Good DSLR for astriphotography?

[chrisc]

Hi all,

I have a wonderful but ancient film-based SLR, and a new 7MP compact camera. I would, however, like to slot a DSLR into my telescope.

As I am DSLR-less, I was wondering if anyone can offer advice with regard to good / bad options on the market at the moment? Useful tips along the lines of "Oh my god whatever you do don't buy THAT one", would be most welcome. :-)

I've been ogling some Canon 40D, 1000D, 450D's in the local Ted's Camera Store. Price range seems to be $900-$1,300 depending on both body model and what sort of lens(es) they're bundling. The DSLR will get a look in taking sports photos but it's primary purpose in life will be staring down my telescope in prime focus & projection modes.

Cheers!
Chris

[matt]

Based on these 2 parameters I would highly recommend the 40D, with its 6.5 frames per second capability (for sports) and track record for delivering top-quality astro images.

There's a lot more to consider, but in a nutshell the 40D would be my pick of the 3 DSLRs you've listed, although it's a little more expensive. Not much more, though.

[gregbradley]

I would add to that a Hutech or similar clear glass modified DSLR 40D with a CCnite X1 filter so you can still use autofocus and terrestial imaging but have the far greater sensitivity of the modified DSLR.

I have a 20D modified this way and it works fine for both.

I also have a 40D and it takes great photos and the 14 bit output is good.Live preview for focusing would also be a very good feature of the 40D.

I believe there is now a 50D and a 500D coming out. Not sure what the differences are except digic 4 processor, higher ISO settings (possibly useful but maybe not) and more megapixels (perhaps good perhaps not- more pixels with same sized chip means smaller pixels which could mean less sensitivity and more noise - check the reviews on this point).

Another thing to consider is most use Images Plus to control their DSLR and focus and image etc. Usually there is a lag before that program is updated to handle the latest Canon model.

Greg.