Gear & Resources

A curated list of the hardware, software, and tools I use for my explorations.

Microscopy Gear

My Budget Microscopes

AmScope M620 Microscope
Great for Beginners

AmScope M620

An excellent budget microscope for dedicated amateur hobbyists.

My current microscope, the AmScope M620, is a fantastic choice for amateurs on a budget who want great features without a high price tag.

  • I primarily use it with a phone mount for capturing video and images.
  • If you prefer using traditional eyepieces, I'd recommend considering the AmScope B120 model instead.
AmScope M162C Microscope
Great for Beginners

AmScope M162C

A solid, no-frills entry point into the world of microscopy.

This was my first microscope. Its straightforward nature made learning easy, but it lacks advanced features.

  • Pro: A great starting point if you find it on sale.
  • Con: Lacks a mechanical stage, Abbe condenser, and DIN optics.
  • Advice: Saving for a more capable model might be beneficial long-term.
See on AmScope
Beaverlab Darwin M2 Microscope
Family Friendly

Beaverlab Darwin M2

A unique and rugged digital microscope perfect for kids and beginners.

I picked this up for my son. Its biggest strengths are its ease of use and portability, which makes it less intimidating for new enthusiasts.

  • All-in-One: The built-in screen removes the need for a computer.
  • Rugged Build: Compact and durable, great for transport and use by children.

Accessories

NEEWER Metal Telescope Phone Mount
Essential Accessory

NEEWER Phone Mount

The best way to capture images and video through your microscope.

A phone mount is the best way to get started in photomicroscopy. It's more accessible than an expensive camera and your phone is already a powerful imaging device.

  • Sturdy Build: The metal construction is durable and holds my Pixel 9 Pro XL perfectly.
  • Versatile: I've used this single mount with all of my microscopes.
Find on Amazon

Astrophotography Hardware

Telescopes

Dwarflab Dwarf 3 Telescope
My Go-To Telescope

Dwarflab Dwarf 3

A compact smart telescope that makes deep-sky astrophotography accessible.

I love this telescope. It simplifies the process of capturing stunning images of distant nebulae and galaxies.

Key Strengths:
  • Highly Portable: Compact and easy to transport for imaging on the go.
  • Easy to Use: Integrated tooling and software simplify image stacking and capture.
  • Versatile: Also fantastic for bird watching and panoramic shots.

Good to know: It excels at Moon and Sun photography, but lacks the resolution for clear images of other planets like Mars or Jupiter.

Use code Y0JKVETE208Z for $10 off your order!

Tripods

K&F Concept Camera Tripod

K&F Concept 64" Tripod

A sturdy, versatile, and reliable tripod for stable astrophotography.

A stable base is crucial for astrophotography, and this K&F tripod is an essential piece of kit for me.

Why It Works Well:
  • Very Sturdy: Provides a secure, stable platform for long exposures.
  • High Capacity: The ball head is rated for 8kg, giving me confidence it can handle the Dwarf 3 and other gear.
  • Easy Setup: Helps make positioning the Dwarf 3 into equatorial mode surprisingly simple.
Find on Amazon

Astrophotography Software

Siril Software

Siril

Free and open-source astronomical image processing software. Powerful and versatile for deep-sky astrophotography.

Download for Free
GraXpert Software

GraXpert

A powerful AI-based tool for background extraction, helping to reveal faint details in your astro images.

Download for Free
Affinity Photo 2 Software

Affinity Photo 2

Professional image editing software often used for post-processing astrophotography images, offering advanced tools and layers.

Learn More