guiding focal reducer or barlow

[planetdnb]

Hi All,

I recently purchased a Skywatcher Equinox 66 to use as a guide scope. I probably needed something a bit bigger but had to keep the weight down as I am pushing it a bit. I have also got a Synguider to do the actual guiding.

I had a first attempt with it the other night but had some issues finding bright enough guide stars. I got round it in the end by aiming the guide scope slightly away from my target onto a brighter star and after that I managed to take 5 x minute exposures, all of which were perfect.

What I want to know is, is it acceptable to move away from the target like this or would a focal reducer or barlow lense improve things for me?

Thanks for the advice.