Hi David, thanks for your inisght. I understand this needs a lot of research and I'm trying my best to gather and decipher all this new technical astro jargon, shortcuts and product codes which look 'alien' to me and so overwhelming. That's why i decided to ask for some tips which i hope could be simple enough to get me started.
So far, the responses (including yours) look feasible and i hope i receive more responses and options.
I'll definitely take note of your suggestion to find a local club and see first hand what they're using. And since you pointed it out, I may just end up
using a remote than using Nikon's camera control software.
Quote:
Originally Posted by DavidTrap
You're asking an extremely complex question that really can't be answered quickly! Not trying to discourage you, but you need to realise that you'll be disappointed with your results if you don't put some research into this before committing dollars.
My best advice would be to find a local astronomy club - see if they have weekends away and go to one of these to see what people are using for astrophotography. Better to see such a setup in the flesh rather than try to work it out from an internet post.
I agree with Brendan's suggestions of equipment. Please don't think you will be able to assemble the necessary gear to take GUIDED exposures for <$1000. The majority of astrophotography setup being used on IIS would be $2-5K. Some of the high-end setups would break $20K
There are some limitations on shooting with a Nikon (I have tried) - eg max 30sec exposures when controlled via a computer. You may find it easier to buy a timer remote (ebay for $30) and use that to control your exposures for as long as you want, as well as taking a series of images. There are also many free software options (eg. DeepSkyStacker) rather than Maxim DL if you just want to dabble.
Cheers
DT
|