[DavidLJ (David)]

Hi Matt

If it's wide-field images of the night sky that you are interested in then a DSLR and camera tripod with adjustable head is the way to start. You would also want to consider adding a tracking device such as the Vixen Polarie or the iOptron Sky Tracker to get longer exposures. But if it is deep sky objects that you want to image through a telescope then one solution for dipping your toes into the world of digital imaging at (comparatively) minimal cost would be to take the video camera route. You can get some satisfying results and the learning curve is not particularly steep. And, within reason, you won't need an automatic guiding system. If you catch the imaging bug you can later consider moving to a standard (and usually much more expensive) imaging camera, etc.

An excellent reference for video camera use is Deep-Sky Video Astronomy from AstroShop http://www.myastroshop.com.au. The $45 cost would be well spent if it helps you decide if that is a route that you might like to go.

Cheers, David