Guidance for an Amazing Hobby
If you are purchasing a telescope, you may ask yourself “what is the best type of telescope?”. There is no single answer to this question. Let’s start out by giving the characteristics of each type. There are three main types of telescopes The three primary types of telescopes are refractor telescopes (also called refracting telescopes), … Read more
Spring is a great time for astrophotography as there are many interesting targets visible in the night sky. Spring is also known as “galaxy season” to astrophotographers, since so many of the best objects during this time of year are galaxies. Here are a few suggestions for what’s happening in the sky tonight in the … Read more
What is a Messier Object? Let’s start with what Messier objects are. The Messier Catalog, also known as the “Catalog of Nebulae and Star Clusters”, is a list of 110 astronomical objects that was first compiled by the French astronomer Charles Messier in the 18th century. What is the Messier Catalog? The catalog contains a … Read more
What is N.I.N.A? NINA (Nighttime Imaging ‘N’ Astronomy) is free, open-source astrophotography software designed to help amateur astronomers and astrophotographers capture and analyze astronomical images. Most every aspect of capturing astronomical images can be controlled and even automated by N.I.N.A. Astronomy software has transformed backyard stargazing into an immersive dive into the cosmos. Among the … Read more
iOptron CEM70 Advanced Computerized GoTo Telescope Mount Price: Starting at $3228 The iOptron CEM70 is an equatorial mount that is very good for both imaging and visual use. Casual observers do not need this degree of accurate tracking, so I would recommend it mainly for long-exposure imaging. I have been using this mount … Read more
Astrophotography is a rewarding, but challenging hobby. The equipment and software learning curve tends to be high. But learning equipment and software is not the only challenge. Light pollution also can severely impact image quality. One hundred years ago, almost everyone on earth could go outside at night and see the Milky Way Galaxy in … Read more