I recently decided to set my trusty Hyperstar aside and do some imaging at the native focal length for my scope (2350 mm). I got some nice new shiny equipment (OAG, filter wheel, etc.) and got it all put together. Rather than tell the story of my first attempt, I'd like to share my list of "The 10 Phases of Trying to Image with a New Setup (specifically one with a much larger focal length)" which I went through to acquire an image of NGC 6888, the Crescent Nebula:
1) This is going to be AWESOME! I'm going to get SOOOO much detail and resolution! Everyone is going to think this image is the best I've ever produced!
2) Hmmm... everything seems to be a lot more sensitive now... having trouble getting my OAG to work and getting my guide camera to focus... But still excited!!
3) Surely it can't be THAT difficult to get this to work....
4) This is impossible....
5) Why would anyone do this????
6) FINALLY everything is focused! Back to excited this is going to be awesome!
7) 10 minute exposures!? This is going to take all night!!
8) Aaaaaand image is out of focus... How sensitive is this thing!?!?
9) Can I even fit this nebula in the frame!?!?
10) Where's the blue envelope!?!? Stupid light pollution...
And there you have it... I have to say though... Totally worth it
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