Filters for entering the world of DSLR astrophotography

[Jonny_H]

Good morning all,

I wanted to get some advice on which filters are an absolutely must when starting out in astrophotography.

I dont want to dive into the deep end purchasing dedicated astronomy cameras etc... I already have a Canon 400d (unmodified) that I would like to start off with to practice and master ( I have a t-ring on order) but wondered what filters would be beneficial (if any) to start with.

Any help / advice would be very much appreciated.

 

Regards,

Jon

[happy-kat]

Hi

I don't use any, but the question to ask is what bortle skies will you be imaging under?

And

What mount are you using?

Edited June 14, 2020 by happy-kat

[Mr niall]

The good news is none - no filters are required at all in DSLR astrophotography.

[PeterCPC]

You might benefit from a light pollution filter. I use an IDAS D2 and it really helps.

Peter

[Jonny_H]

8 minutes ago, happy-kat said:

Hi

I don't use any, but the question to ask is what bortle skies will you be imaging under?

And

What mount are you using?

Apologies I should have stated in my post. I have a HEQ5 Pro mount.

I am based in Essex and believe the skies here are bortle 5-6 when checking various websites.

9 minutes ago, Mr niall said:

The good news is none - no filters are required at all in DSLR astrophotography.

Thank you

[happy-kat]

I think you won't be drowned out by light pollution fighting exposure length. So no filters needed so start with what you have.

[Jonny_H]

4 minutes ago, PeterCPC said:

You might benefit from a light pollution filter. I use an IDAS D2 and it really helps.

Peter

Thanks Peter.

[Jonny_H]

Just now, happy-kat said:

I think you won't be drowned out by light pollution fighting exposure length. So no filters needed so start with what you have.

Yes I think this might be just a case off with starting with none and seeing the image results and build from there.

Just out of curiosity - has anyone used a clear filter to protect the camera mirror when not using a purposed filter? Hoping that makes sense. 

[CloudMagnet]

22 minutes ago, Jonny_H said:

Just out of curiosity - has anyone used a clear filter to protect the camera mirror when not using a purposed filter? Hoping that makes sense. 

Yes, I use this filter https://www.firstlightoptics.com/protection/ak_mc_clear.html

Not cheap but it gives you the peace of mind that no dust will get on your sensor. I use the clip-in version and never had a problem with it coming loose.

[Jonny_H]

1 hour ago, CloudMagnet said:

Yes, I use this filter https://www.firstlightoptics.com/protection/ak_mc_clear.html

Not cheap but it gives you the peace of mind that no dust will get on your sensor. I use the clip-in version and never had a problem with it coming loose.

Thank you. I will take a look.

[david_taurus83]

Modding your camera would have a greater impact than any filter but not necessary either. Galaxies and star clusters dont need modded cameras.

[Jonny_H]

2 minutes ago, david_taurus83 said:

Modding your camera would have a greater impact than any filter but not necessary either. Galaxies and star clusters dont need modded cameras.

Thank you.

I have been considering going down the modding route but the issue is I still use my camera for 'normal' use from time to time.

[david_taurus83]

5 minutes ago, Jonny_H said:

Thank you.

I have been considering going down the modding route but the issue is I still use my camera for 'normal' use from time to time.

My other suggestion would be to keep an eye out for a modded 450D. These come up for sale now and again and for around £150 they are cheaper than a good LP filter such as Astronomik or IDAS filters. What scope do you have or are you using camera lenses?

[Jonny_H]

47 minutes ago, david_taurus83 said:

My other suggestion would be to keep an eye out for a modded 450D. These come up for sale now and again and for around £150 they are cheaper than a good LP filter such as Astronomik or IDAS filters. What scope do you have or are you using camera lenses?

A good suggestion. I will keep an eye out for a 450 or similar. 

I have a SW 150PDS and also a few canon lenses so I have the option in using either the scope acting as the lens or use the camera with canon lens mounted on the scope.