Starting out with imaging the solar system objects

[shep1181]

Hi all, I have an Orion StarShoot Solar System Color Imager IV but my small refractor just isn't adequate for the job. I am currently looking to get a goto Dob 8". I know I possibly wont get the best quality images but will it perform well enough to get me started with planetary imaging.

Thanks

Shep

[michael.h.f.wilkinson]

Some people get good results with a non-tracking Dob, but if possible, get one which does track. That makes life a lot easier

[shep1181]

Thanks for the advice. Is the Orion starshoot imager a good bit of kit for the beginner like myself? 

Shep

[michael.h.f.wilkinson]

I have no experience with that particular imager, but the specs look decent. One shot colour is good for starters, 1280x1024 is a bit much for planets, but handy on the moon. Maybe you can shoot in ROI-mode with it so a smaller section of the image plane is transmitted through the USB cable, potentially leading to faster frame rates. I started out with a Philips SPC 900 NC with lower spec, but that produced some nice images, so I guess the one you chose should be better