AFOCAL   --  method             

  Taking pictures of the moon and planets can be easier than most people think.  Piggyback method is used to take pictures of the constellations and the MilkyWay. The camera is mounted usually on top and parallel to the telescope tube. No image is taken through the scope as only the telescope drive is being used.
   
   Another method called Afocal can be used to take very good images simply by aiming a digital camera at the eyepiece of the telescope. Brackets can be used to hold the camera in position at the eyepiece during exposure. Good results can also be obtained simply by holding the camera by hand but not touching the eyepiece. Sometimes vignetting can be a problem. The pictures seen here were taken using this method. Notice the strong vignetting in the moon shot. This is a very inexpensive way to take astrophoto's but can be very rewarding. Fun too!!

Area of moon showing only one crater

Saturn  rings and globe marking can be seen

Band detail can easily be seen. Looking closely to the right one of Jupiter's moon's can be seen.

Mars  snow cap and surface detail very easily seen.

FinePix S602 used Afocally
                   2003