Can a DSLR image planets?

[Ags]

Most DSLRs can shoot video - so is it possible to take the video file, split out the frames and then stack them?

[Merlin66]

Yes is the basic answer. I don't have the detail but it's on the web somewhere......

[brantuk]

A webcam is probably more appropriate but it's definitely possible with a dslr. You will probably have to run the avi through VirtualDub in order to split the frames out though

[Ags]

VirtualDub! Ah-ha!

[lukebl]

I tried it a couple of nights ago, following a thread here, using the program EOS movie record. I used my 450d with a 3x barlow (same as with a webcam) but found the problem was that the sensor wasn't as sensitive as the webcam, and I couldn't get an exposure faster than 1/5 second. Might be worth attempting with the moon, though, as you will be able to get a brighter image and faster shutter speed. The larger sensor certainly makes it easier to locate the object. The pixels on the Canon are also smaller than on a webcam so, in theory, you should get a sharper image.

[Ouroboros]

Lukebl - What would be the optimum exposure time be with a webcam?

[lukebl]

Lukebl - What would be the optimum exposure time be with a webcam?

Well, I'm no expert, but my attempts on Jupiter are usually at or 1/50 or 1/33 (using wxAstroCapture) with my SPC880/900, occasionally at 1/100 when it's exceptionally clear.

[Ags]

I'm attracted to the idea as I might one day get a cheap second-hand DSLR, and I do not want to do laptop astronomy which webcams seem to require. I work with computers all day, the last thing I want is one whining, glowing and probably malfunctioning next to me when I'm out under the stars.

[jgs001]

The optimum exposure is the shortest you can get at the sorts of focal lengths involved, with the proviso that you have to get enough signal to sensor, so it's a balance between shutter speed and gain.