Complete telescope beginner

[newbystargazer]

I have been into astronomy for a while, But up until recently I have never had a telescope only a pair of binoculars. However as of a week ago I have inherited a telescope from a relative. To say i'm pleased is an understatement as I have been unable to afford to buy one. However the scope is a Skywatcher 200PDS and the mount is a Skywatcher HEQ5 Pro with a Synscan controller. It came with a 40mm plossl eyepiece and a 28mm multi coated eyepice and some fittings but no instructions.

As I have never had telescope before I don't know much about them apart from a a couple of weeks of basic research. I would like to use it for general observing and taking photos of both planets, DSOs if possible. if people have any tips or advice then  please say.

I have a few questions

1. Is this scope any good for photography

2. I have a nikon D80 DSLR camera apart from a T ring is there anything else I need to able to use it with the scope.

3. From looking online I see there is a vast array of accessories and lenses, filters etc (all completely over my head) apart from the two lenses i have already is there any other lenses, accessories I need or are recommended.

I won't bombard you all with lots of questions as I have plenty. So I think that will do for now.

 

 

[Peter Drew]

Short answer, yes,yes,yes.

The telescope will be at the limit of the mount for DSO imaging but quite doable. Moon and planets should be great.

Possibly a remote shutter activator to avoid touching the camera, Barlow lens to increase the focal length for a larger image scale.

A shorter focal length eyepiece for higher magnification, a reasonably priced zoom such as the Seben 8mm-24mm unit would give you some idea of what the best magnifications are for your purposes.   ?

[Stargazer33]

Hi and welcome to SGL!

The 200pds is a good 'scope for both observational and photographic astronomy (1).

(2) I am not sure about the SW 200pds, but I believe you can screw the T adapter straight onto the focus tube.

(3) A good quality barlow (tele-extender) are useful. A 2x lens would turn your 40mm into a 20mm and your 28mm into a 14mm.

[Helen]

Hello and welcome!

That is a fantastic set up and will give you loads of pleasure ? 

Here's the manual http://www.opticalvision.co.uk/documents/148.pdf  

I'd suggest just setting up on the moon to start with and getting familiar with how it moves etc before attempting any astrophotography.

Have fun!

Helen

[Floater]

Welcome. Excellent advice (as ever) above. Enjoy your journey. ?

[newbystargazer]

Thanks for all the advice guys.  Helen thank you for the link. After having a read on this very forum I have purchased the Making every photon count book as it seem to be highly recommended.  I have been having a play with it but only indoors as I live in the city with no outside space, But as soon as we get some clear skies I will venture out into the sticks and have a proper play