18
19
Additionally, the individual images may be very soft since if you’re imaging at
high power, with or without the use of a Barlow. Stacking will improve the poten-
tial sharpness when processing in RegiStax. Stacking several hundred or more
images is sometimes appropriate to get the most possible detail.
lunar imaging
Lunar imaging requires fast shutter speeds due to the high brightness of the
moon. Similar techniques used to align and stack planetary images can also
be used for lunar image processing. Full resolution Live Lunar images on a HD
device can be stunning when imaged under favorable conditions (
Figure 18).
The current phase of the moon will dictate the exposure setting due to the vast
difference in brightness during each phase.
For group viewing use the text display and position cross hairs to point to craters
or other features for your audience (
Figure 18).
Solar imaging
Warning: Always use a full aperture Solar Filter when observing the Sun.
With a properly fitting full-aperture solar filter attached to your telescope, you can
use the
SSHD to take images of the Sun and the sunspots on its surface.
(Filters available through Orion. Check the catalog or OrionTelescopes.com for
more information).
Much like planetary and lunar imaging, solar imaging requires fast frame rates
and shutter speeds.
terrestrial
imaging
Nature and scenic imaging is possible
with the
SSHD when used with a tele-
scope or wide field lens.
Use the X and Y flip when image is
reversed or upside down.
When using with a telescope the aper-
ture may need to be stopped down
(reduced in size) in order to reduce the
brightness during daytime.
internet
Broadcasting
When using the
SSHD with the
included video capture device it is
possible to use services such as
NightSkiesNetwork.com, ustream.
com, livestream.com to show your
views live across the internet to a
worldwide audience. See websites for
details.
Connections and
Cables
tips
Focusing
One of the hardest things to do in plan-
etary imaging is achieving good focus.
You can make this process easier by
simply watching the Live Video window
to focus. Depending upon the viewing
conditions you may notice that the
image goes in and out of focus, this is
due to viewing conditions. This is to be expected and one of the reasons why
post processing software can bring out the best in your captured images. Focus
as best as possible with the average frame being at best focus to ensure more in
focus frames than out of focus. Image processing software can then be used to
Figure 19.
NightSkiesNetwork.com.
Figure 21.
Connections to the HD
Convertor Box.
Figure 20.
Cable types.
Figure 18.
Lunar imaging.
