Consultation. Equipment suitable for photometry of variable stars.

Affiliation
American Association of Variable Star Observers (AAVSO)
Sat, 01/07/2012 - 12:40

Hello. I am an amateur astronomer from Uruguay. I recently got the opportunity to invest some money in astronomical equipment. I am interested in buying a computer that allows me to perform photometry of variables to report to AAVSO. The camera is a Canon DSLR at prime focus T2i. I am in doubt as to the telescope. I have 5 possibilities and I want to show me as much as possible which would be suitable. Step by details:
1 - Celestron C5 w/ focal reducer
2 - Celestron C6 w/focal reducer
3 - Celestron Advanced Series C8-SGT (XLT) Computerized Telescope with focal reducer
4 - Celestron Omni XLT 150 R - 150mm f / 5 Refracting Telescope
5 - Astro Tech 8 "f / 4 Newtonian Imaging with correction of coma
All teams would equatorial mount go-to.
They are very different, but better to have to choose from.
From already thank you very much.
regards

Bernardo Pombo

Affiliation
American Association of Variable Star Observers (AAVSO)
Best option

Bernardo,

The best imaging telescope out of the ones you listed is the 8" Astro Tech Newtonian. It is an F/4 and has the most aperture. It needs to be mounted on a substantial mount, but if it is, you will be abe to obtain excellent results.

Everyone I know who owns an Astro Tech telescope simply loves it.

Mike Simonsen (SXN)

Affiliation
American Association of Variable Star Observers (AAVSO)
Photometry with DSLR

Hello Bernardo,   I've done visual variable star reporting, but am also trying to add photometry with my DSLR.  What software reduction package did you choose for your work?  IRIS, AIP4Win, or MaximDL --- or another product?

Good luck with your photometry,

Sincerely,

Walt Fahey  (FWJA)   docnrozzie@aol.com

" Doc"