Starting Imaging

[compassrose]

Hi. Have a cpc 800, and want to start imaging on a budget but without prejudicing too much the abilities of the scope. I understand Celestron do a Neximage ccd and will shortly bring out the Neximage 5. Would a highstreet webcam be just as good and if so which one? What setup would you advise? Finally how do these fit to the scope - do I need anything else equipment/software -wise. I have a lappy running win 7.

[malc-c]

The use of a web cam, be that an SPC880 (flashed to a 900) or a commercial version such as the NexImage is well documented in these forums, a few hours browsing or use the search option should help locate more info.

What scope do you have ?

As for costs, it will depend on the scope you are using. If you are on a tight budget then stick with the SPC880 - the results would be no different between it and the NexImage. An alternative is the MS Lifecam Cinema which needs a little modification (again documented on the web), but gives good results.

Software - Sharpcap, WXAstro are excellent and free

To use, simply replace the eyepiece with the camera and focus.

[daz]

The use of a web cam, be that an SPC880 (flashed to a 900) or a commercial version such as the NexImage is well documented in these forums, a few hours browsing or use the search option should help locate more info.

What scope do you have ?

That would be the CPC800 then

[malc-c]

LOL - CPC, SPC, 800, 880.... need to go to specsavers