Inaugural Test of the New Telescope

Almost two years ago Dan purchased a new telescope.

It was pretty fabulous! But it was very heavy and bulky, and the scope, with all of the needed auxiliary equipment, barely fit into the back of Dan's car. In time, we both came to realize that the effort and stress involved in setting it up often kept us from using it. So a few months ago Dan sold that scope and ordered a different one. This one is smaller, lighter, much easier to handle, and is specifically made to pair with a camera. (And did I mention it's a beautiful color?!) His new goal is to learn the art and science of astrophotography. I'm excited about this, myself, because it fits more with my own interests.

To begin shooting photos, Dan also purchased a number of necessary accessories. Some came right away - at the same time that the scope and mount arrived. One key component, however, was on back-order until last week. FINALLY everything he needed was here (although we both know that his Santa wish list will include other cool accessories).

Last evening we had a clear sky so, before it was dark, we got everything set up for our inaugural evening of astrophotography. I would call it a successful first run, although we made a few mistakes -- all part of the learning curve. Dan's successes included great focus, polar alignment and the actual capture of photographs. He has a few things yet to master. Next time will be even better.

I can't wait for us to become proficient in, both, astrophotography and the post-processing, so I can post here, on my blog, some fabulous shots of deep space.