Want to get started with astrophotography

[skyguynca]

Ok, so I have an eq mount that does goto and tracks

I am looking for a way to get into taking pictures that is cheap, yes cheap but will get me experience in the things I need to know before I run out and spend alot of money to take really good pictures.

I have some begal bones black, raspberry Pi 3B+, some arduino mega's. Oh and a 12mm adapter for my eye peice.

So I was thinking of setting up a arduino cam, like some have used. I have seen some pretty nice pics that have come from these but I do not know which ones to buy.

I am wanting to do planets at first, then move on to deep space objects later. Advice and recommendations are greatly appreciated.

 

Thanks for the help

David Mikesell

San Jose, CA

[malc-c]

David, can you give is some more information on your current scope and mount, and define cheap in terms of a real budget.  This way it will stop people recommending a path which is way out of your price range, or suitability with the kit you have

[vlaiv]

Planetary imaging and DSO imaging are quite different things.

If you want to first get into planetary imaging - well, you can do that on a very small budget.

I've taken this image:

With extremely limited budget. Scope in question was 130/900 Newtonian on Eq2 mount that was tracking with simple DC motor (not stepper).

Camera used was Logitech c270 web camera - modified by removing front lens and added piece of PVC pipe to act as nose piece.

I agree with above suggestion - first, give us idea of what sort of equipment you already have and what is your budget so we can advise accordingly.

[skyguynca]

EQ fork mount,  onstep controller for goto and tracking and a  Meade 114/900 and barstow x3