The New
Astronomy: Chapter 1
Cover photo: © Tony Hallas
Using a CCD Camera
Have you been thinking about buying a CCD camera? Are you curious about what can be done with one? This chapter has the answers you are looking for. It explains what a CCD camera is, what you do with one, and how a CCD camera differs from a film camera. You'll also get specific recommendations for cameras, telescopes, and mounts at various prices. I have also included a complete walk-through of a real-world CCD imaging session that will serve as your guide throughout the rest of the book.
What Can I Do with a CCD Camera?
CCD Versus Film
- Quantum Efficiency and Short Exposures
- Coping with Light Pollution
- CCD Cameras Are Cool(ed)
Choosing the Right CCD Camera
- Matching CCD Camera and Telescope
- Finding the Right Mount
- Budget Options
- Mid-Prices Options
- Premium Options
A Typical CCD Imaging Session
- Equipment Setup
- Focusing
- Putting Objects "on the chip"
- Imaging
- Image Processing
The CCD camera can image with amazing efficiency,
allowing you to image deep sky objects even in light-polluted skies.
Image Copyright 2000 by Ron Wodaski