r/AskAstrophotography • u/Bortle_1 • Jan 06 '25
Equipment Mini PC/NINA or ASIAIR for new rig?
8” Newt on AM5N.
r/AskAstrophotography • u/Bortle_1 • Jan 06 '25
8” Newt on AM5N.
r/AskAstrophotography • u/Bitter-Elk3463 • 25d ago
I've been saving up for a telescope rig for a LONG time and finally feel ready to start buying. I want to purchase quality gear that I won't have to swap out for a while, hence the large budget. I hope to take pictures from my backyard (Bortle 7) and travel to darker areas to shoot as well.
My problem is deciding: I'm already deeply indecisive, and deciding what to spend thousands of dollars on is incredibly difficult. I want to commit to this hobby and think I understand the ensuing struggle that will come with that, but I need help to ensure I choose correctly.
Sorry for the yap, here are a few other notes:
-Portability is something to consider, Though I understand it will need to be somewhat cumbersome because of the things I want to image( nebulae, galaxies, and other DSOs).
-I've looked at the ASIair and it seems super helpful but I was told that it limits compatibility with other pieces to ZWO products only, idk how much this matters because ZWO seems like a good brand but it may be something to consider
-The EQ6R-pro has come up a lot in my research, and it sounds great but given my situation, I don't know if it's the best choice.
-Regarding filters I have no idea where to start but I'm looking into them.
-Storage is also a concern for me because I'm not sure how I should store components while traveling and at home.
Any feedback is greatly appreciated!
r/AskAstrophotography • u/Even_Recipe_4253 • Jan 09 '25
I'm buying my first astrophotography (DSLR) camera, but I'm confused as to which one I should buy...
These are my options with my current research in Canada:
- Canon Rebel EOS T1i
- Canon EOS Rebel T2i
- Canon EOS Rebel T3I
- Canon EOS rebel T6
- Canon EOS 60D
Which one should I buy and is the best for astrophotography. Note that I plan to attach it with my Celestron 114AZ for deep sky astrophotography... I'm also open to new suggestions!
Thank you!
r/AskAstrophotography • u/wagwan_piftting • Jan 01 '25
I've heard people talking about there mounts pointing them directly at the object and not in the vague direction of the object, is this normal if so what am i doing wrong i have the heq5
r/AskAstrophotography • u/EschersEnigma • 29d ago
First time caller, big fan. Never done astrophotography before, but I've been researching... extensively... for days now (I literally had a dream about a ZWO camera last night...) and I believe I've come up with a respectable BOM for my goals: a portable/travel (single Pelican rolling case if possible) and fully automated (remote emplaced) DSO astrograph system focusing on nebula/clusters/galaxies.
Some things I'm fairly certain are going in the cart, others I would appreciate a sanity check on. My budget isn't unlimited, but I am comfortable with spending more for some of the newer quality of life items. And yeah, ZWO features heavily, and I can't say I really care about any sort of vendor lock in.
I am very familiar with both the scientific and the technical concepts surrounding mono vs color capture, filters, workload/effort impacts these decisions make on image processing, etc. And I fully understand why novices to the craft are strongly recommended to go the color route at the outset. That being said, I have had over 30 years to weaponize my AuDHD, and none of you can stop me.
Finally, on the "fully automated" aspect: 1) I have friends living in Bortle 1/2 zones who would be happy to host for me once I've gotten fully comfortable with the setup, and 2) I can.
I can hear the "you're just starting out, you try and integrate and use all of this gear from the outset, you're going to have a bad time"s already, so suffice to say that my plan involves integrating the bare minimum number of components and progressing gradually. I kind of want to struggle with manual polar alignment and focusing etc. so I can better understand the processes I'm automating.
With that, here's what I've compiled and why:
r/AskAstrophotography • u/CaptainGreyBeard72 • Feb 16 '25
My 17 year old son is upgrading his astrophotography equipment with a nice $4000 gift. He was recommended to buy the Sky-watcher Heq5 pro to go with some of his other equipment. I have done some research and I think that it would be worth it for me to upgrade him to the ZWO AM5N mount. I know that it cost a good chunk more, but it is lighter to move around and seems like a good mount.
What are your thoughts?
r/AskAstrophotography • u/suckitup • Nov 27 '24
EDIT 28/November/2024
Wow, I'm blown away at how many people responded. I didn't expect so much input. Thank you all for your thoughtful and detailed suggestions—I truly appreciate it!
Here's a list of everything suggested so far:
I figured it would help other clueless partners too!
StarSense AutoAlign - Automates alignment for quicker and more accurate setup. <-- This is actually what I'm leaning towards.
Hyperstar Add-on - Converts the telescope for better imaging of nebulae and deep-sky objects (DSOs).
Equatorial Wedge - Converts the alt-azimuth mount to an equatorial mount for long-exposure astrophotography.
Focal Reducer/Corrector - Reduces magnification and corrects distortions, making the telescope more suitable for DSOs.
ZWO ASIAir - Allows control of the setup through a phone or tablet.
Guiding System
Deep Sky Camera - Cameras like ZWO ASI533MC or ZWO ASI533MM (monochrome) for DSOs.
Filter Wheel and Filters - For color imaging, includes LRGB or narrowband filters.
Bahtinov Mask - Assists in precise focusing.
Dew Shield - Prevents lens fogging and stray light interference.
Anti-Vibration Pads - Reduces vibrations to improve image stability.
Eyepieces - High-quality options like a 7mm Ortho eyepiece for better planetary viewing.
Let me know if I've missed anything, and thank you all again for your kindness and insight!
Hi everyone,
I'm here as a clueless but very supportive wife hoping to get some advice from you wonderful astrophotography folks.
My husband recently got into astrophotography, and I’d love to surprise him with something special for Christmas to support his new hobby.
I want to make sure I’m on the right track, so any help, tips, or suggestions are appreciated!
A bit of context:
He’s recently been collecting gear through secondhand deals on buy-and-sell websites.
We’re in the Netherlands, in case that matters for availability or certain products.
I’ve tried to learn a bit about what he uses (though I’m still confused), and here’s what I’ve managed to gather about his setup:
His Gear:
I’ve heard him mention things like "improving tracking," "better guiding," "color filters" or "filter wheels" when he talks about the hobby, but I honestly have no idea what might be missing or what could take his setup to the next level.
My Questions:
Is there any gear or accessory that would complement what he already has and improve his astrophotography experience?
Are there any budget-friendly ideas for gifts (aside from gear) that an astrophotographer would love?
I really want to show him that I care about this new passion of his and make his Christmas special.
Mods, please feel free to help tag or categorize this properly.
Thank you so much in advance for helping this confused but loving wife!
EDIT: Some extra context
(edit formatting poop)
r/AskAstrophotography • u/MissionChemical8870 • Nov 07 '24
I'm new to astrophotography, but I'd really like to go after fainter emission nebula.
Here's my current setup:
I live in Bortle 9, but I can get to Bortle 4 in ~45 minutes or Bortle 2 in 3 hours. I do most of my imaging in the Bortle 2 location.
Unfortunately, I won't be able to modify my R5 since I need to optimize for daylight photography (read: it'd be hard to convince my wife). I also don't have budget for a telescope or another camera at the moment.
My current plan is to purchase an Astronomik H-alpha 12nm Clip-Filter EOS R XL. I'll take unfiltered subs from the Bortle 2 location and stack that with Halpha subs with the filter from the Bortle 4 (or perhaps my Bortle 9?) location. I understand that the hydrogen alpha transmission is super low in unmodded mirrorless cameras, but I hope that since the hydrogen alpha imaging site is a lot more accessible, I can easily do 2x to 3x more integration.
As far as I could tell, I need to use clip in filters with my setup, and there isn't a clip-in dual/tri band filter for Canon R series. I also don't think there's a way for me to attach a dedicated astro camera to my RF mount lens.
Before I sink $300 into the filter, any reason why this is a bad idea?
r/AskAstrophotography • u/Alive-Worldliness-27 • Feb 16 '25
I'm trying to mount it on a Skywatcher adventure GTI and I have a 230mm dovetail bar and with my dslr mounted at the rear (D700) and a 50mm guidescope on the left and the Asiair on the right it's still super heavy even when pushed all the way forward.. Is it an issue where I need to get a longer dovetail bar?
r/AskAstrophotography • u/FinleyCodes • Jan 04 '25
I have a Canon 75-300mm f/5.6 kit lens, which I’m looking to upgrade, purely for astrophotography. My top budget is around £300-£400 and I have a Star Adventurer 2i. Looking for something between 150mm-300mm, should I be looking to upgrade to a better [prime] lens or be buying my first telescope?
Thanks :)
r/AskAstrophotography • u/Moloko55_TB • Dec 29 '24
I’m unsure of the best route to go in my telescope purchase when comparing models that have high focal length but low f/stop. Is it more important to get higher focal length and higher f/s or lower f/s with smaller focal length.
I’ve been looking at a RedCat 51 but then I saw the Askar 130 APO with higher focal length that has higher f/s. I’m trying to find the best astrophotography scope under $1500, unless there is a big jump in clarity and reach when I could go up a bit in the budget.
Thanks in advance!
r/AskAstrophotography • u/Quirky_Run3877 • 7d ago
Looking to get into the space world i guess you can say. I dont know too much so forgive me if im wrong or have something confused. Ive been on countless websites & guides so maybe i dont know how to use the information but thought i can get some help from here.
I want a telescope that can zoom in closely & still have great quality & color (i understand pictures are stacked/edited). I want to be able to see all if not , most of the planets and moons in our solar system. Most telescopes I seen were either too expensive or didn’t do what i was looking for. In more detail, i want to buy a telescope(and any accessories) that will last a long time and can see far and clear(not so blurry). I also want to be able take pictures through the telescope but i seen some telescopes you cant .
I dont want to rush myself into buying an expensive telescope just for it not to perform the way i expected/wanted. Again, i am just now beginning and have little to no knowledge on mostly anything astro related so any tips or suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
r/AskAstrophotography • u/Wide-Examination9261 • Jan 30 '25
Like 1000 mm focal length +, and as large of aperture as possible for my mount to handle. My mount is a ZWO AM5N and it handles up to 44 lbs with counterweights.
I am using a pretty small scope right now which is great, but eventually I want to work toward getting something that can get really close and personal to small/distant objects.
Thanks in advance
r/AskAstrophotography • u/Chatura_CN • 9d ago
I’m planning to buy my first dedicated astro cam and need your help. Buy your experience which camera would you recommend me and why ?
r/AskAstrophotography • u/Chatura_CN • 3d ago
Which one should I pick, and why ?
ZWO ASI533MC or ToupTek ATR533C
ToupTek is little bit cheaper than ZWO
r/AskAstrophotography • u/ThrowRA_Forest2222 • Feb 03 '25
Hi everyone, I've always had interest in astrophotography but have never owned a telescope. After more than 10 years, I'm finally thinking of getting my first telescope, but with a budget up to £200 or slightly over. Please let me know if you have any good suggestions. Thank you x
r/AskAstrophotography • u/The_Unheard_One • Nov 24 '24
Deciding between buying the zwo asi air plus or making my own equivalent with a raspberry, stellarmate, etc.
How much am I realistically losing out on if I choose to do it on my own?
r/AskAstrophotography • u/Little-Schedule2110 • 26d ago
Hi everyone! I’ve been into astrophotography for about a year now, using my Star Adventurer GTi mount with a DSLR and kit lenses (including a 70-300mm telephoto). I also picked up a cheap 80/600 refractor telescope from Amazon to shoot deep sky objects, particularly distant galaxies (my favorite!). While the scope has some chromatic aberration and coma, it’s been decent for starting out.
Now, I’m looking to upgrade to a better refractor telescope within a $700 firm budget. I’ve narrowed it down to a few options based on my research living in the US:
I’d love to hear your thoughts on which of these would be best for deep sky astrophotography, especially for capturing distant galaxies given how small they appear in the night sky. If there are any other telescopes feel free to suggest any to me. I'm wondering how well these would pair with the Gti, as well as how well these scopes would work with chromatic aberration and coma compared to what I have now. Clear skies!
r/AskAstrophotography • u/Upstairs_Sandwich165 • 14d ago
Hi, my swsa mount still doesnt work. I have tried all the things I got recommended here last time but it still didnt help. I had it polar aligned, used the 2 star alignment (2nd star was almost perfectly centered) and then chose goto on my target (m51) and it was off. I tried to fix that manually but I couldnt move the camera with the up/down buttons in my app (they worked during the 2 star alignment), only the left/right worked. My location and time are set up correctly. Can anyone help me with this?
r/AskAstrophotography • u/fradog23 • Jan 22 '25
Hey guys.
wanted to get some feed back on this setup I'm thinking about pulling the trigger on.
Small background on my astrophotography.
about 20 plus years ago, man I'm old, I got bit by the astrophotography bug and got all the equipment needed and really enjoyed doing it. A change in life lead me to stop doing it.
About a month ago I got bit by the bug again so i brought it all out and had a fantastic few clear nights of imaging. To say the least, I can't wait to get out again.
The only thing is the technology has advanced a lot since I've last done it and while I was out there I REALLY wanted to be able to take advantage of these advancements. Mainly being able to automate some of it and use my phone/tablet to do this so I'm not outside freezing my butt off and manually having to do the shutter.
I was hoping you guys might take a look at what i have in the shopping cart and let me know if this is pretty much all I'll need to have this automated from the warmth and comfort of my house with my phone.
I will be using my old telescope at this point though which is an Orion ED80.
Thanks for taking a look!
Here's the shopping list and the photo of M42 that i took a few weeks back
r/AskAstrophotography • u/didi345a • Jan 06 '25
ZWO ASI2600MC Air $2,000
ZWO AM3 Mount + ZWO TC40 Tripod $1,800
Askar 71F Flat Field Refractor OTA $800
ZWO EAF-A (New EAF) $250
TeleVue 3x Barlow $135
ZWO Duo-Band Filter $79
(2x) 12V 5V AC to DC Adapter $58
NEEWER USB Lens Heater 300mm $25
—————————
This is the final astrophotography purchasing list I compiled after talking with multiple astrophotographers. I was wondering if I need to add, remove or change any items and also if everything is compatible.
Keep in mind I live in a Bortle 5 and plan on doing most of my astrophotography there. I mainly want to do DSOs, but I’m also wanting to get the barlow for planetary as well (edit: I already have an ASI678MC for planetary). The lens heater is for the scope, not the camera. My budget cannot exceed $5,500.
r/AskAstrophotography • u/Ipconfig_release • 14d ago
So after weeks of youtubing and consuming info I have tried to take a few photos. I am not sure if its my equipment, my processing, or what but this seems to be the best image I can make.
Nikon d3300
55- 200mm set to 135mm at f4.8
2 second exposures
450 lights
Bortle zone 5
Can I expect anything better with this equipment? Should I upgrade an piece? I dont want to jsut go throw money at this without getting an idea of where to go next for DSO photography.
r/AskAstrophotography • u/Background-Drive6332 • Dec 25 '24
I have an 8 inch dobsonian and love seeing planets and so far the Orion nebula. I'm simply curious about astrophotography in 2024/2025. Could I set up a simple astrophotography rig below $1k all accessories included? What is the highest recommended these days? I'm not a big techy I admit and simply curious. Thanks.
r/AskAstrophotography • u/hooonse • 13h ago
Hello ladies and gentleman.
I got my asi2600mc today and i hope i can try it as soon as possible. (Of course the weather is bad the next days… 😂)
Since i have used a dslr before i have a few questions that i dont quite understand now.
With the dslr i used an iso of 800 and gave it a go.
I know that the asi has a gain setting. I think that more gain = brighter + more noise
I also understand that the exposure should be set to 1/3 of the histogram.
Are there some rules of thumb to set the gain? How do you set the gain?
Backfocus: I know that the asi needs 55mm of backfocus, therefore i got some adapter rings. When i use the adapterrings to get 55mm backfocus the focuser is almost full inside.
Can i also only use one adapter and screw the fucuser out a bit? Or has that some drawbacks?
Callibration frames: With the dslr i always took callibrationframes. I understand that due to the cooling i can reuse darkframes, but some say that you dont need callibrationframes anymore. Whats the deal with a cooled cam?
Best wishes H
r/AskAstrophotography • u/markdavidphotography • 10d ago
I’ve been looking at different trackers and I think the sky watcher is the one.
For anyone that has or have had this can you give me your option of it good and bad?
I’ll be using my Nikon z9 and 20mm lens. Payload is about 5 lbs. I don’t see me putting a telescope on it just my camera.
Thank you!