Backyardscope

Interesting article about Honders Optics: Honders camera and telescope (telescope-optics.net)

The only way to learn is to tinker, tinker and tinker, and when you still can't get it right, have a rest, then tinker more. I often wonder about getting an RC for smaller object DSO imaging. That's one scope I have not tried yet! Even so, a good image you have there, may I say.

Looks like an interesting scope for Astrophotography, optics designed by Lichtenknecker Optics, same company which designed the optics of the Esprit's and Evolux 62ED.

Why would they advertise it as Pre-Order?

I am waiting for a Skywatcher MN150 to be released, the Quattro 150P, brilliant scope but just a stop gap for now.

Have you checked the clips on the primary mirror to make sure the mirror is not pinching. They should be just touching the mirror, not forced down and also they should he enough that you can easily rotate the mirror within the clips.

Apparently, the banding issues have now been resolved with the latest firmware according to SVBony. I initially had this model, but had to return it back for the banding issue. I replaced it with a SV405CC, very much the same as the ZWO ASI294MC Pro without the USB Hub. Very nice performing camera as well.

The Nebula really comes out nice, even though you have used a scope at f/7.6, the 100ED Doublet so under rated for DSO Imaging. You have encouraged me to invest in a reducer for my C100ED,

A 100mm Doublet, very versatile scope.

Mark the tube and primary mirror cell position. Make a circle paper template for the primary circumference, fold it to get centre point and place that gently over the primary mirror, then you will get a pretty accurate idea where is centre point. You can get a cotton bud, slightly dip it with water (some use nail polish remover) and dip the bud on the centre spot and slowly remove it. Use a corner of soft tissue, lightly touch the corner to soak up any bubbles up left on the mirror. Buy a Cats Eye centre spot and using the Cats Eye template stick the centre spot onto the mirror. Check that the focuser and secondary are all aligned, then re-collimate, then Star test. Testing and Patience is the key!

StellarMate OS 1.8.1 supports RPi5

The primary has been pushed up the tube a bit, so you can achieve focus with a CC and camera. I can't remember if the secondary size has changed?

I forgot to ask, was you using a coma corrector as well, generally the centred the object would be round, even without a corrector and the coma would be further as you go out of field. The secondary collimation screws should be tight and also check the secondary spider is not loose the secondary screws are good and before i forget again the spring tightness on the secondary holder and on the primary collimation knobs.

Is the object centred in your fov? if so - the collimation is out, also you might want to check the retaining clips on the mirror. The clips should be just resting on the mirror, then forced down or tight. You will find astigmatism will be apparent. When dealing with F4 Reflectors, mechanics, optical parts must be all aligned best as possible. Don't rely on cheap lasers to collimate fast scopes. A 2" sight tube for the secondary and a Chesire eyepiece for the primary. PS. If you get fed up with scope, ping me a PM about the scope, thanks.

Demand you want a telescope replacement.

I was in Bortle 8, but now in Bortle 3-4

I echo recommendations of a Skywatcher 100ED, Celestron 100ED in any other guise. The starfield 102ED comes to mind as well.

The spider was called James Web.

Thanks, One of on my list to do.

Warm room. with telescope automation.

I have seen metal rings without the adjusters on a European astro dealers website, I think its probably easy just to print off something. Save a few bob.

I also have to design a clamshell for it as well.

Very well done. I also have a EVOGuide but with SW Field Flattener, but I think in short I should have gone for Starizona FF instead, I am still scratching my head thinking of using a 1.25" T mount adaptor on my Svbong IMX294 DSO cooled camera to see if I can get it to focus.

fyi AstroJargon/ at main · FarmerDave/AstroJargon · GitHub

Wonderful work that is! The balance of colours are superb.