Celestron EdgeHD 11" - Upgrades and Configurations

Ғылым және технология

In this video I show upgrades to the Celestron EdgeHD 11” telescope and configurations for Visual, Planetary and Deep Sky that I have developed for it. Details and links below.
Celestron EDGEHD 11"
#91050-XLT
Bobs Knobs Collimation Thumbscrews
www.firstlightoptics.com/bobs...
Top Dovetail Bar
www.365astronomy.com/Celestro...
Dew Heater Band (Astrozap AZ-711)
astronomyplus.com/collections...
(Use with a controller such as the Astrozap Dual Channel Dew Heater Controller, Model AZ-720)
Kendrick (C11) Dew Shield 305-320mm OD, Product Code: KAI-2036
www.kendrickastro.com/dewcap....
TEMP-est (vent fan system)
www.deepspaceproducts.com/pro...
ZWO EAF - Electronic Automatic Focus motor
www.365astronomy.com/zwo-eaf-...
ZWO EAF Bracket
www.365astronomy.com/zwo-eaf-...
Celestron Reducer 0.7x
www.365astronomy.com/celestro...
Celestron 48mm T-Adapter
www.365astronomy.com/celestro...
M42-M48 Adapter (16.5mm)
www.365astronomy.com/zwo-m42-...
Imaging Flip Mirror
365astronomy no longer sell this item. Alternative:
www.amazon.co.uk/Astromania-1...
M42 male to 1.25" eyepiece adapter
SVBONY SV148T2
www.amazon.co.uk/SVBONY-M42%C...
2x Barlow
www.365astronomy.com/365astro...
Atmospheric Dispersion Corrector
www.365astronomy.com/zwo-adc-...
M42 male to male adapter
Purchased from eBay
ZWO ASI662MC Camera
www.365astronomy.com/zwo-asi6...
Primalucelab ESATTO 2” with ARCO 2” Rotator
www.365astronomy.com/esatto-2...
Adapter between ESATTO 2" LP and SC Telescopes with Large 3.3" SC Thread
www.365astronomy.com/primaluc...
Primalucelab 2" Visual Back (Eyepiece Holder Barrel) for ESATTO 2" and ARCO 2"
www.365astronomy.com/primaluc...
Primalucelab Connection Adapter between ESATTO 2" and ARCO 2"
www.365astronomy.com/primaluc...
Primalucelab Adapter from M56 to M54 with Stop Ring for ESATTO 2" and ARCO 2"
www.365astronomy.com/primaluc...
7-position 2" Filter Wheel
www.365astronomy.com/zwo-2-ef...
Telrad Finder
www.firstlightoptics.com/find...
Losmandy Clamp
ADM Losmandy D Series Dovetail Plate Adaptor
www.rothervalleyoptics.co.uk/...
Camera for 600mm guidescope
ZWO ASI174MM Mini
www.365astronomy.com/zwo-asi1...
Hyperstar v4
starizona.com/products/hypers...
Options I selected:
EdgeHD, Add Filter Slider, Fastar, Equatorial/GEM, ZWO Cooled.
Hyperstar Filter Holder
www.rothervalleyoptics.co.uk/...
ZWO ASI2600MM PRO Camera
www.365astronomy.com/zwo-asi2...
Hyperstar Cable Router
BuckeyeStargazer Cable Router for Front Mounted Cameras (Option: C11 with Hyperstar)
www.firstlightoptics.com/adap...
Guide Camera for Hyperstar
QHY 5L-II-M MONOCHROME Planetary and Guide CMOS Camera
www.365astronomy.com/QHY-5L-I...
MUSIC CREDITS
'Closer' by Andrew Ev [Mixkit]
-----------Chapters-----------
00:00 Introduction
00:54 Upgrades
14:55 Visual Setup
17:36 Planetary Setup (2800/5600mm)
27:33 Deep Sky Setup (2800/1960mm)
32:57 Hyperstar Setup (540mm)
42:32 Technical Drawings
43:20 Final Thoughts

Пікірлер: 110

  • @paulbenoit249
    @paulbenoit2496 ай бұрын

    For someone owning a C11 and wanting to find out all the options that optical system brings, this is a truly excellent video. Very well done, clear, detailed and concise. Thanks for the time and effort. I do not own one, but still found it incredibly informative.

  • @martinsastrophotography

    @martinsastrophotography

    6 ай бұрын

    Thank you so much!

  • @wenhaoqu4296
    @wenhaoqu42963 ай бұрын

    Wonderful video for introducing SCT visual & imaging setup. I just bought a second hand C8HD and watched many videos on YT, this one by Martin is the best and most intuitive ever. Still have many gears to complete those setup, but I'm not confused anymore. Much appreciated Martin, thank you for your knowledge and sharing!

  • @martinsastrophotography

    @martinsastrophotography

    3 ай бұрын

    Thank you!!

  • @oldpicker6315
    @oldpicker63154 ай бұрын

    Bravo, my smart fellow. You just save many hours of headaches for the edge hd users. Thanks Martin. Hoping for clear English nite skies is an act of great faith like waiting for the second coming….is it not. Nevertheless, you are prepared.

  • @martinsastrophotography

    @martinsastrophotography

    4 ай бұрын

    Thank you for your kind words sir….and it’s a clear English night tonight!!!!

  • @Lasserubinskov
    @Lasserubinskov6 ай бұрын

    As an EdgeHD owner this is gold. Thank you very much!

  • @martinsastrophotography

    @martinsastrophotography

    6 ай бұрын

    Thanks for being the first person to comment…it took me ages to do!!!! Glad you like it too!

  • @Lasserubinskov

    @Lasserubinskov

    6 ай бұрын

    @@martinsastrophotographyI could imagine that :) I’ve been looking into the hyperstar myself but been dreading removing the secondary mirror but you made it look nice and easy :)

  • @martinsastrophotography

    @martinsastrophotography

    6 ай бұрын

    @@Lasserubinskov I have taken it on and off many times. Not a problem. :-)

  • @rafaberrios8142

    @rafaberrios8142

    6 ай бұрын

    Over the top!! I’m about to set up my C14 , I know they have the same back focus and stuff. Question , Is it easier to achieve focus on planetary than it is on Deep Space set up? I’m referring to the backfocus issue with the scope and precise you have to be ?

  • @martinsastrophotography

    @martinsastrophotography

    6 ай бұрын

    @@rafaberrios8142 Sorry…I am not sure what you mean by “over the top”? Focus is generally harder for planetary due to the seeing and the high focal length. I use a bright star and a Bahtinov mask for planetary. For Deep Sky the regular autofocus routine in NINA works very well.

  • @StereoSpace
    @StereoSpace2 ай бұрын

    Fascinating demo and explanations. Incredibly versatile setup you have there.

  • @luisrivera-lopez3648
    @luisrivera-lopez3648Ай бұрын

    Thank you very much for sharing your presentation. I learned a lot. Clear Skies!

  • @martinsastrophotography

    @martinsastrophotography

    Ай бұрын

    Glad to hear that! Thank you for taking the time to comment. Clear skies to you too!

  • @federicocardona4716
    @federicocardona4716Ай бұрын

    Wow! So many excellent suggestions in one single video. That's really great.😀😀😀 Thanks!

  • @martinsastrophotography

    @martinsastrophotography

    Ай бұрын

    Thank you!!

  • @paulm2358
    @paulm2358Ай бұрын

    Hey Martin, I 'm waiting for my new Edge HD to arrive and I was searching for what to gather for the build. I found this immensely helpful! Thank you!

  • @martinsastrophotography

    @martinsastrophotography

    Ай бұрын

    How exciting!! Glad it was helpful for you. Enjoy your new purchase…and if it’s cloudy I will know whose fault it is!!!! ;-)

  • @zgabrel
    @zgabrel6 ай бұрын

    this has to be the most complete video about the c11 add-ons and options that i have ever saw. thank you for your time and effort. excelent informations. Subscribed!

  • @martinsastrophotography

    @martinsastrophotography

    6 ай бұрын

    Thank you so much for watching, for taking the time to comment, and for your subscription! I’m so pleased that you like it…it took a long time to make!!! Clear Skies.

  • @rupenshah9923
    @rupenshah9923Ай бұрын

    What a brilliant video, I have a C11 edge hd and the detail you have provided for every option of imaging using this versatile scope is exactly what I needed and I’m sure others need. Thank you so much!!! You just gained another subscriber.

  • @martinsastrophotography

    @martinsastrophotography

    Ай бұрын

    Thank you for your kind words, and for subscribing! I really appreciate it when someone takes the trouble to give feedback.

  • @scotiaastro
    @scotiaastro5 ай бұрын

    This was a great video, Martin! I’m considering an Edge 8 HD (if Santa pulls through! 😂) and your detailed info was really helpful! Thanks for sharing your experience and best wishes to you from the north lands…🔭📸

  • @martinsastrophotography

    @martinsastrophotography

    5 ай бұрын

    Thank you! Glad you liked it. Clear skies.

  • @user-kv8qj8gw2y
    @user-kv8qj8gw2y4 ай бұрын

    Thanks for the video! I am investigating the EdgeHD 11" as my next telescope for astrophotography. Your video helps me in knowing what will be needed!

  • @kenkoskela3357
    @kenkoskela33576 ай бұрын

    Perfect video for those of us with a Celestron and trying to set up a planetary imaging train. Thanks very much!

  • @timothymaurer6720
    @timothymaurer67204 ай бұрын

    Celestron's Dew Heater band works fine. I use it on my Edge HD8 and RASA 8. Just don't run it (unnecessarily) at full power. I Use the Celestron Dew Heater Controller (unnecessarily expensive) but run the dew heater manually at ~15% with no issues and no dew.

  • @martinsastrophotography

    @martinsastrophotography

    4 ай бұрын

    Thank you for that. Appreciate your experience with it.

  • @EthanJohnston-eg9si
    @EthanJohnston-eg9si2 ай бұрын

    Thanks for your comment on FB. I had no idea I was already watching your vids when you messaged. I totally bought the feathertouch because of you haha.

  • @martinsastrophotography

    @martinsastrophotography

    2 ай бұрын

    Hey no problem. Glad you watch my videos! Hope you enjoy the feathertouch too. Clear skies.

  • @antoniopezzutto9899
    @antoniopezzutto989915 күн бұрын

    thanks, very clear. I’m using slight variations of the setting (I use the celestron OAG with a Lodestar guiding camera) and for the planetary images I just use the telrad and lots of patience having a 4x Televue Powermate Barlow. I guess I will try your setting! As for the hyperstar, I have it on my first C8 SCT on smaller mount, so I can image two different objects at the same time when I have a good night, which has been terribly rare recently. As you do, I love the Hyperstar, but collimation can be a little tricky. clear skies and thanks again! tony

  • @martinsastrophotography

    @martinsastrophotography

    15 күн бұрын

    Thank Tony. I’m sure there are many variations out there. Interesting what you say about Hyperstar setup collimation. I have never had an issue with that. I guess I got lucky! Clear skies.

  • @graaja
    @graaja5 ай бұрын

    Excellent video covering every possible use-case scenario. I am planning to get an EdgeHD 9.25 for visual, planetary, and DSO photography and this provides lots of information on accessories that I need to get. Thanks a lot for making and sharing this wonderful video.

  • @martinsastrophotography

    @martinsastrophotography

    5 ай бұрын

    Thanks for that. I’m glad it was helpful. If you are happy to use the affiliate links in the description when you purchase accessories it helps the channel (and won’t cost you any extra). Clear skies!

  • @barryblyth8229
    @barryblyth822927 күн бұрын

    Fantastic video, very informative, Martin you have inspired me to pursue myself obtaining a telescope .

  • @martinsastrophotography

    @martinsastrophotography

    27 күн бұрын

    Thank you Barry. Go for it!!!

  • @Interplanetary
    @Interplanetary2 ай бұрын

    Really great and useful video!

  • @JulioCruzcoach
    @JulioCruzcoach4 ай бұрын

    Thank you for this video! I have a C11 Edge and am always struggling to find the right combinations. You made it simple and easy to follow. Thanks!

  • @user-er7vz9xd8x
    @user-er7vz9xd8x2 ай бұрын

    Thoroughly enjoyed watching this video. Very informative. I will have to watch it again, when I get this same scope from Celestron. Thank you sir.

  • @martinsastrophotography

    @martinsastrophotography

    2 ай бұрын

    Thanks for your feedback. It took a long time to make!!!

  • @ziggyfrnds
    @ziggyfrnds4 ай бұрын

    Brilliant video thanks for sharing all of this! Even though I don't have a C11 nor do I plan to get one but it's so cool to see your equipment! Hope you enjoy your astro journey with this amazing setup. Clear skies!

  • @martinsastrophotography

    @martinsastrophotography

    4 ай бұрын

    Thank you! I’m glad you enjoyed it.

  • @Diocrew
    @Diocrew6 ай бұрын

    Excellent presentation!!! Thank you!🔭

  • @craiglowery4427
    @craiglowery44276 ай бұрын

    Very well done video. Thank you

  • @johnellsphoto
    @johnellsphoto4 ай бұрын

    Quite a useful, clear, and comprehensive presentation. Many thanks!

  • @nebulasky522
    @nebulasky5226 ай бұрын

    Increíble explicación Martin!

  • @Arcteek
    @Arcteek3 ай бұрын

    Awesome video, loved it

  • @martinsastrophotography

    @martinsastrophotography

    3 ай бұрын

    Thank you!

  • @scottfairbairn6305
    @scottfairbairn63056 ай бұрын

    Thank you for the fantastic information. It is so helpful to see the actual setups. I am getting a 9.25, but I'm sure a lot of the information you have presented will translate over. Thanks again!

  • @martinsastrophotography

    @martinsastrophotography

    6 ай бұрын

    Thanks for taking the time to comment. Much appreciated. Glad it helps you. Clear skies (when your 9.25 arrives)!

  • @baejiaoflying9434
    @baejiaoflying94344 ай бұрын

    Fantastic. Thanks for posting.

  • @peterbristow393
    @peterbristow3933 ай бұрын

    Just excellent. Thank you very much.

  • @HeavenlyBackyardAstronomy
    @HeavenlyBackyardAstronomy6 ай бұрын

    Nicely done. Very informative. I basically have the same setup except I replaced the guide scope with the Celestron Starsense Autoguider. The SSAG works extremely well with all configurations but particularly well with the HpyerStar. I don't have the microfocuser. It was interesting information about the mirror flop. I am going to check that out with my system

  • @Planetreefastro
    @Planetreefastro6 ай бұрын

    Unbelievably excellent video. I own a RASA 8, C8 edge and a C9.25. I have Hyperstar for the edge and 9.25 along with similar accessories like you. I’ve had trouble getting my cables nice and tidy but working on that. I use an eagle 4 as well as an ASIAIR. Your video was direct and to the point and the amount of care with which you present the topics was extremely interesting, well thought out and informative even for someone who has been doing this a while. Great Job!!! Regards Luis from NY

  • @martinsastrophotography

    @martinsastrophotography

    6 ай бұрын

    Thank you so much! Really appreciate your kind comments.

  • @HollomanUFOLanding
    @HollomanUFOLanding6 ай бұрын

    Hi Martin I have the Clestron Dew Heater Rings on three of my SCTS and I have never noticed an issue. I use my SCTS for both visual and imaging. I am anal about my set ups and I check the temps of the bands periodically and the heat is very even. They also work great with the Celestron Dew Controller. I suspect the reports online are more about either people having the rings set too hot, bad seeing, or warm air currents in the OTA. Clear skies!

  • @martinsastrophotography

    @martinsastrophotography

    6 ай бұрын

    Thank you for that!

  • @HollomanUFOLanding

    @HollomanUFOLanding

    6 ай бұрын

    @@martinsastrophotography YW & thanks for s very informative video. How do you like your EQ8 mount?

  • @martinsastrophotography

    @martinsastrophotography

    6 ай бұрын

    @@HollomanUFOLanding Thanks. The EQ8-R Pro is great, but very heavy to move around!

  • @douglasfleming1
    @douglasfleming16 ай бұрын

    Really valuable Martin. Thanks. I have the older non HD version of the C11 SCT. I'll check out your modifications. I'm assuming that many of your modifications for the HD version are applicable to mine. Any comments in that regard from you or your audience would be welcome. You might have seen James Lamb's extensive review of the celestron dew heater band.

  • @BruceMallett
    @BruceMallett4 ай бұрын

    Great video. FWIW, I have the Celestron Dew Heater Ring on both a C8 and on an EdgeHD 9.25 run via the Dew Heater port of a Pegasus Astro Powerbox. In both I get distortion of stars and have learned to keep power output below 10%. There is probably not much point in having the dew heater ring as in the end (like you) I ended up adding an AstroZap band to help keep the dew away.

  • @martinsastrophotography

    @martinsastrophotography

    4 ай бұрын

    Thank you Bruce, and thanks for the details of your dew heater ring experiences. It’s interesting that some have said it works great and others have had a bad experience. I’m not sure what to conclude other than “it’s a risk”!

  • @genefoster8936
    @genefoster89366 ай бұрын

    I watched most of your videos, and I appreciate your clear coverage of a topic. I bought a Celestron CGX mount on sale and am now saving up for a 9.25 SCT for visual use. The Celestron Dew Heater bands interested me, but this is the second time someone has commented on the distortion. Do you prefer the Astrozap heating straps because of that?

  • @martinsastrophotography

    @martinsastrophotography

    6 ай бұрын

    Thank you Gene. I have not yet tried the Celestron Dew Heater Band because I am concerned by the reports. The Astrozap solution works just fine…and they do say “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it”!!!

  • @ENKI7477
    @ENKI74775 ай бұрын

    Continue your channel

  • @afjke
    @afjke4 күн бұрын

    Excellent video, Martin - once more you have been key for my progress into astrophotography! 2 questions: a. what mount are you working on in the video? Is it an iOptron70 and how satisfied are you with it for the EdgeHD11? b. I am struggling to get focus (=I cannot get into focus as I hit the short end limit of the Edhe) using my Hyperstar at the official backfocus of 59,7mm (=ASI2600 + 42,2mm) , but rather need to work at 70mm (=Asi2600+53,2mm). Did you have any issues with that?

  • @martinsastrophotography

    @martinsastrophotography

    4 күн бұрын

    Thank you. I use the Sky-Watcher EQ8-R Pro mount which I am very happy with. I have not encountered Backfocus trouble with the EdgeHD 11 and Hyperstar….I turn the focus knob fully anti-clockwise until I reach the end stop, and then turn it clockwise 27.5 turns. This achieves focus with the Hyperstar v4 (with ZWO filter drawer option)

  • @ffwrnais
    @ffwrnais6 ай бұрын

    Excellent presentation, thankyou! Although I’m OK with deep sky on my C9.25, I’ve been struggling with attempts at planetary and been disappointed with my results. The optical train for planetary imaging was particularly useful, there’s so much to learn. You’ve managed to put more useful information in one video than I’ve ever seen before. Just for info, I can’t get the link for the imaging flip mirror to work so you may be losing out on potential income!

  • @martinsastrophotography

    @martinsastrophotography

    6 ай бұрын

    Thank you!! I will check what’s going on with the link.

  • @martinsastrophotography

    @martinsastrophotography

    6 ай бұрын

    It looks like the flip mirror has disappeared from the 365astronomy website. I have messaged them to ask why. In the meantime I have changed to link to an alternative from Amazon, but it comes with a 1.25” nosepiece.

  • @ffwrnais

    @ffwrnais

    6 ай бұрын

    Thanks for helping with that. Can I ask your view on the vent fans? I’ve had nights where I simply can’t focus using longer focal lengths. All the stars are dull and just too big. I’ve looked for dew and other potential obstructions but failed to find anything. Could the problem be the air currents do you think? My guess is not as I’ve worked to equalise temperatures so I’m tending to put it down to simply poor seeing. I’d be interested in your views and any hints how you to distinguish between the possible problems.@@martinsastrophotography

  • @nigelgoodman9028
    @nigelgoodman90285 ай бұрын

    Hi Martin, Thank you for an excellent video and your superb channel. If I may ask some questions ? Am I right in thinking that the Primaluce 2" Essatto is fine focusing even with the main mirror locked down by moving the camera (sensor) back and forward around the focus point ? And secondly, since I also use an EAF on my 9.25" Edge HD, could I rough focus with that ( rather than the manual knob) then fine focus with the Essatto ( or similar ). Lastly, I have been told that it it not necessary to lock the mirror if you are using an EAF as it effectively holds it in place ? I have thought this to be true otherwise if you have autofocus set up in a programme like NINA, you would have to unlock the mirror pre-emptively before a refocus routine ? I would be very interested in your comments.

  • @martinsastrophotography

    @martinsastrophotography

    5 ай бұрын

    Hi Nigel. Thank you for your kind comments. I’m glad you like my channel and I am more than happy to answer questions. The only logical way to use ESATTO microfocuser is to remove the EAF, position your ESATTO to get to required back focus (ensuring it has room to move either way), then turn the manual focus knob to achieve rough focus, and then lock the primary mirror and use the ESATTO for fine focus. The primary mirror MUST be UNLOCKED if you are focusing using an EAF, because the EAF moves the primary mirror, and the locking knobs stop the primary mirror from moving. The EAF does not hold the primary mirror at all. It simply pushes and pulls the mirror backwards and forwards via a screw thread inside the telescope.

  • @sandaruwanmilan9535
    @sandaruwanmilan9535Ай бұрын

    Thanks your job..... can i use celestron 8 edge HD ota for celestron 8se computerlize tripod?

  • @user-wj2xx4qv9q
    @user-wj2xx4qv9qАй бұрын

    Great video Martin. Re the hyperstar as ypu have to change the filter each time how would one do flats?

  • @martinsastrophotography

    @martinsastrophotography

    Ай бұрын

    Thank you. Good question. That is one of the drawbacks of Hyperstar…the filter changing is awkward and FLATs are problematic. I do my FLATs at the start or end of the session with the telescope pointing straight up and tracking disabled so my FLATs panel can rest on the top of the dew shield. To change filter I remove the FLATs panel, remove the dew shield, change the filter, refit the dew shield then re-fit the FLATs panel. This is all rather laborious. One way to simplify it is to do one filter per night…get lots of data..and no filter changes at all during a session! Requires patience!!

  • @user-wj2xx4qv9q

    @user-wj2xx4qv9q

    Ай бұрын

    @@martinsastrophotography do you have any images taken with the v4 setup

  • @martinsastrophotography

    @martinsastrophotography

    Ай бұрын

    @@user-wj2xx4qv9q Yes, lots. It is my favourite telescope setup. You can watch my video about the image I won a prize for… How I Created an Award Winning Astro Image kzread.info/dash/bejne/g4pnqLKxfcSThM4.html

  • @user-wj2xx4qv9q

    @user-wj2xx4qv9q

    Ай бұрын

    @@martinsastrophotography brillant thanks

  • @timwilde4200
    @timwilde420018 күн бұрын

    What an excellent video - very informative for someone new to the field. I'm not sure if you mentioned it, but what is the mount that you use for the Celestron? One other point. As a photographer, I often make compromises when I'm out in the field, particularly when I'm travelling light. Typically I'll take two zooms with me, a wide angle and a mild tele, together with a fast prime like a 50mm f1.2 for low light conditions. If I think there'll be wildlife involved I'll also take a decent long focal length zoom. As with all zooms though, however well made, they're always a compromise in terms of image quality, usually at one end of the focal length or the other - you can't get something for nothing. Primes are the ideal, but generally only when mobility or logistics aren't an issue. Why am I mentioning all this? I've perused a lot of astronomy forums over the last year or so, and one thing I've noticed is that, with such a variance in the night sky between superwide objects such as the Milky Way and very distant targets that require high magnification, it doesn't seem that the majority of enthusiasts keep a slew of different focal length telescopes on hand to suit the given target - hardly surprising given the costs. Short of using Barlows and/or delving into either cropping images or creating mosaics, I've often wondered how anyone can determine which telescope is ideal for them when there's such a dramatic variance in what can be photographed. That's where I thought Celestron's Schmidt-Cassegrains came into their own as astrophotography's version of a zoom via the reducer and the Hyperstar, giving a one-size-fits-all unit that covers all the bases - am I right? The only mild concern I've read is that, as with zoom lenses in photography, getting away from the telescope's natural focal length via the reducer or Hyperstar sacrifices a little in the way of image quality - is that something you've found yourself?

  • @martinsastrophotography

    @martinsastrophotography

    17 күн бұрын

    Hi Tim. First, thanks for your kind words about my video. Much appreciated. Ok…on to your questions. First, the mount is the Sky-Watcher EQ8-R Pro. It’s one of a few hefty mounts up to the task of carrying this scope with all the other accessories I use. Ok…so you are a photographer…well we have that in common, at least I was an amateur photographer for about 40 years before I ever tried Astrophotography. I have a similar set of lenses to you, covering a wide range of focal lengths, and as you rightly say the range of target sizes in Astrophotography is simply huge…from the whole sky Milky Way to the tiniest planet many millions of light years from Earth. You say that “it doesn’t seem that the majority of Astrophotography enthusiasts keeps a slew of different focal length telescopes”. Well I think this could be an incorrect perception. I, for example, have the EdgeHD 11 giving me 540mm, 1960mm and 2800mm, then I have an 8” Newtonian at 800mm, and a Redcat 51 at 250mm. I have accumulated these over 8 years, and spent a crazy amount of money on them and everything that goes with them. I think many if not all experienced astrophotographers will have multiple telescopes.. but perhaps they are a bit reluctant to blatantly reveal this as they don’t want to be seen to be bragging about all the kit they have. But I am quite certain that there are a lot of angry partners and spouses out there who resent the house full of Astro gear and the amount of money that has been spent on it!!! During spring (Galaxy season) I use the long focal lengths to photograph galaxies, and during autumn and winter I generally use the Hyperstar on the EdgeHD 11 for nebula work. In the summer I take a break while I wait for proper darkness to return at my 51° latitude. So..on to your question about compromise with the Hyperstar. Well, yes in principle adding more glass to the imaging train degrades the quality, but two other factors make it the right choice I believe. 1. A wider field of view means the atmospheric distortion is smaller compared with your field of view, so the details of a nebula are plenty good enough with the Hyperstar setup at 540mm. 2. With so few clear nights per year I need to make the very best of every clear night, and the photon gobbling f/1.8 setup of the EdgeHD 11 with Hyperstar is perfect for doing that. Finally, if it’s any measure at all…I have only had one award for an Astrophotography photo, and it was taken on the EdgeHD 11 with Hyperstar. I hope I have addressed all your excellent questions.

  • @timwilde4200

    @timwilde4200

    17 күн бұрын

    @@martinsastrophotography Hi Martin. Thanks so much for your prompt reply. All those answers help with regard to my own plans. I'm 65, living in the USA, and am about to retire back to my Australian homeland, specifically an area of rural Australia where the Bortle conditions are near perfect. It seems as good a time as any to finally indulge a long held interest in astronomy and astrophotography. I've read all the excellent reasons for starting small and building up with experience, but at my age I don't have that luxury and have decided to jump in at the deepest of deep ends. Initially I was going to purchase an Edge 9.25 coupled to an EQ6-R Pro, but decided I might as well leap right in and get the Edge 14" with a suitable mount, and toss in a Redcat 51 or 71 to compliment it. It's going to be a huge and hair-pulling learning curve, but as time isn't on my side I figured it was worth it, plus I'm very adept with software, have built a number of PCs and am reasonably comfortable with electronics, and am obsessive enough with details to pick things up fairly quickly. Toss in my years of experience with photography, and I think I'll get there, accepting the fact that there'll be a degree of frustration along the way. Channels such as yours certainly help!

  • @thomaswelch9147
    @thomaswelch91474 ай бұрын

    Hi Martin. I'm using an edge hd and want to try some planetary photography with a Barlow. Does back focus and calculating 146.05mm matter when using a Barlow within the imaging train? I've read some mixed opinions online and noticed your technical drawing is absent on any calculations to the sensor. Cheers.

  • @martinsastrophotography

    @martinsastrophotography

    4 ай бұрын

    Hi Thomas. Good question. Having the right back focus certainly matters when you want to achieve a flat focal plane so that everything on your sensor is in focus at the same time…essential for Deep Sky imaging. For planetary imaging you are only interested in a tiny area at the centre of the imaging circle and so the flatness of the focal plane is not important. I have produced a nice looking image of Jupiter with the setup I presented in the video, which confirms the above. Clear skies.

  • @thomaswelch9147

    @thomaswelch9147

    4 ай бұрын

    @@martinsastrophotography Really helpful response. Thanks Martin

  • @gunnarjensen5910
    @gunnarjensen59106 ай бұрын

    I am considering buying a 11" or a 9.25" Edge. But I am afraid of "the" problem of "oversampling" by almost any CMOS or CCD camera according to "Astronomy Tools" calculator. Is this a problem ???

  • @martinsastrophotography

    @martinsastrophotography

    2 ай бұрын

    No. If you are I oversampled by more than 2x you can simply use binning. Also, this is one telescope with at least 3 focal lengths possible (native, reducer & Hyperstar) so I don’t think you will be oversampled at every one of these.

  • @AstroDenny
    @AstroDenny6 ай бұрын

    How are you able to find exact focus and still have your backspace right? I've had an edge 11 and a 9.25 and the reducer is very finicky about backspace..

  • @martinsastrophotography

    @martinsastrophotography

    6 ай бұрын

    Hi Dennis. Yes the EdgeHD is indeed sensitive to deviation from the nominal Backfocus distance (NBF), which is specified as 146.05mm for the C9.25, C11 and C14 and 133.35mm for the C8. I should perhaps have mentioned this in my video, so thank you for raising it. Since you mention the reducer, I assume you are asking specifically about my 1960mm Deep Sky Setup. For this, take a look at the detailed diagram I show 43min 10 sec into the video. This shows how the required 146.05mm backfocus is achieved, but the exact contribution of the PL3600242 adapter and the ESATTO are of course variable, so here is what I recommend to get the best possible backfocus: 1. Measure the distance between the camera-side face of the filter wheel and the front face of the PL3600212 adapter which screws onto the reducer. 2. Add 17.5mm for the camera contribution, add another 2mm for the adapter between the camera and filter wheel, and subtract 8.5mm for the distance the reducer thread engages into the PL3600212. 3. Adjust the ESATTO position in or out to correct for your backfocus error. Re-measure and then adjust the ESATTO position until the result you get is as close as you can get it to 146.05mm. 4. With the ESATTO in this position, unlock the primary mirror and rotate the manual focus knob on the telescope until you achieve a good looking focus, then lock off the primary mirror (noting the required manual focus knob position relative to 'fully anti-clockwise' for future reference!). I hope this is helpful.

  • @user-ig1iu3mx9k
    @user-ig1iu3mx9k4 ай бұрын

    Hello Martin... Thank you for such a well organized and helpful description of your configurations! I am getting set up in a very similar way with my Edge 11... Could you please tell me your number of focus turns (from your logbook) starting from full CCW to... a) normal F-10 with 146.5mm back focus b) F-7 with .7 with reducer and 146.5 back focus c) F1.9 Hyperstar... Thank you in advance... I need the Hyperstar the most of all ! Thank you!

  • @martinsastrophotography

    @martinsastrophotography

    4 ай бұрын

    Thanks Michael! a) 2800mm: Not a setup I use much, so nothing in the log book for this one b) 1960mm: 2 and 1/4 turns c) Hyperstar 550mm: 27 and 1/2 turns My Planetary setup: 8 and 1/4 turns

  • @user-ig1iu3mx9k

    @user-ig1iu3mx9k

    4 ай бұрын

    Thank you Martin! I'm with you on 2800 I use F7 with reducer all of the time... but it takes me about 10 turns of CW from stop... I also use the Esatto... and I am at exactly 146.5mm back focus to sensor. I have managed to set up my planetary with Powermates to be ParFocal... (really nice!) at the same spot... (10 turns). I have not used Hyperstar yet... but this helps a lot... I know I have to turn a good bit to get there. Thank you again, Martin... this is a wonderful video, and it is really nice of you to help us all with your experience!!! Clear Skies! Michael @@martinsastrophotography

  • @user-ig1iu3mx9k

    @user-ig1iu3mx9k

    4 ай бұрын

    Hi Martin - Sorry for any bother... I am quite surprised that you are only 2 1/4 turns for F7 1960 (from the front CCW stop)... I am at about 10 CW turns for the same spot... I am surprised that Celestron would design it to be that close to limit with one of their main setups/settings... but thank you again! Really helpful! Michael

  • @martinsastrophotography

    @martinsastrophotography

    4 ай бұрын

    @@user-ig1iu3mx9k Thanks Michael. Great to hear it’s been helpful for you. Clear skies.

  • @jesuschrist2284
    @jesuschrist22844 ай бұрын

    What are these clear nights you speak of?

  • @martinsastrophotography

    @martinsastrophotography

    2 ай бұрын

    I know what you mean!!!

  • @hakankaya-gj1su
    @hakankaya-gj1suАй бұрын

    Mine shows 1980mm after reducer anx reason?

  • @martinsastrophotography

    @martinsastrophotography

    Ай бұрын

    When you say “shows” what do you mean? Paperwork, online manual, measured from an image?

  • @hakankaya-gj1su

    @hakankaya-gj1su

    Ай бұрын

    @@martinsastrophotography it was plate solved

  • @hakankaya-gj1su

    @hakankaya-gj1su

    Ай бұрын

    @martinsastrophotography sorry when i plate slove it shows 1980mm i m jusy trying to asertain if i should be reducing or adding spacers? Also Martin, i am guessing you are using auto focus on the essatto when deep sky imaging. Does the draw tube need to be kept mid way in the back focus measurement? All all the way in?

  • @martinsastrophotography

    @martinsastrophotography

    Ай бұрын

    @hakankaya-gj1su PHD2 will display values based on your inputs. The EdgeHD 11 native focal length is 2800mm and with a 0.7x reducer fitted this becomes 2800x0.7=1960mm. I use ASTAP for plate solving from NINA and have never had an issue provided I have the focal length set to 1960mm and the camera pixel size correct (which it picks up automatically when I connect my camera). Whether or not your Backfocus distance is correct can be determined by checking you have nice round stars across the whole image when focusing is complete. Yes, I use autofocus with whatever focuser I am using, including the ESATTO. I put the ESATTO at the mid way position then get rough focus using the manual focus knob. Then I lock the mirror and run autofocus.

  • @hakankaya-gj1su

    @hakankaya-gj1su

    Ай бұрын

    @martinsastrophotography sorry do you mean mid way position or 0 all way in

  • @primoroy
    @primoroy2 ай бұрын

    How much of a small fortune should I prepare for? 😳

  • @martinsastrophotography

    @martinsastrophotography

    2 ай бұрын

    Quite a large small fortune I’m afraid!

  • @primoroy

    @primoroy

    2 ай бұрын

    @@martinsastrophotography I'm retired, probably start with an 8" EdgeHD! 😜

  • @martinsastrophotography

    @martinsastrophotography

    2 ай бұрын

    @@primoroy I can only just lift the 11”…so probably wise!!!

  • @aaronciviris
    @aaronciviris4 ай бұрын

    wow.. A whole lifetime of Celestron love, resumed in this awesome video. thanks.

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