Comet Hunting: Capturing Space Rocks Like an Expert

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Gear
Finding the comet
Camera parameters
Arrangement
Observing without a camera
Suggested items

In the event you’ve desired a motivation to unearth your camera, a pair of forthcoming comets present an ideal chance. For starters, comet Lemmon will exhibit peak visibility from October 13-23 and may reach a Magnitude 4 brightness, suggesting it could potentially be spotted without assistance. October 21 promises to be the prime night for observation, due to the presence of a new moon, with the potential to witness the Orionids meteor display, as well.

Following that, the initial portion of November stands as the opportune period for capturing extended exposures of comet 3I/ATLAS — albeit at a predicted Magnitude 10, a camera, binoculars, or telescope will still be required for visualization.

Capturing a comet through photography shares similarities with photographing the moon or a meteor swarm, yet offers increased excitement. These celestial bodies often offer unique viewing experiences — comet Lemmon is not expected to return for an additional 1,150 years! We will detail the equipment essential for capturing these comets, suggest our top choices across various budgets, and offer guidance on settings and arrangement for achieving optimal imagery.

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What you’ll need

A camera, lens, and tripod form the essential toolkit for comet photography. Which camera should I procure?

Theoretically, any camera is capable if employed with the correct settings. With that being said, some possess a superior aptitude for astrophotography compared to others. Select upscale cameras — such as our preferred astrophotography tool, the Nikon Z8 — incorporate a specialized astrophotography mode tailored for dim conditions, while other models, like the Sony A7 IV, amplify the screen’s luminosity to facilitate shot arrangement in darkness. We equally admire the OM System OM-1 Mark II particularly for comets and meteor displays, where Live Composite shines during extended exposures.

The two paramount factors to consider in a camera encompass proficiency in minimizing noise (regrettably, a characteristic only fully discernable through actual use) and adequate onboard controls for separately modifying the aperture, shutter speed, and ISO, thus negating the necessity to delve into menus. Possessing this feature, though minor, proves invaluable, streamlining manual shooting tenfold when adjustment needs arise in outdoor environments. The majority of full-frame models feature sufficient tactile controls to simplify manual outdoor shooting; however, this remains a point of consideration when purchasing a starter astrophotography camera.

Most recent cameras incorporate built-in intervalometers for capturing successive exposures without constant shutter activation. If operating an older camera or a DSLR, a distinct intervalometer or remote shutter release constitutes a convenient supplementary tool.

Some of our favorite astro cameras

Nikon Z8

$4,299.95 $3,996.95ViewSee all prices

Sony A7 IV

$2,699.99 $2,198ViewSee all prices

OM System OM-1 II

$2,399.99 $1,854ViewSee all pricesWe check over 250 million products every day for the best pricesWhich lens is most suitable for photographing comets?

A lens featuring a sizable aperture proves optimal for astrophotography.

The leading astrophotography lenses excel at admitting ample light; a capacity realized through broad focal lengths (around 20mm or wider) and expansive (or rapid) apertures near f/2.8 or quicker. Prime lenses dominate the realm of astro lenses; however, wide-angle zooms remain viable (given their wide aperture) and expand framing possibilities with zoom capabilities. Owing to the 500 rule — which gauges exposure duration before stars begin trailing — broader focal lengths permit extended shutter durations.

Some of our favorite astro lenses

Sony FE 14mm f/1.8 G Master

$1,749.99 $1,648ViewSee all prices

Nikon Z 20mm f/1.8 S

$1,149.95 $1,046.95ViewSee all prices

Canon RF 20mm f/1.4L VCM

$1,699ViewSee all pricesWe check over 250 million products every day for the best pricesTripod

Given that astrophotography necessitates prolonged exposures, handheld operations become impractical; thus, a firm tripod remains indispensable. While exorbitant expenditures remain optional, investing in a superior tripod ensures enhanced durability alongside sturdier, more resilient materials. Our tests have revealed the Benro Mach3 as a preferred option.

Photography accessories that make comet photography easier

Numerous helpful additions ease the comet photography process, with applicability spanning alternative photographic styles. A quality headlamp incorporating a red light preserves nocturnal visibility and aids navigation on distant trails, while a portable power source sustains electronic device functionality.

Some of our favorite tripods

Benro Rhino

$549.95ViewSee all prices

Benro Mach3

$139.95ViewSee all prices

Manfrotto Befree

$37.84ViewSee all pricesWe check over 250 million products every day for the best pricesHow to find the comet

Astronomy applications can assist in pinpointing particular objects.

Given the diverse positioning of each comet across the sky influenced by individual location, trajectory, and travel distance, astronomy applications prove invaluable for target location. Numerous options exist: users can specify the object of interest, and the application will display the corresponding observation time and direction.