Expert: Jayendra Upadhye - 11/22/2004

Question
I would like to take deep-sky photos. I already know some basic astronomy. I already have a small ETX-70 Meade Telescope. But I would like to start from scratch. What would be a good telescope to buy, and what camera works best?
Thank you.

Answer
Hello Alejandro,
To start with, here is a web page that recommends certain improvements to your existing model! These are improvements you can make inexpensively.
http://www.schlatter.org/Dad/Astronomy/etx70.htm
Also the etx-70 lacks a finder scope.
Pls use this web page by same author as the first one, about adding a finder scope to the etx-70.

Now,
I wouldnt be able to tell you which company to buy from, but in scopes, if you have a decent budget [for real amateur work i mean], go in for a scope with a built in finder scope. and a tracking mount (equatorial or azimuthal as your budget allows).
Finders are pre-requisites as at higher magnification, the star field buzzes past your view even for the slightest movement of the scope. The earth's rotation, makes the target object constantly move off center once it is found!
Finders are low magnificatin devices with a wider field of view.Tracking mounts help in keeping the object centered for full length of observation.
Lastly, for very high magnification, ccd (charge coupled devices are less uselful and quality photographic plate with long exposure time is required. Images of remote objects take upto 3-4 hours of exposure.
Questar and celestron are two manufacturers in the us i can name.
You will have to do the web search for their products yourself.
Be careful how you spend! Buying stuff too expensive and complicated to handle mighty actually spoil the fun.

pls do rate the answer.
Jayen.