Astronomy Software – Part 2: Planning and Imaging

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This is Part 2 of my write up on Astronomy Software. This post describes the software I use for planning and imaging. Image processing will be in Part 3. Most of the software I use for observing and imaging is PC-based, running on Windows.

Planning

  • TheSkyX Pro
    For planning and executing observing and imaging runs, I use Software Bisque’s The Sky X Pro. To find imaging objects, with the planetarium software time set just after the start of my imaging time, I run an advanced query (from Manage Observing List) that selects NGC objects above 40 degress with a minor axis > 5. From that list I look at each item and select the best one for the night, both for how it looks and when it will transit. I also use TheSky to point the telescope when preparing for an imaging run.

Automation

  • CCDCommander
    CCD Commander is an excellent script-based imaging automation tool. The learning curve is not steep. While there aren’t all the bells and whistles of other automation software, the software is quite capable and much less expensive. I don’t do remote imaging, but rather have the automation so I can sleep while my images are taken.

  • PinPoint
    Pinpoint is an amazing plate solving tool. It quickly identifies the exact location in the sky where the scope is pointing. This is crucial for both automation and easy imaging even if you aren’t automated. The software is written by Bob Denny of DC3 Dreams, who also produces high-end automation software.

  • FocusMax
    Focusing is not only crucial, without some form of automation it is tedious. Steve Brady and Larry Weber developed this excellent focusing tool using the idea that you can use the focus characteristics of your telescope and the size of an out of focus star to calculate the focus point. It is fast and accurate. As of this post, it is under active development. I’d recommend using the focus settle feature, it takes a bit longer but is more accurate. The “Find Star” capability got me introduced to how much plate solving and automation can increase your imaging throughput and reduce frustration.

Camera Control

  • MaximDL 5
    MaximDL is the gold standard in image capture and camera control. It is well integrated with a wide variety of automation software and has extensive camera support.

  • ASCOM
    ASCOM is a set of standards and a software framework for managing communications between sofware on your PC and your devices. It is the core of the mount / camera / focuser / rotator automation.

  • AstroPhysics V2 Driver
    As an AP900 and AP1200 owner, I am a big fan of Ray Gralak’s AstroPhysics drivers. There are many useful features and the current release is rock solid. He is also the author of PEM Pro, a periodic error measurement and polar alignment tool.

  • Planewave Telescope Control and Optec Pyxis Control software.
    Planewave’s control software for scope and focuser is crucial for any type of imaging. When I first bought the scope I had a couple of issues that were solved in the middle of the night on a Saturday – excellent customer service. I use a Pyxis 3″ rotator and driver software is critical. All of this software is ASCOM compliant.

Most, if not all, of this software can be used on a trial basis. That gives you a chance to see if it will work for you before you buy.