Astrophotography
Novice:
Materials: Single lens reflex
I recommend starting with star trails. The rotation of the Earth causes the stars to appear to move. This movement can be captured.
1. Use fast film and set the exposure time to infinite (looks like a B on the exposure dial).
2. Place the camera on a sturdy surface and disable the flash.
3. Press and lock the shutter button.
4. Wait one hour (try varying exposure time).
5. Unlock the shutter.
6. You are done! Repeat with different intervals of time for step 4 and observe the changes.
Intermediate:
Materials: Motor drive (this involves the use of a telescope equipped with a motor drive).
Piggybacking
1. Align the scope and track any star.
2. Fix the camera to the telescope and balance it with weights (it is important to balance the telescope, since it may put pressure on the motor and thus cause damage)
3. Press and lock the shutter button (it helps to have a plunger - they are sold in most camera stores).
4. Wait one hour (try varying exposure time).
5. Unlock the shutter.
6. You are done! Repeat with different intervals of time for step 4 and observe the changes. The longer the exposure the brighter the image. The shorter the time the darker the image.
Through a telescope
1. Align the scope and track any star.
2. Use a photo-adapter and T-ring to attach the camera to the telescope and balance it with weights (it is important to balance the telescope, since it may put pressure on the motor and thus cause damage - I found out the hard way and as result, I had to ship it back to the manufacturer for repairs).
3. Press and lock the shutter button (it helps to have a plunger - they are sold in most camera stores).
4. Wait one hour (try varying exposure time).
5. Unlock the shutter.
6. You are done! Repeat with different intervals of time for step 4 and observe the changes. The longer the exposure the brighter the image. The shorter the time the darker the image.