Nikon D80 For Astrophotography?

Question

Ok, so I want to begin this hobby, I have a Meade ETX-70AT and my dad has a Nikon D80, I'm planning to piggy back the Camera to my Telescope, is the Nikon a Good DSLR camera for Astrophotography? and Can I make some sort of equipment to attached it to the Scope?

Answer 1

Just remember to turn off the autofocus motor on your D80 body. Also, you'll want to use a wireless remote or self-timer to minmize motion on the long exposures needed for astrophotography.

Be sure the adjustments on the telescope's tripod are tight enough, as you'll be adding a couple of pounds on the eyepiece end of the telescope.

Answer 2

Are you going for star trails? Or more for planets, stars, moon, etc? If you're doing star trails, either one would work. You just need to leave the shutter open. If you're taking shots of the celestial bodies, either one would work also. The D80 is built tougher than the D60, BUT its much older too. D60 would save you some coin. Use the saved money to get a better wide angle lens.

Answer 3

You've gotten some excellent answers. However, there is something else to consider. The following is from my FotoSharp (fotosharp.com) "Day & Night Exposure Guide". Since I use film I've no way of knowing how applicable it is. IMO its still worth mentioning.

Digital Camera Noise - If you use long exposure times, shoot at high ISO settings, or let the camera get too warm, "noise" or colored specks will appear on your images. Computer software can be used to remove noise; however, its best to reduce noise when taking photos by:

- Setting the camera to the lowest ISO setting available
- Using the camera's noise-reduction feature if it has one
- Keeping the camera cool
- Taking long exposures as soon as you turn the camera on
- Turning the camera off between long exposures to let the sensor cool down