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Very basic rig for VA / EAA with excellent results

Posted: Wed May 20, 2020 1:34 am
by AussieHowie
I stuck this post into the Gallery thread but the actual image is within a HD desktop video capture ... to show what is possible for those wondering if VA /EAA is a direction they'd like to go (while waiting for their AP rigs to do their normal long sequence runs, or if wondering if a camera will get more detail than their visual/eyeball rigs). I've noticed many forums these days tell people enquiring about VA / EAA so much information using so many high tech gizmos that it is crazy hard for them to figure out anything to get started. So, as well as showing single 15 second frame as well as stack of 4 x 15 sec frames, the video contains a lot of info on the very basic equipment and some tips on finding and framing, and how few settings are really required using SharpCap to get a really good result.

Link below is to a video I shot when testing out my restricted-to-home Corona virus rig for my LP townhouse complex. (For use when the complex common area becomes available for use again). Complex is bortle 6-7, two streetlights on the south side which is the direction I was shooting. Camera tripod + Star Adventurer + Orion 50mm f/3.2 mini guidescope used as the main imaging OTA with ASI224 inserted into that optic + SharpCap Pro as the software running on an old 2011 bootcamped Macbok Pro. ($400 second hand about 5 years ago). Used a Baader filter which has all-in-one filtering for Moon and Skyglow + UV/IR.

Video is 10 minutes and covers the rig, and then desktop HD capture showing me first connecting the camera, setting "find n frame" exposure and gain to find Eta Carina with the push-to Star Adventurer, then upon centering the target object setting 15 second at gain 280 and show me stacking 4 frames. Very nice result with such simple equipment and simple techniques with SharpCap.

https://youtu.be/YhBrug5pwns

Re: Very basic rig for VA / EAA with excellent results

Posted: Wed May 20, 2020 8:08 am
by turfpit
Carl

An excellent video for anyone starting out with Live Stack showing how to produce a decent image using basic, inexpensive equipment.
many forums these days tell people enquiring about VA / EAA so much information using so many high tech gizmos that it is crazy hard for them to figure out anything to get started

Many on forums believe they need expensive equipment, and all sorts of advanced stuff like platesolving, reducers, GoTo mounts,
100% agree with those statements!

Thanks for making this and posting to the forum.

Dave

Re: Very basic rig for VA / EAA with excellent results

Posted: Wed May 20, 2020 11:38 am
by AussieHowie
Cheers Dave.