Ed Greding Loc: Texas

I am trying to learn how to use my first digital SLR, the Nikon DSLR-5100, and am attempting to take photos through my telescope. In this method, the camera's lens is removed, and replaced with an adapter that connects the camera to the telescope. The adapter attaches to the camera by a standard Nikon T-ring, the opposite end of which then fits into the opening in which the eyepiece (or the telescope) would go. The objective of the telescope replaces the Nikon lens. I've put the camera mode on "M" (manual) and set the f-number on the camera to that of the telescope (focal length of objective divided by diameter of objective, conventionally in millimeters). I should then be able to use different shutter speeds until I get a good picture, or so I would think. However, pressing the shutter button gives no result, even if the image (say the Moon) is focused on the LCD screen. The shutter just will not release. My interpretation is that the camera will not "recognize" the telescope as a lens, and I think this is correct because at the top of the LCD is the notation, "No Lens." Any ideas?

Ctrclckws

things to check:

Release Priority : should be set to release, not Focus.
there may be a Release without lens option in the menu.

I have used a T-mount adapter and 700mm F/11 telescope with my D5300 so it should be possible.

Also, use Mirror Up delay as well to limit camera vibration
Use a Remote also

Howard5252 Loc: New York / Florida (now)

Believe the camera. Try cleaning the contacts between the T ring and the camera. If the T ring is a really old one, it may not be making its contacts with the camera properly; Nikon occasionally changes the contact's use within the camera (That is why 3rd party lenses sometimes don't work ... until those manufacturers make the appropriate changes too) - try a new T ring.

Mac Loc: Pittsburgh, Philadelphia now Hernando Co. Fl.

Ed, there is an "Astronomical Photography" forum section. They should be able to help your questions. http://www.uglyhedgehog.com/s-109-1.html

RWR Loc: La Mesa, CA

I am not familiar with the D5100, but using it on a T-2 mount lens would entail the same settings as on a bellows or manual extension tubes. In your User's Manual Index, look under "Non-CPU Lenses." Come back if you have further questions.

RWR Loc: La Mesa, CA

T- and T-2 rings have no contacts.

Bobspez Loc: Southern NJ, USA

Without a camera lens, in manual mode I don't think you can set the f-stop on the camera. You can set the iso, and shutter speed on the camera, but focus and f-stop needs a lens. You focus with your telescope. Without a lens your image goes right to the sensor, wide open. Works the same on attaching a dslr to a microscope without a camera lens.

Jcmarino

Check the menu, there is probably a setting to release without lens or something similar. Or it may say release without focus. Turn this on and it should allow you to release the shutter without a lens.

Bill_de Loc: US

You can't set the F stop. What you can do is tell the camera what the F stop is.

pecohen Loc: Central Maine

I'm not familiar with your specific camera, but one thing to be aware of is that M mode only puts the camera in manual exposure mode. You will also have to put the camera in manual focus mode - and of course besides adjusting the exposure manually you will have to set the focus manually. Your camera might have some features to assist with manual focus but it is quite possible these will only work when you are using a Nikon lens.

I switched from using Nikon to a Sony camera when I finally realized that Nikon does what they can to encourage users to only use Nikon lenses on their cameras. So don't waste your time going to Nikon with your questions unless perhaps you are using a Nikon telescope and an Nikon adapter.

Oknoder Loc: Western North Dakota

Your body must be in M, no other mode will work. If controlling from a laptop exposures must be lower than 30s.

carl hervol Loc: jacksonville florida

I just set my camera to manual then set my ISO and then set the shutter speed you want i'm using a D300 and a mead 12inch XL200 and it works fine.

Ed Greding Loc: Texas

Thank you all for so many ideas. I need to study the manual more thoroughly, then try to implement the advice you have so kindly offered. --- Ed Greding