Re: [APML]: astrophoto questions

[mark.kaye@sympatico.ca]

>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
>1. Would a faster film (1600 or greater) produce a better picture?

   Hello Jim.  The Kodak Royal Gold 1000 is a good film for astrophotos, so 
you have started on the right track.

>2. If faster film, how long to make the exposure without star trails?
>(the picture taken was 20 seconds).

   You could push this to 30 or 40 seconds with a 50mm lens on 35mm film, 
depending on what part of the sky you are pointing at.  Closer to the pole, 
you can get away with slightly longer, close to the celestial equator, the 
shorter time before trailing.

>3. I have a Meade 4.5" model 114EQ-D reflector and would like to hook a

   This is a great way to go.  Your scope is not really up to taking pictures 
through the scope itself, but piggy-backing your camera will give you very 
pleasing results with lenses up to 200mm or so.  Just make sure that you have 
a good polar alignment and away you go.  With this setup, you can go for 
several minutes and with ISO400 to 1600 film, that is all you need.
   Doing almost any photography with the Moon out (other than lunar 
photography, of course) is not going to produce pleasing results.  Try again 
with the Moon out of the sky and you will be amazed how much better your 
shots become.
   Clear skies!
               MK

http://www3.sympatico.ca/mark.kaye/