| "The sky is the ultimate art gallery just above us." - Ralph Waldo Emerson (1803 - 82) |
Astrophotography by Jason Jennings |
The images presented within the gallery are from a variety of astronomical instruments. There is no such instrument that suits all possible targets, thus its a matter of choosing the right instrument for the desired visual impact. The instrument alone does not produce fantastic and memorable images. The work in planning, execution of data acquisition and post processing greatly influence the end result. Depending on my desired goal, I've utilised my own equipment noted below however in some cases, collaborative or online rental telescopes have delivered an extension to the repertoire.
Imaging telescope: ASA 16" Astrograph (1396mm F/3.5), OK3Z heavy duty focuser, 3" Wynne corrector
Dr.JC special mods include custom CF tube by Public Missiles, Primary mirror refiguring, coating and mirror cell sling by Optical Mechanics Inc
Imaging sensor: Apogee Aspen CG16070 (KAI-16070), Apogee Filter Wheel (FW50-9R) with Astrodon Series II filters - L, R, G, B, Ha (5nm), SII (3nm), OIII (3nm)
Guiding sensor: Starlight Xpress Lodestar with Precise Parts custom OAG
Mount: Software Bisque Paramount ME (MKS4000)
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Imaging telescope: RCOS 12.5" CF tube (2874mm F/9), 70mm FFC and PIR
Imaging sensor: Apogee Alta F16M (KAF-16803) w/D09 cooling package, Apogee Filter Wheel (FW50-7S) with Astrodon Series II filters - L, R, G, B, Ha (5nm), SII (3nm), OIII (3nm)
Guiding sensor: SBIG ST402ME with MMOAG
Mount: Software Bisque Paramount ME (MKS4000)
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Yours truely following the successful six hour installation at iTelescope SSO
Due to the unfavourable weather patterns in south eastern Australia (Victoria) resulting in significant cloud and rain, I decided to move the telescope further north to iTelescope's hosting facility at Siding Spring Observatory (SSO) to get more use from the set up. SSO has the most pristine dark skies in Australia and is the home to many professional observatories performing cutting edge research. You can see more images of the installation adventure, iTelescope's SSO hosting facility and equipment here.