Hardware questions from a newbee

Hey gang-

I'm a retired pro photographer thinking about getting into astrophotography. As part of my learning path, I'm wondering if we can use a DSLR lens and body attached to good mount. I have a Canon 600mm L 4.0 lens that is super sweet. If doable, where can mount adapters be found?

Certainly can....I do it all the time. (OK, I've done it a few times, but it is simple pie.)

Most mounts use dovetail systems. THe telescope tube is attached to a dovetail (an aluminum rail to which one attached rings, or otherwise attached the telescope tube). This dovetail slides into a female dovetail (the top of the mount). SO, get yourself one of those dovetails things, and put a 1/4-20 screw through it and into the tripod screw hole in the bottom of your camera (or more likely your lens at that length).

Attach the dovetail to the mount, and you are good to go.

Check out the stuff at ADM if you want to locate an adapter. Although if you already own a mount with a dovetail system, all you really need to do is either use an existing hole that can accommodate your 1/4-20, or drill yourself a new one.

Alex

Ok, a 600L f4. You have a better telescope there than many of us have.
You will probably be interested in this guys entire site, he's a genius.
http://www.samirkharusi.net/televue_canon.html