Guidance for an amazing hobby
Have you ever gazed up at the night sky and been mesmerized by the twinkling stars? You’re not alone. The fascination with the cosmos draws countless like-minded stargazers to annual star parties. These events are more than just gatherings; they’re a celebration of the universe and a testament to our enduring curiosity about what … Read more
If you’re deep into the world of astronomy, then you’re probably aware that precision is everything when it comes to tracking and imaging celestial bodies. This is where strain wave gearing comes into play, revolutionizing the way we look at the stars. But what exactly is strain wave gearing? In simple terms, it’s a highly … Read more
I’m going to kick things off by setting the stage for an age-old debate that’s captivated everyone from the budding astronomer to the seasoned stargazer: choosing the right camera for astrophotography. Now, for those about to start this journey, it’s not just about snapping night skies. It’s also about capturing the elusive beauty of celestial … Read more
How do camera settings for astrophotography differ from daytime settings? The answer is not a simple comparison. For daytime photography or even astrophotography using camera lenses instead of telescopes, the aperture, shutter speed, and ISO settings each affect the others. The f-stop setting controls the aperture or amount of iris opening. A lower f-stop translates … Read more
I consider the capture of the night sky one of the most captivating aspects of photography. We’re not just framing landscapes on Earth; we’re peering into an infinite cosmic gallery. Understanding the tools at our astrophotographer’s disposal, such as color palettes, is key to translating this celestial art. The Red Green Blue (RGB) color palette … Read more
Telescope mounts might not grab headlines like the newest telescope optics do, but their importance to stargazing and astrophotography cannot be overstated. They’re the unsung heroes that support telescopes, allowing astronomers to track celestial bodies with accuracy. Mounts come in various forms, each with its unique mechanisms and uses. I would argue that a quality … Read more
I find photographing meteor showers to be one of the most satisfying challenges in astrophotography. Meteor showers, like the famed August meteor shower called the Perseid meteor shower, offer a fascinating subject for photographers and astronomy enthusiasts alike. These celestial events occur when Earth passes through the debris left by the comet Swift-Tuttle, causing streaks … Read more
My First Eclipse Texas was my 3rd eclipse trip. In 2008, I was reading Astronomy Magazine, and I came across an advertisement for a 2 week trip to China, southern Japan, and South Korea that was highlighted by a total solar eclipse in the waters near Iwo Jima. That seemed like an interesting part of … Read more
As the days lengthen and the chill of winter fades, spring emerges with a nightly spectacle above. You’ve noticed the stars seem clearer, the night air is more inviting, and it’s as if the heavens are beckoning amateur astronomers and photographers alike to look upward. This urge you feel is not just a random impulse. … Read more
So, you’ve heard the terms ‘astronomy’ and ‘astrology’ tossed around, sometimes even interchangeably. That’s not too surprising, but it’s crucial to understand that they couldn’t be more different. I’m going to walk you through what exactly makes these two fields distinct and why it matters. Imagine for a moment looking up at the night sky. … Read more