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Posts Made By: James Head

September 15, 2021 05:04 AM Forum: Refractors

Can you identify this refractor???

Posted By James Head

Could you take a picture looking into the front of the scope to see what the outside markings of the lens cell state?

July 6, 2022 02:53 AM Forum: AstroMart FAQ

How do you give a rating?

Posted By James Head

I recently purchased something but can't find how to provide a 5 star rating. I have messages from the seller, and looked at the ad, I am logged in, where is the link?

July 6, 2022 03:02 AM Forum: AstroMart FAQ

How do you give a rating?

Posted By James Head

Thank you, found it scrolling down on the account page.

July 21, 2023 09:57 PM Forum: Equipment Talk

10" Reflector Equatorial Mount

Posted By James Head

I'd use an astrophysics 900, 1100, 1200, Mach 2, etc. Other beast that could handle it are Losmandy G11, Software Bisque Robotic Paramount MYT Mount, etc.

March 25, 2024 05:46 PM Forum: Equipment Talk

Sky safari pro and Ioptron 120

Posted By James Head

I am not familiar with your equipment and software but have seen similar issues when time and location settings are not matched.

August 16, 2024 01:25 AM Forum: Refractors

Small refractors, what's all the excitement about

Posted By James Head

One of the reasons is they usually have a wider field of view, which is desired to image large nebulae and star fields in the Milky Way, or distant clusters of galaxies. (although one could always stich smaller images together). Also, the smaller expensive ones are less costly than the larger ones, weigh less, are easier to haul around, but most importantly, must have 1) the best optics to provide accurate data when trying to image the universe, whereas anything less might introduce optical issues that make it difficult to process native data and, 2) have a well-built OTA and focuser that can provide many options for the imaging train without warping or bending. 

When the optics and seeing are great, it is possible to push the limits... 

High-quality support is usually associated with the best refractors, including active user groups.

Then there's the mount, etc..... 

Also, in outreach, when observing visually, it's best to not introduce the public to false color or a twisted, or fuzzy view, so quality can count there too but it doesn't have to be the best imaging optic. A sturdy mount helps when it's windy or if kids bump into it. Also, so the image doesn't wiggle around if they bump their brow on the eyepiece.