This was my first time imaging with a self-modified Full Spectrum Canon 6D which is a full frame camera. I have a review of the Canon 6D model, and it’s considered by some to be the best digital camera for astrophotography. This was my second time out using a new Orion HDX110 equatorial GoTo mount … Read more
In December 2005, I converted a Logitech Fusion webcam for astronomy use. Prior to that, I had been using a Philips Toucam for astro imaging. A comparison made between those two webcams and test results has helped me use them for imaging instead of using the best astrophotography DSLR instead. Since then, I have been … Read more
Introduction: I have been imaging for a few years with Canon astrophotography DSLRs and have found that there is a noticeable improvement in dark frame noise when imaging below 50 degrees Fahrenheit. In 2004 when I first modified a Canon 300D, I prepared plans for cooling the camera’s imaging chip directly with a peltier device, but never … Read more
The software utility provided by Microsoft with the Lifecam Cinema HD webcam is “Microsoft LifeCam”. My opinion of this release (vrs. 3.0.215.0) is that it is very minimal. With the “Select Webcam” function, I was only able to select the Microsoft Lifecam Cinema webcam and none of my other non-Microsoft webcams. Video resolutions can be … Read more
I took a series of test images using a new Canon T4i (650D) for comparing to test images of other Canon DSLR models popular for astro imaging and DSLR astrophotography. The test images include long exposure dark frames and also images in bulb mode to compare long exposures for sensitivity. Some info on the T4i … Read more
Cameras in these price ranges almost always have a crop sensor (APS-C) and usually offer a resolution of about 24 MP, mid ISO ranges, and a continuous shooting speed of about 5-6 frames per second. You’ll probably want to match your camera up with the best telescope. You have an exposure counter, an interval timer … Read more
The key element of this setup is the optical bench, a piece of ¾ inch plywood. As you can see in the image below, the binoculars are mounted so that the optical axis is parallel to the optical bench. An iPhone can be much cheaper than astrophotography telescopes, so it’s a good place to start. … Read more
One of the most practical tips for astrophotographers is to practice your camera settings until you can do it blindfolded. But if you’re used to taking pictures with a point-and-shoot camera, astrophotography can be quite daunting. One of the most practical tips for astrophotography is to practice your camera settings until you can do it … Read more
Lateral and spherical aberrations are also very well controlled. This is useful at twilight or indoors, but is of no benefit for long exposures in astrophotography, where it is best turned off. The front element has a smudge-resistant fluorine coating, and the lens is fully weather-sealed. Most of the latest lens options from Tamron and … Read more
Every day the boundaries and borders of technological advancement are being pushed. The modern day is a great time for photographers, astronomers, and of course astrophotographers, who rely on state-of-the-art tech more so than others. And if you’re interested in night sky photography, then you’ll want to have the best experience possible. Astrophotography apps aren’t … Read more
Starting out as an astrophotographer must feel exciting; you’re just about to embark on an endless adventure laden with treasures of the sky, but where should you begin? There are several schools of thought when it comes to ‘where’ you should begin your journey gear-wise, and what’s puzzling about it is that there are no … Read more
