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William Shaheen | all galleries >> Astronomy - Astronomical objects, images and astronomy related projects >> Antares 0.5x Focal Reducer Testing > Phase II - 3.75 in. Unbinned - 60s
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Phase II - 3.75 in. Unbinned - 60s

In this test, the Feathertouch focuser was removed and the AP SCT adapter was installed, resulting in a CCD distance of 3.75 inches from the back of the OTA. This produced the best result to date, with a reduction factor of approximately .61x. Unfortunately, it leaves no room for accessories (filter wheel, OAG, what-have-you). The increased vignetting is noticeable but routinely correctable with a flat field. The next 2 frames are with the same configuration only binned 2x and at longer exposure times. A shorter 2inch-to-SCT adapter may be a possibility but is limited to the nosepiece and reducer length as they can only be inserted so far into the OTA without reaching the flattener rim. As it is, there is only a 10mm gap between the edge of the focal reducer and the edge of the SCT's flattener.

20101212_Antares-test-3.75in_001-ddp.jpg


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