Help with Starlight Xpress MX5C and a Celestron 11GPS ?!!!

Hi Algol,
I normally use a medium bright star for focusing with the canon, not the faint target object, you can do it manually but it takes time and quite abit of effort. Like the lads said, the chip you have gives a small FOV and on such a scope will be very unforgiving if the focus is anyway off, also don't discount the seeing, it can make a star look like it is slightly out of focus when in fact you are doing everything right.

Can your focuser be controlled by the computer ?

If your C11 isn't fastar compatable, another solution might be an f3.3 reducer, which would tame the focal length, and get you imaging. Is your C11GPS on an equatorial wedge? It'll need to be to avoid field rotation.

Thanks for the tips David. It is faststar compatible, I just need the kit- don't know the costs! Perhaps I would be better with the f3.3 reducer would be a good bet. Any recommendations where to price?
I have looked out for an equatorial wedge and having problems sourcing one for reasonable money outside of the U.S. Again if anyone has recommendations for sourcing one, I would be grateful. I do need to do as much homework as possible before spending more money! I find this astronomy hobby such a compulsion...!

Can your focuser be controlled by the computer ?

Dave, Hmm don't think so just have a small black box coming out of it with two buttons!

Anyone else on here got a Celestron 11?

Algol,
I think you are about to find out that this imaging lark can get very expensive!! The f3.3 reducer is widely available at any UK dealers, also have a look at astrobuysell.com for secondhand gear. As for guiding, thats a whole new chapter by itself!!
If you have a webcam and a 3x barlow, your C11 should be capable of superb planetary imaging(with practice). But the wedge is first priority. Bear in mind that the wedge will make mounting the tube and forks quite tricky, a solution might be JMI wheely bars, which will allow you to move the assembled scope around without dis-assembly. There is great review of your scope in S&T Feb' 02, well worth searching out, you might get a couple of tips from that. I could post you a copy if you want.

David.

David

Sorry for not replying sooner, I have been away.
I am taking on board all the comments and I think I have jumped the gun. So going to sell the CCD and get a wedge !

Regards

Algol