Originally Posted by warrior (Post 7525020)

Cool pics as always Dave.

I need some advice on Lenses I bought a Celestron Nexstar-8 it came with a

40mm lens what other size lens should I buy first.

Originally Posted by Iowanian (Post 7524987)

Sounds like you're looking for God.

Originally Posted by Dave Lane (Post 7327148)

I've got a Takahashi FS-102 refractor on a Losmandy G11 mount and a SBIG 8300 CCD camera. Its not a beginner rig but its lighter than my beast and easier to set up. Orion makes good stuff for the most part i have a Orion auto guider and scope on the Takahashi.

Originally Posted by Buck (Post 7524979)

How exactly do you keep a 60 hour exposure without noticing any movement? I mean the Earth is moving, right?

Originally Posted by Jenson71 (Post 7525111)

How much does a set like that cost?

My understanding was that the shots you are taking could only be seen through some sort of university or research project that would cost tens of thousands of dollars to put together.

Originally Posted by Dave Lane (Post 7147237)

With my new interest in astronomy and getting a new camera yesterday for my new telescope I present this fun quick little video. I might bump this thread when I start getting some images from deep space objects.


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Originally Posted by Dave Lane (Post 7525116)

I think used, if you aren't looking for REALLY distant galaxies you could put together a reasonable little setup for $2,000 - $3,000. $5K buys a nice setup. I've seen guys that do the top of the line shots spend $200k easy.

Originally Posted by Dave Lane (Post 7525101)

A lot depends on what you are looking to see. I'd get something in the 12mm range and then maybe 20mm range too. 40 mm is nice and wide but not very powerful. If you are in town I think I have a 25 mm Plossl I could donate to you, and you would be more than welcome, if you bring your scope over, to use the better lens I have too. I have a pretty good selection you could pick through.

Originally Posted by MoreLemonPledge (Post 7525118)

Originally Posted by warrior (Post 7525131)

Thanks Dave, Trying to pick up some quality eye pieces on ebay.

I'm in Texas now other wise I'd like to meet you and learn more, maybe a rain

check when I get closer to KC.

Originally Posted by 4th and Long (Post 7525132)

:)

Originally Posted by Dave Lane (Post 7525151)

Absolutely. I'd try to get a couple Naglers if you can swing them. Also get the 2" versions if you can do not buy the 1 1/4" unless you have to. Buy a 2" diagonal preferably 97% reflectivity and you should get some great views with your scope.

Also Google "SCT collimination" online to see if your scope is got its two mirrors centered and aligned. It makes a huge difference in your views.