Yesterday I set up my 8" EDGE HD with a Celestron OAG and ASI120 mini guide camera. It failed spectacularly. Guiding was very erratic, and I stopped running the Plan after seeing the first image. Do I need to use a different camera?
JMIKEG yes you need a different camera with an OAG. The 120mm mini is too small and not meant for high gain settings. I can maybe use the 120 at gain 70 maximum with a guide scope. I use a 220mm mini for my OAG. The native gain for that camera is 28 and higher it will diminish the FWC quickly. The 220mm mini would be the cheapest alternative that has a higher acceptable gain level without depleating the full well capacity. If cost is not an issue then a 174 will be the better choice for higher gain settings when using an OAG and it has a bigger chip that will help with more available stars as well.
Thanks Kevin. I've ordered a 174.
