Nikon has built a solid reputation in the realm of astrophotography with lenses renowned for their sharpness and durability. Precise engineering and attention to detail, paired with cutting-edge technology make Nikon lenses a fantastic choice for astrophotography.
In this article you can discover three of the best Nikon lenses for astrophotography as budget friendly, intermediate and high-end options
| Image | Name | Focal Length | Aperture | Compatible Mount | Weight | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G | 35mm | f/1.8 | Nikon F (DX) | 200g | Check Latest Price |
 | Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 24mm f/1.4G ED | 24mm | f/1.4 | Nikon F (FX) | 620g | Check Latest Price |
 | Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 14-24mm f/2.8G ED | 14-24mm | f/2.8 | Nikon F (FX) | 970G | Check Latest Price |
Quality Budget-Friendly Lens: Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G
The Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G is a popular and affordable prime lens designed for Nikon’s DX-format DSLRs
Offering a great starting point without breaking the bank, this budget-friendly lens is well-suited for those just dipping their toes into astrophotography.
One standout feature is its fast f/1.8 aperture, which is great for low-light conditions, letting you capture more light from distant stars and beautiful moonlit scenes. You won’t have to worry much about noise at higher ISO settings either, as the clarity and detail capture will hold their own against pricier options.
It works well as a standard prime lens on DX-format Nikon DSLRs, providing an effective focal length of 52.5mm
In terms of value for money, this lens hits the sweet spot. Affordable yet packed with enough features to make night-time shooting a rewarding experience. It’s lightweight too, which means it’s perfect for mobile setups where lugging less gear is a plus.
To make the most of your budget lens, consider investing a little extra time in learning about optimal settings for night photography. Use a tripod to minimize any motion blur and experiment with different exposures to get that perfect shot. With patience and the right technique, your shots of the night sky can truly stand out, even with a budget-friendly lens.
The lens is small and light, making it easy to carry around and perfect for everyday use.
Top Intermediate Choice: Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 24mm f/1.4G ED
For those looking to elevate their astrophotography game, Nikon offers lenses that cater to both intermediate and professional needs.
Two lenses stand out when considering quality and capability – the Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 24mm f/1.4G ED for those stepping up, and the Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 14-24mm f/2.8G ED for those seeking the crème de la crème.
The 24mm f/1.4G lens is a superb choice for intermediate photographers keen on capturing sprawling sky vistas or deep space shots with sharp detail and contrast.
Its f/1.4 aperture is ideal for low-light conditions, offering the ability to maintain image sharpness without pushing ISO levels too high. The extra bit of width helps bring more of the night sky into frame, making for dramatic wide-angle shots that encapsulate the expanse above.
This lens delivers sharp, high-contrast images with minimal distortion, making it perfect for capturing wide-field nightscapes. Its build quality and professional-grade features make it a robust choice for those looking to elevate their astrophotography.
High-End Excellence: Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 14-24mm f/2.8G ED
In the high end range, the 14-24mm f/2.8G lens brings unparalleled construction and precision, making it a favourite among professional super wide angle photographers.
The lens delivers superb sharpness and clarity across the frame, even at its widest aperture of f/1.4. It performs remarkably well in low-light conditions, ideal for astrophotography.
The lens incorporates modern optical elements, including two ED (extra-low dispersion) glass elements and two aspherical elements, which minimize aberrations and distortions
The lens is well-built with weather and dust sealing, ensuring durability and reliability in various shooting conditions. Its wider focal range is perfect for night landscapes, capturing everything from sprawling star fields to shimmering auroras.
Discover 6 of the best astrophotography cameras you can buy in the post Best Astrophotography Camera For Beginners
Can I Use The Same Nikon Lens For Either DSLR Or Mirrorless Cameras?
Yes, you can use the same Nikon lens for both DSLR and mirrorless cameras, but you will need an adapter.
Nikon offers the FTZ Mount Adapter, which allows you to attach F-mount DSLR lenses to Z-mount mirrorless cameras. Here are a few points to consider:
The Nikon FTZ Mount Adapter maintains full functionality, including autofocus and exposure control, ensuring a seamless transition from DSLR to mirrorless shooting.
Using an adapter expands your lens options, allowing you to use your existing DSLR lenses on a new mirrorless body without needing to invest in new lenses immediately.
Using an adapter can add some bulk and weight to your setup, which might affect the balance and handling of the camera.
Overall, using an adapter is a practical solution for photographers transitioning from DSLR to mirrorless systems, allowing them to continue using their existing lenses while exploring the benefits of mirrorless technology.
