rml63

Better than all of my attempts, well done.

Mike

Hi John, 

Thank you for the detailed information re: your AZEQ5 with my sw 130mm reflector the 5 would easily handle that no problem.  When you mentioned that you thought you did not need the dual eq/altaz functions of the mount it really got me thinking in an entirely new direction.   

What if the ultimate in ease of use   and weight could be found in a separate alt/az mount and eq mount.  If you say had a string of nights where by chance or design you could only view for short periods your alt/az mount is out and ready to go.  With your preferred visual scope permanently mounted .

The eq side of the equation has some obvious benefits , ie: scope, auto-guider and camera in a permanent setup .  Maybe even a specific spot in the backyard (not an obsy per say but just a spot you know you can polar align easily) you could do an imaging run and still have your az mount for visual or EAA.

The question becomes what alt/az mount to purchase, your az/eq5 really only has one competitor in that price point which is the Ioptron AZ mount pro.  The overall impressions of that mount are about 50/50 in getting one that does not need tinkering out of the box.  The eq side of the equation has several offerings from sw ioptron and the like all of which I am a sure you are well aware of.

I realize having 2 mounts is more money , but just putting that aside for a minute, having separate tools dedicated to one job certainly does sound appealing.

Mike 

I have been struggling with what mount to get.  I have to say the AZ EQ5 has been on my list, I read a great deal about “slop” in the dec axis both here and other boards.  I have also looked at the AZ EQ6 which looks like a good mount but as was mentioned it is not as portable as the 5.

I have looked at the Vixen SXD2 and the SXP2 , the SB 10 controller looks great, but it is strictly and EQ mount.  I have heard great things about Vixen’s quality and ease of use right out of the box.  My question is would I be missing out on alot of quick viewing sessions with strictly an eq mount?

I am assuming that the advantage of AZ mode is quick setup when you just want a quick view or do some EAA?

Mike

Geoff, 

I think your efforts are great regardless of your equipment.  I have tried with a dslr and the Ioptron Skyguider Pro and did not have the quality of images you posted.  I really enjoyed them and best of luck in the future.  Keep posting they are an inspiration to myself and all others starting in EAA.

Mike

Welcome to SGL, 

Mike

Try Ben’s Astrophotography - Youtube

Mike

Those are all very good points to consider.  It is my understanding the Astrel would control  existing software for the auto-guider, mount and polar alignment.   I see what you are saying I have a 5 function combination woodworking machine, which is great, but it is one massive machine and requires compromises to be made when switching between functions.  

The Astrel seems similar to me, I guess I am looking for the “lazy” way to control everything in one neat package.  But it will  definitely require more thought than I had originally planned on.  

Mike 

I have the SW 130 BKP DS reflector even with a focuser for  imaging  I can see how that would be a problem.  Astrel sure is  appealing as an all in one system.  Would I need a moonlight focuser to handle the weight?

Mike

That sounds like a great rig Ivan.  What made you choose the EQ6R in the end?

Mike

Well now that you bring up the cooling issue, it does make sense.  A fellow on CN has ordered one I will wait and see how he makes  out with it.

Mike

Oh yes a ccd camera with built in filter wheel check it out at.  astrel-instruments.com , everything can be plugged into the camera  and it makes it’s own WiFI.  They are just new on the market, but it will be my next camera.

Mike

I want to get an Astrel camera as it has an onboard computer.  The website says it can control , mount, guider and as an option a 32 gig sd card to store images.  I currently have a Pentax K1  mkll and a Sony  RX 100V.   Both take astro  images but , can’t compare  to the  Astrel.   Sorry I forgot the link.

Mike

Your moon shot is my new favourite, Well Done.

Mike