Peter_D

Hi, no, I don't use a filter.

I haven't used eyepiece projection up until now so tried it tonight (I usually use a Barlow). I used a 12mm Ortho attached to my Celestron 6SE and Canon 60D DSLR. The southern polar cap is very much smaller now than it was previously.

How old is the Etx-125? If I remember correctly, collimation on the ETX-125 involves a degree of disassembly to access the collimation screws..the Skywatcher's screws are readily accessible. Skywatcher's build quality is more robust compared to the Meade - less plastic. The Meade (possibly) has slightly better optics if they are both older models (if the Meade is a made in USA model from the 1990s).

It was so cloudy and wet the whole day, I hadn't planned on setting up anything. Looked out the window, great, there's the Moon, so I had a quick peek with my C90 Mak. Super, there's Mars - was able to make out shading and the SPC so I decided to set up the 6SE. No real thermal equalization but I think the difference was only a few degrees. I think this is my last imaging of Mars. Compared to 2018 which was my first year back in astronomy, it's been such a great experience, discounting the last couple of weeks' bad weather. Celestron 6SE, Canon 60D, Barlowed x2.

I thought conditions would have yielded better results but I think the upper atmosphere must have been turbulent - image was jumping about even though it was cool and not windy at ground level. It was my first time observing / capturing this part of Mars. It really has been an education seeing everyone's images on here. Celestron 6SE, Canon EOS 60D, Barlowed x2. 10000 frames, best 15%

The third photo is stunning. Superb!

That is just insane being able to see Olympus Mons' caldera, superb!

Thanks for the nice words Marv..I really haven't had the best of luck weatherwise here in my part of Germany also - either too hot or more recently cloudy. It's only been in the last couple of weeks I've had cooler but clearer conditions. Fingers crossed you get some clear conditions soon!

Here's an image from yesterday 22:00 CET. Equipment: Celestron 6SE, Canon EOS 60D. Barlowed x2 7000 frames, best 25%.

I agree. I have a used de-forked Meade 2080 from 1995 or 1996 that I have been very impressed with optically. It has some focus shift but I've put a Crayford focuser on the back. Like Michael has said, collimation is rock solid. It probably helps that I do all my observing from home.

Nice to see such great results from an older SCT!

Ah ok, thanks. I just have the free version. Version 6.7.0.8. I suppose that is the issue, they are only visible on paid for versions but the interface controls are not disabled in the free version.

Thanks. I went into settings and selected 'with Surfaces' and 'with Names' (plus the others) but my app still doesn't show any names. Tried uninstalling and reinstalling but still the same. I'll contact the developers with my phone details and see if it's a known issue.

Superb, thank you!

Hi, I was observing and imaging Mars yesterday. Are there any recommendations of apps that name the surface features? I have Sky Safari but it just seems to display an image of the planet at the particular time. Thanks for any guidance! Peter

I didn't think I'd get an opportunity with so much cloud about but there was a clear spell just before more cloud rolled in. Celestron 6SE. Canon Eos 60D. Barlow x2. 8000 frames, best 15%. Time: 21:55 CET

Really? Thanks for the feedback! 🙂

I haven't had much luck with Jupiter with my setup (Celestron 6SE, Canon EOS 60D). This image from last night is probably the best so far - but would I be right in saying the dark cloudiness are artifacts from over processing? (I tried to reduce them as much as possible.) Anyway, I suppose it's all a learning curve and trying to squeeze the last bit out of your equipment until you decide on the upgrade! 🙂 (Time: 20:30 CET; Barlowed x2; 7000 frames captured, best 20% used)

Hi, I was wondering if anyone has a tip for a laptop to be used only for image capture at the telescope - I already have a desktop PC I could use for the actual processing. Best would be something that I could perhaps get used that was new a couple of years ago. Many thanks for any advice - I'm a bit out of the loop when it comes to IT hardware so any help gratefully received. Peter

I have a 6SE. You can set up tracking on Solar System objects directly and it works really well. Just make sure.. - tripod is level. I set up the tripod first and use a triangular spirit level to ensure its level before attaching the SE mount and finally the optical tube. - time is exactly right. - Daylight savings is currently 'on' Like I said, the tracking works fine and only occasionally would I need to re-tweek it manually while tracking (make sure to reduce the motor speed the telescope will move manually).

Hi, Quick question - are heated dew straps compatible with metal dew shields? I have a Meade 2080 with a metal dew shield and have not used it yet in cold temperatures. Thanks Peter

Another vote for our nearest neighbour - the Moon. Lunar observing is available irrespective of light pollution . A good starting point is the Lunar 100 list.

The photo isn't so clear bit it looks like there are only holes in the base of the Skywatcher shoe. You can get other shoes that have slots that are more flexible. Another thing to think about is having a second screw on the base to ensure the finderscope is seated on axis and does not get tilted out of position. Edit: John's post gives a good example. I actually have one on order for an SCT.

I used to have a 60mm refractor that had a Reflex finder - I found it worked quite well. If I remember correctly, there was a very small screw on the finder that you could loosen and you could adjust the finder's focus by pulling the tube to the correct position.

Hi Byran Just a quick warning - these vintage telescopes often have a sun filter in their accessories that can be screwed on to the eyepiece. These sun filters do not meet modern safety standards and should never be used. The safest thing would be to dispose of the filter if your telescope has one in its accessories. Peter