Orion Parsec 8300C or Nikon D5300?

I am considering the purchase of an Orion Parsec 8300C camera, but I have one question: Why did Orion stop offering these? It looks like it would be a good camera -- small, cooled, efficient, reasonably priced.

However, I have been told that the Parsec is not compatible with ASCOM Version 6. Maybe that was the reason?

So now I am faced with the dilemma of whether to buy this camera or go with my original plan to buy a Nikon D5300. If I go this route, I will have it modified for astronomical use by Spencer Camera, which will make it comparable to the equivalent model of Canon. (I am a long-time Nikon addict, with many Nikkor lenses that can still be used with the new digital cameras.)

What do you think?

Thanks for your views on the matter.

Steve Gaber
Oldsmar, FL

Hi Steven,

Have you seen the newly released Nikon D810A astrophotography DSLR camera? The price is pretty high but it looks pretty amazing.

Best,
Charlie

Steven Gaber said:

I am considering the purchase of an Orion Parsec 8300C camera, but I have one question: Why did Orion stop offering these? It looks like it would be a good camera -- small, cooled, efficient, reasonably priced.

However, I have been told that the Parsec is not compatible with ASCOM Version 6. Maybe that was the reason?

So now I am faced with the dilemma of whether to buy this camera or go with my original plan to buy a Nikon D5300. If I go this route, I will have it modified for astronomical use by Spencer Camera, which will make it comparable to the equivalent model of Canon. (I am a long-time Nikon addict, with many Nikkor lenses that can still be used with the new digital cameras.)

What do you think?

Thanks for your views on the matter.

Steve Gaber
Oldsmar, FL

I don't believe the Orion Parsec is still avalible. However your Nikon 5300 would be a good choice. I have the Nikon 5100 and 5200 that I use for Terrestrial photography and I use them occasionaly for Astro Photography both cameras are unmodified and they still do quite nicely you might consider not modifying your new Nikon. Also the 810 while pricey would be the ticket. I have three modified Canon cameras I use for AstroPhotography as well. A conon XTI, a 60D and a 6D all modified by Hutech. So its your choice.

Dwight