What is the purpose of the Celestron T-Ring for Canon cameras?
The T-Ring is a mechanical adapter that allows you to attach your Canon EOS camera body to a telescope. It replaces your camera's lens and provides a standardized threaded connection (called a T-thread) that can then be attached to a telescope-specific T-adapter.
Do I need anything besides this T-Ring to connect my Canon EOS to my telescope?
Yes. The T-Ring is the first part of a two-part system. You will also need a T-adapter that matches your specific telescope (e.g., an SCT T-adapter, an EdgeHD T-adapter, or a universal 1.25" T-adapter for refractors). The T-Ring attaches to your camera, and the T-adapter attaches to the T-Ring and your telescope.
How do I use the Celestron T-Ring to photograph the Orion Nebula (M42) with my 8" SCT?
First, remove the lens from your Canon EOS camera and attach the T-Ring. Then, thread the Celestron #93633-A T-Adapter for SCTs onto the T-Ring. Finally, unthread the visual back from your telescope's rear cell and screw the T-adapter/T-Ring/camera assembly directly onto the telescope. You are now set up for prime focus imaging of M42.
Will this T-Ring work with Canon EF-S mount cameras?
Yes, the Canon EF mount is physically compatible with both EF and EF-S lenses and camera bodies. This T-Ring will attach to any Canon EOS camera that uses this mount, including both full-frame (EF) and APS-C (EF-S) models.
Can I use autofocus with the Celestron T-Ring attached?
No. When you attach your camera to a telescope via a T-Ring, the telescope itself becomes the lens. There are no electronic connections to control autofocus. You must achieve focus manually using your telescope's focuser knob while viewing the image on your camera's live-view screen.
What kind of photos can I take with the Celestron T-Ring?
This setup is ideal for "prime focus" photography. It is excellent for short-exposure images of the Moon and brighter planets. With an equatorial mount that tracks the sky, you can also take longer exposures needed to capture deep-sky objects like galaxies and nebulae.