Astronomy/astrophotography

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Question
hi,
i want buy a digital camera for astrophotography but my budget is limited, is it suitable to buy cooplix 8800?
thank you very much!

Answer
Hello Alireza,

I'm not up on all the latest equipment, but you want to ensure that there's a "bulb" mode and good noise performance at low light levels.  Will you use just the camera or attach the camera to a telescope?  If you're using a telescope, make sure and get a T connector for the camera to make it easier.  The Coolpix 8800 will certainly work, but you might also consider an inexpensive SLR like the Rebel.  But before you do anything, check out http://www.dpreview.com for comparative reviews.  Good luck!

Prof. James Gort  

Astronomy

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James Gort

Expertise

Questions on observational astronomy, optics, and astrophysics. Specializing in the evolution of stars, variable stars, supernovae, neuton stars/pulsars, black holes, quasars, and cosmology.

Experience

I was a professional astronomer (University of Texas, McDonald Observatory), lecturer at the Adler Planetarium, professor of astrophysics, and amateur astronomer for 42 years. I have made numerous telescopes, and I am currently building one of the largest private observatories in Canada.

Publications
StarDate, University of Texas, numerous Journal Publications

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