M51, Skywatcher 10'' Dob AZ

[theodoros1978]

M51 with AZ Dob

5 stacks

30 - 75 secs

ISO 3200

Pentax K-X

Stack with nebulosity

ps: don't forget, DOB's can image

[DugDog]

Nice! I didn't think a dob had it. Congrats!

[Space Cowboy]

Great stuff! I can't get more than 10 sec subs with mine. Has the Dob been modded to improve tracking?

[bish]

You've certainly proved dobs can image. Great pic.

[theodoros1978]

Great stuff! I can't get more than 10 sec subs with mine. Has the Dob been modded to improve tracking?

What gear you have?

I upgraded my manual Dob to goto with the skywatcher's kit, all from factory.

However, every time before imaging, I check the level of base with ground using bubble level. I do alignment with stars opposite to each other, never use star on zenith. Finally, I use the build in PAE function a lot.

On 30sec subs, at the end of night 80% will be usable

45sec, 65%

90sec, 40%

Bear in mind that sometimes its not only the field rotation that causes trails but the motors vibration inside as well.

Finally, I use a bahtinov mask (self made) to perfectly focus.

Thank you for comments