SBIG AO-8 Adaptive Optics

The AO-8 uses a tip-tilt glass element to rapidly shift the image position, counteracting the blurring effects of atmospheric turbulence. By correcting these small movements in real-time, it keeps stars pinpoint-sharp during long exposures, which is something standard tracking mounts cannot do on their own.

The AO-8 is specifically designed for the SBIG ST-7, ST-8, ST-9, ST-10, and ST-2000 camera series. It is not a universal accessory, so ensure your specific camera model is on this list before purchasing.

No, it is not a replacement for a good mount. The AO-8 is designed to work in tandem with your mount to handle high-frequency corrections that the mount's motors are too slow to address, effectively refining the tracking performance you already have.

It adds some length to your imaging train, so you will need to ensure you have enough back-focus available on your telescope. Once installed, it integrates directly with your SBIG camera software, making the calibration process straightforward for those already familiar with the SBIG ecosystem.

It is most effective when you have a reasonably bright guide star within the field of view to lock onto. If you are imaging in a very sparse area of the sky without a suitable guide star, the unit will not have a reference point to perform its corrections.