Leaving D/SLR attached to scope for long periods of time.

[hotspur]

Hello.

Looking for information on leaving D/SLR's attached to scopes for long periods of time.

I currently use a canon 50D for work and general use,and occasionally for astro imaging.

But,really need to have this cam for regular use.I am looking at purchasing a second hand Canon 50D and leaving it attached to scope,so as its all set up ready go.

I have an observatory,and pier mount-scope etc always at the ready-find it bothersome to have to use my good regular cam for astronomy.

So any thoughts on having this second 50D in use all the time on scope.

[archioptic]

I often leave lenses attached to my DSLRs for long periods of time and I've never had any issues so I couldn't see a problem providing it's all stored safely. If anything it'll keep dust out.

[pluto]

The only issue would be dust on the sensor. Just make sure you leave the cap on your scope, though I'm sure you already do that :)

[hotspur]

Thanks,it will all be in a purpose built observatory,the scope and mount have been there for years,with little use,I figured if I have a DSLR attcahed to back of scope all the time,there might be some more chance of imaging.

[Terry B]

Not a DSLR but I leave my ST10 attached permanently to my scope. I haven't removed it in over a year. No problems.
Terry

[hotspur]

thanks-was looking to see if anyone was doing this-cheers

[Nico13]

Hi Chris if you have a field correctors or flattener in front of it there shouldn't be a problem with dust etc.

[hotspur]

No,do not have any of that,not sure if Terry's set up has that.Was just looking at attaching,to back of duel flip mirror,but might be issues if I am doing visual with dust getting in,when changing eyepieces.

Likely to get second cam for mainly imaging,just looking on thoughts on management.Once I get a few good nights in a row on a target,I'd be doing no visual anyway,and be nice to leave camera all hooked up,and my regular one for daytime work.

[Garbz]

I pulled the cover off my QHY10 the other day to find a spider had nested in it, but other than that my camera lives on the scope out in the observatory.

A DSLR has less ventilation holes though :-)

[hotspur]

Bummer-re spider!

I'll get this second DSLR and use it exclusively for use on scope,if it appears likely I'l be away,and not in use I can pack it away,and have it live in observatory for when needed.