I`ve done more research since I posted, and have a few more answers. I had done a lot of research before, but it wasn`t as fruitful.

One thing I found out is that the particular Celestron 114 I was mentioning REQUIRES a 2X Barlow to focus a camera. This, I am told, turns the 900mm f/8 scope into an 1800mm f/16 scope. Is this true? If so, that`ll drastically affect exposure times, which makes everything harder.

Also, I`ve read a bit about the flimsiness of most lower-priced EQ mounts. For that reason, I`m considering things like Celestron`s HD line. Orion`s 6" Newtonian seems to have a pretty stout mount as well.

I have done star trails before, but have not logged all the info I should, so I really need to do a lot of it again.

I also saw that amazon.com has quite a few books on astrophotography, so may invest in one of those before anything.

Then, I may take the "recommended" path of:
1) tripod shots
2) lunar shots (eyepiece projection)
3) piggy-back shots

And finally,

4) prime focus shots

• RE: RE: RE: Beginning Astrophotographer Advice - Kip - March 29, 2000 - 00:43 UTC