The Nuts And Bolts Of Astrophotography Hardware Software And Images

This book is intended for those interested in the basics of deep space viewing and astrophotography. The contents identify and describe the components which are necessary for a personal observatory. Methods of observation are discussed including the software tools and procedures used for imaging of deep space objects, and the processing steps required to get the best results from the raw images. Included are discussions of options and the rationale for the my choice of components. All images were acquired using the hardware, software, and methods described in this book. Three cameras were used (DSLR, Color CCD, Mono CCD) with differing telescope configurations and F-ratios of the EdgeHD 280mm reflector. The images in this book provide realistic examples of the capabilities and image quality the reader can expect with the different options.All the images are also accompanied with descriptions. The literature in many cases contains conflicting information on the objects, rough estimates of size, distance, structure and composition. Approximations are all there is, some better than others. I have composed a descriptive paragraph for each image in the collection which includes basic attributes on each object, along with a sprinkling of comments, telescope and camera configuration, object names, locations, and time of year availability.