Thomas Amby - Astrophotography

New Equipment…

by Thomas Amby30F4 MiniScope, ASIair, Equipment, Gjern, Optics, Star Adventuer GTi, Tamron 150-600 mm f5.6-6.3 G1 February 9, 2024March 3, 2024Comments are Disabled

In an equipment update, the astrophotographer acquired the ZWO ASIair mini and ZWO 30F4 MiniScope for guiding, awaiting the backordered ZWOASI 120MM MiniGuide Camera. The replacement mount has arrived, prompting anticipation for testing under improved weather. The ASIair’s potential, highlighted by Astrobackyard’s Trevor Jones, is yet to be personally explored, with the compact Mini impressing during initial testing. Excitement builds for its integration with the Nikon Z5 and Tamron 150-600mm lens for enhanced polar alignment

Bad weather and not enough data

by Thomas AmbyEquipment, Gjern February 6, 2024March 3, 2024Comments are Disabled

In January 2024, challenging weather and technical issues plagued astrophotographer’s attempts. Limited clear nights and a malfunctioning Star Adventurer GTi led to minimal data collection. Resorting to archived data from Mt. Kent’s FUT telescope, an RGB composition of the galaxy M83 was attempted. Despite setbacks, future upgrades, including ASIair mini, a new scope, or a dedicated astro-camera, are being considered for enhanced astrophotography. The journey continues under the hope of clearer skies.

First light with the new gear

by Thomas AmbyGjern, Astronomical object, Camera, Equipment, Location, Mount, Nikon Z5, Optics, Sky Watcher, Star Adventuer GTi, Tamron 150-600 mm f5.6-6.3 G1 January 15, 2024June 7, 2024Comments are Disabled

Testing the new astrophotography rig was a success. Despite a slight hiccup with a misaligned UV filter affecting star photography, the night out was deemed a success. Imperfections aside, the experience was enjoyable, marking a memorable and satisfactory outing.

The star adventurer GTi has finally arrived

by Thomas AmbyEquipment, Gjern, Location, Mount, Sky Watcher, Star Adventuer GTi January 15, 2024Comments are Disabled

Just when I was about to receive my new mount the Sky watcher – Star Adventurer GTi a snowstorm hit Denmark. Providing us with 30 cm of snow on average. This delayed the arrival of the setup. Now I finally have received the mount and unpacked it and now I just have to await the …

The amazing Nikon FTZ II bring new lift to old optics.

by Thomas AmbyGjern, Astronomy, Camera, Equipment, Location, Nikon Z5, Optics, Tamron 150-600 mm f5.6-6.3 G1 January 7, 2024June 7, 2024Comments are Disabled

The Tamron 150-600mm f/5.6-6.3 Telephoto lens, with a 95mm aperture, was originally used for landscapes, but now offers potential for astrophotography. After upgrading to a Nikon Z5, and adapting the Nikon FTZ II adapter. The lens comes to life once more.

Building 1 new portable astrophoto kit

by Thomas AmbyGjern, Astronomy, Camera, Equipment, Location, Meade 8", Nikon Z5, Telescope January 4, 2024June 7, 2024Comments are Disabled

Over the past decade, the author has periodically engaged in astrophotography, using an older Meade 8″ telescope which lacks modern features, leading to frustration. To improve, they’ve decided to build a new astrophoto kit from scratch, starting with a Skywatcher Star Adventurer GTi mount, their Nikon Z5 camera, and a Tamron 150-600mm lens.

Author: Thomas Amby