GSmith

I’ve got the same scope and it works fine with a 1.25 diagonal. 

I didn’t like the visual back that was supplied as standard so upgraded to one of these (nice but not essential...)

https://www.firstlightoptics.com/adapters/astro-essentials-2-inch-compression-ring-adapter-for-sky-watcher-newtonians-and-72ed-refractor-m54.html

I get cold feet observing on the patio this time of year. Standing On an insulating pad really makes a difference, I’ve got a bit of closed cell packing foam that is easy to kick into a new position when changing target.

The reusable sodium acetate hand warmers also work surprisingly well. 

Stay warm!

I’m thinking about dipping a toe into the fun and games of Astro imaging.

So, all you successful imagers out there, what is the one thing you wished someone had told you before getting started?

Thanks, G

It might take a while to work your way through all the posts, there’s a lot of content here...

Envious of you dark skies!

Regards,

G

Hello Steve,

I also struggled finding what I was looking for. A goto mount is definitely the way to go. 

Cheers,

G

On 08/02/2021 at 09:44, Vilius said:

Hi everyone, beginner here.

How strong a light do you experienced observers use when observing? I currently tape some red cloth over a regular headlight. However, I think this may dim the light too much, as it becomes really hard to take notes and read.

 

But will a stronger light screw up my night vision, even if it is red? My neighbourhood is light polluted enough as it is...

I was in the same situation and ended up saving some red cellophane from the Christmas Quality Street chocolate box. Two red sweet wrappers folded in half (4 layers) and the taped onto my head torch is about right for me with the moon out. My torch, bought online from Alpkit, has different brightness levels to fine tune. Six layers is good for as dark as it gets with my light pollution. 

You don’t need to get a specialised torch straight away and now have a good excuse to eat more chocolate. Win all round!

On 04/02/2021 at 18:52, happy-kat said:

Hi

Observing with say a hood or a towel on the head does help cut light problems when you have street lights and another possible is erecting a light shield in your garden to block the light hitting your eyes when observing.

Great tip which I’ll try next time we get a clear evening. Added bonus that will also have a warmer head!

Thanks all!

 I think you may be right just to keep It simple and just stick with gaffer tape.

A recent purchase had a bit of a tear with the foam insert. I was wondering if anyone has managed a good repair of these or could suggest what adhesive would work best?

Thanks!

2 hours ago, ScouseSpaceCadet said:

An alternative is a £1.87 cable & a Talentcell 12v/6000mah Lithium Ion Battery Pack.

Works perfectly even below 0° and frost. One charge lasts for months. Assuming the rig is used for a couple of hours a week.

You can also plug your phone into the USB socket at the same time as using the mount. Stops your phone conking out due to Synscan Pro and Sky Safari chugging away.

 

Just what I’ve been looking for, thanks!

On 23/12/2020 at 20:53, crama_drime said:

Yes then I think the 385 will be more of a good 'allrounder'. I wanna do some EAA for DSO, where the larger sensor and pixels will help with. Also want to do some planetary

How is the 385 working out for you?

I’ve also been looking at one of these for an Evostar72 and would love someone to tell me how great it is for EAA before pressing the ‘buy’ button...

Hello All,

I’ve been well and truly bitten by the astronomy bug and am looking to understand this whole area a bit better. There seem to be plenty of people posting here who are very patient with new starters and generous in sharing their knowledge. Thanks in advance!

To be honest, I wish I had known about SGL before buying a cheapo telescope from Amazon last year... 

I’ve now upgraded to an Evostar72 and am impatiently waiting for lockdown restrictions to ease a bit so I can drive 15 mins away to a darker site and avoid all the lovely new white LED street lights around here.

G