William Optics Zenithstar 61 First Light

Having some mildly successful attempts at astrophotography with a DSLR and a camera lens (and the iOptron SkyGuider Pro), I decided I would make the investment and get the William Optics Zenithstar 61.

Already having the iOptron SkyGuider Pro, the Zenithstar 61 seemed like a logical choice. The telescope, Flattener and T-mount along with my Canon 6D were just about the weight limit that I wanted to put on the SkyGuider Pro.

Here is the setup in my driveway (Bortle scale 6).

Notice that the whole setup was a little to heavy to balance with one counter weight. In a pinch I used a C Clamp making sure to tape down the sliding arm so it didn’t move as the mount followed the sky.

What is shown here:

• William Optics Zenithstar 61 (blue)
• William Optics Adjustable Flattener 61
• William Optics Canon T-mount
• Astromania DeLuxe Dovetail Plate, Vixen 228mm
• iOptron SkyGuider Pro
• ProAm USA Professional Tandem Leg Tripod with 75mm Bowl Mount
• Canon 6D (unmodified)
• Laptop running BackYard EOS

Due to light pollution I was not immediately able to find the Andromeda galaxy, so I took many test shots, slightly changing the alignment until I finally found it.

• 10 x 60″ subs (Taken around 8:10 PM Eastern)
• ISO 800
• 6 Dark frames
• 10 Bias

A few minutes later the Orion Nebula rose above the horizon and I was able to get this

• 20 x 45″ subs  (Taken around 8:40 PM Eastern)
• ISO 400
• 10 Dark frames
• 10 Bias

Great learning experience! I learned that I need some type of finder scope or Red Dot finder, how to focus using BackYard EOS, and that I will need to purchase another counterweight.

Next I hope to be able to get out to a less light polluted sight (Bortle scale 4).

Thanks for looking.