[APML]: astrophoto questions

[Jim Fedina <jfedina@sbsusa.com>]

I have an older SLR that has the bulb setting on it and two weeks ago I
figured I'd try astrophotography. I had a roll of 1000 speed Kodak film
in it and went outside on a clear night. The moon was almost full so
there was a lot of light pollution. I took a couple of shots with it on
a

tripod and got some good shots of Orion. The moon made the picture a
little light but there was definately more stars on the picture than
what I could see with my eyes. There was also some color. The Orion
Nebulae had it's reddish tinge to it and Betelguese had it's
yellow/orange. I will send the photo to anyone interested in giving
comments about it.
The questions that I want to ask are:
1. Would a faster film (1600 or greater) produce a better picture?
2. If faster film, how long to make the exposure without star trails?
(the picture taken was 20 seconds).
3. I have a Meade 4.5" model 114EQ-D reflector and would like to hook a
camera up to
it. Orion Telescope Center sells a camera adapter and T-ring for my
camera, but I'm not sure if my scope can handle the added weight. Would
love to have closer shots of the Orion Nebulae and Betelguese and
various other objects.
4. If the telescope can't handle the weight, can zoom lenses be used? I
have an 80-200mm adjustable lens and also a 500mm bug lens (my nickname
for it). If they can be used, would the same exposure time be used?

Any help on these matters would be great.

Thanks,
Jim Fedina