Explore Scientific ED80: Need Focal Reducer?

[fatboy1271]

I use a Canon 70D with my ES ED80; FL=480mm and FR=f/6. Should I consider purchasing a Focal Reducer for AP? In my Los Angeles County light pollution nightmare would this help me gather more data at lower exposure times?

If so, what amount should I look for?

Thanks for any and all info/comments!
fat

[JayTee]

No, light pollution is pernicious. The light pollution signal will always increase with longer exposures regardless of the focal ratio. Or if your focal ratio drops the amount of light pollution photons going on to your sensor does not decrease. It is the background noise that never goes away.

I don't use a focal reducer with my ES80. But I do use a field flattener. In your case I think a field flattener would definitely help as you are imaging a huge chunk of sky as it is. I use the Astro-Tech AT2FF field flattener. And of course dark skies are your friend.

Cheers,
JT

[fatboy1271]

No, light pollution is pernicious. The light pollution signal will always increase with longer exposures regardless of the focal ratio. It is the background noise that never goes away.

I don't use a focal reducer with my ES80. But I do use a field flattener. In your case I think a field flattener would definitely help as you are imaging a huge chunk of sky as it is. I use the Astro-Tech AT2FF field flattener.

Cheers,
JT

Thanks JT! I do have an ES 2" FF. I appreciate the info

[Juno16]

Hi FB,

Let me know how the ES field flatter works out for you. I might have to go with it or the AT2FF that JT uses. I’ve had the Astronomics ATR8 0.8 FF/FR on order from Astronomics since February and it is not pushed up to October delivery.

Thanks,
Jim

[fatboy1271]

Hi FB,

Let me know how the ES field flatter works out for you. I might have to go with it or the AT2FF that JT uses. I’ve had the Astronomics ATR8 0.8 FF/FR on order from Astronomics since February and it is not pushed up to October delivery.

Thanks,
Jim

Hey Jim,

I've actually had the ES Field Flattener since I got the ED80, so I honestly don't know what it's like to use the ED80 without it... Therefore, I'd have to say it works but my lack of knowledge can't say how well it works

Bummer about the shipping date on the FF/FR you ordered!

fat

[jrkirkham]

I'll be interested in reading what you think of the FF when you start using it.