Autoguiders

Hi all...I have been taking manually guided astrophotographs for the last year, and basically, the guiding is killing me. I would really enjoy the relative convenience that a CCD autoguider could provide. I have an Orion SVP-8" EQ reflector, and I use an Olympus OM-1 camera. I will be mounting an 80mm guidescope on the OTA, and I will be mounting a dual-axis drive on the SVP mount. Can anyone give me some opinions on autoguider systems that I should look into? I've read some about the Meade Pictor 201XT, but I saw a few really bad reviews about it, so I am a bit leary of it. I have heard good things about the SBIG ST-4, but I see that it's discontinued. Any suggestions? Thanks!

Michael

The ST-4 would be the one to go with ($500-$600 used) or the newer STV (expensive). Don't even waste your time with the 201XT.
But first you need to find out if your mount is even able to use it because I really have my doubts. It doesn't look as if that drive system will be autoguider compatible.

I also think that mount would be very under rated for your 8" scope and photography, especially when you add the extra weight of the guide scope and autoguider. If I were you I would look into upgrading to a beefier mount first and then do the autoguider at a later date.


Let us know what you find out,

Robert W.

Michael,

The ST-4 is available pretty frequently on Astromart;
prices vary from $350 to $650. SBIG provides excellent
service and advice, even if you're buying used.

I own an STV (bought used), and it works like a dream. The
video display and advanced features are helpful for drift aligning your mount, for centering objects too dim to see through the camera eyepiece, and for focusing the autoguider. The STV also comes up pretty frequently on
the used market. You can get one, with the e-Finder
attachment (forms a stand-alone guidescope for low
focal length optics) for $1700-$1900.

Good luck.

Todd