Connecting a camera to my telescope

[Crzycatlady]

Hi guys, I'm not only new here but new to everything telescopes lol I bought a nexstar 80gtl over the weekend, $40, couldn't pass it up for my first telescope, although I am a photographer, star trails is what I'm known for, and recently astrophotography.. So here's the question, I know my telescope is no longer on the market, but I'm wondering if it's even possible to connect my camera to it? If so, how would I go about doing so... Tia

[Steve Ward]

Welcome to the forum ... 

You should be able to connect the camera via a "T-connector" , something like this ... http://www.firstlightoptics.com/adaptors/t-rings.html and this .... http://www.firstlightoptics.com/adaptors/flo-125-inch-t-mount-camera-adapter.html

You will need to add some weight to the front end of the scope to counter-balance the extra weight of the camera so as not to hurt the mounting , doesn't look like the strongest item.

Would recommend a smaller DSLR rather than a full frame as they are much lighter.

The mount is not best suited to long exposure photography as it is not an equatorial type but it will certainly be able to get you started down the long and endlessly expensive road that is Astrophotography ... 

[Crzycatlady]

Haha I Deff hear that last part... Thanks so much... Yea, makes me a little nervous, the weight of the camera, d7000, and the telescope is computerized... I'm afraid of damaging the motor...