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Re: Skyprodigy 130

Posted: Wed Jul 17, 2013 10:23 am
by Davegn
Wow. Nice! Thanks for sharing.

Re: Skyprodigy 130

Posted: Fri Jul 19, 2013 2:57 am
by Gary
@Mystiq - This Moon pic is taken with my android phone through your SkyProdigy on the same evening.

Image

This is slightly touched up in Photoshop using levels and curves only. The original version can be seen here --> http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7326/9313 ... d501_b.jpg.

Without the ability to adjust camera settings, most Moon shots using iPhone's default camera app will be over-exposed. You may try to use a Moon filter or reduce your aperture using the cover to get a better exposure with your iPhone.

Re: Skyprodigy 130

Posted: Fri Jul 19, 2013 10:52 pm
by acc
Looks like a great scope!

Re: Skyprodigy 130

Posted: Mon Jul 22, 2013 7:55 pm
by Gary
During last night's sidewalk at Bishan Park, SkyProdigy 130 was not able to auto align itself. Based on memory, the sky clarity was about the same (if not very slightly better) than the first time when it was there.

Need more tests to check the auto-align feature under average sky conditions in Singapore. Or if there is a way to improve or speed up the auto alignment process - e.g. manually move/point it to a clearer patch in the sky, power off and power on again. Perhaps a brighter Moon just drowned out enough stars to hinder auto alignment.

Didn't have time to really test other alignment options due to the sidewalk nature where we are constantly "interrupted" by the curious public (not that I mind cause it's suppose to be a sidewalk anyway). Perhaps more intensive testing during some upcoming overnight sessions when there is much less crowd or privately by the owner herself.

The play in the focuser is more obvious if the visual train is extended (e.g. via barlow), shifting the image in the view while focusing. Perhaps exaggerated in last night's case because the telescope was not auto-aligned properly and thus not tracking properly.

The default red dot finder has been replaced by a right angle finder. Very useful upgrade. Less neck pain in finding objects through it. [smilie=good-job.gif]

Re: Skyprodigy 130

Posted: Mon Jul 22, 2013 11:48 pm
by Gary
Good job! A few more planets to complete the set. :)

Perhaps "killing" 2 planets with one shot tomorrow morning shortly before sunrise? :)

Re: Skyprodigy 130

Posted: Tue Jul 30, 2013 8:15 am
by Davegn
Don't we all wish we have CCD embedded in our eyes. If only the iPhone could control some exposure I think some of the detail might pop out.

Re: Skyprodigy 130

Posted: Tue Jul 30, 2013 1:48 pm
by Gary
Nice pic and sighting of Jupiter! Time to hunt for its Great Red Spot and shadow transits!