Astrotrac query

[Mr Astro]

Hi there,

I have recently purchased an Astrotrac portable system, and am looking at an Intes Alter M703 deluxe 7" F10 Maksutov-Cassegrain. Does anyone have any idea if this will work? Any thoughts would be gratefully received.

Many thanks.

Dave

[PatrickWilson]

I would have thought at f/10 you will need some fairly long integration times, drift aligning would be essential at these magnifications with an AT, I've never tried anything more than Canon 400mm f/5.6 L with 2x teleconvertor and polar alignment was bothersome couldnt really get much out of it.. It was a hire lens so didnt get too far before returning it.. I do wish you luck and please post any results

Patrick.

[Peter Drew]

Although an Astrotrac can support quite a load for its size I think a 7" MC would be a bit OTT. The Astrotrac is really designed for wide angle camera and fast refractor use.