Looking for new astronomy gear? Calculate it!

Starting out in astronomy and astrophotography with a new telescope and camera can be a daunting choice to make. There are always so many options to choose from, lots of little gadgets with technical names that are hard to understand and costs are usually fairly big investment for most people, for good quality equipment.

So where does one start?

A Sydney-based telescope and astrophotography outlet, Bintel, have a new online calculator that has been launched that allows amateur astronomers and astrophotographers to work out what telescope and camera combination would work well for them, prior to purchasing these products.

The calculator, developed by Astrophotographer Dylan O’Donnell, allows would-be purchasers to select a telescope model, then a CCD imager/camera model and a target like Jupiter, Saturn, the Orion Nebula or a couple of different galaxies – thus showcasing how the camera chip will image the object, along with providing other valuable information to make an informed decision prior to purchasing.

The tool is linked to Bintel’s inventory list so it should make shopping choices much easier moving forward. Shipping is available anywhere in Australia and New Zealand.

Tile image credit: Dylan O’Donnell

Astrophotographer Dylan O'Donnell shares his knowledge, tips, and tricks in his Star Stuff video series, helping amateur astronomers around the world capture the cosmos using their home set up, in addition to discussing and reviewing astrophotography gear.

Dylan writes for Celestron & Photographing Space, shoots for Deography photo blog from Australia's most eastern observatory in Byron Bay, and provides science outreach for schools and students.

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