DSLR - No mirror box or shutter - Can I mod for astrophotography?

Jasp05 (Aaron) · #1 13-11-2018, 02:31 PM

Hi guys,

I've come across a cheap Canon 50d DSLR. It is missing the mirror box and shutter.

Is this still going to be viable for astrophotography? I would be looking to remove the IR filter in this unit and use purely for astro.

Does anyone know If I will be able to achieve focus with it on the back of a telescope without the mirror box?

Is the shutter cover really necessary these days with the digital sensors?

bojan · #2 13-11-2018, 02:36 PM

You will have to "replace" shutter and mirror assembly with (arduino?) simulator..I am also looking inti that for my 450D.

I don't think the focus will be a problem.

See here:
http://www.diplot.de/shutter_en.htm

Jasp05 (Aaron) · #3 13-11-2018, 02:49 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by bojan

You will have to "replace" shutter and mirror assembly with (arduino?) simulator..I am also looking inti that for my 450D.

I don't think the focus will be a problem.

See here:
http://www.diplot.de/shutter_en.htm

Hmm. seems a bit technical. Are there more detailed schematics on where these "p" pins are and how to connect? And do you then still set your exposure length with your dslr software or via the arduino?

Jasp05 (Aaron) · #4 13-11-2018, 02:51 PM

Although If i got this camera for $50 it seems like a good candidate for tinkering with, cold finger mod and UV/IR filter removal..

Reckon it's worth it Bojan?

bojan · #5 13-11-2018, 02:53 PM

I would go for it... $50 is not much money to spend on learning...

bojan · #6 13-11-2018, 02:58 PM

This shutter emulator is there because camera main board expects signals from mirror box.. and if something is not right, error code will be gererated.
Not sure wher eto get scematic, they are sometimes not easy to obtain (maybe you can contact author of the arduno sketch?)
With this emulator, camera will behave like it is coplete (no errors) but of course you will have to physically add shutter (even in a form of lid) to control exposures.. maybe arduino processor can be used to control DIY shutter....

bojan · #7 13-11-2018, 03:04 PM

For service manual try this:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Oc62smlbhps