3
travel, you will need to use an optional 1.25" Barlow lens to extend the telescope’s
focal plane to the camera’s imaging plane (Barlow sold separately).
For most types of astro-imaging with the SSUEII, using a telescope with a focal
length of at least 1000mm is recommended. Otherwise, the image scale may be
too small. To increase the effective focal length of your system, use a Barlow lens
or other type of tele-extender lens
.
Mount
While using an equatorial (EQ) mount is recommended to achieve the best results,
one is not absolutely required for general imaging with the SSUEII. Since the maxi-
mum exposure time is only a fraction of a second, astronomical objects will not drift
significantly through a telescope attached to an altazimuth mount or Dobsonian
base during single image captures. Use a sturdy mount that is appropriately sized
for the telescope tube being used.
For obtaining the best planetary images, however, we do recommend an equa-
torial mount. Planetary imaging requires combining many individual images, and
having an equatorial mount will prevent the planet from drifting out of the field of
view of the camera during the time it takes to acquire the large number of images
necessary. A motor drive (single-axis) is recommended too, so you can track the
target object as you transmit live images to your laptop or PC.
Computer
A computer is required for normal use of the SSUEII. For astro-imaging in the field
at night, a laptop computer is highly recommended. The Orion Capture software
requires Windows XP, Vista or 7.
The following hardware is required:
Processor – Pentium III™ or equivalent, or higher
•
Recommended minimum memory size is 256 MB.
•
Disk Space – 100 MB minimum, 500 MB or more recommended for saving
images.
•
Video Display – 800 X 600, 16-bit color or higher. 1024x768 or higher is
recommended.
•
Mouse (external or built-in)
•
Internet connection required to display on-line help and downloading image
processing software
•
USB 1.0 or High Speed USB 2.0 port