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The Basics of Webcam Astronomy |
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Here is a summary of the technologies that make webcam astronomy possible. In order to be successful in the hobby you should understand these concepts. |
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- Video Integration - Webcams are designed
to capture video at 15-30 frames per second (fps). This process
allows stacking frames on
top of each other. The more frames you stack, the brighter the
objects being captured become. details
- Drift Integration - Because the Earth
is turning objects drift across the night sky. Traditionally expensive
tracking telescope
mounts are used to keep objects centered in the telescope. Drift
Integration allows you to shoot with a stationary mount and then
re-align the images when integrating the frames. details
- Dark Frames - Every camera has some
amount of noise that shows up as dots on the image taken in the
dark. To remedy this we take an image with the shutter closed.
This "dark frame" is subtracted during the integration process
to reduce the noise. details
- Web Cams - These cameras are inexpensive
compared to astronomical CCD cameras. There are a large variety
of cameras to choose from. There are also modifications that can
be made to improve their performance. details
- Telescopes - Choosing the right telescope is important when getting started with web cam astronomy. Some telescopes are better for human viewing and star hopping while others are better for astrophotography. The telescope mount type is also very important.
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Visit astro-observer.com to see information on the amateur astronomy as a hobby.
There is some great information on telescopes, eyepieces, mounts, and accessories in the selecting a telescope section. |
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