Planetary Imaging Starter Bundle

The Planetary Imaging Starter Bundle is the simplest path to crisp lunar and planetary captures. An 8" class Dobsonian reflector provides excellent aperture for resolving fine detail on the Moon, Jupiter, and Saturn, while staying easy to transport and quick to set up.

The ZWO ASI585MC color planetary camera records high-frame-rate video for lucky imaging—stacking thousands of frames to beat the seeing and reveal sharp detail. Paired with the Tele Vue Powermate 3×, you reach the ideal focal ratio for high-resolution sampling on most nights, turning steady moments of seeing into striking images.

This bundle prioritizes practicality and results: fast deployment, straightforward capture workflow, and impressive planetary output right from day one.

• Telescope: Sky-Watcher 8" Dobsonian Reflector (manual alt-az base; high aperture value)
• Camera: ZWO ASI585MC – USB 3.0 color CMOS; high sensitivity; high frame rate
• Amplifier: Tele Vue Powermate 3× – telecentric amplifier for optimal sampling
• Best Targets: Moon, Jupiter, Saturn, Mars (and bright double stars)
• Capture Method: Short-exposure video (lucky imaging) for stacking and sharpening

• Sky-Watcher 8" Dobsonian Reflector Telescope (or equivalent 8"+ Dobsonian)
• ZWO ASI585MC USB 3.0 Color CMOS Astronomy Camera
• Tele Vue Powermate 3×
• Finder, eyepiece(s), and standard accessories supplied by the telescope manufacturer
• USB cable(s) and documentation