Re: [APML] Suggested Astrophoto Accessories for Vixen VC200L

["John C. Mirtle" <spampit@shaw.ca>]

Alan,
    Vixen have an OAG built specifically for this model, part #300299.
Unfortunately, Vixen America (TeleVue) have opted to not import this. You
probably have the 2" adapter on order by now, which is all you need from
Vixen. The Lumicon NEG will fit in any scope that can provide a 2" hole, the
VC200L is no exception. Just make sure that you order the right T-ring for
your camera. There is little economy in buying the 1.25" version, it
vignettes like crazy on film. It will also vignette large CCD's, so plan
ahead and get the 2" one. For manual guiding (hey, you never know!) get the
3X diagonal/barlow combo - it works great and does not require an extension
tube. The ST4 will focus in the NEG drawtube without extension tubes no
matter what scope you use. Lumicon now offer a NEG with a built-in
compressor lens. I don't know anything about it - does anyone on the list??
    If you plan to pop an eyepiece in, get a good quality 2" diagonal. The
Vixen scopes all come with a straight-through eyepiece adapter - most people
in N. America prefer a 90deg diagonal. An f6.4 compressor is also available,
but I have no first-hand experience with it. My understanding is that you
cannot use it with an OAG - period. For this you need  a guidescope. Manfred
Wasshuber has used this, you might want to drop him a line if you are
considering this option.
    Filters?? Drive somewhere darker! F9 is not exactly fast, you don't
really want to slow things down further by blocking some of the incoming
light! Manfred has shot with filters - check out his web site at
http://www.inode.at/wasshuber/ but you better sit down before you look at
the exposure times.... Because of the longer exposure times and long FL, get
a good mount - G-11 or better. Save up for an 8x50 finder or better
somewhere down the road - you can't see squat in the 6x30 they provide! If
you have further questions, please do not hesitate to contact me directly.

John Mirtle
Calgary, Ab. Canada

----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Allan & Julie Whetzel" <whetzel@cox.net>
To: "Discussion of Film Astrophotography" <astro-photo@seds.org>
Sent: Monday, September 01, 2003 11:57 PM
Subject: [APML] Suggested Astrophoto Accessories for Vixen VC200L


Hello,

<- snip ->

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