This video demonstrates how Live View on the Canon EOS 40D can be used for basic solar astrophotography when connected to the Celestron NexStar 4SE telescope. It was recorded on October 2, 2010 in Brooklyn, New York.
The main goal of this experiment was to show how Live View helps with focusing, framing, and exposure control when photographing the Sun. At the time, Live View was still relatively new on DSLR cameras, and this setup made solar imaging much easier than using only the optical viewfinder.
IMPORTANT: The Sun was photographed only with a proper full-aperture solar filter. Never point a telescope or camera at the Sun without a certified solar filter. Permanent eye and equipment damage can occur instantly.
The video includes images and footage from the following assembly series, showing different ways to connect a Canon EOS camera to the Celestron NexStar 4SE. The links below lead to the original photo posts for reference.
- Part 1 – Components Only
- Part 2 – First Assembled Configuration (Rear Port, T-Adapter-C90)
- Part 3 – Second Assembled Configuration (Top Port, Barlow T-Adapter)
- Part 4 – Third Assembled Configuration (Rear Port, Erect Image Diagonal + Barlow)
After the mechanical setup, the video shows the Canon Live View feed on a computer using Canon’s software, allowing real-time monitoring of what the camera sensor sees. This makes it much easier to achieve accurate focus and capture surface detail.
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| Celestron Solar Filter for NexStar 4 SE and Celestron 4SE, Brooklyn NYC Astronomy |
The image above shows the solar filter mounted on the NexStar 4SE. This is the most critical component for solar imaging and must always be installed before pointing the telescope toward the Sun.
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| Astrophotography NYC - Celestron 4SE and Canon 40D |
This photo shows the full imaging setup with the Canon 40D attached to the NexStar 4SE. Live View allows precise focusing without touching the telescope, minimizing vibration.
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| Sunspot - Solar Activity - Celestron 4SE -Brooklyn Astrophotography |
The final image shows a close-up of the Sun with sunspot group 1109. Only a portion of the solar disk is visible — this framing was intentional to better reveal sunspot structure and surrounding bright regions.
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