Mctoot

I am sorry to hear about your experience.
 

I have a positive story (not camping related). One of my neighbours often leaves their security light on (it’s one that stays on - not motion sensitive). Well this evening I am  imaging and bam - lights on. So I went over and explained, showed him the scope etc and some images. Well he was amazed and immediately agreed to turn it off when not required. Sometimes you get good people and you get lucky.  

31 minutes ago, powerlord said:

I set up last night, got PAed on both setups and then I swear I looked away for a second, and when I looked back there was 100% cloud cover. Forecasts said - no clouds at 1am.. so ok.. went to bed, set alarm.. got up at 1am and cloud was so thick you couldn't even see the moon.

Tonight, its saying its clear again.. so again.. set stuff up... I have also got some new virgin chickens from aldi as I reckon the lack of a sacrifice last night was the reason.

stu

“…new virgin chickens from aldi…”

- hehehe! That gave me a good chuckle. 

1 hour ago, AstroMuni said:

Another alternative is Siril (a free software) that has the stacking ability and image manipulation tools.

I have used Siril and for stacking it’s fine but I have to admit Pixinsight is really very good for basically… well… everything (OK maybe not everything but certainly lots of things!). It’s a lot cheaper than photoshop as well!

I was just having a browse and I also noted this program: Starry Night Stacker. I have not tried this one but you can read about it via the developers web page here: https://sites.google.com/site/starryskystacker/home

… it states on the dev page that: “FITS files are not supported. Astronomical cameras that use monochrome sensors with filters are not supported”.  Having a look in the supported cameras section it’s principally for DSLR users. 

I guess another option is either using parallels or bootcamp (considered desperation for is Mac users ). 

Slightly off topic - I highly recommend KSARS and EKOS for mount control, guiding (PHD2 also works on Mac), image acquisition - links: 

https://edu.kde.org/kstars/

https://indilib.org/about/ekos.html

Another on the acquisition list is Astro Imager from cloudmakers - https://www.cloudmakers.eu/doc/indigosuite_4.0/astroimager.html

Best,

Mctoot

I use the ASI120mm with the stock finder scope that came with my 200P-DS. I have tried to measure from the back of the scope (tricky while trying to hold my phone with the other hand!). In this case the C- adapter is not completely flush with the back of the scope - I estimate its around one turn in.  I have not had remove the locking ring at the front of the scope to achieve focus . You can see from the EKOS guiding image that my stars are OK in the ASI120mm - I just managed to screenshot as the clouds rolled in - sorry (happy to provide a better shot when I next get out) Anyway - I hope this is useful/helps! 

22 minutes ago, Stu1smartcookie said:

I think we all go through this stage where uncertainty breads uncertainty. I think if you take your scope and “do” a star test it will give you clear indication if the mirrors are lined up. 
As others have written , it’s difficult  to see properly in the photo … I think ( putting my own opinion in as usual  ) maybe the centre spot is a little to the right , but … you have the best view of this , not me . what are the views like ? If you can focus on a star or use high magnification on the moon then I reckon you are already collimated . The point is , please don’t let the collimation issue spoil the hobby . 
 

Exactly THIS! Don't be scared of collimation... it gets easier (honest).

Welcome and greetings from Canterbury.

54 minutes ago, Craney said:

oh-err... I've just ordered one from FLO !!!

I'm watching with interest.

I was thinking of ordering one too… will be interested to see how you find it. 

On 12/07/2021 at 17:28, LukeSkywatcher said:

My lovely Sericho Pallasite arrived today. It's a nice size and pretty weighty. It looks like a lump of beef that's been smoked low&slow for hours. It's making me hungry.

Thanks FLO.

“ It looks like a lump of beef that's been smoked low&slow for hours” hahaha - no matter how many times I look at this picture I can’t unsee the beef. 

On 08/06/2021 at 19:07, Astro Noodles said:

Or perhaps take a dog?

I’ll just take my PhD student. He’s built like a tank and loves astronomy. 

Hello there and welcome. I am new here myself and I also lurked on the forums (for months) before saying hi.  

I don’t find this image unsettling. The concept that it’s not just an image of galaxies but a view through deep time is just wow factor 10 for me. I feel mesmerised and humbled by it. 🤪

7 minutes ago, JeremyS said:

Welcome.

what have you ordered?

I have ordered a skywatcher 200pds, EQ6-R PRO Go-To, extra cables and a power supply so far.  Still need a few bits such as a coma corrector, and I am looking for a dedicated camera - so currently trawling through specs and reviews. 

5 minutes ago, nephilim said:

Remember that Saturday & Sunday don't count as it's working days only. Sorry if you didn't realise this but it's best to know in advance 😂

Oh I know…. It alright I have zen level patience  

I am patiently waiting for my rig…. 30-40 working days but I trust FLO and they are transparent regarding their stock. Might make some kind of tick off the days of calendar or something… with things the way they are this waiting game is like a rite of passage  PS - hello everyone, first post. o/