How can I achieve correct focus on Mars?

[Moonshed]

I took my first image of Mars tonight with my new ZWO ASI 224 MC Colour camera. I found it difficult to determine when it was in correct focus. I know it sounds a bit daft but with the image looking blurry anyway even at best focus I found it really difficult so I am looking for any tips.

I use an electric focuser and I viewed the image on FireCapture.

For stars I use a Bahtinov  mask but I’m not aware of any focus masks for planets.

Any advice would be appreciated.

[fifeskies]

use your Bahtinov to focus on a nearby bright star first

 

[lukebl]

I agree. Bahtinov mask on a nearby star. I've been using Alpha Andromedae recently.

Edited November 4, 2020 by lukebl

[Moonshed]

fifeskies 

lukebl

Thank you both for the advice. I knew there must be a way and using the Bahtinov on a star first did not occur to me for some reason.

Thanks again 

[happy-kat]

You can make one out of a piece of card, a simple Lord Y mask (cut correctly) works.