Welcome to the 'My Gear' section of the Astronomy corner on my website! Here, I share the carefully selected equipment that accompanies me on my celestial journeys. Each piece of gear reflects my commitment to three essential qualities: portability, durability, and ease of use. Whether I'm capturing distant galaxies or simply stargazing, my gear is light and compact, ensuring I can take it anywhere. Crafted from high-quality materials, each item promises longevity and reliability under the night sky. Moreover, straightforward setup and takedown processes mean I spend less time fiddling with equipment and more time immersed in the wonders of the universe. Let's dive into the details of my astronomical toolkit.
ZWO Seestar S50 All In One Smart Telescope
Best for Observing: Galaxies, Nebulae, Star Clusters, Constellations, and the Sun (with included solar filter).
How I Use It: This smart telescope is my go-to for astrophotography. Its capability to take and stack images allows for breathtaking captures of celestial phenomena.
Specifications & Description:
- Camera: IMX462 sensor with 1920 x 1080 resolution.
- Aperture: 50 mm (1.97")
- Focal Ratio: f/5
- Focal Length: 250 mm (9.84")
- Lens: Apochromatic Triplet
- Mount: Alt-Azimuth
- Weight: 2.5 kg
- Features: Lightweight build, durable construction, and user-friendly interface for seamless navigation and operation.
Orion 2x54 Ultra Wide Angle Constellation Binoculars
Best for Observing: Constellations, stars, and planets. Enhances the observing experience in light-polluted areas.
How I Use Them: These are perfect for casual stargazing during walks, hikes, or while relaxing outdoors, providing a wide-angle view of the night sky. Useful during twilight to locate objects before they are visible to the naked eye. Aids in optimally positioning telescopes during twilight.
Specifications & Description:
- Magnification: 2x
- Aperture: 54 mm (2.13")
- Field of View - Angular: 36.0°
- Apparent Field of View: 72.0°
- Lenses: Fully Multi-Coated
- Interpupillary Distance Range: 60 mm - 81 mm (2.36" - 3.19")
- Focus Style: Individual Eyepiece Focus
- Weight: 0.45 kg
- Features: Ultra-lightweight and compact, making them an essential part of my mobile observing kit.
Celestron Regal M2 100ED Spotting Scope (Refractor Telescope)
Best for Observing: Stars, planets, star clusters, the Moon, and terrestrial targets.
How I Use It: This telescope is ideal for detailed observations and star hopping, providing crisp and clear images of celestial and daytime sights.
Specifications & Description:
- Magnification: 22-67x
- Aperture: 100 mm (3.94")
- Eyepiece: 8 mm - 24 mm (0.30" - 0.94")
- Field of View - Angular: 1.9° - 0.9° with included eyepiece.
- Focal Ratio: f/5.4
- Focal Length: 540 mm (21.26")
- Lenses: XLT (Fully Multi-Coated)
- Weight: 2.42 kg
- Features: Premium Extra-Low Dispersion (ED) glass for sharp, colour-corrected images. Dual focus mechanism for precise focusing. Generous focal length for high magnification views. Nitrogen filled, rugged, and waterproof for durability in various conditions.
Vanguard VEO 2 PRO 263AV Tripod with Video Pan Head
Used With: Celestron Regal M2 100ED Spotting Scope
Specifications & Description:
- Head: Ultra-smooth 2-way video pan head, equipped with a quick-release plate for rapid mounting and dismounting of equipment. A back-up safety lock ensures gear remains secure, while a sturdy long pan handle provides enhanced control during panning and tilting movements.
- Tripod Specifications: The tripod features 26mm (1.02") diameter, 3-section aluminum legs, combining durability with lightness. When folded, the tripod measures 23.2" (590 mm) in height, making it compact for travel and storage. Fully extended, it reaches a height of 59" (1500mm).
- Leg Adjustability: The tripod legs can be set to angles of 20°, 45°, and 80°, accommodating various shooting positions and terrains. Quick flip leg locks enable swift adjustments and secure positioning.
- Weight: 2.1 kg
- Max Load Capacity: 5 kg
Celestron X-CEL LX 5mm Eyepiece
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Used With: Celestron Regal M2 100ED Spotting Scope Used For: High-magnification views of planets, star clusters, and the Moon. Specifications & Description:
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Starting from the left and moving clockwise:
- Quick Release Plate
- Celestron NexYZ 3-Axis Universal Smartphone Adapter
- Bluetooth Remote for Astrophotography
- Celestron Deluxe Lens Cleaning Kit
- Celestron X-CEL LX 5mm Eyepiece
Celestron NexYZ 3-Axis Universal Smartphone Adapter
Used With: Celestron Regal M2 100ED Spotting Scope
Specifications & Description:
- Compatibility: Universal design fits most smartphones, connecting them to the eyepiece.
- Adjustability: Three-axis adjustment for alignment and optimal imaging.
- Build: Durable materials and a secure grip to ensure the safety of your smartphone and use in diverse conditions.
Celestron Deluxe Lens Cleaning Kit
Used With: All lenses and optics.
Specifications & Description:
- Contents: 10 lens wipes, lens cleaning fluid, lens cloth, and a retractable lens brush. Includes everything needed to keep optics clean and clear, enhancing the performance and longevity of my gear.
- Portability: Compact and easily transportable in a soft cloth pouch with a convenient belt loop.
Bluetooth Remote for Astrophotography
Used With: Smartphone
How I Use It: This remote is indispensable for triggering photographs on my smartphone without touching it, eliminating shake and ensuring better quality images.
Specifications & Description:
- Compatibility: Works with most smartphones and bluetooth-enabled cameras.
- Range: Ample distance range for flexible positioning and operation.
- Ease of Use: Simple pairing and operation for hassle-free use.
Each piece of my gear plays a vital role in my exploration of the cosmos. Designed for mobility, every item in is light and compact, allowing me to effortlessly transport my equipment to a variety of observing locations. With these tools, the universe's mysteries unfold before my eyes, captured through lenses crafted with precision and care. Keep an eye on this space as I continue to expand my celestial toolkit, bringing even more of the cosmos into view.