How to Attach a DSLR Camera to a Telescope for Astrophotography
Connecting a DSLR Camera to a Telescope: A Step-By-Step Guide
DSLR cameras are an excellent choice for astrophotography, and this guide demonstrates a simple method to attach one to a telescope in place of a traditional lens. These adaptable cameras, affordably priced for entry- and mid-level models, provide a unique opportunity for stunning astrophotography images.
Why Attach a DSLR to a Telescope?
While a camera lens may offer wide field astrophotography, attaching a DSLR to a telescope offers the ability to explore subjects in greater detail and reveals them in a whole new light. The telescope's long focal length is the key to unlocking this potential.
Camera lenses, designed for daylight conditions, may introduce distortions into astrophotographs, such as curved stars towards the edges of an image or color distortions that cause stars to show as color fringing. Most telescopes are suitable for attaching to a DSLR camera.
Longer focal lengths may prove difficult for beginners, as they can expose tracking inaccuracies with the mount, such as incorrect polar alignment. Careful consideration is needed before choosing a telescope model, as some reflecting telescopes may not achieve focus with a camera attached. Research online forums and reviews to ensure compatibility.
Necessary Equipment
To attach your DSLR camera to a telescope, you will need two essential items: a T-ring and a nosepiece. The T-ring varies based on the camera manufacturer, so it is important to choose the correct one for your specific model.
Next, you will need to measure the width of your telescope's focuser, into which an eyepiece would be placed. Most telescopes take either 1.25-inch or 2-inch barrels, with 2-inch preferred to help reduce vignetting in your images. Once the diameter is measured, acquire a 1.25- or 2-inch-to-T2 nosepiece to complete the connection between the T-ring and the telescope.
Attaching the DSLR to the Telescope
To attach the camera to your telescope, first fit the nosepiece to your T-ring. The nosepiece is threaded, and will screw in. Remove the front cap or lens from your DSLR camera body, and attach the T-ring as if you were attaching a camera lens. Insert the free end of the nosepiece into your telescope focuser as you would an eyepiece, and secure it by tightening the screw(s) on the focuser.
Focussing on Your Target
An intervalometer or remote shutter release is an indispensable accessory to have to fire off multiple exposures without jostling the camera, as well as to set exposure times while in Bulb mode. Keep this accessory plugged into your DSLR at the start of an imaging session.
Once basic DSLR settings are understood, it's straightforward to use one to capture a range of astronomical objects with a telescope. Find a bright star, like Vega or Aldebaran, and press the live view button to bring it onto the camera’s screen. Star focus can be adjusted through the zoom buttons, ensuring it appears small and sharp.
Capturing Your Image
Useful buttons on a Canon DSLR are the 'Q' button, which allows switching between settings, and the zoom buttons for focus. Most models have similar buttons and settings. Start by focusing the stars, then locate your desired target, such as the Orion Nebula (M42).
Extra Tips
A DSLR camera can also be used to photograph the Moon with low ISO settings and fast exposure times. Earth's atmosphere can be penetrated using the camera's video capability for sharper images. Footage can later be processed to create a striking image of the lunar surface.
If you are buying a telescope for astrophotography with a DSLR, a motorized tracking mount is necessary to keep the focus on moving celestial objects. The weight of the telescope and camera combined will determine the type of mount needed.
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This guide originally appeared in the March 2023 issue of our website.
[1] "How to Use a T-Ring and an Eyepiece on a Telescope." Opticron, https://www.opticron.co.uk/advice/how-to-use-a-t-ring-and-an-eyepiece-on-a-telescope.html [3] "T-Ring [T-Mount to DSLR Camera Adapter]" Sky-Watcher, https://www.sky-watcher.com/Products/Accessoires/T-Ring-T-Mount-to-DSLR-Camera-Adapter.html
- The telescope's long focal length, when combined with a DSLR camera, allows for a level of detail and new perspective in astrophotography images.
- For those interested in astrophotography, a motorized tracking mount is essential when buying a telescope to keep the focus on moving celestial objects, as the weight of the telescope and DSLR camera combined will determine the type of mount needed.
- A T-ring and a nosepiece are essential equipment for attaching a DSLR camera to a telescope, with the former varying based on the camera manufacturer.
- Advanced techniques such as using the camera's video capability for sharper images of the Moon, or an intervalometer or remote shutter release for firing off multiple exposures, can further enhance astrophotography results with a DSLR attached to a telescope.
