Guidance for an Amazing Hobby
Patrick 
Stargazing makes a wonderful mixture of art with science through astrophotography and imaging. The moment those breathtaking celestial events are snapped and the timeless starry skies are photographed, then this includes having the perfect equipment and, at the same time, the perfect tools to maximize it. That’s where specialized apps come into the picture: changing … Read more
Manufacturer: ZWO Price: $1999 The ZWO ASI2600MC AIR is more than just a camera; it’s a game-changer for astrophotographers. This model combines an APS-C cooled sensor, built-in guide camera, and ASIAir integration, offering a comprehensive solution for capturing the cosmos. If you’re passionate about astrophotography but want a seamless, advanced tool that simplifies your workflow, … Read more
Emission Nebulae: Lighthouses of the Universe What is an Emission Nebula? Emission Nebulae are clouds of ionized gas, primarily hydrogen, energized to glow by nearby young, hot stars. Emission nebulae are fascinating celestial regions with the formation of new stars. They shine due to the light emitted by ionized gases, mainly hydrogen, when energized … Read more
Manufacturer: Celestron Price: $1599 Introduction The Celestron NexStar 8SE computerized telescope is one of those pieces of equipment that brings the universe right to your doorstep. It’s designed to cater to both novice and intermediate astronomers. Since the 1960s Celestron has long been an industry leader in innovative telescope design. This heritage is clear in … Read more
Manufacturer: Celestron Price: $1199 Celestron has been a household name for astronomy enthusiasts since it burst onto the scene in the 1960s. This company, headquartered in Torrance, California, got its start by popularizing the Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope design. Their goal? To bring high-quality, affordable telescopes to the masses. Celestron isn’t just another telescope manufacturer. They’ve been … Read more
Manufacturer: Sharpstar Askar Price $599 The Askar 71f Petzval Refractor Telescope brings a blend of innovation and reliability that Askar has become known for in the astronomy community. Whether you’re an amateur stargazer or a seasoned astronomer, understanding this product’s unique features can help you see if it’s the right fit for your needs. Askar … Read more
What is dark matter? Dark matter is a form of matter not emitting, absorbing, or reflecting light; that is why it does not appear within existing methods of detection. It does not interact with electromagnetic forces, so it neither produces light nor any kind of energy that we can observe with the help of telescopes. … Read more
Manufacturer: Celestron Price: $2079 The Celestron RASA 8 ( Rowe-Ackermann Schmidt Astrograph) is a specialized telescope designed specifically for astrophotography enthusiasts. Unlike traditional telescopes aimed at visual observation, the RASA 8’s design prioritizes capturing sharp, wide-field images of the night sky. Key to its performance are features like the f/2.2 focal ratio, which allows for … Read more
Telescope tracking speeds are crucial for anyone serious about astronomical observation. They dictate how well your telescope can follow celestial objects across the sky, ensuring they remain within your field of view for extended periods. Accurate tracking is what separates a fleeting glimpse from a detailed study, making it key for stargazers and astronomers alike. … Read more
When I started in the hobby of astrophotography, I made many mistakes that were excellent learning experiences. Technology has advanced quite a bit in the last 20 years or so, and this has reduced the chances of making some of these mistakes, but there are some basic considerations that don’t change. The following sections detail … Read more