Hello,Here is my current setup:-Canon 6D-Star Adventurer GTI-Rokinon 135mm I shoot DSO in a bortle 6 location. Basically, I want a new scope that has a longer focal length under $500 that will be supported with my camera and star tracker. I have heard that the astrotech At60 is a good option but not sure if there is anything else I should consider. Please also let me know what accessories I will need to buy in order to operate the new scope without any issues. Thanks!
New scope/lens for current setup under $500?
Maybe the Canon EF 300mm f/4 L IS USM? In my region I got this lens for around 500€ used. But it should work with your camera without any adapter. Im using it on a astrocamera and took the picture below with it.
At this focal lenghts you might consider getting into autoguiding though. You can get some sets for under 200€/$.
Also you are getting to the weight limits of your mount with this + autoguiding. It should be still fine if there is no wind.
Example with QHY183c: https://www.astrobin.com/uml6e4/C/
At this focal lenghts you might consider getting into autoguiding though. You can get some sets for under 200€/$.
Also you are getting to the weight limits of your mount with this + autoguiding. It should be still fine if there is no wind.
Example with QHY183c: https://www.astrobin.com/uml6e4/C/
Helpful Concise
[edit] - nvm, didn't see this was the GTI version, going to >200mm should be fine
I would prefer a 60mm telescope to a camera lens. You would need a field flattener as well. . The benefit of the scope is that it is future proof for upgrades, whether it is a filter wheel, new camera, or motor focusing unit.
Marc:
From what I have heard/read, going above 200mm on a star tracker is going to cause problems. These things aren't really that precise and can only be guided in one axis. So polar alignment, wind, balancing etc will become much much harder than what you are used to now. Not saying it cannot be done, but I think it would be rather challenging.
Yeah i would have said this too, but the star adventure gti is a small but full feature eq-goto mount which could carry up to about 5kg. It shouldnt be to bad.
Cosmetatos:
I would prefer a 60mm telescope to a camera lens. You would need a field flattener as well. . The benefit of the scope is that it is future proof for upgrades, whether it is a filter wheel, new camera, or motor focusing unit.
Youˋr right. The pro for a lens would be that you could use it for "normal" photography too. So kinda depents on if you want to only do astro or also daytime.
Save your upgrade dollars for a better mount. The 135mm lens is a good match for the tracker.
Well Written