Finderscope Guider and DMK21

[MickyWay]

Here’s my version of a finder/guider, using an Orion 9 x 50 guidescope and DMK21AU camera.

I hope the photos are self explanatory, but please ask questions if you’re not sure or want

more information.

The adapter was purchased from Modern Astronomy for £28.00 and it fits beautifully. These are are a new item, so stocks are limited at the moment.

http://modernastronomy.com/

Screw the adapter firmly to the camera first, then to the ‘scope.

This is a non destructive mod, so it’s easy to revert to the original.

Focussing was easy, with plenty of adjustment available, and the finder holder provided a

rigid and adjustable platform. Flexure was not an issue.

Finder scopes - Acquire your target with ease

The setup was tried under conditions of heavy moisture in the air, and a bright moon,

using PHD as the guide software, Canon EOS1000D, imaging through a Megrez 72 fitted

with a SW field flattener, and using Ivo’s excellent APT as the imaging control software

(a real steal for the price of a round of drinks).

http://www.stark-labs.com/phdguiding.html

http://www.ideiki.com/astro/

PHD was able to guide, without any problems during the imaging sessions.

All that was required was to adjust the sampling time (between 0.5 to 1.5 seconds,

(depending on seeing conditions), and to re-calibrate on each new area of sky visited.

I also tried the setup imaging through my C8 SGT. No problems.

This setup worked beyond expectations. Under dark skies this would work a treat, and for star

parties, where minimalist gear is important, or for a ‘grab and go setup’,

the finderguider would sit on a short tube refractor without hassle.

Note: I have no commercial interest in any of the companies linked above.

[adamsp123]

Nice one, love my finder guider, any issues I have had with guiding have been with flexture, scope balance (ie getting the inbalance right) and PHD settings not at all with the little finderscope.

[MickyWay]

Cheers Pete, glad your having good results as well.

[wetcoaster]

Would you please post an image of the Modern Astronomy finderscope-DMK21 adapter? I can see it attached to your DMK. I bought one and can't find it here at my cottage. I want one of my daughters look for it at my home but need to show her what one looks like. There isn't an image on the Modern astronomy web site and Bernard hasn't replied to an email (maybe it didn't get to him) but I don't want to harass him.