Meade's DSI ?

Has anyone used meade's DSI. If so can you tell me what you think about it. I would like to get into ccd imaging, however at the moment Im on an extreme budget.


Thanks in advance
Eric Zaal

Hello Eric! 8)
I used to have one, so I'll tell you what I think...

The DSI is NOT bad at all, but it is not as easy as they picture it...
Unless you have experience in the DSO imaging world, it will be a long/steep/frustrating curve... (not the camera's fault, but a combination of variables, like equipment, software, weather conditions, object you are imaging, etc, etc)

As a note, my skies suck down here, and light pollution gets in the way "big time", so that is part of my problem too... if you have dark skies, then you might be in a better position.

Anyways, might want to check Yahoo Groups, as they have some dedicated to the DSI, and might find more info about it...

Good luck, and clear skies!


P.S.
Here's one of my best shots with it... in B/W...

Attached Image:

Thanks for the input guys. I think im just going to put this idea on the back burner for a while. Thought it might be an interesting toy to play with, however it seems it might not be such a good idea after all.

Thanks again
Eric

Eric: I am completely new to CCD, but had some previous experience with film. I did considerable research, read some books, and I made the decision to buy a used ST-237A rather than another CCD camera (all of which might be fine, I would not know). I noted that the chips were about the same size. SBIG has the mature software. I bought one without the color wheel and am using it with telephoto lenses as a piggyback system until I get the hang of the "new" technology. The SBIG software is super, the camera is great. I am having a blast learning the ropes without having to image through my scopes. No images to share as yet, as I am still learning!

Oh yea, anyone reading this with a spare color wheel that fits an ST-237A (CFW5C Filter Wheel), let me know!

Good luck Eric, Ed Wiley