AstroNowt

I have a Skywatcher Flextube 300p Synscan which is very underused, mainly due to it being stored in the basement. It is quite an effort to move it and I spend all of my time taking pics through my MN190. Unsurprisingly I also have a selection of eyepieces that never see the light of night either. Location: South Cambridgeshire

Thanks. The Lodestar X2 seems the obvious choice but there are a lot of new sensors around now and with a bit more research it seems that a 178 based camera might be a good option sensor size wise. May just put up a wanted ad and see if anything is about.

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After having a lot of success with my guide cam, originally with a guide scope and recently using an Starlight Xpress OAG I ran into trouble last night on a difficult target. I am looking to upgrade my GPCAM MT9M034M based camera. The Lodestar X2 and ASI174MM mini are both available for mid £400s and I know there is a lot of love for the Lodestar X2 but is anyone using a 174 based camera for guiding? I like the idea of the 174s larger FOV and its potential flexibility, although the 10x8mm mirror on the OAG will be a bit of a restriction. Any other suggestions? I have tried to find relative sensitivity info on sensors but am finding it difficult to get anything useful.

Perhaps it is a case of ‘If you have to ask you cannot afford it’

Hi Mark I have one. Will probably part with my Mak127 and therefor the dew shield. Are you still looking?

Hi I have a great condition mak127. No idea on the logistics of sending to Croatia though. I will have a look at costs. I have sent some very delicate stuff to Italy and China via eBay so I know it is doable!

Welcome. Looks like a great place to be a photographer.

As @tooth_dr says not compulsory but has to be highly recommended. I would not buy without a photo of the actual item. Pictures form part of the ‘contract’ and are indispensable IMHO. As important to me as a price that reflects the cost, condition and age etc. If pics can be added it will surely increase interest.

Lol. I think the request was for pics of the camera itself ?

Or? https://www.365astronomy.com/Eyepiece-Holder-Plug-Focuser-Dust-Cap-1.25.html

Rother Valley do have a 2" version listed. Perhaps give them a call? https://www.rothervalleyoptics.co.uk/eyepiece-holder-plug-focuser-dust-cap-2.html

Do you actually need the power tank and autoguider from start? I don't know your exact numbers but I would think that they go most of the way from eq3 to heq5 and you can add them later.

That is the way I have done it in terms of home position. I have never done anything else after doing the PA visually using a polar scope. If you use a polar align app to get the precise location you are aiming for re Polaris I do not think anything else is necessary. At least I do not think the synscan align will be an improvement.

When I first started with my goto i used a mobile app like sky safari or sky guide. You just point the phone to the sky and it will tell you what you are looking at. After a while you just know where you are going.