DSLR Astrophotography Equipment (Beginner's Deep Sky)

In this video I'm going to show you how to get started with DSLR Astrophotography, all the equipment I recommend and more. Picking the correct astronomy and astrophotography equipment is difficult, even more so as a beginner. It's critical to get it right! So I made it my mission to break it down for you and explain each piece - from the mount to the camera - you'll need to get started.
Deep Sky Astrophotography is demanding in a lot of areas and the astrophotography equipment you choose has to be up to the task. Covering the mount, a telescope, camera and auto guiding, I'll tell you what I recommend to photograph space, galaxies, stars and galaxies.
I can't tell you this is cheap. I tried to keep this as budget as possible whilst being able to give you great results. If you go second hand you should be able to get close to £1000. However this deep sky astrophotography bundle will serve you well and will get you going and keep you going for many a night of astrophotography.
Read More: astrofarsograp...
Skywatcher HEQ5 Pro: bit.ly/2L1hyKn
Skywatcher Evostar 80ED Pro: bit.ly/2qTd55L
Sky-Watcher 80ED Reducer (recommended): bit.ly/2Uuv7qV
Mini Guide Scope (recommended): bit.ly/2S8Y2yn
ZWO ASI 120mm Guide Cam (Recommended): bit.ly/31j7kfl
I've updated the equipment list here to reflect new information and testing that I've done. As such I've also changed the guiding recommendation. You can see a more in-depth explanation of a guide bundle here: • Astrophotography Guidi...
Disclaimer: Some links are affiliate links. If you buy through these links then, at no extra cost to you, I get a few pennies.
eBay recommended for dew bands (lens heaters), intervalometer and Canon 450D or 600D. I also supply and modify Canon 450/600D cameras.
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==== Music ====
Sparks by Chaël:
chael-music.com/
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/ @chaelofficial

[@AstroFarsography]

What would your dream set up be? Let me know 👇 Links for all featured items in the description

[@enriqueboeneker]

AstroFarsography mu dream setup, huh? Well. Here’s my letter to Santa. 127 mm triplet apo ASI1600 mono pro cool Electronic Filter Wheel Electronic Focuser Set of Baader narrow filters and LRGB HEQ-6 Pro mount An observatory dome And... A place suitable to put and use all this stuff! 😜

[@AstroFarsography]

@@enriqueboeneker not too big of a list then! Nice list as well, maybe if you've been a really good guy this year he'll deliver it! Or wait until your friendly neighborhood Ruzeen wins the lottery 😂

[@adriantitheradge8332]

12inch imaging reflector with moon lite low profile focuser, 100mm double as guide scope and a 50mm finder with 1900x1200 guide camera on eq6 or cem60

[@deancamp4914]

If price was no object... I'd love the Orion EON 130 mm ED Triplet Apochromatic Refractor paired with the Orion 9996 Atlas EQ-G mount. I think I need a rich uncle to die first! At the moment I am using the Orion ED80mm (doublet) with the Orion Sirius EQ-G mount. Less than half the price - and still working great. Thanks for the post!

[@samuelmcbride9797]

Just purchased this equipment BECAUSE of this video. Thank you for the information! You can get lost in the sea of info out there as a beginner!

[@AstroFarsography]

Excellent good to hear! Hope it works well with you and enjoy it! 😁

[@ChucksAstrophotography]

Excellent presentation and beautiful pictures at the end!

[@AstroFarsography]

Thank you Chuck! Appreciated! Think my favourite photo currently is the Horsehead I did the other day. Hey congrats again on that stunning Crescent Nebula. I can't get over how great it is.

[@ChucksAstrophotography]

@@AstroFarsography Thanks!

[@prnzssLuna]

This is an excellent Video. Was looking for someone who doesn't recommend 3000+€ setup for bare minimum like *so* many other videos I've seen. Thanks so much

[@gwzapo]

Overall, a completely spot-on presentation. You defined the GEM and explained why you chose the refractor nicely. I only have one skywatcher product, a 127mm Maksutov, but I totally agree that Skywatcher makes great products. Thank you so much for your presentation!!! A dream setup? Lightweight mount that has all the power of your smartphone, like built-in GPS, wifi capability built-in, and has a built-in computer with options for you to choose which OS/software path you want. All of this with a solid mount holding 45 lbs but mount head weighing no more than 25 lbs. I have a brace installed on my neck bone so weight is a factor. So, again thank you for your presentation and question as to what would be a dream setup. I'll be recommending this video every time someone asks about what to get and why.

[@Edensreef]

Great video! I’m stepping into the hobby and it’s been a bit overwhelming but out of all the beginner guide videos I think yours has been the most streamlined

[@finchleyturner497]

Thank you very much for guiding us who are new to this exciting hobby. I would be very grateful if you could give me more details on the mounting accessories both of the main and guiding scope. Thanks!

[@dalebeasley3113]

I would like to mention EOSBackyard and Nikon backyard. These two programs are a way to control your canon or nikon from your laptop,they also help with focusing and setting a shoting plan . I have used them for both Mt dslr cameras for 6 months now and they are worth every penny,as you said this hobby isn't cheap ,but at $60 usd they are game changers for me

[@itng3824]

you......are......a......legend!!! The telescope in this video is one which i was considering buying before this video. This video helps so so much, thanks for all the great tips. my dream is taking a picture of the Andromeda galaxy and hopefully a rig like this will do it.

[@badgershands]

Thank you for this video. I bought a 10" push n pull dob 6 months ago and desperately want to get into AP. But the amount of info is mind boggling. This was really helpful however 👍

[@gregorymckenna6609]

Great honest review! You have gone along way to help people choose a good rig. Love your channel! Cheers

[@AstroFarsography]

Thanks Gregory! My intention is to give as much advice and help as possible! Thanks for the support

[@rogerwilkinson2818]

Certainly good advice Ruz, I have wasted a lot of money not just with astrophotography but also visual astronomy. Currently very happy with my budget ish setup for now

[@AstroFarsography]

Thank you Roger. What's your current set up?

[@rogerwilkinson2818]

My current setup comprises of HEQ5 mount with Rowan belt mod, skywatcher 72 ED, canon 600d Astro modded and an Altair 32mm guide scope and guide cam. It’s certainly taken a while to get my head around phd and APT and of course the dreaded image stretching and manipulation

[@AstroFarsography]

@@rogerwilkinson2818 nice equipment there Roger. Super widefield for sure! Ideal for this time of year with all those big nebula kicking about. If you want to check it out, I made a processing tutorial with Photoshop kzbin.info/www/bejne/eWSplWWEmMSKj9k I also made one with GIMP

[@rogerwilkinson2818]

AstroFarsography, I watch all your tutorials they have helped a lot.

[@AstroFarsography]

@@rogerwilkinson2818 I'm very glad about that. Any other tutorials you'd like to see? I've got a few others in the works but if there's anything specific you're wondering I'll see if I can accommodate for it

[@LAshotts]

Team defraction spikes for me.. although I have to admit as you said, some times cumbersome. Great video Ruzeen.

[@AstroFarsography]

Yeah. The newt is great for speed and resolution Vs pricetag. But it's not for me anymore. I may get one as a secondary though! You enjoy your spikes don't you! 😁

[@LAshotts]

AstroFarsography spikes 🤤🤤😂

[@randypace1852]

Very helpful to this beginner...thank you!

[@michaelzarem2441]

Great info for someone just starting, like me! Thx!

[@AstroFarsography]

Good to hear! Thanks, I'm glad it was useful for you :)

[@TheLukeoneill]

Dude! That was an amazing video. You made it easier to understand so much more then alot of other videos. It's helped alot in choosing what I'm looking at. Keep up the great work. New subscriber 👌🏻

[@donr6234]

I've never guided, my CGEM is pretty well aligned and I never move my mount. I use an 8" Orion astrograph Nikon D5200 DSLR and backyard Nikon, they also make backyard EOS for the Cannon users, fantastic software! Thanks, Ruz!

[@tobywan12]

What a fantastic intro into the world of A.P. Your video explains so much. Thanks

[@camillecottereau9564]

Great video after a few days of research only video which covered all and in detail with links!!! Thanks for the help! Keep up the great work.

[@AstroFarsography]

Thank you! I'm glad to have covered all the bases 😁 so are you planning on building the rig I shown in this video?

[@camillecottereau9564]

@@AstroFarsography I do not have enough money saved up right now but when I do this will 100% be the rig that I will choose.

[@cryptoalchemist10minutes44]

Well explained Fars! getting new people into the hobby without the headaches :)

[@AstroFarsography]

Many thanks! Yes I wanted to collate my experience and the incessant questions I asked when I first started into a video to help others decide! Hopefully people find value out of this :)

[@davidmarland]

Thanks for this video. I bought the same set up after watching this.

[@blackie75]

Great info my friend, thanks so much 💙

[@Sidecontrol1234]

I just purchased the EQM 35 pro, mainly due to low stocks until the end of the year, but also I just wanted a goto mount and I have no plans on upgrading my 420mm telescope any time soon.

[@poruatokin]

This is extremely well presented, very clear and very easy to understand. Thank you. By the way for many Canon cameras, you can look up Magic Lantern firmware, gives many new functions including an intervalometer free of charge.

[@steffel1407]

Very good Explanation. Thank you.

[@oldgittarist]

Another excellent video Ruzeen!

[@carlange7o]

Nice vid! Quick question. Where did you get your white dovetail bar for your guide scope? and those guide scope rings as well?

[@ringod123]

I'd say with a scope the size of the ED80 or smaller most people will be fine with an EQ5 PRO mount, no need for the HEQ5 PRO unless going for a ED100 or larger, saving over 200 pound.

[@AstroFarsography]

For sure, I agree. The HEQ5 is good redundancy but if you know you're gonna stay wide and small the EQ5 is just fine

[@denbyscott5745]

I would say the HEQ5 PRO is the best option even then, it costs a few hundred extra but it gives you the insurance you won't have to buy a new mount even if you end up upgrading 3 years later

[@hugomolina8804]

Such a good review, it really helped me. Anf very good pics in your IG profile. Keep it up!

[@GalaxyArtMedia]

Nice video. I have a similar setup, except the mount and autoguider setup. I was on a smaller budget when i bought my astrophotography rig and i bought the Skywatcher Eqm35 pro, but i was very pleased with the mount, you can check my review on the Eqm35 Pro, it works very good with the Ed80, and with my autoguider i can get long exposures even of 10 minutes, so not sure, for a lightweight telescope, how much a heavier and more expensive mount it will improve your astrophotography, if you will not use a heavier telescope, but certainly it will be heavier to carry.

[@kindasport]

Really nice video. I got some things explained 👍 It's also the question if you can shot from your backyard. I have two balconys one pointing north, the other one south. The problem is the gap in between. So.. It needs to be portable.

[@koolkutz7]

'There's always a plane...and a dog!' Very clear presentation. Have you had any experience using a Maksutov or Schmidt Cassegrain scope? I am looking to get into some astro imaging of nebulae, constellations, some galaxies and star clusters. I think refractors are probably the best option but only the ED ones due to the achromatic scopes exhibiting CA and ruing images. Any advice welcome. I have a budget of around £500 (I already have a DSLR though).

[@AstroFarsography]

Thanks Steve, yes always something! Funny you should ask, I'm literally just dry fitting a Makustov onto my mount as I respond to you! For £500 for use with imaging I definitely would recommend the Evostar 80ED. Have you seen my review of it? It's like £400 brand new and has FPL53 glass and a schott crown that combines to make a vary versatile and usable focal length with good glass, very good CA control all within an affordable price. What mount have you got?

[@koolkutz7]

@@AstroFarsography Thanks for the info. Yes the Evostar 80ED looks very good value. I only have the Skywatcher star adventurer pro tracker and regular photo tripods. I am tempted to save for the Celestron Advanced VX mount-that look proper sturdy.

[@anthonywarwick6090]

Nice video. I have the SWED80 as well as different lenses for Nikon DLSR camera

[@tamrich7762]

Hi Ruzeen! Thank you for a well explained video and excellent information on how to start in astrophotography,top marks for presentation,very helpful a good insight on how to start with a reasonable budget,thanks for sharing your images at the end of the video they are awesome 👍

[@AstroFarsography]

Thank you Tam! Do you have a set up already or are you looking at getting your first rig? Keeping the budget realistic was paramount to me. Very important to try and keep it "affordable" And many thanks for the images. I didn't think I had that many DSLR images but for 11 months, that isn't bad going considering the weather!

[@tamrich7762]

Hi Ruzeen, I do have a set up, on Astrobin,I'm just learning this wonderful and rewarding hobby,just been watching a few of you videos,I'm very impressed keep up the good work our biggest problem is the UK weather,clear skies Tam.

[@AstroFarsography]

@@tamrich7762 thanks again. It's very appreciated that you're watching and enjoying my content and the encouragement is also appreciated! Yes the weather is frightful isn't it! Friday and Sunday hopefully though. Complete a few more videos there with any luck! Clear skies to you

[@fusion-music]

Wòw! Ruzeen, that was carefully planned and nicely executed. Nice work. I recommended you to Format Filters in Wales.

[@AstroFarsography]

Thanks Steve. Yeah, Ive tried this video multiple times and threw them in the bin until I got something I was happy with! Who are Format Filters? I tried a quick search and got Format Hitech

[@fusion-music]

@@AstroFarsography that's them. They have astro filters in development. They haven't done any videos though. I've bought a load of filters and matte boxes from them for video work. But they haven't taken me up on my offer to them, but they did respond.

[@AstroFarsography]

​@@fusion-music It's a shame they didn't take you up on your offer then. I'll have to give them a check out some time. Always interested in new filters and such! I wonder what sort of filters they're working on. Maybe I'll email them sometime. Thanks for your referral though, appreciated!

[@cliveroberts415]

Good video Ruzeen. Do you use Eqmod? I gave up on it because of random disconnections but I am going to give it another go as I want to try dithering.

[@AstroFarsography]

Thank you Clive. I started with EQMOD. Worked fine on my old laptop. But on my win10 laptop j also kept getting random disconnects (timeout error: port unavailable) I use the Skywatcher synscan windows application now instead. Been almost flawless

[@ddiver7908]

wait WTF???!!! dude, forget the tutorial, that's some damn fine editing!!! :D OMG

[@febsat]

Hi Ruz. Would you have any tips or advice on the subject of cleaning the optics? In particular, I am thinking about the front lens of my guide scope. Several videos that I have seen on the internet just seem too risky to try. I know that frequent cleaning should not be needed, nor should it be done, as it could damage any special coatings. However, on those rare occasions that cleaning is required (after air puffing and brushing) what do you do / use? I really enjoy your channel, especially the heads up as to objects to look for each month. Thanks

[@AstroFarsography]

Hey there thanks for the comment. When I clean my lenses I begin with a rocket blower for blowing any big dust off, then a gentle brush for camera lenses is used, followed by spraying Baader wonderfluid onto a microfiber cloth and then gently wiping the optics down :)

[@febsat]

@@AstroFarsography Sounds good. Thanks for the quick reply.

[@twitchandburn]

I actually had to pause this couple times to check if my Rimworld game had somehow opened by itself...lol-nice informative vid

[@patlopez2093]

Thank you. I found this very helpful and very direct.

[@seanfullard2337]

thanks im new to the hobby great video

[@Bearprobe]

About £1.700? I got it to £2.480 :) Not cheap just as you said and I included the 600D in my tally. I'm really interrested in starting this hobby up. And have been trying to gather as much information as I can for a few weeks. I was thinking I'd start with a setup on my balconny (don't laugh haha) since I have some mobility issues that doesn't let me hike around with all the gear etc. and while living in a bortle 8 area, I don't want to spend more than £1.500 if it turns out I can't get any shots at all from my location. So great video and very informative. Thank you. I know what to aim for. I just need to find out if I can see anything from my location before i take the wheelbarrel to the bank :) Cheers!

[@davebillybish]

A very nice clear tutorial thanks Ruzeen, you make it all sound so simple! I have the Skywatcher ED80, and though I love it, after recently upgrading to a monochrome cooled camera I've found the total weight of the camera filter wheel and flattener reducer challenges the Crayford focuser somewhat especially after fitting the Skywatcher electric focuser. I noticed in the video you have a different focuser on now. You probably had the same problem as me, so would you mind saying which focuser you have put on and where did you buy it please? Cheers Dave

[@RaysAstrophotography]

Beautiful Rig review! Awesome images!

[@AstroFarsography]

Thanks Ray! Yeah all taken from the equipment featured! Amazing what can be done with a humble DSLR isn't it?

[@RaysAstrophotography]

@@AstroFarsography Yes. The FOV of a DSLR with a good lens/telescope is a perfect start!

[@raypace6981]

Hi Ruzeen, very interesting video indeed. I have an ED80 like the one you have. How did you piggy back the guide scope? You seem to have left the original tube rings in place. Is there a guide scope dovetail bar which can be used? Thanks

[@bushcraftandastronomer.3775]

Thanks for tips and information you shared. I found it helpful and useful even though I've recently bought the skywatcher star adventurer pro pack and the skywatcher evostar 72ed ds pro refractor because I'm looking at portability and easy to carry. A setup that's portable and easy to set up. A few things you mentioned I should get. I've got the Canon 700D dslr as it's not that heavy. Should I get autoguider or Finder scope for telescope? I do camping and I've been searching for dark sky locations in the highlands of Scotland and I've found some great dark sky locations. What other things should I buy for this telescope? Evostar 72ed is a small telescope and I like it's size and weight. I may go for the one in video next year when I've got experience in deep sky astrophotography. You've got a very nice setup and I hope you get alot of success from it!!!

[@Ceres1038]

Very helpful video.My friend and I looking to get into astrophotography and have been considering into the Sky-watcher Evostar 80ED and AZ-EQ5 mount, so appreciated your review. We're landscape photographers and have Nikon equipment ( D7000 and D810 bodies and 70 to 200mm F2.8 and 200 to 500mm F5.6 lenses). What do you think about starting with just the mount and using our Nikon equipment mounted on the AZ-EQ5 to take shots vs jumping in with the mount and telescope? Can you also add some comments around your choice of a Canon 600D? Thanks

[@MrProulx]

This is the setup I am looking to buy in the next month but am currently undecided on the HEQ5 and the EQ6-R pro. I dont want to spend money later for a belt upgrade when the EQ6-R has it.

[@AstroFarsography]

Yeah true. The belt mod on the HEQ5 makes a big difference for sure and is recommended. One thing to consider is that the EQ6-R Pro is 3x heavier than the HEQ5 so take that into consideration when looking at it. The 80ED fits nice on the HEQ5 with weight allowance to spare as well.

[@MrProulx]

@@AstroFarsography how is the tracking unguided without the belt mod? I'm a industrial mechanic/machinst and was even thinking If it came to it make better gears if they go south.

[@AstroFarsography]

@@MrProulx I can't really remember honestly. It's been so long. When I bought my HEQ5 second hand, with the gears and backlash after dunno what sort of life it lead previously, I could get 60-90 seconds unguided at 750mm with good polar alignment. Nowadays I'm guiding so much I don't really think about it

[@RostGlukhov]

Hi Ruzeen! Thanks for your equipment overview. Do you use any light pollution filter in a guidescope? Will the same Skytech lpro max filter help with guiding, or you would use some other? Cheers Rost

[@AstroFarsography]

Hey Rost thanks for the comment. I've debated using a LPS filter for guidance before but really you're only taking short loops in order to pick out stars, so light pollution isn't a factor. We use LPS filters to crush the background sky in order to let deep sky objects pop out more and actually have a chance to show their beauty, as they're faint and dim we need longer exposures. Stars, however, are bright point sources and don't need such luxuries. Summary: no, not necessary :)

[@neilberkeley5469]

Hi love your videos I have the same telescope as you same flattner and same dslr I’m about to give up on this scope. I cannot focus it to save my life? What could I be doing wrong? I have other scopes no trouble at all. Help if you can ? Thank you

[@AstroFarsography]

Hey Neil. That's surprising to hear that you're having difficulty focusing your telescope. It's the Evostar 80ED version then? With the Altair flattener and a DSLR my focus point was about 1-2cm out from the tube. I conclude you know enough about racking focus in and out to try and find a focal point. The most I can ask right now is for photos to my email so I can see the setup and maybe notice if something isn't quite right. But as for now, with your description, that's baffling why it can't focus. Have you been able to try and focus on the Moon? Or tried focusing it during the day on a distant object?

[@neilberkeley5469]

AstroFarsography thanks for the quick reply I’ll mail you a photo of the setup👍

[@neilberkeley5469]

AstroFarsography ok so I figured it all out Thank you Racking focus was my issue It’s such a fine line between in and out compared to my redcat Lightly focusing a hair at a time Thank you Keep up the good work

[@jamiebastin192]

Bit late to this video, but i have been looking at this set up! brilliant video thank you :) - Quick question, i am limited in what i can take out on a session with me as my laptop is...well a toaster, do i NEED a guide camera or will the mount be sufficent? thank you.

[@cliffephoto]

i love the rimworld soundtrack. great video

[@PhDsubtilis]

Some accessories can be observed, that you don't mention. For example, it seems like you also invested in the black crayford dual-speed focuser replacement? Maybe the one from FLO? And - another observation - what kind of flattener? Altair astro? Not Sky-Watcher's own? Talking about accessories... Maybe that stuff could also be listed with links above.

[@AstroFarsography]

Good eye. Correct j have the replacement focuser from FLO indeed. I used the Altair FF also as I didn't have the skywatcher one (was too expensive at time of purchase) but now I've recently gotten the dedicated Sky-Watcher FF for this scope now Thanks for the suggestion, I'll be sure to add them links later to avoid any confusion!

[@PhDsubtilis]

@@AstroFarsography Thanks. Nice videos, by the way.

[@Sarmadness]

Thank you for this! I'm about to jump into DSO Astrophotography and am looking to purchase this sort of bundle. Do you recommend additional filters if I'm planning to shoot from home (Bortle 6-7). What about narrowband imaging, would this be a better option when subject to heavy light pollution? Thanks!

[@AstroFarsography]

You're welcome hope it was helpful. For 6-7 you're pushing it but maybe an IDAS D2 filter or an Astronomik CLS/CLS-CCD (depending if you camera has an IR filter or not). The Astronomik is a bit firmer but has more red cast Narrowband is another option yes but I'd recommend you get familiar and comfortable with your gear and especially guiding and polar alignment before you go for narrowband filters. But if you do I have a review of the Astronomik 12nm and a video on using a DSLR with narrowband filters

[@Sarmadness]

@@AstroFarsography Thanks for the swift reply! I already use the Astronomik CLS Clip-Filter EOS XL for EOS 6D (unmodified). Will take your advice and first get accustomed with alignment and guiding, before additional money starts flying out! Thanks again!

[@grahamconaty5802]

I’m assuming you changed the dovetails on both the ED80 and 50mm guide scope to help with balancing? Looking to pick up this exact setup within the next couple of weeks but I’m going to be attaching it to a 1DX MKII do balancing is going to be an issue straight away with the standard dovetail. What sizes do you use?

[@richyp46]

Great video mate, just what I was after! I'm doing my research as I want to get started with astrophotography with my nikon dslr. I had landed on the HEQ5 Mount as pretty much everyone recommends it. Is the auto guiding scope essential from the beginning or can I get away with the mount and scope initially? It's going to be hard enough smuggling the mount past the wife as it is! 😂

[@TheAngryAstronomer]

Nice little level up here dude. Very watchable. Next up, a review on that OVL focuser right?

[@AstroFarsography]

Thanks dude. Trying my best with the editing and flow! If you'd like to see a review of the focuser then your wish is my command :)

[@TheAngryAstronomer]

@@AstroFarsography Absolutely. I'm legit interested in what you think about it over the stock one. The price is certainly good!

[@AstroFarsography]

@@TheAngryAstronomer I'll get on that then!

[@ChrisUK70]

I bought this telescope DS Pro Refactor kit and an eq5 mount, I am a total beginner and just could not work out how to use it properly so packed it up and it has been sitting in the case for close to 2 years. It would be great to have someone show me how to use the kit and take photos.

[@danielmills2992]

Great video i really enjoy your channel. just to ad i believe if you dont want to shell out on the 80ed the 130pds is a cracking piece of kit and is small enough.

[@VinayKumar-yg5rf]

Hi buddy i am new in AP and I don’t have any idea which telescope is best for me to capture nebula and galaxies. I watch your videos and I decided to buy sky watcher evo star 80d but in my few search for my scope i see some vedios and suggestions for scientific explorer ED80 triplet. What you 🤔 think? Which is good and not disappointed me. Please give your suggestions it really help me. Thanks

[@markdavis4754]

Great video however prices have shot up since you made it. Currently in 2023 £1700 would cover the mount and scope if your lucky.

[@divukman]

Yep, fantastic video.

[@AstroFarsography]

Thank you very much 😁

[@divukman]

@@AstroFarsography Thank you for the info! I find it valuable! Especially when thinking of getting into astrophotography myself.

[@AstroPixUK]

Hi mate. What length Dovetail bar do you attach your scope to, also the Guidescope dove tail, do you have a link. Thanks

[@damyanrm]

I see you recommend the SW reducer ... what were the issues with the altair 0.8x one that you presented in this video?

[@AstroFarsography]

After a more in depth scrutiny of the Altair Flattener images it turns out with this setup, stars at the edge of the frame weren't corrected. So it didn't offer full flattening whilst the Skywatcher one does

[@majortom4338]

Still thinking about getting a SW ED72 but I saw so many images with purple/blue halos around bright stars...that would make me cry even I am experienced in post processing. so better getting a TS Doublet 72/432 FPL53 for 165 EUR more? Best wishes from Germany

[@larrydrum1842]

Great info thank. Now if we could just get the gear here in the US.

[@darektuczapski4698]

very good commentary

[@Hazim-hw2ml]

Wow nice video👍👍

[@bkpickell]

The problem with the used market, or at least in the US is that people seem to not understand what product depreciation is. By the time you buy it and have it shipped it costs more than buying a new one with free shipping.

[@AndyinMokum]

I'm just getting into astrophotography. I also use the Canon EOS 600D. It's a great lightweight DSLR. You're correct about the interferometer. It's an essential piece of equipment. I downloaded and installed the open source *Magic Lantern* firmware onto my SD card(s): magiclantern.fm/index.html . The internal interferometer that comes with the firmware is simply awesome. No dangling cable and control box to create vibrations. There are a gazillion other upgrades contained in the firmware. They turn the little EOS 600 into a beast. Thanks for the splendid video. i've subscribed to your channel. Question, do you know of a filter that'll clear the clouds here in The Netherlands - lol? Clear skies.

[@fabriziocanale9768]

Hello, as far as I’ve understood the EQ mount is the most important part of the equipment; I’ve seen on the web there’s another mount by Skywatcher named EQM-35, a little cheaper, is it worth all the same or would I be better off with a EQ5? Is there much difference between the Skywatcher ED80 and the ED72? As for the Polar alignment, is it clearer than using a Skywatcher Star Adventurer? I found its illuminator was very dim, making the process tricky. Thanks, Fabrizio

[@jacobitejake]

Would this be a good scope for a beginner that doesn't want to take pics, just look? or should a spend less? Thanks

[@2logj]

amazing thanks it was to the point

[@benniemccarthy]

What kind of bars do you use under your Starwave guide scope and your main Evostar telescope? I've got the same equipment and I've been struggling with my dovetail bars. Also, did you replace your white tube rings with something sturdier?

[@AstroFarsography]

Under the Evostar is a 14" ADM universal Dovetail www.firstlightoptics.com/adm-vixen-type-v-series/adm-vixen-style-universal-dovetail-bars/ref/af And under the guide scope is a 3D printed dovetail that bolts into the Skywatcher tube rings. But this one from FLO will do the same job www.firstlightoptics.com/dovetails-saddles-clamps/astro-essentials-dovetail-bars/ref/af I haven't replaced the tube rings at all with anything though. They're the stock ones. The focuser on the Evostar has been changed. Btw I gotta tell you that them links are affiliate links

[@benniemccarthy]

@@AstroFarsography Thanks a bunch!

[@AstroFarsography]

@@benniemccarthy you're welcome. I couldn't ever find a dovetail bar to so the job for piggybacking the guide scope, and then after I got it 3D printed, I then found one haha

[@benniemccarthy]

@@AstroFarsography That's too bad! I'm not going to have mine 3D printed then. I'd better learn from others' mistakes.

[@AstroFarsography]

@@benniemccarthy my 3D printed one works just fine. I've got a few small bits that are printed and they really work well. I'll probably buy the astro essentials one at some point though

[@massagorgo7959]

Really helpful, thanks alot mate, clearskies! x

[@robertocarloscaruso6840]

Hello ruzeen. Which reflector for astrophotography would you recommend for a heq5?

[@AstroFarsography]

Hey there Roberto. I've used a 150pds from Sky-Watcher before which was good but I've heard the 0.8x coma corrector interferes with the light path. I wouldn't go bigger than an 200mm (8") though as it'll begin pushing the weight limit

[@thedisneylad]

Just earned my sub!

[@AstroFarsography]

Thanks a lot for your support! 😁

[@nathanheaven3492]

Can all the accessories fit on the KONUSMOTOR 130 TELESCOPE

[@nathanhassey4724]

Is that focuser stock or aftermarket?

[@AstroFarsography]

That's aftermarket. It's a little better than the stock but it's not worth putting yourself out for to get

[@Nottsboy24]

Nice upload 👌

[@Darfe78]

Have you replaced the stock focuser?

[@AstroFarsography]

I have on mine now. Bought the crayford replacement one

[@sh3llbac]

nice video

[@rdhall9190]

I've seen another review of this scope which suggested have a 50mm extension on the focuser. Have you found that to be necessary? it appears the reducer/flattener provides some extension.

[@AstroFarsography]

If you use the scope at its native 600mm then extension is required. But yes the R/F does provide some extension and it changes the focal plane also I believe

[@rdhall9190]

@@AstroFarsography awesome. Thank you. I have this scope in my amazon cart right now. Will probably be a visual scope until I decide which dslr I want.

[@Oxizee]

There are Takahashi top models where no FPL53 can be found (or its equivalent from Hoya etc). It is therefore one of the arts of the trade to find those combinations. That is why Skywatcher does not communicate about this in new telescopes. The evostar was in the time then still used schott glass with FPL53. Nowadays they all use an combination of good performing ED Apochromatic glass. FPL53 says nothing.... only a sells/pay model.

[@adammadi9109]

Is the guidescope really necessary?

[@AstroFarsography]

Not initially but you'll be restricted to 1-2 minute exposures at best even with accurate polar alignment. You can begin without guiding most certainly though

[@adammadi9109]

​@@AstroFarsography i do not have a polar alignment stand, i have the stock celestron skyalign mount. will that be suitable, or is an equatorial mount (automatic or manual) necessary? Thanks!

[@DoomWalker42]

Is the Canon DSLR 300D EOS any good?

[@bellbookandcandle97]

Thankyou sooo much. I love you !

[@brucenunn3268]

Very Helpful..!! 👊😷

[@Boekoe12]

I think i am going with a NEQ-5 with a n200/1000 skywatcher dobsonion for deep sky imagine

[@AstroFarsography]

That's going to be a very nice set up, some good deep field there for sure. When will you be getting that?

[@Boekoe12]

AstroFarsography i hope there will be some sales at friday, but i doubt it since it is more an American thing. And i have been telling my self for 3 years i am going to buy a telescope. BUT I think before xmas.

[@hat_maker]

is that rimworld music i hear at the start?

[@hurriyetpek77]

see you changed the focuser on the ed80.. any reason for that?

[@AstroFarsography]

I wanted to see if it was any better. I also enjoyed the look of it and the fact it had a rotator built into it also made me want to buy it.

[@alanbruce2356]

Hi, enjoyed the video, however the equipment links are broken, so no pennies for you :) Thanks

[@AstroFarsography]

Thanks. Yeah Altair updated their website so I need to go back and sort them links out. I keep forgetting 😅 I'll set a reminder now haha thanks

[@suzanne7813]

Hi there anyone help, new sub here, loved your review very understandable. I am going to look tomorrow though my nearest store is 2hrs away and not sure they do skywatcher.. I really like this set up and after days of research I think I am almost certain of ed80 or 100, however I really am put off that it wont be any good for planets, so my question if you see this, is can the planets be seen well and just do not take grt pics? I have waited years for this oppurtunity so really want to know, or maybe will buying this and another for planets as everyone I have researched does not seem to do both do and planets 😁

[@AstroFarsography]

Hey Suzanne thank you for your support. They more than likely will carry Skywatcher if you're in the UK. But can always give them a call first! If you're mainly interested in planets then I'll steer you more towards the 100ED, there's a few more items that would make your planetary experience better for taking photos (see the Damian Peach talk on high resolution imagery on my channel). I was shown that the 80ED can do planets and do them better than I had expected, but you'll need Barlow lenses and other accessories too :(

[@suzanne7813]

@@AstroFarsography Thankyou so much yes. Add ons etc suits me fine, just being greedy, impatient along with a undecided mind for so long. I will sleep better now, maybe a few more vids lol, so excited. Thankyou again!

[@AstroFarsography]

@@suzanne7813 tell me about it. I'm trying to assemble a planetary rig myself and there's just so many things to pick from! If you're interested in solar system then I definitely recommend the Damian Peach video! Good luck and keep me up to date with what you decide to go with! 😊 I'm editing a new video at the moment... But I do need sleep 😂

[@Kyle_Hubbard]

I don't know why people sleep on channels like this. This isn't a slight against the more successful channels, however I feel some of them aren't very good for people who are various stages of their journey. I'm talking just the lack of information, tips, etc, that might make a huge difference for a beginner or might teach something new to someone who's intermediate. Also BTW I hear that Rimworld in the background.

[@creeper360bill]

lol is that rimworld music in the background?

[@AstroFarsography]

Yes, yes it is. Love me some Rimworld 😁

[@j.m.5917]

Nice vídeo but it sends the message that a beginner needs to spend over 3k USD to do AP. There are many much more affordable but good quality options out there.

[@AstroFarsography]

Indeed it does and these days I know of a lot more affordable setups so maybe a follow-up video is in order sometime :)

[@wiilsta5641]

@@AstroFarsography Yes! Please make another video, I am lost in the sea of Astrophotography!

[@RimReapr]

Most of the links do not work

[@AstroFarsography]

Thanks, links updated

[@RimReapr]

AstroFarsography Thank you 🙏 Great video.

[@AstroFarsography]

Thanks so much for your support! 😁

[@G4L4CTICR4DIO]

Watching for over a mont. just noticed Farsography 😂

[@TeodorAngelov]

How does beginner know he wants to do deep sky photography?

[@MsIrrealis]

you forgot "B A Start" 1:13

[@AstroFarsography]

Damn! 😂 That's going to annoy me now haha