Newbie help picking DSLR

Hi,

I've been into astronomy for 2 years, and use a NexStar11GPS. My brother is finally going to live up to his part of the deal - buying a DSLR to be used for both conventional and astro- photography. The problem is - I don't know anything about DSLRs, or, really, anything about conventional photography. I'm willing to learn, though - especially if I don't have to dish out the $$$!

I currently use a DSI color camera for astro work, and am planning to use an ETX-90 and the DSI as an autoguider.
DSO's will be the primary targets.
I am currently Alt/Az, but will get a wedge in a few months.
Budget is $600-800. Used is an option - but only from Astromart

I think there is an internal IR filter issue for the dual-use, but am unclear as to what my options are. If I mod the camera to remove the internal filter,or buy a modded one used, are there available external filters to make it acceptable for terrestrial work?

I'm sure I've forgotten some key info - just let me know!

Thanks,

Shawn Filbey

Addendum - I know how noone wants to spend their time repeating the same info - I've read the Nikon D50 or D70 for astrophotography thread, and now understand that some mods (Hutech only?) allow for dual-use.

I have found a current deal on a Canon Rebel XT 8.0MP with a EF-S 18-55mm lens for $800 new - no memory included.
Is this a decent option?

Shawn

Canon EOS 350D called the Rebel XT in the US. Modify it yourself or get Hap Griffin to do it for $100.

You can get an external filter to use for daytime use. Xnite CC1 filter is one I believe.

Greg.

Canon recently came out with a DSLR optimized for digital photography and Sky and Telescope recently did a review. Here's the link on the Anacortes site. DSLR's aren't cheap and this one is no exception.

http://www.buytelescopes.com/product.asp?t=&pid=9359&m=45

BTW, have you been to the ScopeTronix website? They sell digital camera to telescope eyepiece adapters and have adapters to fit just about every DSLR on the market. (Of course, once you pick out what you need be sure to purchase it through the sponsor.)

Shawn,

It seems that you are a Nikon person but......nothing.....beats the value (about $450 on the used market) of a "good old fashioned" Canon 300D for dabling in the world of DSLR astrophotography. Many proven DSLR astro programs make the camera simple and effective.

here is a single frame with a standard 300D / Orion 80 ED combo

105 sec exposure at iso 800 no noise reduction large JPEG (not even RAW) file !

Have fun with whatever you choose.

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