Starting Over

I've taken a step back in astrophotography to revaluate where I want to take this journey. This is a candid vide of some of ups and downs of this incredible hobby astrophotography and my plans going forward.
My Link Tree - linktr.ee/avastronomy​​​​​
Links to my other videos that explain layer masks, camera settings, Collimation and image processing in more detail.
• How to process Astroph...
HLVG - www.deepskycolors.com/archive...
Gradient Xterminator - www.rc-astro.com/resources/Gr...
OPT telescopes and Agena Astro have a tremendous inventory of astrophotography gear and great service. You can check them out here through my affiliate links. This is the setup I currently use.
Agena Astro - bit.ly/3D3U8id
ASI AIR PLUS - bit.ly/46BTfej
IOPTRON GEM 28 MOUNT - bit.ly/3O2QpGX
WILLIAM OPTICS Z61 - bit.ly/44v5Hv7
IOPTRON IGUIDER - bit.ly/44AXRzv
ASI 294MM CAMERA KIT - bit.ly/46Clqd3
Links to helpful astrophotography items that can be purchased directly through Agena Astro.
TELESCOPES
Redcat71 APO telescope - bit.ly/3D6cT4s
Sky Watcher 8" Dobsonian reflector telescope - bit.ly/3XGYwNy
ASTRONOMY CAMERAS
QHY 600M - bit.ly/3rbHgno
ZWO ASI533MC Pro OSC camera - bit.ly/3XPlzpx
ZWO ASI2600MC pro camera - bit.ly/3pDJFHg
MOUNTS
ZWO AM5 Mount - bit.ly/44eHUzn
Sky Watcher Star Adventurer 2i Pro pack - bit.ly/44gXXMV
Sky Watcher EQ6 R pro mount - bit.ly/3riYbVc
Sky Watcher EQ8 (for heavier payloads) mount - bit.ly/3D3UFkd
Celestron CGXL mount - bit.ly/3O2u6lQ
FILTERS
Optolong Luminance Pro (broadband light pollution filter) - bit.ly/46FIdEJ
Optolong L-extreme(vary tight/narrow dual band light pollution filter) - bit.ly/3NLwrjJ
Optolong L Ultimate - bit.ly/3NIHABV

[@Vara91391]

I will be honest, I only enjoy watching videos with simple dslr+mount+tracker, as well as taking pictures in the same way. When I watch videos and see these high-tech equipment full of cables and laptops with mobile big battery packs, man, that turns me off. Even if I was rich, that would not be fun. I want to enjoy the quiet outdoors, feel the breeze, hear the night animals, while my camera does its work, that alone makes me happy. The other night I was thinking about my beloved dog that passed away long ago and I was smiling and laughing at the fun we had and I was talking to him as I was watching the stars while the camera did its work. To me, there is no better feeling. This to me is not about the end-result because frankly, there is always something better, then there is NASA, there's just always something better. Best to stick to the simple and love the time with it, instead of constantly wanting to be better, do better, and meanhwile forget to be happy and actually enjoy all the steps that you are doing instead of just a final result. I think you realized this now and thrive to get back to that point where you want to enjoy every minute, from finding and aligning polaris to doing the darks and happy to crawl back in bed later and have an editing day to look forward too !

[@darrylhedges1372]

I have had a lot of hobbies during my 70 years on this planet. Of all of the things that I’ve done, astrophotography is by far the hardest thing that I have ever done. Getting my computers and software to work reliably with the main imaging scope, guide scope, filter wheel, focuser, and mount is a never-ending challenge. The first thing that I would suggest is figuring out how to get yourself an observatory set-up so that you’re not constantly setting-up and breaking down your equipment every time you image. Even if you can just make a small enclosure to protect your mount, it will eliminate having to lug it out to your observing site, getting it level and solidly in place and then doing your polar alignment. Eliminating having to do those things every night you image makes a huge difference. Good luck!

[@ekalbkr]

Having the blessing of open enough skies to do a permanent set up is a blessing - but the rest of us have to pack our gear. I'm in his same situation, and, at 69, it's a pressing chore , but sometimes you have to deal with the cards you've been dealt!

[@alh717]

As much as I enjoy the wonderful photos of some of the other astrophotographers on KZbin, people like me do not have the funds or time to match their great rigs. I thank you for getting back to basics and will continue to follow you.

[@variableknife4702]

Astrophotography isn't a sprint. It isn't a marathon. It's an epic migration - any race is only with yourself.

[@ericbonneville6837]

The best scope is the one you will use and enjoy without any frustration! Have fun!

[@richards3192]

100% with you here. I got pulled down the rabbit hole but after sitting down and adding up what I had spent the last year, woke up to the fact that it's a money pit of diminishing returns and increasing commitment. I'm sticking with my SXD2, AAP and my wide field refractors and focusing on dark sites, good data and improved processing. Therein lies satisfaction for me

[@WalidFeghali]

I wasn't subscribed to you and haven't seen your vids before, but this video came into my recommendations and I resonate so much with this. Not just in astrophotography but in many hobbies and endeavours. Stay simple, stay happy, curious and keep evolving as a person. Thanks my man! Subbed. W.

[@ekalbkr]

I feel your pain. My nearest clear view of good sky is only 4 miles away, plus a fair hike up a sandy trail hauling a 4 wheel garden cart filled with 60+ pounds of Astro gear. Though I have upgraded to a good lightweight mount dedicated astro camera and a highly recommend ASIAirPro/Plus, I probably spend fewer nights under the stars now than I did with a star tracker and DSLR. The payoff is - after a long learning curve, I am getting much better results. My "children are grown" solution includes 3 -10 hour drives to dark skies camping where I can get several nights of data, if and when stars, equipment and good preparations all align. Of course, I always think an upgrade to bigger and better is what I need, but in reality, I don't. What I need is to continue learning how to get the most out of my size, weight and expense limited equipment and make choices to improve simplicity and reliability. Good luck with your restart - you get👍👍 from me! BTW I just subscribed to your channel yesterday because I like your workflows - I hope to hear more from you when you are ready!

[@GeorgeSpacesOut]

This video might not have been long after we became mutuals on TikTok. I ended up stepping away as well, and diverted my attention to storm chasing. If you think this is a frustrating hobby, storm chasing can be just as stressful, and I can assure you it can be far more exhausting--the long drives at all hours of the day eventually take their toll. I burned out. I've tried chasing this monsoon season but the drive just hasn't been there for me lately, even if I'm driving to an open desert area just a few minutes away from home for a good composition. Lately, I've devoted significantly more time to creating content around astrophotography, and as I told you on TikTok when we first followed each other, your videos were instrumental in getting me started with this hobby. Thank you for all that you've done and I'm gonna keep catching up on what you've been up to here.

[@polmontwojtek]

Hi, thank you !, it was like reviewing what happened to me in last four years. Somebody told me once.... "the best equipment is the one that you're using" and that is the truth

[@justinhendrickson3133]

Like most people, I have spent more than I'd like on gear over the years, but one of the best and and most useful things I've ever bought was a Telegizmos 365 cover, and compared to other pieces of gear, they are cheap! I don't have an observatory, and I don't mess with setting up unless there is a string of at least 3 days, and preferably 4 or 5 days of forecasted good weather and I leave it set-up the whole time. I shoot narrowband now, so I'm not as concerned about the moon as I used to be and automate my runs using NINA while I sleep. This has greatly reduced the "frustration" level of the hobby I think gets everyone at some point. Some people enjoy the set-up and tear down. I am not one of them, lol. I've found shooting one target over the course of several days yields a better data set which is more enjoyable to process and if I have a bad night where something was off it's easier to shrug off. I try to tell myself it's more about the journey than any one night. Good luck in your astro reset!

[@yervantparnagian5999]

I follow the KISS principle. I almost went down the rabbit hole with purchasing a guide camera, laptop, Asiair etc. Then I said to myself, why? I started out with a HEQ5 Pro mount with a simple mirrorless camera and regular zoom lens(150-600mm). I was getting great images, but thought maybe I could get even better images. That's where the problems start! So I went to a Refractor and a Newt. Then, as you state, collimation and backfocus distance becomes a worry to name a couple. I asked myself, what's the end game? I'm not after being the best astro photographer on the web so why go down the rabbit hole? I went back to the basics of a Star Adventurer and a DSLR and lens. No fuss, no worries, no laptop, no software to worry about and no wires all over the place. Keeping it simple keeps it fun, easy and inexpensive. Excellent images can be obtained too with a DSLR and lens. Many of these big KZbinr's like Astrobackyard etc are getting kickbacks to push new equipment on others and many get caught up in thinking they NEED never ending new gear to get the picture. You don't. Take a step back and keep it simple. You'll have a lot more fun.

[@Tony-Elliott]

Remember Aaron we do this for enjoyment once it starts to become a pain you will start to look for excuses to not to set up your equipment, looking forward to seeing your new set-up

[@poolsidestargeezer9338]

Peace brother! The ASIair plus has made it possible for me to hit the ground running as a beginner in this hobby. It has allowed me to see results right away with a small learning curve. I understand the drive for bigger better and more. Also, if I had to drive somewhere instead of going out to my backyard every night, I wouldn’t be in this hobby. As it is I setup and break down every night which is frustrating when clouds come rolling in right at 8:00PM. I look forward to building an observatory for a permanent setup. I’m glad you still want to continue just at a calmer pace. I’ve settled on 3 telescopes. Planets and galaxies (edge HD of some size - one day), a solar scope (quark on an Orion ed80t cf - have it and still learning), and a refractor for larger nebulae (I have an AT130EDT and I’m still learning with it as well). I’m a newb, but am enjoying learning. And I might find I only want 2 after a while. To all the other newbs, if you find that you are making excuses to not go out on a clear night, think about what is it about your existing equipment that makes you think that. If you figure it out, make changes. Aaron, I’m looking forward to seeing your new setup. Enjoy your downtime. Find that balance, and see you when you get back! Cheers.

[@blaircolliver5194]

Thanks for being so transparent about your journey. I wish you well as you get back to simpler things.

[@AstroSoundscape]

Good for you getting back on track and hitting the reset, finding that balance to any hobby or pursuit in life is key.

[@astrodad656]

One of the first things I recall as a youngster with regards to astronomy was the old mantra "the best telescope is the one that gets used". I also remember a wealthy neighbor was bragging and he told me he had a "very big telescope" and today I realize he never uses it. Your videos have been inspiring and helpful. I will tell you that when I get frustrated (usually with higher focal length telescopes) I fall back to my 70 mm refractor. So easy to run and it only takes me 5 minutes to really get it going. I look forward to your return but you have left so many great videos I will be busy for a while!

[@DavesAstrophotography]

Good luck on your refresh! May the clear skies come soon and you start to enjoy things again.

[@astronomynotebook]

Good luck with new direction…please do keep us up to date.😊❤️

[@brinkoo7]

This is totally great insight for newcomers. I have seen too many people buy too much equipment, or equipment that is just unreasonable for their skill level. I have found myself here and I might still be there at times. This all kinda goes back to the adage that the best scope is the one you use... great video!

[@hangerbird]

Sometimes, simple is better. I live on the third floor and lugging equipment up and down the stairs can drain you to do this hobby. That is why I'm more or less good with just my DSLR and my Star Adventure Tracker.

[@pa60pilot]

Best wishes for you as you reignite the passion from your early days.

[@1957TAH]

I have the ASIAIR Pro. You will love it, just be sure your equipment you attached to the ASIAIR Pro is compatible. Running the ASIAIR App on the iPad is wonderful, it takes a little time setting up the App, but it will remember your settings the next time you start again. Plate solving is nice. I have been able to get photos better than I ever figured I could. You have been very helpful and Hang in there.. I have an EQR6-Pro, You are probably going to wish you kept it. Mine tracks very good.

[@tamrich7762]

The secret of this unique hobby Aaron! is to enjoy and master the tools you have and most of all remember it’s a hobby something to enjoy and relax, it can be very frustrating at times with the weather and equipment failures, but most of all is the reward you get when the first image comes to light. The best of luck my friend and take care.

[@olly2011sub]

Very honest video that. I want you to know, without some of your videos (especially image processing) I would've quit this hobby a long time ago. Get back to enjoying it pal. 👍

[@TiagoRamos79]

Good evening from Portugal, first I want to give you my bow for exposing this problem. In my case it has happened to me, but with small value pieces. Like most of us astrographers I also suffer from this problem, but I have two problems I am very pragmatic in most purchases and with little money (I have to think twice or several times if it is worth buying, in addition to having very friendly astrofography companions in the tips) . Personally I opted for refractors (I love refractors), a large field WO Zstar 61 V1, and a TS Dublet 102 FPL53. (this to have very attractive focal lengths on most of the targets to be photographed) , for future OTAS the woman gave a deadline of 20 years, I have already reduced it to 10. And for me it is excellent. I have a lot to explore. In the future maybe an SCT or RC for Galaxias. Calm down, I've also made stupid purchases like anyone else. Big hug and strength.

[@sylvio1966]

Yes, my first time here. I'm starting this hobby and I want to use my knowledge of photography in this area as a starter, a dsrl, a tripod, a sky guider. But I'm sure your previous videos can help with more information. Never stop having fun. We are always taking falling and getting up, it's part of life. Good luck and good comeback.

[@siegfriednoet]

Thanks Aaron for making this honest video regarding your feelings. Looking forward to some simple and enjoying video's

[@bloodstone2000]

You were meaning me on twitter with the Ioptron Boxes right!? LOL In all seriousness I Fully Understand about the Trials and Tribulations of Gear and we can ourselves, Over complicate it, and Buy more and More on and ON. I have done that in the professional Music World.. 25 Guitars 20 Amps.. endless amount of Outboard Gear Over and over.... When it comes down to it? it wasn't FUN anymore... I went back to my Original Guitar and amp that i have recorded with for decades And worked my way back to it being Fun again with out the excess ... On another Note Aaron , YOU are 100% The reason i STARTED my astro Journey and Never stopped.. All those Twitter DM's we had in the Beginning really set me on a path that i wanted to be on, and have Continued to Grow from... So from the Bottom of my heart i owe a BIG THANK YOU my good man... You inspired me to keep on..

[@AVAstronomy]

Hey bud! Thanks for the kind words. Really appreciate that. Inspiring others to learn and grow in this hobby is what It’s all about. Glad to know my videos helped make a difference in your journey.

[@ianmacdonald2307]

I stated out in astrophotography in late 2019. I bought a basic set up and use either a Skywatcher 72ED or more recently a Samyang 135mm lens ( I should have bought it first) on a SWSA. I must have watched hundreds of YT videos in that time and the ones I enjoyed must were those with simple setups. I started to get bored when some of those channels became too complicated because the presenter bought more and more equipment which I could never justify. They no longer interested me because they were too technical and made too many assumptions about people’s knowledge of the equipment they were using. I wholeheartedly agree with you Aaron, get back to basics and re-kindle your love of our hobby. Your knowledge, approach and presentational skills are as good as any of the others and I for one look forward to watching your future videos 👍

[@AVAstronomy]

Thank you for that feedback Ian. I really appreciate it. Clear skies bud!

[@simonpepper5053]

I am too going through a six week break of this hobby I think it’s been caused by similar issues when from wide field to deeper imaging and after spending those hard earned hours out in the field when processing the images are far from postable as a result lugging the gear out came tedious. However last night I went for it again and had so much fun I think this hobby needs breaks and like you going back to basics that’s such a good idea. This channel has really helped me on my journey Aaron your tutorials in PS have been game changing looking forward to your back to basics route!

[@tubedude54]

Just found your videos... I've been in this 'hobby' now over 50 yrs and we all go thru what you're describing. For me it has been verification that black holes do exist... it will suck all the money out of your wallet and bank account if you let it! lol Photography has been the biggest obstacle for me. There are days I want to just chuck all my cameras (only 3 or 4) into the river near me and sell all my scopes and mounts and just get me a 32" dob and just LOOK thru it like when I started out when I was 12 with a pair of WW2 binoculars my uncle gave me.

[@AVAstronomy]

I know exactly what you mean. Even to this day I still think about selling my gear and getting a nice dob. I think if I had my own observatory it would help. For now, I keep going through this roller coaster of wanting to image and wanting to be done with it.

[@3SistersAstroOldAcct-fh3hd]

We appreciate this video and you. We have hit a wall ourselves as a family. We’ve passed on some clear nights because the mount we have and the CPC 1100 is such a beast to lug out. It’s hard because we want to be thankful and we are, but a lighter scope and the opportunity for a filter wheel would do such much for us. With the Hyperstar setup, we are unable to have a EFW, and we have to manually switch out filters. In doing so, we have to stop everything, put the dew shield on and get calibration frames for each swap. We’ve tried to set it up where we do several targets with each filter to prevent the amount of times we touch our imaging train, but that has its down sides as well. Thanks again for all you do for this community!

[@AVAstronomy]

Hey 3sistersAstronomy! I love y’all. You do some awesome work and I think it’s so cool that you do this as a family. Love your posts on instagram and TikTok. Keep up the awesome work and thank you for chiming in on my channel!

[@BrentMantooth]

I got wheely bars to cart my scope around. That has me out a lot more often

[@GrayGhostRyders]

I can definitely identify with your thoughts on this topic. I am 75, retired, living on an off-the-grid ranch with bortel 1-2 skies in the central mountains of Idaho. I started down this astrophotography rabbit hole about 6 months ago and during that time I can count on both hands the number of clear sky nights that we have had and at least half of those were full moon skies and incredibly cold... I have a star adventurer 2i tracker with a sturdy tripod assembly, a canon EOS RA astrophotography mirrorless camera as well as an EOS R astro modified camera and a very wide variety of high quality EF and RF lenses... We are going to a Mike Shaw Astrophotography workshop in Moab at the end of April which we have been looking forward to since last September. My biggest issue with the Star Adventurer is being able to see Polaris in the scope and line it up with the app... Not a big issue with wide angle milkyway type shots of course, but a significant issue when tracking with larger lenses such as our Canon 400mm DO lens... After the Moab workshop I am planning at looking into using an autoguider and possibly an ASIAir Pro for dithering... Once I have that all figured out the plan is to start looking for a reasonably priced quality Sky-Watcher refractor telescope and larger equatorial mount. I am interested in learning just what your new setup will consist of and I would Love to know, if you had it to do all over again, if you would still go with the Reflector telescope instead of the refractor? This is my first time running across your channel and I have subscribed and will check out some of your earlier videos and will also be looking forward to you future videos with your new setup. Thanks for taking the time to post the above video and for the willingness to help some of us "Newbies" as we go down this very long and deep $$ rabbit hole.

[@AVAstronomy]

Firstly, really jealous of your bortle 1-2 skies 😆. Once you get a feel for your gear and get guiding, polar alignment, and image processing under control you will be blown away by the quality of the images you’ll produce. You’ve got some good gear to get started already. I’ll be doing a reveal video of my new setup soon but I can tell you it does include and ASIAIR plus. And to answer your question, if I had to do it all over again, I would do just like your doing with a decent star tracker, lenses, and guidescope. I would not go with a reflector. Not because I don’t like them but they really aren’t built for easy grab n go setups. If I had an observatory I would probably go with a celestron edge hd for longer focal length imaging and either a RASA or wide field refractor for nebulae. I still would use my lenses as well. Some of my favorite images have been taken with my modified canon 77d on my star tracker and canon 100mm f2.8 lens. Glad you found my channel and help it hopes you grow in your journey into this awesome hobby. Clear skies and God bless!

[@CosmuzzAstro]

It's sometimes good to have a total reset to get you back on track. You spot on, bigger and more advanced isn't always the way to go, especially if it's not a permanent set up. I think we all get caught up in the new/better gear trap at some point, It's very easy I think. I've lost count how many times I've had to reel my self back in. Wish you all the best starting over and Clear Skies!

[@mouseylikesnuts6437]

Much wisdom in this video. Thanks for sharing and good luck for the future!

[@Invisible_one]

Good luck with the reboot! I feel like I am in a similar situation sometimes!

[@frankskeen1310]

I am older now and the best thing that I have done was build my own observatory on the cheap for under $600. It has plenty of room and I got a used old style fiberglass satellite dish from a lady who had it in her yard 15 years and just wanted to get rid of it. It's 10.5 ft in diameter and it rotates by hand for now. I also have a concrete pier which did not cost much to build. And like you I am wondering if I have to much equipment, and I do. So I also am figuring out which scope do I use the most and stick to it. I have a good camera ASI071MC PRO and a good canon DSLR I just need to get good at one thing at a time instead of chasing my own tail trying to get images as I see on KZbin videos. Yes I would like to reach that point, but for now I too just want to have JOY!!

[@grigoryvidishev1810]

Stay strong, this is a rewarding hobby. You will succeed and I look forward to seeing your success video.

[@AVAstronomy]

Thank you Grigory!

[@3DAstroTC]

I can relate, and I think the ASIAIR Plus will really help with your frustrations. I almost quit the hobby as well, brutal cold winters, the AIR Plus changed all that for me. Now I'm watching this video, capturing the Cone nebula at JGAP, warm in my car, able to monitor progress.

[@RawNoise]

Thank you brother for sharing the feelings that I believe we all have from time to time in this hobby! K.I.S.S. method is in a lot of ways the best way to go. It's easy to get wrapped up in watching other videos with fancy gear and amazing results and trying to keep up with the social media pack. You nailed it by just getting back to that feeling you first had and enjoying the hobby!! I applaud your candidness and look forward to seeing you back at it when you are ready and energized! This hobby is just so frustrating with conditions we can't control without introducing factors that we can control!! I wish you well and clear skies my Astro friend!!

[@trevorbray7960]

On the ride with you Aaron. Have enjoyed your videos and they have helped me advance my AP skills. I started hobby in Jan 2020 and have had my ups and downs. Learning the types of scopes work best for me and trying to keep gear to minimum. Trying to adopt new rule if buy new item have to sell equal. Currently down to one mount, 2 cameras and 3 scopes. Will be reducing to one camera and 2 scopes. The ASI products have made life much easier. Your making the right decisions! Thank you for all of the great educational videos. They have helped me learn basic processing skills increasing the joy of viewing the many awesome wonders of the night sky.

[@benc7102]

Gday Aaron Totally understand change of direction.I have enjoyed your content & look forward to your next installments Best wishes mate

[@Lord_Whiteley]

Funnily enough, I just sold a load of stuff!! I realised that I really needed a fast scope, as we get so few clear spells in the UK and bought a RASA and sold my GT81. For a portable setup, I have a skywatcher AZ-GTI and matching tripod, canon 700D (modified) and Redcat51. So that’s wide field medium field and for narrow field I have a 8” R-C. All three controlled with ASIAir pro & plus. Any chance you can leave your mount outside or build a pillar. It takes me 5 minutes, to mount the scope, connect battery and Ethernet cables and power to the ASiair. The mount stays in place polar aligned and just put a cover over it.

[@ALSutton]

Im a visual astronomer as well as an astrophotographer. I am honestly hearing you. I find getting closer to the sky with binoculars is a good way of lessening astrophotography related stress. When I buy a telescope I ask myself, would I ever put an eye piece into this thing? If I wouldn't use it visually I know for a fact I will find it frustrating and discouraging for astrophotography.

[@astrojudebob]

Of all the challenges in astrophotography, the lack of a backyard has been my biggest. I would love to have an observatory, even if it was in a shed. I have to travel 15minutes everytime to set up at a dark site. The weather is 2nd, since I can only go out if the whole night is clear. I hope I keep the passion like you have been able to do.

[@AVAstronomy]

Hang in there JG. My hats off to you for having to 15 minutes every time you setup. With all the other challenges we face in this hobby having to travel every time shows dedication. Enjoy the small victories. It will help keep you going.

[@michellemason6501]

I had a similar experience with Astro photography. Basically I cannot afford to keep up with folks that have more money that who can buy high end gear. So I stick to using a dslr and star trackers and small refractor. Cannot afford an expensive equipment. Love your videos! Very informative and real.

[@AVAstronomy]

Thank you! Clear skies and God bless!

[@AstroFarsography]

Man this sounds familiar. Good job recognising that something was wrong with your feelings towards the hobby. I hope the new setup brings you the joy you're seeking. I reckon if the goal is an easy hobby, look elsewhere. Even when you have it all dialled in and it looks easy now, there was many wasted nights prior to that learning the fundamentals and such! The ASIAIR will help I reckon, really makes the experience easier in my opinion. Clear skies mate 👌

[@AVAstronomy]

Hey bud! Yeah, I think the lighter payload, less wires, and wireless control will help a good bit. Easy hobby… definitely not, lol. But for me between all the wires connections going back to my laptop, collimation struggles, heavy payload, back focus issues with coma corrector, etc. it just stopped being fun. I think that stuff has its place in an observatory it for a guy like me that breaks down every night, a smaller, portable “wireless “ option will be more fitting. Just waiting on that ASIAIR plus to arrive…. Cheers mate!

[@SimonsAstro]

Well said! Congrats on 6k subscribers! It’s so I easy to go down the rabbit hole spending loads of money on more and more gear! Before you know it, you’re overwhelmed! The basics for me was also special, a time I won’t forget! Good luck with your new journey starting over👍

[@Westlake]

Thanks Aaron! Have enjoyed your previous videos and look forward to seeing your new setup and your new videos in the future! 👌🏻👌🏻

[@georgalbrecht8029]

I feel with you there. Of all hobbies, this is the bumpiest to choose. See you when you're back and ready again.🤞

[@GarnettLeary]

Simplicity is the direct route to and back to the connection with the cosmos. If it’s overly cautious, laborious, or difficult.. it loses it’s nature. I feel you. When I begin to feel myself drift away I tear it all down and drop an eyepiece in. You seem deeply touched by the loss of the connection. I’m glad you got your bearings and are back on track. Many countless people have been there. Wherever you end up never forget why you came. Clear skies and God bless.

[@AVAstronomy]

Beautifully stated Garnett. Thank you and God bless you!

[@maxguerryastro3076]

Good call getting back to basics. Had a night with just my dslr and tripod last night after 2 months of basically hoping for clouds every night to justify not going out. Definitely feeling reinvigorated after that. A night of visual with the dob often helps for me too. Excited to see what’s next for you!

[@claudiotenreiro3111]

Thanks a lot for your video. Really one has to be happy with the gear we have and get really the most out of it before moving to another one and, the difficult part, not to fall in temptation driven by others or the industry.

[@travlon5101]

What you said was very well put and I'm sure many of us have gone through the same things. I sort of knew from the start, what I was after and thankfully I've gotten to that point where I'm very content with the equipment I have and IT'S STILL FUN ! I too use an 8" reflector and find it performs just as nice as an expensive refractor. I have an astro camera and a lot of accessories, but like I said, I'm now content and have reached my goal. Now it's all fun and challenging to see what I can capture with what I have. Keep the new videos coming, you are very helpful !!

[@bengterlandsson7921]

Honest video. Good luck with your new equipment.

[@Wheeljack678]

GAS (Gear Acquisition Syndrome) is real with this hobby. At one point it can easily get too much hassle and you kind of forget why you fell in love with Astrophotography in the first place. Going back to something light, quick and easy might respark that kindle again. Looking forward to more videos from you. Make them when you want to, not because you feel you have to.

[@joelsweatman1503]

Can't wait to see the new setup and I know you will do awesome with it!

[@AVAstronomy]

Thanks Joel!

[@davidhoskin6144]

I understand how you feel. For me the most daunting part of the hobby has been getting comfortable with image processing software. When I need a break there is always observing and sketching. Anyway, I am looking forward to seeing the results you get with your new rig.

[@astrodad656]

I second this post!! Totally. Especially getting comfortable with processing software.

[@kingkevinhector]

I feel your pain. I've been doing astrophotography for six years now, and I feel as if I could write a book on all the mishaps, accidents, and equipment failures I've had during that time. Whatever hobby you have, if it stops being fun and becomes a chore then it's time to take a step back and re-evaluate.

[@deltaastrophotography]

Great video man! I totally feel you! I ordered an EQ6-R pro around this time last year and it took almost a year to arrive. During that time period I reached several breakthroughs with my Skyguider Pro, DSLR, small scope and lenses, and ASIAIR. It was like reaching the top of a hill I had been climbing for a long time. I was so happy with my small setup that I quit craving all the big expensive gear I would see in other KZbin videos. I had almost forgotten the EQ-6 when it finally arrived. The fun and sense of awe that I used to get from just shooting the Milky Way with a DSLR and tripod had returned. You nailed it when you talked about no longer looking forward to getting out and setting up! If it gets to that point then it's time to take a step back. Your decision is a bold and wise move, and I'm glad you shared it. I think we as people who like making KZbin videos about our astrophotography journeys should almost have a responsibility to show people you can truly enjoy this hobby without going into thousands of dollars worth of debt for gear you may never use. Your videos have been an inspiration to me for a while, and I wish you all the luck in the world on your future projects!

[@AVAstronomy]

Hey man! I’ve enjoyed your videos as well. Thanks for chiming in on my channel and glad to hear my videos have helped you on your journey. Looking forward to getting back to a simpler setup bringing back the fun in this incredible hobby. Really enjoy your channel. Keep up the awesome work!

[@RaysAstrophotography]

You are absolutely right Aaron! If it is not fun there is no point calling this as a hobby!!

[@AVAstronomy]

So true Ray. Appreciate your support over the years.

[@avt_astro206]

Very cool, i can Relate This Sometimes I find The Old Astrophotos Despite The Noise More Stunning. You cant beat Simplicity, I have Been Doing some deep Sky projects Since Past 3 months. I spent This Whole Week, Capturing The Moon. It Feels Good and fun too!! Very Inspiring Video!

[@gavincrouch]

The classic "get back to basics". I have more hobbies than I have time for and the lesson I learned early on is to keep it cheap and fun, else, what's the point? My most expensive hobbies all turned into white elephants, it became a chore. It's also more rewarding when you think your cheap setup will result in a complete disaster because you think you "need" x,y, or z and it turns out to be your best photo.

[@JayPatel-ey6gb]

Great video - I 100% understand how you feel. This hobby is filled with technical challenges and frustrations. It's important to step back and remember why you started! I use the ASIAIR Plus as well and it has made astrophotography so much fun again!

[@AVAstronomy]

That’s encouraging to know. Thanks Jay.

[@ronstewtsaw]

A few months ago, I put everything in a corner except my 10-inch dob. Waiting for a time when I can afford to stay up late - which might be a few years off. My astrophotography is always so rushed that I make dumb mistakes. I do pull out the dob to look at the instant gratification objects like the Pleiades, Orion nebula and, Jupiter.

[@marklowry4431]

My two cents (feel free to ignore): Try a raspberry pi and kstars if you haven't already. You can do polar alignment anywhere in they sky. It's free and not difficult to learn imo.

[@AVAstronomy]

I haven’t heard of kstars. I will definitely be checking that out. Thank you!

[@indysbike3014]

I sent in my Newtonian for collimation. So I’ll give it one more chance or else it’s bye bye reflector. If results are good and I can do basic collimation myself then I might keep it.

[@jameswoods1939]

I hope that stepping back and downsizing renews that love for this hobby that you had. I too often consider selling most of my gear, keeping some, but downsizing and lowering some expectations. While my images with capture and processing are improving my time available seems less and less. We rarely have clear skies and when it is clear I live about six miles east of Philadelphia so our seeing is never above average. The night sky is a consistent gray color. This hobby while entertaining and educational certainly can be trying.

[@peterspatz6918]

Saw your Video with the new Orion newt, but not many videos with it. So I thought he is not happy with that. Newts are good scope and from comparing to refractors more or less cheaper. But its not grab and go, and you have to tame them. As I wished to deal with galaxies, I checked the database in NINA. It gave me 50 pages of hits with galaxies, but only the first page are interesting for my 80mm refractor, but on the other 49 pages the galaxies turned out to be so small, even with 1000mm focal lenght you would'nt see to much. So my conclusion is getting a refractor around 500mm focal lenght (+/-50), or a refractor at 600 with reducer to 480, so you get a kind of variety. Gives you a scope good to handle, about 5 Kilos weight, is more forgiving for seeing, fits to a medium mount like HEQ. You need nothing more. Wish you good luck this time with your new setup.

[@goatsuukerhill]

I have benefited from your AI outreach, thanks. I am 14 months into AI, starting with a Nikon B700 and a tripod. I am still having lots of fun. You propose a simpler, easy to use approach that will bring back the fun. I would love to know what set up will be. Warren

[@enriqueboeneker]

I think we actually started at the same time this astrophotography journey. Due to several financial reasons, I could not “improve” my rig, so basically I have the same stuff now, that I had back then. I don’t want to say that I do not want to buy new stuff that make my pictures better (a cooled astro camera, an automatic focuser), but I have not been able to do that. So, what I have done is take a step back a little bit and learn what else I could do with my equipment. Have to say, though, that I’m more fond to astronomy, the science, and that I see astrophotography as an auxiliary part of it. So, I am doing more photometry and spectroscopy now, and trying to match them and my findings with some nice pictures (not perfect, but at least nice), to spread a little bit the word of this amazing science that is astronomy. This is what keeps me going and motivated. What I am saying, is that you have to find what ultimately is your motivation. Once you find it, you’ll recover that fun you used to have when you just started. Clear skies, my friend!

[@AVAstronomy]

Hey bud, appreciate your feedback. I’m hopeful that taking this new approach will help me find that spark that I once had for this awesome hobby. Thanks for all of you support along the way.

[@astrocarone9671]

Great video. I feel your pain, this hobby does get very annoying. Can't wait to see your new setup!

[@AVAstronomy]

Thanks Caleb! Appreciate that. Keep up the good work!

[@astrocarone9671]

@@AVAstronomy thank you man! :) and my pleasure!

[@GrowingAnswers]

I think we all feel like that at some point. It's partly why I am now getting into solar imaging. Btw, where did you sell your gear...astromart? I have a few things I want to sell myself.

[@AVAstronomy]

I’d love to get into solar eventually. And yes, sold the gear on Astromart.

[@douglasestrada26]

Hey my brother, God bless you! Can't wait to see what you set up is gonna be, you and other great guys like, Chuck, Trevor, Cuiv etc are the reason I have my own observatory with a EQ8-R, Rasa 11 v2, Asi2600mc etc, operating everything with the Asiair plus, the Asiair plus is a game changer Bro!, it takes me 10 minutes to start taking pictures of this wonderful universe, and that includes opening the roof 😃. Just wondering have thought of getting a Rasa for your set up?. God bless you my brother and pls let us know what's your plan for your set up.

[@AVAstronomy]

Thank you Duglas. Really appreciate that. And yes, a Rasa would be very nice. Perhaps one day.

[@TheKain202]

Eh, in my three years of participation in the hobby, i wouldn't exactly call it fun - nor do I think it's supposed to be. Once you progress out from the "let's just some shoot shit, lmao" phase it really ain't fun, nor gratifying. The draw of the thing for me is the satisfaction of producing result you are happy with after wrangling your hardware and software into submission and working out all the kinks. It definitely ain't gratifying, but boy, the satisfaction you get by the end... I see astro the same way I see rock climbing or any other challenging activity, not a fun romp, but more about challenging yourself and about perseverance in face of adversity and satisfaction with succeeding.

[@bullshitvendor]

whats that in the background? remnants from one of your frustrating nights out under the stars?

[@AVAstronomy]

😂

[@brinkoo7]

lol... im still scared scared of a newtonian and I run a 10" RC and an 11" RASA LMFAO

[@AVAstronomy]

😂

[@Culpano]

Aaron, you've simply had an astro meltdown. Burnt out due to having too much kit. Too many scopes, adapters, filters, mounts, autofocusers, reducers, barlows, computers, cables and many more contraptions. You then get a clear night and are totally bewildered. "What do I shoot ?", "galaxy or widefield emission nebula ?", "what filters ?", "mono or color ?", Moon is full - drat", "why has neighbour got his security light on full blast ?". Then you hit technical issues. Meridian flip didn't work as expected, guiding all over the place, focusing issues, images not turning out like you intended. You knocked the tripod leg mid imaging, polar alignment took 15 mins. Then you need to decide whether to take portable rig to a dark site or set up in the garden. Etc etc etc. This hobby drives one mad !!! Then there is the processing ! Takes hours but I don't do this part. Once I have the image stacked and stretched I merely tweak it on the iPad. I'm not a perfectionist. I just want to see images of object that I struggled to see as fuzzy blobs through an eyepiece. So you have made a good decision in starting from scratch. Why not have two scopes ? One for widefield and one for smaller targets. Two astrocams and two guide scopes. One portable rig and one fixed pier in garden ? I built my own observatory with a EQ mount on fixed pier connected to computer in summer house. When I got my obs up and running I soon realised I wasnt doing any visual astro any more so I bought a 12" dobsonian but its too heavy to lug out of house and neighbours security light sporadically come on so its a waste of time ! Solution to this ? I bought an AZ-GTi, tripd, Star Adventurer wedge, ASI Air Plus, small Evolux 62ED (great scope) and a cheapish Zwo astrocam.... Live stacking !!! Its fab. I enjoyed testing it by live stacking a Messier marathon of over 25 objects in two hours. Ok not fantastic images but images in colour and far better than the view through my 12" dob if I was in a bortle 1 sky ! So I have my main obs imaging for longer on targets and my portable setup I can take out of house and be live stacking withing ten mins. That definitely brought the fun back. I do notice on the various forums that a lot of folk do too much processing and too little actual astronomy. They would not think of live stacking 25 Messier objects in one night. Oh no they need to spend 25 hours on one object then spend days processing it and over analysing it. That's not astronomy. Hope this helps you a bit in decided where you want to go next...good luck !