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Optical train for LX850 10 inch

Started by Erik.jp.flinck on 11/29/2024 3:27:18 AM CST

Erik.jp.flinck

Joined 11/29/2024
Loc: na, US
Posted 11/29/2024 3:27:18 AM CST

Hi,

I am trying to figure out the a good optical train for my 10inch LX850, I have seen solutions using a feathertouch focuser, would appreciate some input on what specific gear to get to make that work with my ZWO6200 (full frame), and ZWO eaf

 

thanks

erik


moonbeam

Joined 6/24/2024
Loc: Mo, USA
Posted 11/29/2024 7:11:36 AM CST

Hey Erik, 

I have the 14" ACF F/8 and use the Feathertouch focuser at the back with a ZWO EAF for focusing. They are spendy but worth it.

https://www.starlightinstruments.com

The rough focus knob on the SCT is used for getting that monster mirror set, but once I get it in the correct focus zone, I let the FeatherTouch focus everything remotely via the EAF and never move the mirror.

I am attaching a photo of my rig. I was using the Optec reducer at the time this was taken, but I have since taken it off because I couldn't achieve round stars with it on.

In the photo, the train is like this:

Visual back replaced with Featherlight -> Optec 2" barrel reducer, straight into the filter wheel threads


Explorer of the cosmos, one photon at a time. I capture the universe with a collection of about 12 telescopes, including the SCA310, Astro-Physics 155 EDF Starfire, TEC 180FL, and Takahashi Epsilon 160ED, and my beloved FSQ-106EDX4. Paired with advanced imaging systems - including the medium-format ZWO ASI461MM and ASI6200MM Pro with Chroma filters - these precision instruments help me reveal the faint structures, rich colors, and extraordinary detail hidden in the night sky.


Erik.jp.flinck

Joined 11/29/2024
Loc: na, US
Posted 11/29/2024 8:54:37 AM CST

Thanks for reply! Do you happen to know exactly which one of their focuser you got? (there seems to be a few variants) + Does it attach directly to the OTA?

thanks Erik


moonbeam

Joined 6/24/2024
Loc: Mo, USA
Posted 11/30/2024 10:19:01 AM CST

It is the Starlight Instruments Feather Touch 'Shorty' dual-speed focuser:

https://www.starlightinstruments.com/product/ftf2008bcr-feather-touch-rotatable-2-0-diameter-dual-speed-0-8-draw-tube-travel-brake-and-compression-ring-aka-shorty/

Make sure to order the one that screws directly to the back of the Meade OTA (visual back comes off).

 

 


Explorer of the cosmos, one photon at a time. I capture the universe with a collection of about 12 telescopes, including the SCA310, Astro-Physics 155 EDF Starfire, TEC 180FL, and Takahashi Epsilon 160ED, and my beloved FSQ-106EDX4. Paired with advanced imaging systems - including the medium-format ZWO ASI461MM and ASI6200MM Pro with Chroma filters - these precision instruments help me reveal the faint structures, rich colors, and extraordinary detail hidden in the night sky.



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