Which Camera Lens?

[peeb61]

Hi Folks,
Now I have my Canon filter drawer DSLR adaptor and ZWO183MC Pro I am wondering what Canon Lens to match?
I have a number of Canon Lens and because of this new direction to widefield astrophotography I am wondering if they will do as a starter...?

Canon EF 28-80mm
Canon EF-S 18-55mm
Canon EF 75-300mm

Or can anyone recommend a decent Canon compatible lens that will not break the bank...
Many thanks in advance.
Paul

[Drac0]

Hi Paul,

The real question is what you are planning to target. You can use any of the lenses listed & all would be workable in the correct situation. You really need to check the framing for the targets you want with various lenses. I use Stellarium or the simulator at telescopius.com to check framing with various gear.

Personally, when using camera lenses I prefer a fixed focal length over a zoom lens. With my 294MM I use a 50mm & 100mm for wider field images and an older 300mm F4 L which they no longer sell.

Remember that the 183MC has a smaller sensor than a DSLR/Mirrorless camera so will have a slightly tighter FoV. Also note that manually focusing with a lens can be very difficult - the slightest touch can put you way out. That's why I had Joshua make a focusing aid that allows small movements & holds the focus in place when done:
https://www.iceinspace.com.au/forum/showpost.php?p=1591039&postcount=158

Cheers,
Mark

[peeb61]

Thanks Mark, a nice detailed explanation, I have put the setting into Stellarium using the 28-80mm lens and the field of view would get me easily M42 and the Horsehead if my figures are correct....Please see crop..This is what I am hoping....Please correct me if I'm wrong?
Paul

[Drac0]

Hi Paul,

Looks about right for 80mm. This is what I get with my 294MM + 100mm.

Cheers,
Mark

[peeb61]

Thanks Mark,

You have been a great help, I really appreciate it! :thumbsup:

[Leo.G]

Sort of my dilemma too with my yet unused (by me) Astro-Trac, which lens so thanks Mark, great information!