A Step-by-Step Guide – Using the ToupTek SkyEye 62AM and SkyEye 24AC as Examples
Category: Astrophotography
Last week, I finally hit the “buy” button. After extensive research, I chose the Harmonic Drive mount WD-20P from WarpAstron.
It was time for a permanent adaptation of an astrocomputer to my Vixen VC200L.
I chose the ToupTek StellaVita.
More contrast under suburban skies — my real-world experience with the Baader UHC-L Booster Filter (50.4 mm).
Three projects, challenging conditions, and an honest technical conclusion from my backyard in Koblenz.
I’m increasingly considering capturing RGB data with a one-shot color camera instead of continuing with mono and separate filters. While mono remains efficient, the RGB workflow is time-consuming, and early tests with two cameras have shown that it can significantly reduce routine overhead. As a result, my focus has shifted less toward pure image quality and more toward handling and workflow efficiency.
Perfect detailed planning of the deep-sky object and the framing using Stellarium HiPS full-sky surveys!
A spontaneous Moon photo with 1800mm focal length after collimating my VC200L and making use of several clear nights.
Old flats: Poor correction, bad results.
Fresh flats: Proper calibration, much better image quality.
My PixInsight processing comparison between 2021, 2024 and 2025 and some Tools and Methods I use.
A tilt unit corrects sensor tilt and ensures uniform sharpness. The CTU from Gerd Neumann provides precise adjustment while also optimizing the back focus.