The basic technique for video
astrophotography is as follows: Point your telescope at the object you wish to
photograph. If you are using a motorized equatorial mount in a polar aligned
configuration then subsequent tracking of the object (e.g., the moon) will be
handled automatically. If your mount is not motorized, or if you are using an
alt-azimuth mounted telescope like a SkyWatcher Dobsonian, then you will need to
update the position of your telescope manually as the images are being recorded.
This makes your task a bit tougher to accomplish, but it can most certainly be
done.
For simplicity, we’ll assume that you are using a motorized equatorial mount.
Once you are pointed at your object, remove the eyepiece from the telescope
focuser and replace it with your digital eyepiece. Now adjust focus and watch
the monitor of your laptop or other video device that your camera is connected
to. When you have achieved sharp focus, you can just watch and enjoy, or save
the images on your computer. If you save your images you can later use any of a
number of freeware programs to stack and process them. Or you can purchase more
sophisticated program commercially for more functions and better results.
Moon photos by Famille Dinant, Switzerland. Taken with 70mm refractor. |
Venus Transit photo by Peter Roth, Canada. Taken with SK1025AZ3. |
A digital eyepiece along with your laptop computer and virtually any of our telescopes is a great combination at star parties. With this equipment many people can simultaneously view what the telescope is seeing. It is a great way to share your enjoyment of astronomy with others, but without risking your valuable eyepieces - which can take quite a beating at public outings!