This page list much of the equipment I utilize. I have organized it according to my main telescope configurations and then listed the accessories that I may use with any of the telescopes I have.
- Telescope Setups
- Celestron C-6SE Schmidt-Cassegrain (Imaging Telescope)
- Meade 7″ Maksutov-Cassegrain (Observation Telescope)
- Questar Duplex 3.5″ Maksutov-Cassegrain (Observation Telescope)
- ZWO SeeStar S30Pro Smart Telescope
- Binoculars
- Cameras
- Bino Viewers
- Eyepieces
- Filters
- Accessories
Celestron C-6 Schmidt-Cassegrain Telescope Setup
This is my grab and go imaging telescope. Small enough to fit in a large suit case. It has three distinct configurations possible for imaging; 1. Primary Focus (FL=1,500mm) 2. 0.63x Reducer (FL=1,220) and HyperStar (FL=300mm). The system is composed of elements from various systems, put together for greatest flexibility, reliability and compactness.
Telescope Configuration Components
| Component | Make/Model | Specifications | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|
| Optical Tube Assembly (OTA) | Celestron NexStar 6SE | – Type: Schmidt-Cassegrain – Aperture: 150mm (6″) – Focal Length: 1,500mm – Focal Ratio: f/10 – Secondary Mirror Obs: 56mm = 37% – Weight: 8.0 lbs | Note: Optical tube assembly is the only item kept from original package (mount & tripod were sold off) – Celestron NexStar 6SE Optics Check (JPG) – Complete Celestron NexStar+ SE Documentation (PDF) |
| Telescope Mount | Pegasus Astro NYX-88 Harmonic Mount | See Pegasus Astro page | Details on Pegasus Astro page |
| 2nd Mount | Celestron / Evolution | – Mount Type: Computerized Altitude-Azimuth Single Fork Arm – Load Capacity: 25 lbs (11 kg) – Mount Head Weight: 16 lbs (7 kg) – Gears: Brass worm gears with ball bearings – Worm Wheels: Stanless steel 146mm diameter, 180 teeth – Internal Battery: 9.6V, 4.5Ah lithium ion phosphate battery (LiFePO4) – USB Charge Port: 5V, Max Output 2.0A – Power Input Port: 12VDC, tip positive, accepts up to 5.0A of current Note: Cannot purchase mount as stand-alone (unless used!) | – Evolution Manual (PDF) |
| Tripod Pier Extension | ZWO TC40 Carbon Fiber PE160 Pier Extension | Tripod Specifications – Weight: 2.3 kg – Load Capacity: 50 kg – Folded Lenght: 500 mm – Adjustable Height: 470 – 800 mm Pier Extension Specifications – Weight: 1.0 kg – Load Capacity: 10 kg | |
| Guide Scope | TPO Ultra Wide 180 | – Apeture: 40mm – Focal Lenght: 180mm – Focal Ratio: f/4.5 – Weight: 395 g – Back Focus: 55mm (W Reducer Extension Tube) – Back Focus: 99mm (Without Reducer) | TPO is no longer in business, so this model is no longer being sold. – TPO Ultra Wide 180 Configurations Diagram (JPG) |
| Imaging Computer | ZWO ASIAir Pro | – Wirelessly control your entire telescope rig with your phone or tablet – Controls and powers compatible cameras, mounts, autofocusers, filter wheels, dew heaters, and more – Plan and execute your entire night of imaging in advance with highly-customizable automation – Handles polar alignment, autofocus, plate solving, guiding, and more – Distributes 12V power to all of your astrophotography accessories – Internal storage and expandable with external storage for saving images – Works with ZWO cameras and many DSLR & mirrorless cameras | |
| Auto Focuser | ZWO EAF Focuser Starizona QuickSwitch Bracket | Focuser Specifications – Motor: 35mm Stepper Motor – Subdivision Steps: 5760 steps – Torque: 1.5 N/M – Payload Limit: 5 KG – Power Requirements: 12V @ 0.5A recomended – Connector: 5.5mm *2.1mm Center Positive | – ZWO EAF Focuser Manual (PDF) – Starizona Quick Switch EAF SCT Adapter Manual (PDF) |
| 0.63x Reducer | Starizona SCT Corrector IV | Specifications – 0.63 focal reducer factor – 2.5x faster than SCT’s native f/10 – 27mm image circle – 2″ barrel diameter – 2.5″ length excluding threads – 48mm threaded | – SCT Corrector IV Manual (PDF) – Reducer Change] – C6 | FL=1,220mm | FR=f/8 – C11 | FL= 1,760mm | FR=f/6.3 |
| HyperStar | Starizona HyperStar 6 V4 | – Focal Length: 300mm – Focal Ratio: f/2.0 – Image Circle: 28mm – Mechanical Backfocus: 39.8mm (1.567″) – Length: 3.3″ – Weight: Less than one lb | – Starizona HyperStar 6 V4 Manual (PDF) |
| Battery Supply | Talentcell LF120A1 | – Output Voltage: 1.6V-9V (Nominal 12.8V) – Output Current: 15A max – Capacity: 12.8V 1,200mAh 153.6Wh – Limited Charge: 14.6V 6A – Cycle Life: 2000+ Charges | – Battery supply with remotely imaging |
Meade 7″ Maksutov-Cassegrain Setup
The Meade 7″ (178mm) Maksutov-Cassegrain is an ideal setup for observations on the city. This telescope design is great for viewing planets, the moon, the sun (with proper filters) and multiple star systems. Basically any pretty bright object that can benefit from the longer focal length (1800 mm) of the Maksutov-Cassegrain design. Unlike Schimidth-Casssegrain and Newtownian telescopes these telescopes rarely if ever need collimation.
Telescope Configuration Components
| Component | Make/Model | Specifications | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|
| Optical Tube Assembly (OTA) | Meade / LX200 7″ Maksutov | – Type: Maksutov-Cassegrain – Clear Aperture: 178 mm (7″) – Focal Length: 2670 mm (105.1″) – Focal Ratio: f/15 – Resolving power: 0.65″ – Coatings: Meade EMC Super Multi-Coatings – Secondary Mirror Obs: 35% – OTA Weight: TBD lbs | – Manual (PDF) – OTA had been deforked, and 8lb internal weight removed -Image: TriBahtov Mask Check (JPG) -Image: Ronchi Grading Check (80) -Image: Ronchi Grading Check (100) -Image: Ronchi Grading Check (150) |
| Mount | Pegasus Astro NYX-88 | Details on Pegasus Astro page | Details on Pegasus Astro page |
| Tripod | Super Mount CYG48GRLFS | Tripod Specifications – Weight: 9.5kg/11.0kg (21/24 lbs) – Load Capacity: 60kg/180kg (132/396 lbs) – Folded Length: 633 mm – Adjustable Height: 558 – 1108 mm (22″ – 43″) ZWO Pier Extension Specifications – Weight: 1.0 kg – Load Capacity: 10 kg |
Questar Duplex 3.5″ Setup
The Questar Duplex 3.5″ Maksutov-Cassegrain is a classic small, portable telescope. I believe this telescope was originally built in 1967. It represented state of the art quality when built. The craftmanship and design quality are still exceptional. The only downside to this telescope (besides the size limitations) is that it is not a GoTo scope. Still, a great small grab-and-go telescope.
Telescope Configuration Components
| Component | Model | Specifications | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|
| Telescope | Duplex 3.5″ | – Type: Maksutov-Cassegrain – Aperture: 89 mm (3.5″) – Focal Length: 1300 mm – Focal Ratio: f/14.6 – Weight: 6.7 lbs | Telescope includes the Optical Tube Assembly (OTA) and fork Mount with clock drive. Also includes a dew shield. This model came with a purple dew shield, but I purchased a shield with the star patterns on it. |
| Mount | Tri-Stand Short Pier | PN: 19339 | 41″ eyepiece working height for comfortable seated viewing with a 31″ leg span. Includes tilt head providing fine adjustment and locking in rotation and elevation for polar alignment from 30 to 90 degrees latitude. Folding legs, 0 to 90 degrees latitude scale and rotatable accessory shelf. Weight 18 lbs. – This pier has had a custom modification to extend the height of the pier. |
| Eyepieces | Brandon Eyepieces | Various | 5 Brandon Eyepieces: 32mm(#19124), 24mm (#19123), 16mm (#19122), 12mm (#19121) , 8mm (#19120) |
| Filter | Solar Filter | PN: 19261 | Full aperture thread on, for Questar 3.5, magnesium fluoride coated. |
| Filters | Color Filters | PN: 19235 | 4 of 10, Threaded and stackable filters in individual protective plastic container: #30 magenta, #56 Yellow-green, #80A blue, #85 Salmon. Filters thread onto bottom of eyepiece (30% transparency). |
| Filter | Pollution Filter | PN: 19290 | U.H.C. Broadband Light Pollution Reduction Filter ultra high contrast for photo-visual use. Improves contrast of deep sky objects by blocking frequencies of light from city limits. (475-525nm). |
| Camera Adapter | Camera Coupling Set | PN: 13075 | For Questar 3.5″ includes #13071 swivel coupling and #13073 extension tubes. |
| Focal Reducer | 100mm Positive Lens | PN: 39490 | Achromatic .44x photographic focal reducer. |
| Case | Standard Telescope Carry Case | PN: 13179 | For Questar Standard or Duplex, 15.5″x 9″x 8.5″ wood construction, vinyl covered, soft lined and key locks. Shipping weight 9 lbs. Case has had some ware and tear. |
| Case | Eyepiece and Filter case | PN: 19425 | Lacquered wood, foam lined; holds 6 eyepieces and a set of 12 eyepiece filters. |
| Case | Solar Filter Case | PN: 13193 | Lacquered Wood, foam lined holds full aperture 3.5″ Solar Filter |
ZWO SeeStar S30 Pro Smart Telescope
The ZWO SeeStar S30 Pro Smart Telescope is great imaging setup for anyone interested in dabbling in astrophography. Everything needed to start imaging is included in this small compact unit.
Telescope Configuration Components
| Component | Model | Specifications | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|
| Smart Telescope | ZWO S30 Pro | – Type: Imaging Scope – Weight: 1.65KG / 3.6 lbs – Size: 210mm x 140mm x 80mm – Optics: 4 element Apochromatic Lens – Built-in Filter – Astronomical Light Pollution Filter (OIII 30nm / Ha 20nm Bandwidth) – External Filter: Magnetic Solar Filter – Storage: 128GB – Battery – Capacity: 600mAh – Battery Life: 6 hours – Transmission Mode – Wi-Fi / USB Type-C / Bluetooth – Wi-Fi: 5G/2.4G – Wi-Fi Range: 10m – Bluetooth Range: 5m – Image Formats: JPEG, FITS – Video Formats: MP4/AVI Imaging (Telephoto) -Aperture: 30mm -Focal Length: 160 mm -F Ratio: F/5.3 -Field of View: 4.6 deg -Sensor: IMX585 (1/1.2″) -Pixel Size= 2.9um x 2.9um -Resolution: 2160 x 3840 Imaging (Wide) -Aperture: 3.4mm -Focal Length: 35 mm -F Ratio: F/1.75 – Field of View: 63 deg -Sensor: IMX 586 (1/2″) -Resolution: 2160 x 3840 | SeeStar App Download Manuals Download (ZWO) Quick Start (2026-01) User Manual (2026-01) Measured Values Deep Sky Size: 2.2 x 3.9 deg Pixel Scale: 3.68″/pixel |
| Tripod | ZWO TC20 | Weight: 0.59 kg / 1.3 lbs Height Range: 9.3″ to 14.4″ 3/8″ threaded mounting screws | |
| Tripod Head | ZWO TH10 | Weight: 411 g Max Load Capacity: 5kg Tilt Range: -90 deg to + 90 deg |
Binoculars
- Astronomy Tools: Binocular Calculators
- Celestron: What Resolution Can I expect to get from my Binoculars?
| Make / Model | Specifications | Comments |
|---|---|---|
| Canon 12 x 36 IS II | – Aperture Size = 36mm – Magnification = 12x – Apparent Field of View = 60 degrees – Real Field of View = 5 degrees – Exit Pupil Diameter = 3mm – Eye Relief = 14.5mm – Weight = 623g / 1.4 lbs – Dawes Limit = 3.2 “ – Practical Resolution Limit = 6.5″ | |
| Analog Sky/Heart | – Aperture Size = 80mm – Focal Length = 400mm – Focal Ratio = f/5.0 – Weight = 4,720g / 10.4 lbs – Dawes Limit: 1.45″ | Eyepieces: – Astromania Super Plossl | 2″ | FOV=52deg | FL = 56mm | | Mag = 7.14x | | FOV = 7.28deg | | Exit Pupil = 11.2mm | – Baader Hyperion Zoom Mark IV | FL = 8 – 24mm | | FOV = 48 – 68deg | | Mag = 50x – 16.7x | | FOV = 1.4 – 2.9deg | | Exit Pupil = 1.6 – 4.8mm | |
| Orion Wide Angle | – Model Number: 51007 – Aperture Size = 54mm – Magnification = 2x – Angular Field of View = 36deg – Weight = 15.2 oz – Exit Pupil = 27mm – Min Interpupillary distance =60mm – Max Interpupillary distance =81mm | Purchase Date: 2026-03-16 Manual (PDF) |
Cameras
Provided below are various Astronomy Camera’s I utilize
| Application | Make / Model | Specifications | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|
| Viewing | PegasusAstro SmartEye | Sensor: Sony IMX533 Color Resolution: 3,008 x 3,008 px Pixel Size: 3.76 um Backfocus: 12mm Sensor Format: 1″ x 1″ Display Res: 2,560 x 2,560 px Field of View: 90deg Circular Cal FL(mm) = 775.6/PixScale | -See Pegasus Astro page |
| Imaging | ZWO ASI6200MC Pro Color | – Resolution: 9,576 x 6,388 (62 MP) – Sensor Size: 36 x 24mm – Diagonal: 43.3mm – Pixel Size: 3.76 um – Bayer Pattern: RGGB – Bit Depth: 16 bit – Read Noise: 1.2e- to 3.5e- – Well Capacity: 51.4ke- – Quantum Efficiency (QE): 91% – Back Focus: 55mm – Dynamic Range: 14 stops – Sensor: IMX455 – Weight: 0.7 kg | This is a full-frame, cooled camera and the main camera utilized on the C-11 since it is the only telescope that can support this size sensor. – ZWO ASI 6200 Specifications Chart (JPG) – ZWO ASI 6200 Manual (PDF) – ZWO ASI 6200 Performance Charts (JPG) – ZWO ASI 6200 Dark Current Vs Temp Diagram (JPG) – ZWO ASI 6200 Mechanical Diagram (JPG) – ZWO Cooled Cameras Quick Guide (PDF) – ZWO Cameras Software Manual – Windows (PDF) |
| Imaging | ZWO ASI294MC Pro | – Resolution: 4,144 x 2,822 (11.7 MP) – Sensor Size: 19.1 x 13.0mm – Diagonal: 23.2mm (5,014 pix) – Pixel Size: 4.63 um – Bayer Pattern – Bit Depth: 14 bit – Read Noise: – Well Capacity: – Quantum Efficiency (QE): 75% – Back Focus: mm – Dynamic Range: 14 stops – Sensor: IMX4294 – Weight: 410g | This camera was purchased for imaging on the C-6 – ZWO ASI1294MC Pro Specifications Chart (JPG) – ZWO ASI294MC Pro Manual (PDF) – ZWO ASI294MC Pro What’s in the Box (JPG) – ZWO ASI294MC Pro Mechanical Diagram (JPG) – ZWO Cooled Cameras Quick Guide (PDF) – ZWO Cameras Software Manual – Windows (PDF) |
| Solar System Imaging | ZWO ASI715MC | – Interface: USB 3.0 – Resolution: 3,864 x 2,192 (8.46 MP) – Sensor Size: 5.6 x 3.2mm – Diagonal: 6.45mm (4,442 pix) – Pixel Size: 1.45 um – Bayer Pattern: – Bit Depth: 12 bit – Read Noise: 0.72e – Well Capacity: 6.03 Ke – Quantum Efficiency (QE): 80% – Back Focus: mm – Dynamic Range: xx stops – Sensor: IMX715 – Weight: 410g | |
| Solar System Imaging | ZWO ASI183MC | – Resolution: 5,496 x 3,672 (20.18 MP) – Sensor Size: 13.2 x 8.8mm – Diagonal: 15.9mm – Pixel Size: 2.4 um – Bayer Pattern: – Bit Depth: 12 bit – Read Noise: 1.6e @30db gain – Well Capacity: 15ke – Quantum Efficiency (QE): 84% – Back Focus: 6.5mm – Dynamic Range: – Sensor: IMX183CLK-J – Weight: 140g | This camera was purchased mainly for Moon, Sun, planetary and multiple star system imaging. – ZWO ASI183MC Manual (PDF) |
| Guiding | ZWO 174MM Mono | – Resolution: 1,936 x 1,216 (2.3 MP) – Sensor Size: 11.3 x 7.1mm – Diagonal: 13.3mm – Pixel Size: 5.86um – Bayer Pattern: – Bit Depth: 12 bit – Read Noise: 3.5e @30db gain – Well Capacity: ke – Quantum Efficiency (QE): 77% – Back Focus: 6.5mm – Dynamic Range: – Sensor: IMX249 – Weight: 140g | This camera is utilized for guiding on the C-11. It is connected to the Takhashi FS-60C guide scope. – ZWO ASI174MM Specifications (JPG) – ZWO ASI174MM Manual (PDF) – ZWO ASI Quick Guide (PDF) |
| Guiding | ZWO ASI120MC-S | – Resolution: 1,280 x 960 (1.2 MP) – Sensor Size: 4.8 x 3.6mm – Diagonal: 6.0mm – Pixel Size: 3.75um – Bayer Pattern: – Bit Depth: 12 bit – Read Noise: 4.0 – 6.6e – Well Capacity: ke – Quantum Efficiency (QE): 79% – Back Focus: 12.5mm – Dynamic Range: – Sensor: AR0130CS – Weight: 100g | This camera is utilized for guiding on the C-6. It is connected to the TPO UltraWide 180 guide scope. This camera is no longer made. – ZWO ASI120 Manual (PDF) – ZWO ASI Quick Guide (PDF) |
Bino Viewers
Bino Viewers and associated eyepieces
| Make/Model | Type | Specifications | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tele Vue Bino Vue | Bino Viewers Bino Vue 2x Amplifier (BVP-2001) | – Weight: 1.25 lbs -2x Amplifier Weight: 0.4 lbs | Bino Vue Instructions (PDF) Bino Vue 2x Amplifier Instructions (PDF) |
| Celestron 35mm Ultima | 1.25″ 35mm Plossl? | – Design: Plossl? – Barrel Size: 1.25″ – Weight: 0.43 lbs (193 g) | Set of 2. No longer in production |
| Celestron 24mm Ultima | 1.25″ 24mm Plossl? | – Design: Plossl? – Barrel Size: 1.25″ – Weight: 0.29 lbs (133 g) | Set of 2. No longer in production |
| Celestron 12.5mm Ultima | 1.25″ 12.5mm Plossl? | – Design: Plossl? – Barrel Size: 1.25″ – Weight: 0.21 lbs (95 g) | Set of 2. No longer in production |
Eyepieces
Listed below are most of the eyepieces I own.
| Make/Model | Type | Specifications | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tele Vue Ethos 21mm | 2″ 21mm Ethos | – Focal Length: 21mm – Barrel Size: 2″ – Apparent Field of View: 100 deg – Eye Relief: 15mm – Weight: 2.25 lbs – Field Stop: 36.2mm | he 21mm focal length completes the logical set of 21mm/13mm/8mm and nicely juxtaposes the 17mm/10mm/6mm combination. Each step within these two sets approaches a 3x field area gain. The 21mm’s effective field stop diameter is 36.2mm, bringing its true field close to the 35mm Panoptic (38.7mm Field Stop diameter). In an f/4 Dobsonian, the exit pupil is just 5.25mm using the 21mm Ethos instead of 8.75mm with a 35mm Panoptic. |
| Tele Vue Ethos 8mm | 2″ & 1.25″ 8mm Ethos | – Focal Length: 8mm – Barrel Size: 2″, 1.25″ – Apparent Field of View: 100 deg – Eye Relief: 15mm – Weight: 0.95 lbs – Field Stop: 13.9mm | In 1¼” mode, if you use Tele Vue’s HiHat 2″-1¼” adapter, it will be parfocal with Tele Vue’s Plössls, DeLites, Type 6 Naglers, Nagler Zooms, 1¼” Panoptics and 6mm ETHOS. Further, its light weight and small diameter makes the 8mm suitable for anyone using a binocular viewer. Another application is for spotting scope set-ups with the Tele Vue 60° 1¼” diagonal. |
| Tele Vue Ethos 3.7 SX | 2″ & 1.25″ 3.7mm Ethos | – Focal Length: 3.7mm – Barrel Size: 2″, 1.25″ – Apparent Field of View: 110 deg – Eye Relief: 15mm – Weight: 1.10 lbs – Field Stop: 7.04mm | With 110°, the Ethos-SX has 21% more AFOV area than the 100° Ethos design. This permits a nice 62% power increase from a 6mm Ethos, while retaining 68% of its TFOV. The 3.7mm actually has more TFOV than our 8mm Plössl, 6mm Radian, and 5mm Nagler Type-6! In 1¼” mode, it is parfocal with the wide range of 1¼” Tele Vue Plössls, Panoptics, Radians, Naglers, Nagler Zooms, and 6mm and 8mm Ethos eyepieces. The screw-on 2″ adapter (included) is designed to make it parfocal with 13mm and 10mm Ethos when they are used in their 2″ modes. |
Tele Vue Panoptic 41mm | 2″ 41mm Panoptic | – Focal Length: 41mm – Barrel Size: 2″ – Apparent Field of View: 68 deg – Eye Relief: 27mm – Weight: 2.10 lbs – Field Stop: 46mm | The 41mm Panoptic eyepiece is a big brother to the 24mm Panoptic (largest 1.25″ field). With its 46mm field stop, the 41mm Panoptic delivers the largest 2″ field possible. An adjustable and removable screw-type top allows quick, comfortable eye positioning. The scalloped shape gives a positive grip. |
| Tele Vue Panoptic 24mm | 1.25″ 24mm Panoptic | – Focal Length: 24mm – Barrel Size: 1.25″ – Apparent Field of View: 68 deg – Eye Relief: 15mm – Weight: 0.51 lbs – Field Stop: 27mm | This Sky & Telescope “Hot Product” is designed to produce the largest true field possible in a 1¼” eyepiece. (Its 27mm field stop is the same as the 32mm Tele Vue Plössl). The higher power darkens the sky background while the greater magnification yields more details on extended objects. Further, its light weight (1/2 lb.), comfortable 15mm eye relief, and tapered top instantly make the 24mm Panoptic the ideal eyepiece for getting the maximum field for binocular viewers. |
| Tele Vue EPL-55.0 | 2″ 55mm Plossl | – Focal Length: 55mm – Barrel Size: 2″ – Apparent Field of View: 50 deg – Eye Relief: 38mm – Weight: 1.13 lbs – Field Stop: 46mm | The 55mm focal length has the largest true field possible for 2″ eyepiece holders -3 times the true field area of any 1¼” eyepiece. The focal plane is placed at the end of the barrel to minimize vignetting. Performance with Schmidt-Cassegrains is remarkable since it avoids the image degradation and severe vignetting which occurs when using telecompressors. Long eye-relief and unique adjustable eyeguard for eyeglass wearers. |
| Tele Vue EN4-22.0 | 2″ 22mm Nagler Type 4 | – Focal Length: 22mm – Barrel Size: 2″ – Apparent Field of View: 82 deg – Eye Relief: 19mm – Weight: 1.50 lbs – Field Stop: 31.1mm | Applying the experience of the Radian development to the 82° Nagler series, yielded more contrast, reduced pincushion, more true field, and longer eye-relief. With added eye-relief, the click-stop Instadjust eyeguard helps maintain proper eye distance and centration. For deep sky viewing, the comfort, clarity and contrast gets us closer to our “spacewalk” viewing goal. |
| Tele Vue EN4-12.0 | 2″ / 1.25″ 12mm Nagler Type 4 | – Focal Length: 12mm – Barrel Size: 2″ / 1.25″ – Apparent Field of View: 82 deg – Eye Relief: 17mm – Weight: 1.01 lbs – Field Stop: 17.1mm | |
| Tele Vue ENA-09.0 | 2″ / 1.25″ 9mm Nagler (Original) | (Discontinued) – Focal Length: 9mm – Barrel Size: 2″ / 1.25″ – Apparent Field of View: 82 deg – Eye Relief: 12mm – Weight: 1.01 lbs – Field Stop: 12.3mm | This is the original Nagler design that has been discontinued |
| Tele Vue EPO-24.0 | 1.25″ 24mm Panoptic | – Focal Length: 24mm – Barrel Size: 1.25″ – Apparent Field of View: 68 deg – Eye Relief: 15mm – Weight: 0.51 lbs – Field Stop: 27mm | |
| Tele Vue DCZ-2408 | 1.25″ 24 – 8mm Zoom | (Discontinued) – Focal Length: 24 – 8mm – Barrel Size: 1.25″ – Apparent Field of View: 40 – 55 deg – Eye Relief: 20 – 15mm – Weight: 0.49 lbs – Field Stop: 16.7 – 7.6mm | This zoom has been discontinued |
| Baader Planetarium Hyperion Zoom Mark IV PN: 2454826 | 2″ / 1.25″ 8-24 mm Zoom | – Focal Length: 8 – 24mm – Barrel Size: 2″ / 1.25″ – Apparent Field of View: 48 – 68 deg – Eye Relief: 19 – 16 mm – Weight: 0.49 kg – Field Stop: 9-20 mm | This pairs with the Hperion Barlow Lens 2.25x (#2956180) that I also own. – Hyperion Mark IV Specifications (PDF) – Hyperion Mark IV Manual (PDF) |
| Celestron X-Cel 9mm | 1.25″ 9mm | – Focal Length: 9mm – Barrel Size: 1.25″ – Apparent FOV: 60 deg – Eye Relief: 16mm | Great for planetary viewing |
| Orion 40mm Highlight Plossl | 1.25″ 40mm Plossl | – Focal Length: 40mm – Barrel Size: 1.25″ – Apparent Field of View: 43 deg – Eye Relief: 20 mm – Weight: 183 g | Orion and all equipment is no longer being sold |
| Orion 3.8mm Lanthanum Plossl | 1.25″ 3.8mm Plossl | – Focal Length: 3.8mm – Barrel Size: 1.25″ – Apparent Field of View: 45.0 deg – Eye Relief: 20 mm | Orion and all equipment is no longer being sold |
Filters
Filters can be used for either Visual observation or Imaging. Further classifications of filters are Broadband (ie Light pollution filters) or Narrowband (ie Nebula filters) or Color (ie planetary viewing/imaging). Broadband filters are used for viewing/imaging astronomical objects that are hot such as Globular Clusters, Galaxies and Open Clusters. Narrowband filters are used for viewing/imaging cool objects such as Gas clouds, nebula super nova remnants and planetary nebula.
| Item | Size | Class | Application | Chart | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Baader Neodymium | 1.25″ 2.0″ | Broadband | Visual, Imaging | 1 | AKA: Moon & Skyglow filter Incorporated in Star Diagonal, great for moon, planetary, Blackbody Deep sky objects. Performs excellent for both visual and imaging application. |
| Lumicon Deep Sky | 1.25″ | Broadband | Visual | 1 | A fairly aggressive filter, but still lets a little background in the field of view. I have found this as probably my favorite broadband filter (excluding the Baader Moon & Skyglow) for broadband targets in the city. |
| Orion Skyglow Broadband Filter | 1.25″ | Broadband | Visual | 1 | Orion is no longer in business |
| Astronomik UHC-E | 1.25″ | Broadband | Visual | 1 | For smaller aperture telescopes (up to 5”), this filter is a less aggressive broadband filter. |
| Astronomik UHC | 1.25″ | Narrowband | Visual | 1 | |
| DMG – NPB | 1.25″ 2.0″ | Narrowband | Visual | 1 | This is an excellent filter for observing nebula. |
| Orion UltraBlock Narrowband | 1.25″ | Narrowband | Visual | 1 | |
| Baader UHC-L Booster | 1.25″ | Narrowband | Visual, Imaging | 1 | |
| Lumicon UHC | 1.25″ | Narrowband | Visual | ||
| Baader O-III Super G | 1.25″ | Line | Visual, Imaging | 1 | |
| Lumicon O-III | 1.25″ | Line | Visual | 1 | |
| Astronomik CLS-CCD | 2.0″ | Broadband | Imaging | 1 | Excellent filter for in-city imaging of broadband targets |
| OPT Radian Triad Ultra | 2.0″ | Narrowband | Imaging | Up to this point this has been my goto filter for imaging nebula. However, I have discovered I get best results when combining this filter with the Antlia Triband RGB Ultra Filter and Askar Colour Magic filters. | |
| Antlia Triband RGB Ultra Filter | 2.0″ | Narrowband | Imaging | 1 | Excellent results on nebula when using the following filters together: – OPT Radian Triad Ultra, Antlia Triband RGB Ultra Filter, Askar Colour Majgi (OII + SII). |
| Askar Colour Magic (OII + SII) | 2.0″ | Line | Imaging | 1 | Excellent results on nebula when using the following filters together: – OPT Radian Triad Ultra, Antlia Triband RGB Ultra Filter, Askar Colour Majgi (OII + SII). |
| Optolong L-eXtreme Dual-Band | 2.0″ | Line | Imaging | 1 | |
| Optolong L-Quad Enchance | 2.0″ | Broadband | Imaging | 1 | L-QEF cuts out light pollution from mercury and sodium lamps and produces a nice broadband image with minimal colour cast. This filter is a broadband filter that suppresses light pollution wavelengths. It is good for star clusters, dark and reflection nebulae, and galaxies from light-polluted skies. |
| IDAS LPS-D2 | 2.0″ | Line | Imaging | 1 | This filter is no longer being sold and has been replaced with the IDAS LPS-D3. |
| Lumicon Hydrogen-Alpha | 1.25″ | Line | Imaging | 1 | |
| Lumicon H-Beta | 1.25″ | Line | Imaging | 1 | |
| Lumicon Comet Filter | 2.0″ | Specialized | Imaging | This is a specialty filter used for capturing the ionized tail of comets. | |
| Astronomik ProPlanet 642 | 1.25″ | Specialized | Imaging | 1 | Planetary, Moon & Sun |
| Astronomik ProPlanet 742 | 1.25″ | Specialized | Imaging | 1 | Planetary, Moon & Sun |
| Astronomik ProPlanet 807 | 1.25″ | Specialized | Imaging | 1 | Planetary, Moon & Sun |
Accessories
Additional accessories including Star Diagonals, Reducers, Barlow Lenses, Flip Mirrors, etc.
| Make/Model | Type | Specifications | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|
| iOptron iAFS2 | Focuser | -0.6 micron resolution -Weight: 783g -Dimensions: 90.5x106x82mm -Clear Aperture: 51mm Drawtube Travel: 30mm Max Payload: 5kg | -Utilizes lead worm movement. -Built in temperature sensor -ASCOM/Buttons or manual adjustment –Manual (PDF) |
| Baader Planetarium Hyperion Barlow Lens 2.25x (#2956180) | 1.25″ Barlow Lens (2.25x) | See Hyperion Zoom Mark IV above for more information | |
| Tele Vue 2x Powermate (PMT-2200) | 2.0″ Barlow Lens (2x) | – Barrel Size: 2″ – Magnification: 2x – Weight: 1.2 lbs | |
| Tele Vue 2x Powermate (PMT-4201) | 2.0″ Barlow Lens (4x) | – Barrel Size: 2″ – Magnification: 4x – Weight: 1.2 lbs | |
| Tele Vue 2.5x Powermate (PMT-2513) | 1.25″ Barlow Lens (2.5x) | – Barrel Size: 1.25″ – Magnification: 2.5x – Weight: 0.45 lbs | |
| Baader Planetarium 2″ ClickLock Diagonal Mirror | 2″ Dielectric Star Diagonal | – Barrel Size: 2″ – Diagonal Type: Dielectric lamda / 10 mirror – Weight: 495 g | – Manual (PDF) – Baader Star Diagonals Info (PDF) |
| Vernoscope LLC 1/20th Wave Diagonal | 1/20th Wave 2 Inch Gold coated Star Diagonal | – Barrel Size: 2″ – Diagonal Type: Gold Coated Diagonal – Specifications: 1/20th wave Peak to Valley – Weight: TBD | Interferometry Analysis (PDF) Comments: A specialized piece of equipment; This diagonal will distort color but should be good for planetary, Lunar and solar observing |
| Baader Planetarium FlipMirror II (#2458055) | Flip Mirror/ Diagonal | – Barrel Size: 2″ – Diagonal Type: Multilayer Aluminum coating with dielectric protective layer – Optical Pathway: 55mm with S52 | 59mm with M48/T-2 – Weight: 0.24 kg (195g) | The intent of this equipment is for Sun/Moon/Planets and multiple star system imaging. – Flip Mirror II Manual (PDF) – Baader Star Diagonals Info (PDF) |
| ZWO Atmospheric Dispersion Corrector (ADC) | 1.25″ Atmospheric Dispersion Corrector | – Barrel Size: 1.25″ | – ADZ Manual (PDF) – Sky Inspector – ADC – Using the ZWO ADC on Venus (MP4) |
| Baader Planetarium SkySurfer V Red-Dot Finder (#2957315) | FinderScope | – Type: Red Dot Finder Scope – Magnification: 1x – Objective Lenses: 40mm -Lenght: 210mm (8.5″) | – SkySurfer V Manual (PDF) |
| Unihedron SQM-L Sky Quality Meter | Sky Quality Meter | – Sky Quality Meter Manual (PDF) |
Mounts
Mounts currently owned.
| Make/Model | Type | Specifications | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|
| PegasusAstro/ NYX-88 | Harmonic Gear Mount | – Mount Type: German Equatorial and Alt/Az – Avaiable Modes: Equatorial or Alt-Az – Payload Capacity: 14 Kg/31 lbs w/o counterweight | 20 Kg/44 lbs with counterweight – Body Weight: 5.0 Kg – Max Slew Rate: 4deg/sec – Power Input: DC 12V – 14 VDC (unregulated) – GX12 Socket – 0.4A idle, 0.5A during tracking, 2Amps during sleweing – Power Output: Up to 7Amp – GX12 Socket – pass through input voltage – Operating Tempature: -20 C to 50 C NYX-88 Manual (PDF) | |