8" Newtonian For Lunar Imaging

[pbyrne]

Hi there

I have the opportunity to pick up a Celestron 8" Newt on a CG-5 mount with dual axis drive. My first love is the moon and I would like to try my hand at lunar imaging with a webcam. Is it possible to image the moon with the 8"? I have seen some images on the web that sppear to show it is possible.

I would happily accept opinions on this.

Paul

[beamish]

You shouldn't have any difficulties shooting the Moon with an 8" Newt, either with a w/cam or a DSLR.

Karlo

[Taff]

Hi Paul' My scope is a 8'' F5 Newt you will have nice views of the moon with the mountains and craters.I have taken captures of the moon with a ToUcam pro II.Mark

[GazOC]

A x2 or x3 barlow would be a good idea to get those close up shots.

[lunator]

HI Paul

I have an 8" newt and it is great for taking pics of the Moon

Cheers

Ian

[John]

I've been able to get some half decent lunar images with my 4" refractor on an alt-az mount so you will have no problems with an 8" newtonian on an equatorial.

John

[pbyrne]

Thanks for the replies people, you've helped make up my mind on the purchase. I have plans for a Barlow GazOC, I'm looking at a Televue, not sure on which one, leaning more towards the 3X.

Paul

[Sam]

The 8" is great for all sorts of imaging and the 3X barlow should give you some nice closeups!

[The Warthog]

When taking pics of the Moon, you need only a short exposure, so you could even take pics with a Dobsonian. The EQ mount gives you the means to take longer exposures of DSOs.