Posts Made By: ashton kaidi

I currently have a Meade lx200gps f/6.3 telescope and am interested in starting astroimaging with a ccd camera. I am interested in ultimately obtaining high resolution astroimages. I would sincerely appreciate some info about the current ccd cameras and what you would recommend. Also some info about any additional equipement that IO would need for longer exposure astrophotography. Any info is sincerely appreciated.
best regards
ashton

Hi:
I just recently purchased a meade 12"lx200 gps. I am happy with the telescope but had a question. While performing a star test for optical perfomance, I noticed that The outside focus (clockwise) shows a definite and distinct diffraction pattern. However, the inside focus (counter clockwise) is "hazy" with barely visible diffraction rings. I had checked the collimation and it was pretty good. I had also allowed the scope to sit outside for about 30 to 45 minutes to adjust to the outside temperature. I live in a somewhat light pollouted area in CA. While in focus, the telescope image is good and clear. I was wondering if this test indicates a significant problem with the optics or somewhat expected from a meade SCT. Also, I will be using the scope for CCD imaging and will be using a 3.3 reducer and wonder if it will have any impact on ccd imaging. Any advice or information is greatley appreciated. Kindest regards
ashton

Hi:

I am interested in getting into deep space CCD imaging. I have a Meade LX200Gps 12" f10. I can use it at f6.3 or f5 using a reducer. I would like to kindly get everyones input about which of these cameras would shorten my learning curve and provide best results. Because of the lx200 fork mount design I am hoping to go with the one that gives me good image with shortest exposure time. Which of these cameras would be good at longer focal lenghts. I am worried about vignetting using the f5 reducer and I don't even know if this makes any difference with these chip sizes. I am willing to spend around $3500. You input is highly appreciated
kindest regards
ashton

I am considering purchasing a SBIG ST8XE. To make imaging easier and more fun through a 12" f10 or f6.3 via reducer (if it is possible through a 12") Would you recommend ABG or NABG, please help
ashton

Hi:
I have a 12" Meade Lx200 GPS and have been able to take upto 90 sec exposures with a CCD unguided. I was thinking of buying a wedge for better polar alignment. Is this a good idea or will I not be able to take longer unguided exposures with the wedge. Is ther a real value to the wedge? Please help
kindest regards
ashton

Hi:
I have a 12" Meade Lx200 GPS and have been able to take upto 90 sec exposures with a CCD unguided. I was thinking of buying a wedge for better polar alignment. Is this a good idea or will I not be able to take longer unguided exposures with the wedge. Is ther a real value to the wedge? Would a field de-rotator be a better option for longer exposure time?Please help
kindest regards
ashton

Hi:
I have a meade 12" LX200 GPS and have purchase a vixen 4" f9.8 refractor (wt. 9 lbs) as a guide scope for guided ccd imaging. My question is for better tracking and the scope gears, where should I mount this on the scope ( left, right, center). Also what would be the method of mounting this (ie. what type of mounting rings, what size, etc.) I have a dew shiled on the 12" if this matters. Your help is greatly appreciated.
clear skies
ashton

Hi:

I thank you in advance for your responses. I have a Meade 12" LX200GPS and a 4" guide scope. I am interested in deep sky astrophotography with a CCD camera and was wanted to know what would be a good but reasonably priced mount.

Please help.
Ashton

Please help:

I need some expert opinion on what scope mount combo for under $7000 would be great for CCD imaging for under $7000. Used or new
ashton

I am interested in knowing some opinions about how good this scope and more importantly the mount is. I am interested in using it for CCD imaging.
Your input is greatly appreciated
Best regards
ashton