Cheapie sunpak fluid filled head, Canon R50 w 35mm f1.8 prime, Skywatcher Adventurer GTI goto mount.

Eventually when I can afford it, I’d like to get into guided tracking which requires a single board computer and a spotting camera/scope to correct for backlash errors due to this being a budget mount that uses cut brass gears for movement. Currently I’m limited to about 120 seconds of exposure w a wide lens, about 70 seconds with a narrower 85mm, about 60 seconds w a 200mm lens. Also looking for a dslr to have h-alpha modified so I can pick up more of the reds and magentas that come from hydrogen emissions.

I recently ‘found’ an observation platform at the national park I go to frequently which is a nice compromise between visible light from the nearby city, and not having to drive 20 miles down the beach. Bonus is this place is about 40’ tall so I am actually up above the sea mist coming off the constant waves, and no curious coyotes. Rabies is pretty common in coyotes here and now I don’t have to worry about coyotes, just angry trash pandas for disturbing their spot.

I got some really clear skies last night unexpectedly so I was out way too late and now I’m up too early for work. I’ve been getting my processing chops up to speed and I think the photos I got last night might actually produce some good results. Hopefully they do and I can post them here.