Setting up a new 0.8X Focal Reducer /Flattener
Tuesday, September 25, 2012 at 1:18PM In an attempt to improve the quality of the images using my SBIG camera I have obtained a 0.8X Focal Reducer from TS Optics in Germany. The advantage of this particular reducer is that it actually slides fully into my TCF-Si Focuser. Hopefully this will reduce the level of vignetting and coma that I get compared to the f/6.3 Meade FR that I usually use. Of course there will be a smaller field and a subsequent requirement for more accurate pointing.
I have also acquired The SkyX from Software Bisque which is very good for generating databases from imported data - particularly its ability to import Supernovae lists in a simple cut and paste operation. However I am still using The Sky6 to refine pointing with T-Point for Windows as I would need to buy the T-Point add on for Sky X! I can't see any advantages in paying for the add on at the moment!
The positioning of the 0.8X focal reducer is critical and the base of the male thread on the camera side needs to be exactly 9.75 cm from the plane of the CCD chip.
To achieve this I am using a variable length extension tube so that a precise distance can be achieved.
(More to follow including diagrams)