Like many amateur astronomers, I own a variety of telescopes, binoculars, and mounts, each chosen for specific observing purposes, whether it’s exploring the planets, distant galaxies, or emission nebulae.

Astrophotography, however, places very different demands on optical equipment. Capturing high-quality images requires features such as a large, well-corrected, and fully illuminated image circle, along with precise tracking and stable mounting systems.

Takahashi FSQ 106-ED

4″ f/5 flat-field Super Apochromat

This 4″ apochromatic refractor from the Japanese telescope maker Takahashi is a perfect astrograph with a modified Petzval design and an excellent instrument for visual observing.

Takahashi FC-76DS

3″ f/7.5 Fluorit Apochromat

This refractor is very versatile. It allows striking observations with a light and compact tube, while offering great possibilities in deep sky astrophotography.

Intes Micro MN76

7″ f/6 Maksutov-Newtonian 4″ f/5 flat-field Super Apochromat

This scope is my first choice for planetary and Deep-Sky observing. It has a small obstruction and delivers high contrast views of the planets.

Celestron 11

11″ f/10 Schmidt-Cassegrain

An all-round scope, with its great aperture and its long focal length mainly used for planetary imaging and observing faint small Deep-Sky objects. A true work horse for different astronomical observations.

GSD Dobson 300 deluxe

12″ f/5 Newtonian-Dobson

Aperture, aperture, aperture! This scope is an impressive and powerful observing instrument for faint Deep-Sky objects, good quality at an unbeatable price. The telescope is still transportable in my mini van. The telescope was “pimped up” by Wolfgang “Howdii” Howurek and got a new rocker box.

Fornax 51 mount

German equatorial mount, 30 kg load capacity

This German equatorial mount from the Hungarian company Fornax 2002 Ltd. is my platform for astrophotography. The low periodic error of +/- 5-6 arcseconds and the equable running of the motors supports long-term astrophotography. The Pulsar drive controllerof Andras Dan enables Goto and helps to minimize time for locating the targets.