Getting Started with Astrophotography

There is no single astrophotography equipment setup. Many different configurations are available depending on the type of imaging you want to pursue, with each option offering unique advantages and disadvantages.

Feel free to contact the Astronz team to discuss your options. To explore equipment in more detail, you can arrange an in-person or virtual visit to the Astronz showroom.

1. Nightscape / Wide Field Imaging

Capturing wide-angle shots of the night sky and Milky Way is a great place to start. This approach requires minimal equipment and offers an easy setup. A tracking mount is recommended for long exposures, but wide-field imaging is forgiving if the alignment isn't perfect.

Typical Equipment Setup:
  • Tracking mount (e.g., SkyTracker Pro or SkyGuider Pro)
  • DSLR camera with lens
  • Sturdy camera tripod

Nightscape; Ruapehu Under The Moonlight

Photo: Frank Hopfler

2. Planetary Imaging

Planetary imaging involves capturing bright objects such as Jupiter, Saturn, and Mars through a telescope. The bright nature of these objects allows for short exposures. Instead of a single frame, you capture many frames in a video format, then process and stack them to create a detailed image.

Typical Equipment Setup:
  • Telescope (long focal lengths are ideal)
  • Tracking mount (Alt-Az or Equatorial)
  • Camera (e.g., QHY5III series cameras)

Planetary: Saturn

Astronz 8" Ritchey Chretien Astrograph Telescope

QHY5II Planetary Camera

photo: Steve deAN

3. Deep Sky Imaging

Deep-sky imaging of objects like galaxies, nebulae, and clusters is more challenging. It requires long exposures, a smooth tracking equatorial mount, and precise polar alignment, along with significant post-processing.

Important Considerations:
  • Mount: Crucial for smooth tracking and polar alignment.
  • Telescope: Different telescopes for different targets; many astrophotographers use multiple telescopes.
  • Camera: Choose between a DSLR or dedicated cooled astronomy camera. Advanced users often switch to monochrome cameras with filters.

Deep Sky: Horsehead Nebula

Mount: iOptron CEM 40

Camera: QHY168C

Filter: Optolong L-Pro 2

Photo: Steve dean

Explore the Possibilities

Astrophotography offers limitless creative and scientific opportunities, but the equipment options can be overwhelming. The Astronz team can help tailor a package to fit your needs and budget. Feel free to contact us to discuss the possibilities.