Piggyback

After looking at the night sky for a while you may want to try photographing it. Several forms of photography are possible with your telescope, including terrestrial and celestial photography. Both of these are discussed in moderate detail with enough information to get you started. Topics include the accessories required and some simple techniques. More information is available in some of the publications listed at the end of this manual.

In addition to the specific accessories required for each type of celestial photography, there is the need for a camera - but not just any camera. The camera does not have to have many of the features offered on today's state-of-the-art equipment. For example, you don't need auto focus capability or mirror lock up. Here are the mandatory features a camera needs for celestial photography. First, a “B” setting which allows for time exposures. This excludes point and shoot cameras and limits the selection to SLR cameras, the most common type of 35mm camera on the market today.

Second, the “B” or manual setting should NOT run off the battery. Many new electronic cameras use the battery to keep the shutter open during time exposures. Once the batteries are drained, usually after a few minutes, the shutter closes, whether you were finished with the exposure or not. Look for a camera that has a manual shutter when operating in the time exposure mode. Olympus, Nikon, Minolta, Pentax, Canon and others have made such camera bodies.

The camera must have interchangeable lenses so you can attach it to the telescope and so you can use a variety of lenses for piggyback photography. If you can't find a new camera, you can purchase a used camera body that is not 100-percent functional. The light meter, for example, does not have to be operational since you will be determining the exposure length manually.

You also need a cable release with a locking function to hold the shutter open while you do other things. Mechanical and air release models are available.

The easiest way to enter the realm of deep-sky, long exposure astrophotography is via the piggyback method. Piggyback photography is done with a camera and its normal lens riding on top of the telescope. Through piggyback photography you can capture entire constellations and record large scale nebulae that are too big for prime focus photography. Because you are photographing with a low power lens and guiding with a high power telescope, the margin for error is very large. Small mistakes made while guiding the telescope will not show up on film. To attach the camera to the telescope, use the piggyback adapter screw located on the top of the tube mounting ring. It may be necessary to remove the finder scope bracket before attaching the camera

As with any form of deep-sky photography, it should be done from a dark sky observing site. Light pollution around major urban areas washes out the faint light of deep-sky objects. You can still practice from less ideal skies.

1.Polar align the telescope (using one of the methods described earlier) and start the motor drive.

2.Load your camera with slide film, ISO 100 or faster, or print film, ISO 400 or faster!

3.Set the f/ratio of your camera lens so that it is a half stop to one full stop down from completely open.

4.Set the shutter speed to the “B” setting and focus the lens to the infinity setting.

5.Locate the area of the sky that you want to photograph and move the telescope so that it points in that direction.

C10-N, C8-NGT, C8-N specifications

The Celestron C8-NGT, C8-N, and C10-N telescopes represent a range of superior astronomical instruments that cater to both novice and experienced astronomers alike. Among these, the C8-NGT combines the advanced features of a computerized telescope with the simplicity of a Newtonian design. Its 8-inch aperture allows for impressive light-gathering capability, making it ideal for observing distant galaxies, star clusters, and nebulae. The GoTo mount enhances usability, enabling users to locate celestial objects effortlessly with the push of a button.

The C8-N, also featuring an 8-inch aperture, stands out with its open tube design that provides maximum airflow and minimizes thermal issues, ensuring optimal performance. The scope is designed with user-friendly adjustments and a sturdy equatorial mount, allowing for smooth tracking of celestial objects. Its high-quality optics provide sharp images and incredible clarity, making it suitable for both planetary and deep-sky observations.

On the other hand, the C10-N is the largest in this lineup, boasting a 10-inch aperture that dramatically enhances its light-gathering ability. This larger size makes the C10-N a powerhouse for serious astronomers looking to explore fainter objects and intricate details within astronomical features. Like the C8-N, it employs a Newtonian reflector design, allowing for a compact and manageable profile, while still providing stunning visuals across a range of celestial bodies.

All three telescopes incorporate Celestron's commitment to creating durable, robust, and user-friendly systems. They utilize premium quality glass and optics, which are coated to improve light transmission and provide high-contrast images. Additionally, they are designed with ease of assembly and portability in mind, catering to astronomers who enjoy observing in various locations.

The Celestron C8-NGT, C8-N, and C10-N serve as excellent options for anyone looking to deepen their astronomical pursuits, offering a blend of advanced technology, high-quality optical performance, and user-friendly features. Whether you're a beginner eager to peer into the wonders of the universe or an experienced observer at the peak of your skills, these telescopes offer a remarkable means to expand your cosmic horizons. With precision engineering and thoughtful design, Celestron continues to be a trusted name in the world of astronomy.