offer.html

But yes - something that can directly screw in, rather than using compression rings, will be better.

No, it doesn't. If you check near the end of the web page, it indicates what's in "Scope of Delivery". It's basically the OAG and the camera connection piece. All the other stuff is optional extras.

Originally Posted by naskies

I saw you mention field flatteners on another thread... if you're planning on ordering from TS, it'd be worth looking at their flatteners. I've heard they work reasonably well on RC8s:

http://www.teleskop-express.de/shop/...r-Astroph.html

http://www.teleskop-express.de/shop/...size-sens.html

By the way, I'm using a 2" Moonlite SCT focuser with my RC8. If you think you might upgrade to a mono CCD with filter wheel etc in the future (i.e. something long and/or heavy), you may want to just get the 2.5" Large Format version from the outset since it costs about the same.

My 2" Moonlite works brilliantly with just my 5DmkII (1 kg), works acceptably well with CCD+FW+OAG (2 kg), and is woefully inadequate with my CCD+FW+OAG+AO (2.8 kg).

I was considering adding the FF to the order as well since the evidence was mounting that I was likely to need it. So I will.

I am building this system with an eye to possible mono CCD, etc in the future.

I'm looking at this MoonLite focuser: MoonLite CSL 2.5 inch Large Format Crayford SCT/RC Focusers with the RC10 flange, of course, 1.5" travel, with the 68mm thread. Then add the TSFlat2,5 that you linked above, plus an adapter to step it down to the OAG's M48 (still tracking this item down - EDIT: maybe this adapter but it's not 100% clear). I'd be completely threaded all the way from the back of the scope to the camera then with the "thinnest" width being M48.

And if I get that focuser, I'll add the "High Resolution Stepper Motor with MoonLite Mini V2 Controller" to continue on my path to computer control of everything.

I think I'm getting closer to doing some orders.

[lazjen (Chris)]

Just got details back from TS. I can get the adapter separate: EOS Adapter - sweet.

[lazjen (Chris)]

Lots of ordering just done (focuser, FF, FR and various adapters/spacers) and credit card abused badly. Now another wait for it all to arrive. Should give me time to sort out the software issues on my netbook, and, of course, time for the next lot of clouds to gather...

[lazjen (Chris)]

As I wait for bits to arrive, I've been using the ST-i to guide while taking pics with the 6D via piggybacking on the scope. Most of the hassle has been with the stock focuser and getting it to keep close enough focus for the ST-i to work. However, once I reach the sweet spot, and assuming my alignment is adequate and the conditions are not pathetic, it works well (via PHD).