NGC 884/869 - a much better fit (Tom Gray)

NGC 884/869 - a much better fit

The double cluster in Perseus is a spectacular sight - perhaps visually even more so than digitally, where it sparkles in an already busy star field. It is difficult to fit into a small 2/3 format chip and longer focal lengths, such as my SCT/DSI combo [https://www.astrobin.com/p5rxph/?nc=user]

I'm always looking for ways to reuse/repurpose my exisiting equipment, to maximise value and efficiency. Inspired by various websites, in particular that of the late Jan Timmermans [www.thefirmament.nl/astro], I wanted to see if I could use my Meade SCT focal reducers to maximise the FOV with my Zenithstar II80 ED semi-apo refractor. [Jan clearly inspired many astroimagers, with his enthusiasm, innovation, and his Christian faith, which I share - I dedicate this image to his memory].

On receipt of a new 2" to SCT adapter, I can now achieve a focal length of ~340mm with my Meade 0.33 focal reducer, giving a FOV of just over 1 degree. Although far from pin sharp, careful focusing provides a reasonably flat field with minimal distortion, which I am more than happy with.

This extended FOV will allow me to frame many diffuse nebulae much better and I look forward to trying this out in the coming months. However, without 'goto' or 'pushto' this is going to challenge my star hopping skills! I may look to fit encoders in due course, so I can reuse my ArgoNavis on this setup.

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B

Description: Here is a picture of the focal reducer combo, attached to my Meade DSI III pro camera, and the component parts. A short 2" push fit to SCT male thread, Meade 0.33 reducer, and very short SCT (female) to T2 (male) which threads into my camera. Using a 15mm extension ring, reduced the focal length further, but resulted in more star distortion at the edge of field.

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C

Description: Given the success I am having with stacking in Penumbra - this version was then aligned in Nebulosity with a Keller stretch. Sharper and a bit less saturated, if lacking the detail of the Startools version.

Uploaded: ...

UK Astro-Imaging
Low-Cost Astrophotography
Altair Astro 183 M/C Hypercams

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NGC 884/869 - a much better fit

NGC 884/869 - a much better fit

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NGC 884/869 - a much better fit

NGC 884/869 - a much better fit

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