How to Connect a Camera to a Telescope | Smartphone, DSLR, Mirrorless, Dedicated Astronomy

[@leonardfibigerlewis]

I have watched tons of these tutorials but none of them left me with a confident understanding in this field. Yours on the other hand has invitingly opened the mental door I always wished open and left me wanting to pursue more in the matter. Thank you, I muchly appreciate your informative channel. Hugs from Sunny South-Africa.

[@SarahMathsAstro]

I am so happy to hear (read) this. Thank you for taking the time to watch and thanks for your feedback. Wishing you all the best in your astro journey! Cheers from the US :)

[@mazze4782]

Wow. Finally a professional and good "overview" of different methods on how to connect cameras with a telescope - this helped me a lot. Thank you so much for the effort. One suggestion: I guess the Video Speed is 1,25 x than u recorded. Since i am from Germany and its hard to follow fast speaking americans in technical language i switched to 0.75 x speed :) Go on! I like it.

[@SarahMathsAstro]

Thank you! And thanks for the recommendation :)

[@SarahMathsAstro]

Special thanks to /@truecuckoo for the mirror inspo! If you would like to support this channel, please consider becoming a Patron on Patreon :D www.patreon.com/SarahMathsAstro I include image data files to process along with as well as ad-free videos and behind the scene commentary!

[@JanLarssonfred]

Miss you!! Please don't stop making videos... (Smart, good explanation, super beautiful and my favvo) Hälsningar från Sverige!

[@SarahMathsAstro]

Thank you!! That really means a lot. Cheers from the US!

[@Jcorban08]

You’re an amazing Astro researcher and presenter! I’m always learning something new from your videos. I imagine that much time and work, more than we know, goes into content creation- much appreciated ❤

[@SarahMathsAstro]

You are very kind, thank you. I'm so happy that you're able to learn something new with these videos. Your words of support are much appreciated.

[@ruthlessrog1]

This is well timed! I just got my first scope, finally upgrading from the 135 f/2. Thank you Sarah for this amazingly clear spread of knowledge. Love your tutorials, always clear & concise.

[@SarahMathsAstro]

Awesome to hear that this is well-timed. Congrats on the upgrade to! What telescope did you decide on? Also, thanks so much for taking the time to watch. I appreciate the kind words. Cheers!

[@walterwadlow9438]

Thanks!

[@SarahMathsAstro]

Wow! Thank you, Walter! This is so generous and very much appreciated. Thanks again!

[@jesuschrist2284]

Creative and somehow incredibly apt use of mirror during top down stuff. Keep up the great work

[@SarahMathsAstro]

I wish I could take the credit for the idea but another KZbinr by the name of Cuckoo inspired me on this :) he's awesome.

[@jesuschrist2284]

@@SarahMathsAstro no harm in using good ideas of others, especially when quick to credit them. If you ever want to do a dslr dso no tracker guide, it would be very welcome :)

[@SarahMathsAstro]

There are some pretty amazing humans out there, no doubt. And I've added the DSLR DSO no tracker guide to my list of video ideas - thank you! In the meantime, I highly recommend Nico Carver's no star tracker DSO KZbin video here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/n6awi3pjiN53ebc

[@alfredterrence6112]

What will I do without your videos ????....As usual, another excellent & useful tutorial !

[@SarahMathsAstro]

Thank you, Alfred!!

[@otavioA182]

Clear and direct explanations, thank you very much, one of the best tutorials on astrophotography I've seen 🔭🙂

[@SarahMathsAstro]

I'm so happy to hear that this was helpful! Thanks!

[@bofblog]

Great video for anyone making the leap into the rabbit hole that is astrophotography,well presented and easy to understand

[@SarahMathsAstro]

I'm happy that this could be helpful! I know all about the rabbit holes. They're fun and go very deep. Thanks so much for watching and best of luck on your astro journey!

[@bofblog]

Thank you....been an astronomer since 1968, a Solar astronomer and images in 3 wavelengths these days

[@SarahMathsAstro]

@bofblog so cool! Ha, Calcium-K, and white light?

[@bofblog]

Yes.... I also have a G Band 430nm Filter to explore too next season

[@SarahMathsAstro]

@bofblog fascinating. That’s awesome!

[@AstroDenny]

This was a cool video and something I could have used when I first started! I will say that if you're going to hook up a camera to a refractor for prime focus, you will likely need a lot more spacers than you may think! Unless it's called an astrograph, they need to make up for the surprising length the diagonal adds! Looking forward to more content!

[@SarahMathsAstro]

This is very true! Working focus and back focus are very important topics to understand. Thanks for saying hello and adding to the discussion. I always appreciate your insights! Hope everything has been going well for you!

[@RogueStar42]

Just bought an Esprit and it's showing up today. So stoked!

[@SarahMathsAstro]

Oh heck yeah!! Congrats!

[@RogueStar42]

@@SarahMathsAstro please check out my solar eclipse. I’m retiring my SV550 this weekend. Got the shot with it.

[@RogueStar42]

Total Solar EclipseApril 8th 2024 Edinboro, PA - Jackson Froman kzbin.infoxdFGRRr7Oks?feature=share

[@SarahMathsAstro]

for some reason when I use the link, either by clicking on it directly or by copying and pasting into the browser, it doesn't work :(

[@wisdumbhaswon1501]

Even though I am already familiar with this process, this is a great detailed explanation that was fun to listen to. I don't actually have any kind of gear other than a $300 reflector and my phone, but I was still able to take decent tracked pictures of a few deep sky objects because the mount has a cheap motor.

[@SarahMathsAstro]

Very happy to hear this!

[@MisterItchy]

Thank you for this video. I bought a Celestron 5" Newtonian Reflector telescope about a week ago and haven't been able to point it at much of anything in the sky because of near constant clouds. Your video helped me think through some of the questions that have been in my head and the things I was not understanding. I've never really done any photography or used a telescope so a lot of new stuff. We'll see if this old dog can learn new tricks.

[@SarahMathsAstro]

Congrats on the new scope! Sounds like the pesky new gear = clouds is in full swing. Hopefully the clouds move along soon for you. I'm happy to hear that this video was helpful though. I have no doubt you'll be successful! Congrats again and thanks for stopping by. Cheers!

[@Youtuber-ku4nk]

“Oh, hello there” 😅 Love your busy presenter style 😂 and your humor 😊

[@SarahMathsAstro]

haha, thank you! :D

[@starclip]

I really heavily tried to find a sense of Humor 😅 but possibly I am to much of human gipsy 🤣

[@jrwestimate6953]

Wow, that was excellent. I will definitely be following this tutorial when I attempt to do my first astrophotography. New to your channel but already a fan.

[@SarahMathsAstro]

So awesome to hear, thank you. I'm excited for your new adventure into astrophotography. Thanks for taking the time to watch and for your kind words. Wishing you all the best! Cheers

[@jeffkimble8857]

Awesome job!! You do a great job explaining and demonstrating. And your humor is on point!!😂 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

[@SarahMathsAstro]

Thank you!! That means a lot :)

[@jeffkimble8857]

You are welcome of course! I followed you on insta and sent you a message on there as well😊

[@SarahMathsAstro]

Thank you, Jeff! I'll check out my messages now. @@jeffkimble8857

[@NathanLewisVideos]

your comedic timing is unmatched

[@SarahMathsAstro]

Haha, thank you!

[@Ninjahat]

3:44 this glitch had me think I accidentally paused the video x-D I've always had a huge interest in everything astrophysics and cosmology - basically everything space science - and only now did I find someone making detailed videos about this subject. Thank you Sarah! If ever I go down the path of astrophotography I will surely go to your channel immediately - you are good! Much love 💙🌠🙂 PS fun fact ... your black striped cat looks just like mine ... Max Motor ... what's the name of your cat? 😺

[@SarahMathsAstro]

>.< yeah, I'm really sorry about that! I usually watch my video all the way through before posting, and of course this time, I didn't because I had a dance recital I was trying to get to that day. But, thanks for still watching and thanks for stopping by with your comment. That's so cool that you've always had an interest in astrophysics and cosmology. Space is absolutely fascinating and it's wild that we're still learning so much about it (and just physics in general). And yes, if you ever venture into astrophotogrpahy, I would love to see your work and hear how it's going. Cat-related, your cat's name is awesome and so cute! Love that name. My cat's name is Hubble (because he has the one eye... like a telescope :) ). Please tell Max Motor hello for me. Cheers!

[@tommccrorie8022]

another super insightful video, Sarah! I forgot my snack though.

[@SarahMathsAstro]

Thanks, Tom! I really wish I could share snacks virtually. Hope you are doing well!

[@Aztronoob]

@@SarahMathsAstro haha. Now that would be cool! All good here and hope you are too.

[@SarahMathsAstro]

Glad to hear it! All is well over here, too :)

[@Aztronoob]

@@SarahMathsAstro YAY!

[@t_mcb_1342]

you have impressive instruments there.... wowsers... yeah, these days a Williams cold camera is no longer required to get some impressive astrophotography... stay awesome, Sarah!

[@SarahMathsAstro]

Thanks, some of it is on loan for testing purposes. And yes, it's amazing what cameras are capable of these days. You stay awesome, too! :)

[@jss27560]

Enjoyable video and you have a refreshing quirky style that I like. Planning to do more astro photography as I’m in an area with not a lot of light pollution.

[@SarahMathsAstro]

Thank you, I'm happy to hear this. And I'm excited that you're planning to do more astro where you are. Minimal light pollution is a dream! Cheers -Sarah

[@jss27560]

@@SarahMathsAstro now I just need to get motivated to get my body out of warm house into the cold weather

[@SarahMathsAstro]

The cold weather is not the friendliest of motivators, that's for sure!

[@michaelsammon1659]

Fantastic video for noobs like me. FYI, just placed an order for a deep sky filter at Agena adding your affiliate ID to the URL. Hopefully they will send you something. Happy to support your channel.

[@SarahMathsAstro]

Thank you for the kind words and for your support, Michael. It means a lot! I hope you have a happy new year.

[@jacobusdegroot7557]

You are my favorite astrophotographer. ❤️

[@SarahMathsAstro]

That is very kind, thank you! I am honored :)

[@swbell5486]

Really useful, this explained several things which will really help me to take the first step in astrophotography. Thanks!

[@SarahMathsAstro]

Awesome! Wishing you clear skies :) I hope everything goes well.

[@mattsmith3135]

This was a super-helpful video, thank you. I have a 10" Newtonian Dob (with barlow) and a mirrorless camera, so I might just give negative projection a try, now that I know what negative projection is!

[@SarahMathsAstro]

I'd love to hear how it goes! Thanks for stopping by!

[@davidjgburnett]

I was going to watch another video when i saw this. Fun and informative as always. ❤

[@SarahMathsAstro]

That's very kind of you. Thank you! So glad you found it fun and informative :)

[@bodomguitar91]

Exactly the video I needed! Thanks so much for the clear explanations! Cheers from Australia :)

[@SarahMathsAstro]

Awesome!! Glad to hear it was helpful :) Cheers!!

[@jaumzors1]

Thank you, very thorough explanation on all the methods.

[@SarahMathsAstro]

So happy to hear this!

[@aleiabdelmguid5952]

I was so confused about what am i supposed to do to attach a dlsr to my reflector and ive read a ton of forums to no avail but this video cleared up so much thank you lots of love frok egypt 🇪🇬

[@SarahMathsAstro]

I'm very happy that this video brought some clarity. I know telescope's can be tricky so kudos for keeping at it! Wishing you clear skies from the US!

[@shamvilkazmi3447]

thanks for the detailed explanation. please also upload some photos you have taken using these 4 methods whenever you get some time. thanks again

[@SarahMathsAstro]

Thank you! :)

[@edwardtenes6507]

Very nice job! Just remember to balance the telescope with all the additional weight and put a rug or mat beneath the telescope working end. Yes l have things drop off the telescope and hit the floor but the rug sure helps. Clear skies and stay warm!

[@SarahMathsAstro]

Yes! Very important to balance the telescope and additional weight in all axes. And, great idea about putting a rug or mat beneath the telescope near the working end. I hope your gear was okay though! Thanks for the recommendations and thanks for stopping by to watch the video. Wishing you clear skies as well and hope you stay warm, too!

[@scotianskies]

Well done Sarah! As always very informative and well explained! I wish this video was around when I started out! I Thanks for your time and effort!

[@SarahMathsAstro]

Thanks so much for watching! I hope beginners will find this helpful. There's a lot that goes into everything :') hope you're doing well!

[@scotianskies]

@SarahMathsAstro beginners will find this very useful! I'm doing fine, thanks, how are you?

[@SarahMathsAstro]

Glad to hear this. Life is going well on this end. Can't believe it's already December though >.

[@nathanfortin8192]

Thank you. I hope to get a decent shot of the corona. Your video has given me a chance.

[@SarahMathsAstro]

How did the eclipse go for you? I hope you were able to enjoy it!

[@togray619]

Prime focus fan here! I use a Canon T3i with my refractors. Thanks for the info Sarah.

[@SarahMathsAstro]

Prime focus for the win! Thanks for stopping by :)

[@sHuRuLuNi]

Yay, a new video from you!

[@SarahMathsAstro]

Yay :)

[@LetsBHonest]

Are you going to have any future videos where you take us out with you while taking photos?

[@SarahMathsAstro]

Yes, I will have one in 2024 :)

[@Mr.Shartly]

Great vid! Exactly what I was looking for, thank you. I'm in the line of totality for the upcoming eclipse in April so I'm going to get some pics and vid if possible.

[@SarahMathsAstro]

That's fantastic that you're in the path of totality. Very exciting! I hope you're able to get some pics and vids of it. But either way, I hope you have a wonderful time! Thanks for taking the time to stop by. Cheers!

[@cigarnationwarriors]

Great job explaining various approaches to astrophotography. Lots to take in. 🔭👍

[@SarahMathsAstro]

Thanks! It was a larger undertaking than I had originally expected. I hope you find this helpful though! Cheers :)

[@demej00]

Nice. The tridaptor 3-axis smartphone adapter is much better than the Nexyz adaptor which is heavy, bulky, clunky and complicated.

[@SarahMathsAstro]

Awesome :)

[@AL-zp9hr]

Your sweater is awesome. My daughter has a NASA tee shirt. A NASA sweater would be perfect for Christmas.

[@SarahMathsAstro]

Thank you! I got it at Target a few years ago :)

[@my-pixels]

Great content as usual! I wish you posted a little more often 😊😊

[@SarahMathsAstro]

Thanks! Yeah, me too. It's challenging to get videos out as often as I would like at the moment.

[@neiltan1939]

I just found your vid today. thanks!

[@SarahMathsAstro]

Thanks for stopping by!

[@Albert-ed3hg]

Well done, covered a lot of bases!

[@SarahMathsAstro]

Happy to hear it! Thank you!

[@dscheenaard]

Truly, thank you for this, the most succinct of all possible methods with full detail and information. There is so much hodgepodge info about this topic online and you summarized it all very clearly. 🙏🏻 I have a 130mm D x 600mm reflector and knowing about the positive projection as an alternative was new and great info, think I will try the Barlow method since I like visual astronomy also, so the added magnification with existing eyepieces is great. Any recos for a good 1.25" 2x Barlow lens? I'm mostly just looking to photograph the sun (yes I will have a solar filter) and the planets. Thanks again so much!

[@SarahMathsAstro]

So glad you found this video helpful. I appreciate your feedback. You can't go wrong with Tele Vue products in my experience. You could also try out Celestron. CloudyNights forum most likely has some great recommendations, too. Thanks and cheers!

[@chrisastral1]

Thanks, this definitely clears things up

[@SarahMathsAstro]

Awesome, I'm glad to hear it.

[@howardcrow]

super useful - still not sure the difference between the powermate and the barlow. different optics - but whate the tradeoffs are would be good to know.

[@SarahMathsAstro]

Thanks for the feedback. Azastroguy just did a great video on this: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mqKXqmqnjKxjn8k

[@dave_w7rtx354]

Great Job !!!!

[@SarahMathsAstro]

Thank you!!

[@richardcranium5839]

well laid out presentation!

[@SarahMathsAstro]

Many thanks! I appreciate your feedback :)

[@ktydeck]

Cool sweater!

[@SarahMathsAstro]

Thanks :D

[@archivemanager2734]

Hello. I have also used telescope eyepieces that have a thread near the viewing lens, this thread allows attaching to an adapter tube that attaches to the camera. It makes the eyepiece centrally align with the cameras sensor and so removes any annoying light path offset or wobble. I have also used something similar to allow people who have Fixed-lenses cameras to screw their complete camera+lens units onto the eyepiece adapter and attach to the telescope, they took some moon photos and were very happy.

[@SarahMathsAstro]

Hello there, were the threaded eyepieces from Baader? Those are really neat and make a ton of sense. I hadn’t heard of the threaded fixed-lens camera adapter though, I’ll have to look into that. Very cool! Thanks for sharing!

[@bojanmajic]

Timestamps: 03:00 Afocal Projection 12:25 Prime Focus 22:10 Negative Projection 31:00 Eyepiece Projection (or Positive Projection) oh how I wish I had that video before my Askar V arrived ^^

[@SarahMathsAstro]

Thanks for this! How are you liking your Askar V?

[@raptor9521]

love your videos and also the way you explain, thanks.

[@SarahMathsAstro]

Thank you! I'm so happy to hear this. Thanks for taking the time to watch and provide your feedback :) cheers!

[@edasher1009]

Nicely done. I've been wanting this information. Thank you!

[@SarahMathsAstro]

Awesome, glad this can be helpful.

[@jameiealehandro]

This girl is unbelievable❤

[@SarahMathsAstro]

Thank you for your kindness!

[@geoffnash3098]

Hi Sarah what is better for close up pics of the moon? Negative projection or eyepiece profection? I have a William optics 80 km refractory and want to get super close ups of the moon and Jupiter and saturn. I have a 3 x Barlow and want advice from a pro like yourself. You do a great job explaining the 4 ways. Like your videos.

[@SarahMathsAstro]

Hi there! I would recommend a Barlow!!

[@douglasbattjes3991]

You are absolutely wonderful at all your info you presented, and I was looking for an adapter from a Nikon D 5100 with a 300mm lens to a Zeiss conquest Gavia 85 spotting scope, and found you . I can't seem to find the correct one. end of the lenses measures 61.26mm and it's a Sigma DG lens , maybe that's the issue, and I should use a Nikon lens , Any ideas would be great👍👍👍👍

[@SarahMathsAstro]

Thank you! Are you trying to do focal astrophotography with this setup? Just making sure I understand correctly.

[@douglasbattjes3991]

@@SarahMathsAstro No astrophotography here, just like to take long-distance photos of wildlife, and need to find an attachment for my Nikon to the Zeiss Gavia 85 spotting scope, also if you can use a telephoto lens or standard lens when you attach it to a spotting scope.? Or your idea

[@paolopicchel653]

Very useful video for a beginner like me. Thank you very much.

[@SarahMathsAstro]

So glad it was helpful! Thanks for stopping by :)

[@jonathannumer5415]

Awesome, thanks for the information ~

[@SarahMathsAstro]

Thanks for taking the time stop by :)

[@WarbirdPylonRacer]

Thanks Sarah! When I attach my new dedicated astronomy camera to the back of the telescope and plug it into my laptop what do I do next? Is there a program I need to install to my computer to recognize the camera and start downloading images? It would be great if you had a video explaining that.

[@SarahMathsAstro]

You bet! And yes, there is software you'll need. Which camera is it and which computer do you have? If you have a windows laptop for example and a QHY or ZWO camera or Player One, etc, just be sure you downloaded the ASCOM platform to your laptop from the ASCOM website and install that. also be sure to download the driver for your camera from the manufacturer's website. there's usually a software page that will have camera driver software. then downloaded install that as well. you'll need some sort of image acquisition software: either N.I.N.A. or Sequence generator Pro or ASIStudio or FIreCapture depending on the type of imaging you're doing. FireCapture for planetary/ lunar for example or NINA for deep-sky but you could use ASIStdio's different acquisition options within that. Same with Sharpcap. and then connect your camera to the acquisition. software. along with your mount etc.

[@WarbirdPylonRacer]

@@SarahMathsAstro Thanks! Wow! Lots to do! Yes I bought for planetary imaging the SVBONY SV205 and I have a Windows Laptop. Thanks for your guidance. I cannot find anything on KZbin instructing what to do after you buy the camera. 🙂

[@SarahMathsAstro]

Ah, a planetary camera! Download FireCapture for planetary work or lunar and there should be some tutorials out there on settings. It’ll depend on your camera too! and your mount etc.

[@WarbirdPylonRacer]

@@SarahMathsAstro Ok I went to the ZWO website and see under software it says to download the ASCOM Platform and Driver. That should get me started. Thanks so much!!! 😁

[@SarahMathsAstro]

Since it's an SVBONY camera, you'll want the driver for those types of cameras so you should download the ASCOM driver for the SVBONY camera through the link below > Windows > www.svbony.com/support-software-driver/?srsltid=AfmBOorBjqoyekyVRryshk3a5NXnVa_GoEBzgHHe8uqiQ7oacffrvJcn You'll still need the ASCOM platform. And then download whichever acquisition software you choose e.g., ASIStudio, FireCapture, SharpCap, etc! Hope this helps :)

[@aranelchan]

What's the difference between afocal projection and positive projection? Unfortunately, because the video is corrupted between 3:44 to 3:59, which is explanation of what is afocal projection, it's unclear how it differs from positive projection. Thank you!

[@SarahMathsAstro]

I apologize for that. Afocal projection is where we use a camera with a lens attached to it and hold it over the eyepiece of an afocal optical system (like a telescope). There are two focal planes with this method; the first is the telescope's original focal plane with the eyepiece placed slightly after it so that an image can be seen through the eyepiece (how we normally observe through the eyepiece with our human eye). Then, instead of using our human eye to observe the exiting light from the eyepiece, we hold a camera lens over the eyepiece that then converges the light onto the second focal plane, the camera sensor. By aligning the camera lens and camera sensor perpendicular to the optical axis, we would get the focused image so that we could then take a photo or short video. Eyepiece projection is different in that a no additional camera lens is attached in the imaging train. Instead, the camera is attached directly to the eyepiece, usually via a T-Ring adapter and an eyepiece projection adapter holding the eyepiece. The eyepiece is placed slightly after the telescope's native focal plane (similar to what we saw with afocal projection) but instead of having the exiting light go through to a camera lens, the eyepiece projects that light directly onto the camera sensor. How close or far away the sensor is to the eyepiece determines the magnification. This way, there is only one focal plane, rather than two like we saw with afocal projection. This creates a magnified image based on the distance between the camera sensor and the eyepiece. Hope this helps! Again, sorry for the issue! -Sarah

[@aranelchan]

Ah, I see. I have been happily observing Jupiter and Saturn through my 10 cm refractor, so I tried imaging using prime focus, but Jupiter turned out to be a tiny bright blob. That got me thinking about eyepiece projection, and when you introduced afocal projection, that sounded like it, so I was confused when you then introduced eyepiece projection 😂 But it's clear now, thanks! I do have another question though: is that eyepiece adapter tube necessary, or could I just use my straight through observing configuration for my telescope (i.e., I can achieve focus for observing with those existing extension tubes without using my diagonal)?

[@SarahMathsAstro]

@@aranelchan that totally makes sense! They do seem quite similar. I would recommend an eyepiece projection adapter. But if your eyepiece has T-threads at the top of it where you can thread it into a T-Ring on your camera, then you might be good to go. especially if using a refractor. If you're not able to reach focus still, then move the eyepiece further in or further out of the focuser. The other nice bit about the eyepiece projection adapter, particularly one that you can adjust in size/ extension (I think the one I linked in the description is adjustable), is getting the eyepiece closer or further away to the camera's sensor for more or less magnification. But yes, give it a go without one if your eyepiece has threads on the top. I'm curious to hear how it goes. 😀

[@fazergazer]

Have you considered doing some solar imaging, I’m planning to take up some solar slit scanning heliograph imaging. Great video, I will forward it to my beginner friends 🎉❤

[@SarahMathsAstro]

That's awesome and sounds very technical/ interesting. I think solar imaging is fascinating and I've been wanting to get into it more for some time now. Would love to hear about how your solar imaging journey goes! Thanks for stopping by and thanks for sending this to your beginner friends! Cheers

[@sainatarajan7770]

Very informative video, and wonderful explanation!

[@SarahMathsAstro]

Many thanks for watching!

[@marioroberto6768]

Bom trabalho Sarah, parabéns.

[@SarahMathsAstro]

Obrigado!!

[@jspeers1]

Thanks for the informative video, so helpful. I have a canon 20d eos. How do I get it to work without digital lens? Is there a setting for that? Thanks

[@SarahMathsAstro]

You're very welcome! You'll want to use your camera in the 'Bulb' mode if you're going to use it with a telescope and an intervalometer or some other form of image acquisition software or device like the ASIAIr.

[@CharlesVanNoland]

Sessa, just record yourself doing whatever fun interesting things you're doing. Don't underestimate the power of fellow nerds on the internet who just want to see what others are up to. Don't overthink it, be lazy!

[@SarahMathsAstro]

Thank you for your wonderful feedback and input! :)

[@MykeHawke-r9r]

Thank you for making this video

[@SarahMathsAstro]

Thanks for stopping by!

[@Foodofmars]

I don't see more beautiful astrophotographer then you please make video regular I like your video I like the way you talk i like every thing about ❤

[@SarahMathsAstro]

Thank you! I am working on more videos :) cheers!

[@fy7589]

Hey Sarah, I am a beginner wildlife photographer. Recently with my long lens, I started photographing the moon and the planets. The moon is pretty good but the planets are ultimately soft and bad. I know about pipp and autostakkert and registax and astrosurface and whatnot. I know all about astrophotography in terms of image stacking etc as I am a software dev who wrote a prepriotary image processing and stacking software for a company. Whatever, my question is, would you pick up the 9.25" edge hd or the 11" cpc xlt? The mount on the 11" is better but the optics I heard for the 9.25" is better. But at 2800 mm or 5600mm vs 2350mm and 4700mm, if that is negledable, if the chroma end the edge sharpness is negledable, I'll pick up the 11" cpc instead of 9.25" edge hd with avx mount. Which one would you pick? My goal is planetary imaging but I''ll also do deep sky nebula imaging too. I want to get as much versatility as possible. Which one really would you pick up? Does the edge HD offer really that much extra over the bigger cpc? I have by the way a ton of lenses from 800mm to 14mm, like 20 lenses both prime and zoom, a lot of teleconverters (barlow extender lenses) and also speedbosters (barlow reducer lenses) and multiple cameras, both dslr and mirrorless and also even film cameras so I have been there in terms of photography and videography for years and yet I still want to do more. I want to get to the astrophotography edge now. I have nothing in terms of astrophotography camera but I wanna buy a scope that I'll connect my canon eos camera and shoot the Jupiter with high detail and stack the video frames with astrosurface. I am sure that I can do better than what I could do so far with my existing normal camera lenses even if I get a 6" scope but I want to go big this time, and the biggest I can order is the 11" non edge hd, there literally is no edge hd 11" that I can order in here Turkey, But I still have 5-6 months until I get the place the setup the observatory for it, However the 14" may never come to stock, so that's why I'm asking, if you say f, everthing just get a 14" edge hd if you can, I'll try to get it from overseas and it'll be expensive but still I wait for your opinon. I have had a terrific experience with my current gear for wildlife and birding but for astro imaging, I need more. Thanks and my highest appreciation if that means anything. Still, please give me your opinion. I'll shoot a video hailing you. Thanks!

[@SarahMathsAstro]

Hey there, it comes down to how steady your skies are that you're going to be imaging from really. If the skies can even handle that level of focal length, and imaging the planets is what you want, then more focal length tends to be best. The EdgeHD series is nice because of the coating but I don't have direct experience with the CPC to say if I've noticed any sort of difference comparatively. Ultimately, I'd just make sure you have the right sampling and the right skies for imaging at such high focal lengths or else the whole setup is basically useless. Hope this helps!

[@fy7589]

@@SarahMathsAstro Thank you for the response, I'm not really hoping for a perfect weather condition for astro shooting as I can do lucky imaging with the mount even for days if not weeks of exposure with the observatory I'll be building (a roof that's openable) so I think I'll get the longest possible scope, probably the 14" edge hd. And on those scopes the front secondary mirror is detachable to connect the camera and turn the scope into a RASA style scope at F/2 and much shorter focal length. But the coating you mentioned on the EDGE HD series really helped me decide which one to get despite the size. Thank you so much!

[@SarahMathsAstro]

@fy7589 awesome! I think adding the Hyperstar configuration to the EdgeHD series is a great combo for doing both types of imaging (long exposures and lucky imaging) very excited for you and wish you all the best!!

[@deniseschaller5164]

plumbing 101😅 Thanks for clearing some stuff up

[@SarahMathsAstro]

Haha :D, of course!

[@Atari.Geezer]

Hi Sarah, what eyepieces have you used in the extension tube? My TeleVues are too big :)

[@SarahMathsAstro]

Hi there, for up close views of the moon with my EdgeHD 11”, I use a TeleVue 18.2mm DeLite 1.25”.

[@Atari.Geezer]

@@SarahMathsAstro Cool, thank you :) The Delights seem to be the best fit and made by TeleVue too, so double bonus :) Thanks, Jay

[@SarahMathsAstro]

Excellent!

[@aguyfromneptune1616]

Should I use a Barlow for planetary observation and a reducer for deep space (focal length of my telescope is 650mm)

[@SarahMathsAstro]

Yes, to the former. You could get away without the reducer if you still want a longer focal length for deep space as long you have a field flattener (for doublets and triplet refractors) or coma corrector for some Newtonians. Up to you!

[@aguyfromneptune1616]

@@SarahMathsAstro Oh thank you so much 👍

[@SarahMathsAstro]

@aguyfromneptune1616 you’re welcome!

[@80snostalgiafan79]

Do you recommend any settings, numers etc on the DSLR camera because ours is confusing, when we took a photo of Jupiter it was white?

[@SarahMathsAstro]

I would start with an ISO of 100 and work up from there. I'm not sure if you're using a tracking mount or not, or else I could suggest a shutter speed.

[@80snostalgiafan79]

@@SarahMathsAstro thanks , we got one dobsonian and the other is a tracking mount telescope.

[@SarahMathsAstro]

@80snostalgiafan79 I’d start with ISO. Is anything else ever in focus? Your dob may not be able to achieve focus via the prime focus attachment. I’d look to see if your model is easily configurable to achieve focus with a DSLR and t-adapters. Otherwise, you can try the latter options of the video in terms of connecting the camera.

[@80snostalgiafan79]

@@SarahMathsAstro yeah I'll start with iso thanks and keep looking at your videos. I'm a newbie on astrophotography but willing to learn 😊

[@SarahMathsAstro]

@80snostalgiafan79 that’s all it takes is just being willing to try and being persistent.

[@jayfabe2591]

Thanks for reminding us to snack, very thoughtful

[@SarahMathsAstro]

Snacking is very important :)

[@stal1963]

I am happy with my Dwarf II and ASI Seestar S50 which, however, are not appropriate for planetary photographs. Is there any not so expensive telescope or telescop equipment including. goto mount that is able to shoot good planetary objects and DSOs? Maybe a modular one, with different focal lengths?

[@SarahMathsAstro]

I'm happy to hear that you're enjoying your Dwarf II and Seestar S50. They are both great devices. As far as a non-expensive and modular planetary setup, the least expensive option that comes to mind is a Newtonian that has a native focal ratio of f/5 or faster. Maybe the Orion 8" f/4 Newtonian Reflector Astrograph - 800mm focal length + a coma corrector to correct for coma. Then for planetary imaging, you can pair it with a 2x or 2.5x Barlow and a planetary camera to increase the focal ratio and focal length. www.telescope.com/Orion/Orion-8-f4-Newtonian-Reflector-Astrograph/rc/2160/p/133615.uts You'd need a sturdy equatorial tracking mount as well for long exposures for DSOs. All together, you probably are looking at $2k USD on the cheaper side of it. But purchasing second-hand is something worth looking into too. CloudyNight is an excellent place to look!

[@Jbzy3000]

I was fruatrated about my astrophotography journey. This cleared it up. Im looking at inexpensive telesocpes and they seem to be about 600mm. Would it just make more sense to buy that focul length lense.

[@SarahMathsAstro]

Happy to hear this video helped. It depends on your budget and what you plan to do with the telescope. But the telescope would likely be cheaper (in some cases). Check out something like the Askar V - it comes with several different foal lengths for a refractor, 600mm included.

[@johndaley9188]

What method do I use, actually none. Yes, I'm still learning. But, to almost answer your question, when the time comes, I will be using a dedicated telescope camera. When I saw your notification pop up, I was hoping to see something with your edgehd. Sadly, it was only used as back ground candy. As always, your videos are entertaining and informative. Do you still have the AM5? Kind of related, would you recommend using the .7X reducer for DSO. Is there a situation where you would not want to use it? Thank you.

[@SarahMathsAstro]

I had included the EdgeHD in the video for attaching a T-Ring to it as those T-Rings are much different physically than the more traditional ones, but I ended up cutting that part out since it was a very specific use case and I was trying to keep this a little bit more broad (still hard to do with so many possible configurations within each method though). I do still have the AM5 though. And as far as the .7x reducer for the EdgeHD and DSO imaging, I do use it. I wouldn't use it for planetary imaging, unless I was trying to get a super wide-field view of a planetary conjunction or all of Jupiter's moons or something similar. Great question. Thanks for taking the time to watch and thanks for the kind words. It's much appreciated. I hope all is well!

[@TheDestructocon]

This video is VERY informative and thank you for doing this. I recently acquired a ZWOASI662MC for usage with my dobsonian. I have a 12 inch dobsonian. When I go to take a photo with a 2x Barlow, i get a reflection of the ZWO camera's sensor in the photo. Am I doing something wrong when its with the barlow lense?

[@SarahMathsAstro]

It may be that the telescope is out of focus and/or the placement of the barlow lens to the telescope and camera may need to be adjusted to get everything in focus to eliminate the apparent reflection. The spacing between everything, that is. This would be my first guess as to why there appears to be a reflection.

[@SarahMathsAstro]

you may also need to collimate your telescope, too if you haven't done that already.

[@Yeetus-Veritas]

Best intro. (Pretend to be happy surprised) (Read the cue cards) (Why are you acting like you dont know what your hands are?!?) (Did you seriously forget the next word once you looked away from the cue card?) (This is why i drink... NO, DON'T SAY THAT)

[@SarahMathsAstro]

hahahaha hilarious

[@freddyacosta2358]

Hi! Do you of any adapter for Nikon Z mounts? Thanks

[@SarahMathsAstro]

Hi! Which camera specifically and what kind of scope?

[@freddyacosta2358]

@@SarahMathsAstro I’ve had the T ring for Nikon dslr cameras for years, but I need one for Nikon Z9, or Z8, they’re both z mount, obviously. I plan to try my Z8 on my Triplet Refractor. Explore Scientific. Thank you

[@SarahMathsAstro]

@freddyacosta2358 this one should work: www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1708815-REG/vello_la_nz_t_nikon_z_camera_to.html?ap=y&smp=Y&srsltid=AfmBOorbDbO0P81ne0QJ5Vku32igApepBRHpaC_ByCgCoFkuWR1ztX8ETuk

[@freddyacosta2358]

@@SarahMathsAstro Thank you so much. I will go ahead and give it a shot. 🙏

[@SarahMathsAstro]

@@freddyacosta2358 you're most welcome! the mirrorless adapters will always be larger than the DSLR ones since the sensor sits closer on the former.

[@aguyfromneptune1616]

Also, is it possible to capture deep space objects without a sky tracker. I do have a German equitorial mount but it got no tracker and a Nikon DSLR. Btw you earned a new subscriber :)

[@SarahMathsAstro]

Yes you can. You’ll need to make sure you have short enough exposures so you don’t get trailing. Just test and see how long you can go for with your focal length and sensor size. Thanks for your support!

[@aguyfromneptune1616]

@@SarahMathsAstro alright. I know I will not be able to capture deep nebulas but I can try brighter ones like Orion Nebula, andromeda galaxy etc with 1-3 seconds of exposure. Thanks for your advice! :D

[@aguyfromneptune1616]

@@SarahMathsAstro I tried Pleiades but the end result was pretty unsatisfactory with lots of noise.

[@aguyfromneptune1616]

@@SarahMathsAstro also can you suggest what should be the minimum exposure time to bring out decent details of the object

[@patterdalezipsuzilil]

Need that diaganol for dslr or a load of tubes to reach back focus

[@SarahMathsAstro]

Thanks!

[@montanausa329]

Relax slow down and just enjoy

[@SarahMathsAstro]

Thanks! :)

[@weird_videophotography]

is it possible to use a telescope as "normal" lens? like having a 1000+mm lens instead of expensive normal lense

[@SarahMathsAstro]

Yes, it’s possible if you’re using a DSLR / Mirrorless camera or dedicated astronomy camera. The prime focus method (the second method we cover in this video) covers what you need :)

[@rodneyhendrickson9811]

What is a good small telescope, I can use to pick up the horse head nebula on my Canon Rebel t5 camera I have three telescope, two reflectors and one refractor that’s really big 150/900f5.9 and a big sky watch your mouth I would like to have a smaller one to carry for my camera. If you have a clue, have a good one to get that can catch the horse head, nebula and more. “Thanks” Rodney😊

[@SarahMathsAstro]

I think the RedCat 51 is an excellent choice for a small scope with that type of framing!

[@donloughrey1615]

Good.

[@SarahMathsAstro]

Thank you

[@Lord_Whiteley]

That's a pretty psychedelic jumper you're wearing Sarah !!😂

[@SarahMathsAstro]

Just trying to bring some holiday cheer :)

[@Lord_Whiteley]

I’ll look forward to you wearing your Santa hat 😊

[@SarahMathsAstro]

@@Lord_Whiteley 🎅

[@superdave0002]

Hi Sarah in your videos your always saying "mirrorless camera" I have a nikon 3400 with a mirror. Will it still work the same when connected to a telescope? Thanks David

[@SarahMathsAstro]

Hi Dave! Great question, yes, your DSLR will still work connecting it to a telescope (granted like any camera, you'll still need to have the right connection/ attachment accessories) and depending on the type of telescope you have. For connecting your camera via the prime focus method, you'll want to make sure you have a t-ring to mount to your specific camera's lens mount and be sure you have one that fits your specific camera brand/ make/ and model. If you're trying to attach your camera directly into the focuser tube of the telescope with locking screws to secure the camera in place, you'll also need a t-adapter/ prime focus/ nose piece adapter to thread onto the t-ring that is mounted to your camera's lens flange that I mentioned earlier. Then, you'll take the nose piece/ t-adapter and put it into the focuser tube and secure it in place. If it's with a refractor, you shouldn't have any issue with achieving focus. But if you're using a newtonian or dobsonian that wasn't made specifically for astrophotography, you may have issues with a DSLR (a camera with a mirror inside) when trying to achieve focus with the telescope since the sensor sits too far back for most of those telescope's to achieve focus. DSLRs and mirrorless cameras have different flange focal distance requirements which is what informs the width of the t-ring for the different styles of camera's. Mirrorless cameras' t-rings will be much thicker than a DSLR's t-ring as a result. See here: briansmith.com/flange-focal-distance-guide/ There are lots of ways around the issues that DSLRs tend to have with non-astrophotography dobsonians/ newtonian depending on your specific situation (focuser travel, focuser size, etc)., but that will require some homework to figure that out for your specific telescope model. It could be as simple as buying a low profile t-ring adapter for the DSLR instead of the traditional t-ring that's about 10-11mm in width. Or, you may have to do some more invasive work to the telescope. CloudyNights.com would be able to point you in a good direction. Alternatively, if your telescope has threads on the focuser or you have a field flattener, or reducer/ flattener, or coma corrector installed on the focuser, then the camera facing side of those accessories will already have threads on there and you just have to make sure that the thread pitch size and the aperture diameter of the t-ring fits that optical accessory. Hope this helps!

[@alissapark107]

How do I focus when I mount the DLSR to a telescope?

[@SarahMathsAstro]

You'll want to either turn on the live view screen on the back of your DSLR or look through the viewfinder while you move the focus knobs of your telescope forward and/or backwards until you see the stars get smaller and smaller. Just make sure the focuser isn't locked. There may be a tension screw that needs to be released depending on your telescope. I find it's most helpful to focus on a bright star or Jupiter or on the edge of the Moon to get some nice contrast. Your DSLR may also have the ability to digitally zoom in 5x, 10x, or maybe even 30x which is very helpful when focusing. Once the stars/ Jupiter or the Moon is in focus, you can exit out of the digital zoom mode. You'll then want to lock your focuser once in focus if there is a tension knob as mentioned earlier.

[@sublime876]

I watched your video not just because I have telescopes like you have, honestly, I can't afford these stuffs except i've DSLR canon camera and of course none other than mobile phone, but as a space lover and as I mentioned before , KZbin is my teacher, how can I ignore when beautiful girl is teaching you about connecting camera to telescope? who knows, maybe in the future I would able to buy telescope.

[@SarahMathsAstro]

It's amazing what is possible with inexpensive and/or secondhand gear even. Thanks for stopping by!

[@sublime876]

when I see you replying my none sense comment, you know what! can't mention how happy and appreciate I be. FYI, my English is not good, hope you understand what I'm trying to say. God bless you and keep it up.@@SarahMathsAstro

[@montanausa329]

Hi again. I am putting a system together and looking for resources to learn. My system is a takahashi toa-130 4in focuser AP machine 2 mount with encoders zwo 2600 mono pro and zwo guide camera and a software bisque Fusion remote computer. Looking into a night crawler rotator and focuser. I what total remote so I can go outside open the dome and come back in out of very cold weather to take advantage of long dark cold nights. My questions are operating software which the Fusion comes with the sky imaging software training, camera setback calculations and best source for setting up from scratch everything from polar alignment star finding plate solving what ever that means and other information and tips you may have. I have an advantage as I 60 years old retired and have time to learn. Live in Billings MT. And will be doing photography for my backyard. Maybe remote in the future after getting a good tripod and am good at setups. Big request but thanks for sharing

[@SarahMathsAstro]

Hi there, I've not used or put together a setup using advanced encoders so I probably am not the best person to respond to this. Perhaps reaching out to a local observatory might be better e.g., a local astronomy club with an observatory who may use similar-type encoders.

[@ZaenalMuttaqien-vw1oc]

I LIKE

[@SarahMathsAstro]

Thanks!

[@Pauln0ah]

The Celestron XYZadapter is falling out of favor with me. The clamp seldom holds well, due to the weight of the phone, and the adjustments knobs need constant adjustment to keep them from loosening up making it a very unstable platform. Also, depending upon the eye piece, the clamp cant keep up a decent hold. I have used the adapter for years, years of frustration, and feel it is a diservice to suggest it. Just my opinion. I used to feel it worked great. But it takes a lot of fiddling with and in dark skies, I have punted on even attempting to fix any issues that come up. A lot of cameras now have multiple cameras, and adjusting to a new camera at night is difficult. I do use a red light to beam down the telescope to find a decent placement for the camera over the eyepiece, but again, doing all of the adjustments is time consuming, and frustrating when the clamp also need major adjustments on its hold, depending upon the eyepiece. In other words, I set it all up, and it is just too unstable to remain in place.

[@SarahMathsAstro]

Thanks for this!

[@TheAnarp221]

Where can I get one of those sweatshirts...?

[@SarahMathsAstro]

I think I got it at Target a couple of years ago during the holidays... either there, or at Kohl's, lol.

[@TheAnarp221]

Lol... Looks like I'll have to keep my eye out and hopefully they bring it back... Awesome video too... I just connected my Canon Rebel T7 up to my Celestron NexStar 4SE and ready to shoot Orion's Nebulae tonight...@@SarahMathsAstro

[@SarahMathsAstro]

Would love to know how it goes!

[@TheAnarp221]

@@SarahMathsAstro Update... I got some good shots but I think I am running into vibration issues... I was running shots via my third story balcony and I think that the vehicles driving by was causing enough of a vibration to throw off my pictures... I also was having trouble with my Celestron NexStar 4SE tracking properly... Going to try again from the backyard itself this weekend and see if that helps...

[@SarahMathsAstro]

@TheAnarp221 that could definitely be it. Might also be worth looking into guiding with a guide scope and guide camera, too. Or maybe just lower the shutter speed to something shorter if all else fails 👍🏼

[@Sparker408]

You could explain to me how to bake a cake 🎂 and I'd watch it ❤

[@SarahMathsAstro]

Thank you, that's very kind.

[@charlesdufrene6244]

Great detail, thx

[@SarahMathsAstro]

Thank you!

[@BizzaroBrainBoi]

coooooool

[@SarahMathsAstro]

Thankssssssss

[@sebw3964]

Hey.I noticed that most People are using Canon DSLR cameras for Astro photografy.Is there a reason for that?I have absolutely no Clou about that whole topic.Just wonder.Greetings

[@SarahMathsAstro]

I think because there are a lot of lens choices as one reason.

[@ROBERT-ml7ml]

Weird... you talk exactly like a robot, but yet, I find it attractive. 🤨

[@SarahMathsAstro]

Lol, I’ve never noticed that I do. Thanks for the feedback!

[@ROBERT-ml7ml]

@@SarahMathsAstro and I literally just had a glitch while watching this video and YT froze. I was like "oh, she must be restarting for updates".

[@SarahMathsAstro]

Laughing @ this haha. If the freeze was near the beginning of the video, then it may have actually just been the video since I had some issues with the original video file when rendering it out from my video editing software. I didn't catch the issue before making the video public on YT or else I would have re-rendered and re-uploaded a non-glitch video >.

[@ROBERT-ml7ml]

@@SarahMathsAstro yup, thats it!