The Leo Triplet

22:52 21/4/2006 UTC

I started tuning my setup for the Europa. The mount isn't quite up to the task but I think it can be tuned so that I get better stars than Zenithstar ever could. Europa has an excellent image, but a bit much focal lenght for my mount. I found several little things to fix for my autoguiding script and mount mechanics. Anyway, it's a pretty good result considering there was a LOT of guiding errors... The new TS Crayford focuser unit is fantastic! The 1:10 reduction makes focusing a breeze.

leotriplet-2006.04.21-22h52m.jpg

Camera: Modified Canon EOS 350D | Telescope: Orion Optics Europa 200mm f6 Newtonian reflector | Mount: Orion Skyview Pro, Boxdoerfer PowerFlex MTS-3SLP drive controller | Guiding: , Orion ShortTube 80mm f5 refractor, QCGuider, Phillips ToUCam Pro II webcam | Exposure: 10x120s (20m) ISO800 f6, 3 darks, 5 flats | Software: IRIS, GIMP | Location: 60°31'N 26°52'E (Koivula/Kotka,FI)