I take photos of solar eclipses. In the past I used an OM2n with a 500mm mirrored lens and a solar filter. I had a head I got from Orion.

Recently I purchased a Nikon F100. I am using the 500mm mirrored lens with a 2x doubler and the solar filter. I also may try and use a 300mm glass Nikon lens with a 2x doubler also. The camera is too heavy for my current pan head. I need a head that will support the weight. The one I have now is too wobbly with the heavier camera. I dont want to continuously lock an unlock the head. I usually center the image lock the head, then use the slow motion controls to move the camera to keep the image centered. I need to be able to move the camera in two directions after the head is locked, like a telescope. It has to be portable also and fit in a conventional duffel bag since the eclipses take place all over the world.

If anyone has any ideas about what head to use on a standard tripod please let me know.

-- The Engineer (spcengineer@yahoo.com), August 01, 2000

Answers

Takahashi makes a electronic head that tracks sidereal motion. That maybe most appropriate for your interests. However, I don't know if it will fit on standard tripods.

-- Chuck (chaohui@msn.com), August 01, 2000.