Focus hints?

v_green

Brand new ZWO user with a question -

How do you focus on Deep Sky objects?

So far, I have been experimenting with bright things (Jupiter, Moon, etc.) and through the process of trial and error, have learned that without pin-point focus, your stacked results are pretty bad to worthless. Focusing on bright objects is pretty straightforward, but how do you focus on dim objects that need an exposure of many seconds per frame such that the preview is not running in real-time so you can see the effects of your efforts?

I have searched some for information, and am finding some, but am asking for some guidance from those who have already crossed this bridge.

Any info, links, etc. will be gratefully accepted.

Sam@ZWO

I usually use max gain and 0.5-1s to find a star

and then adjust the focuser to make the star's brightness to maxium

ken_t

Focus on a star, not a planet or moon.

Ideally using a Bahtinov mask, then move to your deep space object.

ken_t

If you need info on a Bahtinov Mask try here :=- http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bahtinov_mask

You can of course make one yourself instead of purchasing one :)

v_green

Thanks, everyone. I will use these next time I have some clear skies.