HR Solar set up recommendation

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torsinadoc
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HR Solar set up recommendation

Post by torsinadoc »

Currently I am using a Lunt 80DS with ZWO 174 (powermate 2.5 and 4x) on my AVX. Primarily I am do animations but would like to do higher resolution work. I have not been happy with my HR details with my current set up. It could be user error.

I am considering an edge 8 or 9.25 with D-ERF. The other option would be HAT but I would also like to use the scope for planetary and DSO. I can't decide on quark or PST mod (I have never done a solar mod). Would there be a huge gain with adding the second scope? My seeing is average (currently not very good as the jet stream is parked over my house).

Thoughts?


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Re: HR Solar set up recommendation

Post by Merlin66 »

I think a DS 80mm is probably as good as it gets!
Depending on seeing....
The combo of powermates and the ASI 174MM will bring out all you need.
Why do you think a larger aperture would be better??


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Re: HR Solar set up recommendation

Post by torsinadoc »

Is it inaccurate to assume that larger aperture will equal higher detail?

Or how can I optimize what I already own?


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Re: HR Solar set up recommendation

Post by danpro1 »

My 2 cents: in general, excellent astrophotographers have pushed their existing equipment to the limit before upgrading. It might be worth looking at what others have been able to achieve with the same setup as yours, to refine your technique and attention to small details as much as possible. When this is done, upgrading will bring you even better benefits.
Good luck with your quest,
Daniel


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Re: HR Solar set up recommendation

Post by Merlin66 »

Torsinadoc,
The easiest way would be to post some of your results for comment...
There may be issues with your tuning/ focus/ processing which can be improved.
It all comes down to the seeing conditions (and fast frame rates!)


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Re: HR Solar set up recommendation

Post by marktownley »

What are you not happy with regards the images?


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Re: HR Solar set up recommendation

Post by torsinadoc »

Im pretty pleased with my current scope. I am still learning to process and constantly changing workflows. I want to get more closer detail and resolution with an additional scope. My current set up works best with the 2.5 powermate.


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Re: HR Solar set up recommendation

Post by Montana »

The last few shots have great HRes, however I think you will see more detail if you don't invert ;)

I see why you want to go higher though, I certainly found more fine detail at 120mm than I did at 100mm, however I only got a clear shot 25% of the time compared to 80% of the time with the 100mm. I think I would have struggled to do an animation with the Quark at 120mm whereas I have taken loads of animations with the 100mm. So it is a difficult choice, I would definitely keep the 80mm as your work horse but on the those occasional days when seeing is very good then drag out a bigger aperture.
Alexandra


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Re: HR Solar set up recommendation

Post by marktownley »

Montana wrote: Mon Jan 22, 2018 10:24 am I certainly found more fine detail at 120mm than I did at 100mm, however I only got a clear shot 25% of the time compared to 80% of the time with the 100mm. I think I would have struggled to do an animation with the Quark at 120mm whereas I have taken loads of animations with the 100mm. So it is a difficult choice, I would definitely keep the 80mm as your work horse but on the those occasional days when seeing is very good then drag out a bigger aperture.
Alexandra
Exactly my findings too!


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