Walky

Here's mine. Im still fairly new to this. Taken this September.

The focusing leaves a bit to be desired but it looks OK after a few beers!!

I'm still astonished at how much more the camera picks up compared to the eye.

This was a set of 6 3 min subs and similar dark frames.

HEQ5 pro mount

Canon 300d unmodified with a very cheap M42 Telephoto 500mm bought for £15 from a local camera shop.

The camera is mounted to the mount by means of a bit of MDF with an old dovetail fixed underneath. Very DIY.

I would Iike to see how one can mount a camera on a good sturdy mount with auto tracking. EQ5, EQ6, etc or wwhich could be best for that. Scope for the future, not now.

My first DSO is actually my best so far by a long way. Taken of the Orion Nebula about a year ago.

Telescope - Stellarvue SV105

Camera - Self modded Canon 350D

Exposure - ~85 minutes total (12 x 5 min, 12 x 2 min and 10 x 10 sec)

Mount - Skywatcher EQ6 (with EQMOD)

Guider - Orion starshoot (with PHD)

Guide scope - Stellarvue SV80ED

Very nice!

I've recently come across this piece on the web written by Alan MacRobert from the well known and respected astronomy magazine Sky & Telescope. It is well worth a read if you are thinking of getting into the hobby - ideally before you leap in and buy a telescope :

Sky Publishing - How to Start Right in Astronomy

As someone who has been in the hobby for many years now I found that many of the hints, tips and pointers in this article are right "on the button".

John

Vey good article, worth reading. I am now in awe of all the information and knowledge that i will be seeking for the pleasure of knowing my place in the cosmos.

I wish I could see the pics!