Experience and recordings M101 with Askar 103APO, 1x Flattener and Touptek 26000KPA IMX571 Color

Hello Mr. Kloß,

Over the course of the week, I finally had the opportunity to test the Touptek 2600CP with the Askar 103APO for the first time. The guiding wasn't perfect yet, but that should be resolved the following evening. The completely new system naturally results in a slightly different behavior of the EQ5, which now has to get used to the fact that it's carrying a bit more weight. All in all, though, it's handling it really well! I chose the M101 as a suitable target for the color camera; the 700mm focal length also offers a bit of an overview of the surroundings.

I was able to collect about three hours over two evenings, including Sahara dust and a few clouds. Then, following my usual DSLR approach, I integrated the Astropixel Processor; I've had very good experiences with Bayer/Drizzle on my DSLR. This also works wonderfully with the Touptek photos, although I obviously had to adjust different settings for the subsequent color calibration. The signal-to-noise ratio is obviously significantly better compared to a DSLR, and this allowed me to achieve a good result without much editing effort. After integrating the individual images, eliminating light pollution, color calibration, and a "simple" stretch in the app, I simply increased the contrast a bit using color curves in RawTherapee and smoothed out the noise slightly. Then I scaled it to about 50% and exported it as a JPG.

The whole process didn't require any particular effort, and I suspect there's definitely room for improvement. But it's already very presentable! I also really like the stars all the way to the edge (it's not a crop), and there were no noticeable color aberrations. I'm very happy with my decision to go with the Askar 103APO; it was the right choice here. Thanks again for the recommendation!

I initially focused manually, which was relatively quick and easy. However, I noticed that when adjusting the microfocus, the weight of the camera (at 75° on the M101) pulls a bit on the focuser. I was able to control this by tightening the locking screw immediately after turning the focuser. This allowed me to focus in just a few steps. Is there a way to make the focuser a bit stiffer? As long as I'm focusing manually, this might be helpful.

Best regards,
Sebastian R.

Link to the ASKAR 103APO:

https://www.teleskop-spezialisten.de/shop/advanced_search_result.php?keywords=askar+103apo

Link to the ToupTek APS-C camera with IMX571 Color (latest version) ATR3CMOS26000KPA:

https://www.teleskop-spezialisten.de/shop/Astrofotografie/ToupTek-Photonics/ToupTek-APS-C-Kamera-mit-IMX571-Color-neueste-Version-ATR3CMOS26000KPA::5544.html