Posts Made By: PAUL KISSNER

Hi,

We are new to astronomy and just purchased a Meade 8" LX-90 LNT-UHTC. Can anyone give me some advice regarding an imaging device? There are such a variety of units out there. From 1.2 meg-pixel web cams, to adpaters for regular digital SLR cameras to astrophotography specific units like the Orion StarShoot Deep Space CCD, to the various Meade imaging devices. Beyond those are much much more expensive units.

Question: Why are the astrophotography units relatively low resolution, .5 to 1 meg pixel as compared to regular use cameras? Do regular digital cameras with adapters work just as well? Why do so many people use the Phillips web cam? What do you recommend?

Hi,

I'm new to astronomy and just purchase a Meade 8" LX-90 LNT-UHTC and need some eyepieces. The scope came with a Meade Ultra Wide 8.8mm
and a 40mm plossl. I was looking a purchasing a couple more.

Looking on the web I've come across some zoom eyepieces. Can anyone comment on zooms? Is the image quality sufficient? Down sides?

Do you have any other recommendations for additional eyepieces that I should purchase to have a good viewing range- i.e. I assumed I should get a 25mm plossl but came across the zoom.

Is the 8.8mm a good choice for high magnification...is that too high or low for my scope.

Lastly, can anyone recommend a good book or two for a starter. I'd also like some reading on astrophotography (for beginners).

Thanks,

Paul

Hi,

Can anyone point me to what they feel is the best astronomy software for a beginner? I have an Meade LX90 8" Goto scope and thought it would be nice to use my laptop and some software to guide me through some tours, etc. Will the software interface directly with my telescope? Do people generally like / find useful this type of software? I have read alittle about Starry Night, is that a good choice?

Thanks in advance for the help!

-Paul

BTW the focal length of my scope is 2000mm f/10(8")