Here is the material used to take the photos presented on the site and some equipment suggestions for astrophotography:
Personal equipment
This equipment was used at the beginning of my experience in the field of astronomical photography. I renewed my equipment in December 2011 for more efficient equipment in use at my residence in a semi-permanent site. The goal is to familiarize myself with taking good quality photos in a site where there is significant light pollution (white area). Considering the success of this approach, in August 2013 I set up a permanent observatory at my home.
Rental equipment
In my progression of this exciting hobby, I was looking for a way to get images in an environment without light pollution. I then opted for the rental and remote control of telescopes. Observation sites are in the desert of New Mexico, Spain and Australia away from any light pollution. The sites are over 800 meters (2600 feet) above sea level where the air is dry, under a mostly clear sky. You cannot find better observation sites in Quebec. The equipment that I rent is high-end equipment valued at over $ 40000. This amount does not include the automated dome and sophisticated robotic equipment to remotely control the telescope!
Choosing equipment for astrophotography
It is possible to take pictures of the night sky without specialized equipment, with a simple camera on a fixed tripod, for example the photography of the Full moon, the photograph of two planets when they are in conjunction (when they are close to each other) and if you move to a place without light pollution, the photo of night landscapes (including the Milky Way), the photo of constellations, etc. But, when we approach the astrophotography of deep sky objects (nebulae, galaxies, star clusters) and the photography of planets (to see surface details), it is necessary to equip oneself with equipment dedicated to these tasks.
In order to help you choose your equipment for deep sky and solar system astrophotography (planets, moon, sun), I present a list of equipment suggestions that will get you started in your new passion and which will be used for several years without having to continually reinvest in the purchase of more efficient equipment. These tips are based on my experience of over 15 years in astrophotography.
Richard Beauregard
Sky Astro - CCD
Revised 2021/11/03