I just bought my ZWO ASI 533 mc pro and I have a question

edwards90

Hello, I have bought my first dedicated camera, I come from the world of reflexes.

I have my 72 ed evostar tube from skywatcher and the EQM 35 Goto mount.

When I configure the whole equipment, it asks me to align with 1, 2 or 3 stars, in the reflex camera it has the live preview to see and center the star, my question is, how is it done with a dedicated camera? I know I have to occupy my laptop but I would like to know if this has a live preview or how it is done.

I really appreciate your responses.

Thanks

johnpd

edwards90
The ASI533 is a great camera. You should get some fine images with it.

What software will you be using? SharpCap is a popular option. There is a free version as well as a paid one. The paid one has more options such as a polar alignment feature. N.I.N.A. is also an excellent imaging program with many imaging and hardware support options and is free.
One of the first things you will need to do is determine the focus point for the camera. A good way to get a rough focus in the beginning is to use the Moon as a target. To get sharp focus, a Bahtinov mask is a great tool for that. You can use SharpCap to aid as well.

Enjoy your new camera.
JohnD

WalterT

I set my astrophotography program (NINA in my case) to loop 1sec exposures instead of using live preview. That’s only a personal preference as I find taking video of stars troublesome personally. I just take the 1sec pics, display them, but don’t save them as I only need them for alignment purposes. Also if your program has a reticle or crosshairs overlay use it as well to know exactly where the center is instead of eyeballing it.

ps. Most programs DO have a “Live Preview” mode but like I said I’ve found taking videos of star fields more troublesome than it’s worth.

edwards90

WalterT Hello, thank you very much for your answer, I will take it into account in the next session.