vegaandarctures

Hi all. 

I've been pondering over the idea of upgrading the standard focuser on my 200p to a dual speed one. This one: https://www.firstlightoptics.com/skywatcher-focusers/dual-speed-crayford-1252-inch-focuser-for-skywatcher-explorer.html 

This is primarily due to my frustration when observing the planets, especially when the seeing isn't great. I really need that extra tiny bit of precise focus, and the focuser I currently have just moves that notch too much when I try and fine tune. Do you guys think it's worth going for one of these? Also how easy is it to attach a new focuser? I don't want to go recking my scope by dropping screws onto the mirror 😅

Many thanks,

Thomas 

Out of the 2 the evostar will give you a better view, as CA is reduced when the focal length is longer. But as previously stated it depends on whether you want to get wide field views of DSO's or close up views of the planets. Although I think the Evo will out perform the ST. 

4 hours ago, mikeDnight said:

Hi Thomas,

Thanks for your kind words. Although I have made white on black sketches many times in the past, usually these days I sketch with graphite pencil on white paper. The comet sketches were made this way and then changed to negative using my tablet. I find it much easier to sketch deep sky objects this way too. Attached is the original graphite sketch.

 

Thanks for your reply Mike, that makes sense now 😊

Beautiful sketch! Call me stupid but I'm actually really curious how you sketch white on a black background? Looks almost like chalk. I've only sketched the planets so far but I would love to make sketches like this of DSO's and things 

13 hours ago, markse68 said:

hi Thomas, I like your sketch very much. What do the numbers mean in the top one?

Thank you Mark. The numbers are a colour intensity estimate, 10 being total darkness and 1 being the lightest. 

Hi all, long time since I've posted here. Thought I'd share with you my most recent sketch of Jupiter. Had a lovely view the other night and was blessed with some nice steady seeing conditions. It's been over 2 years since I last sketched Jupiter so I always find it amazing how dynamic its atmosphere is. Was using my 8" dob at the time.

Clear skies,

Thomas 😊