EyeOpener setup for CCD imaging
In general, the EyeOpener will simply attach Meade's Microfocuser to the scope backplate. The camera obviously goes behind the Microfocuser, and if you're using a focal reducer it will go between the Microfocuser and the camera. When using the EyeOpener there is no loss in backfocus distance.
Here's the original setup I used for attaching a f/3.3 focal reducer and DSI II Color camera to my 14" GPS.
t EyeOpener to the 3-1/4" male thread extending from the backplate of the scope.
t Next attach the Meade microfocuser to the EyeOpener.
t Next insert the Schmidt threaded adapter (supplied by Meade with the microfocuser) into the microfocuser (smooth end in, threaded end out).
t Next attach the f/3.3 reducer to the Schmidt thread now protruding from the microfocuser.
t Next attach the 30mm spacer to the T adapter supplied with the DSI II to the Schmidt thread now protruding from the microfocuser.
t And finally, attach your CCD imager to the reducer.
The added length of the focal reducer and spacer used up just about all of the scope backfocus.
The setup has been refined significantly since my early work with the DSI II C shown above.
The DSI II C is now regulated to use as a guide scope camera, and a DSI III Pro is mounted on the main scope. The setup is as follows:
* An EZ Balance on-axis counterweight is held
in place with an EyeOpener.
* The Meade Microfocuser is attached to the EyeOpener.
* A Ted Agos modified Meade f/6.3 or f/3.3 focal reducer is inserted inside of
the Microfocuser. With the longer f/6.3 reducer the tube actually extends
through the EyeOpener and into the scope baffle tube.
* A manual filter wheel is attached to the T-thread on the end of the focal
reducer tube.
* A ScopeStuff manual shutter is attached to the back of the filter wheel, and
the manual shutter is in turn attached to the front of the DSI III Pro. (An
Outback cooler has since been added to the back of the DSI III Pro).
The optics in the modified focal reducers can be positioned anywhere in the new focal reducer tube, eliminating the need for T-tube extension parts. Backfocus is no longer a problem.