What is it like using a remote telescope? Is it still fun downloading data and processing it? Is this still “real astrophotography”? Join us as we unlock the wonders of the universe from the comfort of your home by tapping into the power of remote astrophotography. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know to start accessing, downloading, and processing astronomical data from our remote observatory and a little bit about our backstory and why we started our remote observatory.
Remote Astrophotography
Astrophotography is a mesmerizing pursuit that blends the allure of the universe with the craft of photography. However, not everyone has the privilege of accessing dark skies or possessing the necessary gear to capture magnificent astrophotography images. This is where remote astrophotography becomes invaluable.
Our remote observatory grants you the opportunity to utilize professional-grade telescopes and cameras positioned under immaculate dark skies. All the data—including flats, bias, darks, and subs—is readily accessible through our Nextcloud instance, enabling you to download and process images from any location worldwide.
Do you live in a city with heavy light pollution?
Is it often cloudy and you can never finish a project?
Do you find you want to practice on data that has less gradients, noise and sky glow?
Are you a visual observer who wants to dabble in Astrophotography without having to reinvest in expensive gear?
Are you interested in processing data without having to own your own gear?
These are all great questions and a large reason we launched our service.
In this guide, we will explore the top 10 essential aspects beginners should be aware of when downloading, using, editing, and working with data from our remote observatory and how we can help people who have asked similar questions we asked above.
1. Understanding Remote Astrophotography Data
What Is Remote Observatory Data?
Remote observatory data consists of raw images and calibration files captured by our telescopes and cameras. These files include:
- Light Frames (Subs): The primary images of celestial objects.
- Dark Frames: Images taken with the camera sensor covered to capture sensor noise.
- Bias Frames: Shortest possible exposures to record readout noise.
- Flat Frames: Images of a uniformly illuminated field to correct for optical imperfections.
Our data is captured through our members initiating requests for targets and our automation tooling optimizing those requests for maximum SNR and minimum moon (amongst other things)
The Importance of High-Quality Data
The quality of data captured by remote observatories is paramount. Utilizing professional observatory class telescopes and cameras ensures that the images are of high resolution and detail. These telescopes are often located in remote areas with clear dark skies, such SadrAstro Observatory based in West Texas, where light pollution is minimal. This setting provides amateur astronomers with access to some of the darkest skies, allowing for the capture of celestial objects with exceptional clarity.
Our dark sky data from our B1 “Excellent dark-sky site” affords us some qualities that just can’t be overcome by imaging in a suburban sky.
- Sky background is typically 21.7-22.0 magnitudes per square arcsecond.
- We can achieve similar Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR) in roughly 1/4 to 1/6 the integration time compared to Bortle 6/7.
- Example: 2 hours of total integration time in Bortle 1 might equal 8-12 hours in Bortle 6/7.
- Much better detection of faint details and extended objects like nebulosity.
- Significantly less processing required to remove light pollution – Our members love this!
- Better color accuracy with less artificial skyglow to correct.
Practical benefits:
- Can capture more targets in limited time. From improved SNR per exposure to a schedular that optimizes object imaging.
- Better ability to capture extremely faint objects that might be impossible from light-polluted sites – dust, dust and more dust!
- More efficient use of limited clear sky windows
Here’s an example of just our Ha master for the Flaming Star Nebula. The amount of detail captured from our dark sky and 3nm filters is absolutely stunning.
The Future of Remote Astrophotography
As technology continues to advance, the capabilities of remote observatories will expand, offering even more opportunities for astrophotographers. With the integration of advanced telescope systems, fiber optic internet, and cloud storage, the future of remote astrophotography looks promising. This evolution will make world-class astrophotography accessible to more people, allowing them to capture the beauty of the cosmos from anywhere in the world.
2. Accessing Our Data via Nextcloud
What Is Nextcloud?
What Is Nextcloud?
Nextcloud is a secure, open-source file hosting platform that enables seamless access and synchronization of files across multiple devices. Subscribers enjoy unrestricted access to our Nextcloud instance throughout their membership period, without any artificial limitations on data access. Unlike other imaging groups that charge $1,500 annually for limited data access, we provide a straightforward approach, eliminating any “Fear of Missing Out” and, more importantly, saving you hundreds if not thousands of dollars each year.
How to Access Data
- Web Access: Visit our Nextcloud web interface, log in with your credentials, and navigate to the desired folders to download files directly.
- Desktop Sync: Install the Nextcloud desktop client to sync files automatically to your PC.
For detailed instructions, check out our Nextcloud Access Guide.
3. Downloading Data Efficiently
Selecting the Right Files
- Target Selection: Start by choosing the celestial object you wish to explore from the available data. We recommend downloading each day individually or syncing by target through the Nextcloud sync tool. Be prepared for large data volumes if you attempt to sync the entire system, as it can amount to hundreds of gigabytes with nightly updates ranging from 10-30GB!
- Necessary Files: Ensure you download the corresponding light frames and all relevant calibration files (darks, flats, bias). It’s a good idea to keep local copies of darks, bias, and flats, as they can be used over extended periods. If you’re processing your images with PixInsight or Siril, you can save your integrated calibration files for reuse, which will help reduce integration time.
Using Nextcloud Sync
- Installation: Download and install the Nextcloud desktop client for your operating system.
- Configuration: Connect the client to our server using your login details.
- Selective Sync: Choose specific folders to sync to save storage space.
4. Organizing Your Data
Folder Structure
Maintain a clear folder structure on your PC:
Astrophotography Projects│
└───Target Name
│
├───Lights
├───Darks
├───Flats
└───Bias
File Naming Conventions
- Consistency: Keep file names consistent to avoid confusion during processing.
- Metadata: Ensure each file retains its metadata for accurate calibration. We also save imaging csv files for each night observing with some of the observation details so you can use this information to see if you want to cut/cull/remove any files from your integration.
5. Essential Software for Processing
Image Processing Tools
- DeepSkyStacker (Free): Ideal for stacking and calibrating images, DeepSkyStacker is a favorite among amateur astronomers for its simplicity and effectiveness. It allows users to automate the process of aligning and stacking multiple exposures, enhancing the signal-to-noise ratio of the final image. This tool is particularly useful for those working with large datasets from remote observatories, as it handles calibration frames with ease. Download DeepSkyStacker
- Siril (Free): Stack, Calibrate and Process images. Open Source. Siril stands out for its comprehensive suite of tools that cater to both beginners and advanced users. Its scripting capabilities allow for batch processing, making it an efficient choice for managing extensive image sets from remote imaging sessions. With its robust calibration and stacking features, Siril helps in achieving high-quality raw images that can be further refined. Download Siril
- PixInsight (Paid): Advanced processing with extensive features. PixInsight is a powerhouse in the world of astrophotography processing, offering a vast array of tools for image enhancement and analysis. Its advanced algorithms are designed to bring out the finest details in celestial objects, making it a preferred choice for users seeking professional observatory class results. From noise reduction to color calibration, PixInsight provides a complete workflow solution. Learn more about PixInsight
- Photoshop/GIMP: For post-processing and touch-ups. Photoshop and GIMP are versatile tools that allow for creative enhancements and final adjustments to astrophotography images. These programs are excellent for fine-tuning colors, contrast, and sharpness, and they offer a range of filters and effects to give images a polished look. Whether you’re aiming to highlight the ethereal glow of a nebula or the intricate details of a galaxy, these tools provide the flexibility needed to achieve your vision. Download Photoshop / Download GIMP
Choosing the Right Software
As a beginner, start with user-friendly software like DeepSkyStacker before moving on to more complex programs or start with a tool/program that you are somewhat familiar with to reduce the learning curve.
When delving into remote imaging, it’s crucial to select software that not only aligns with your current skill level but also offers room for growth as you advance in your astrophotography journey. DeepSkyStacker is an excellent starting point due to its intuitive interface, allowing newcomers to comfortably navigate the basics of stacking and calibrating images. As you gain confidence and seek to enhance your image quality further, consider exploring more sophisticated tools like PixInsight, which provides professional-grade features for in-depth processing. Additionally, leveraging software that supports the integration of calibration frames from remote observatories can significantly improve the final output by reducing noise and enhancing faint details. Remember, the ultimate remote observatory experience is achieved by continuously learning and experimenting with different software to refine your astrophotography skills.
6. Calibrating Your Images
Why Calibration Is Crucial
Calibration removes systematic noise and optical imperfections, enhancing the quality of your final image. When imaging objects in dark skies, we have to pull out all the tricks of the trade to optimize the entire process to surface those very faint structures and details. Calibration of our light frames to remove sensor noise and optical artifacts is crucial to getting the best image with the best data possible.
Calibration Steps
- Load Light Frames: Import your subs into your processing software.
- Add Calibration Files: Include darks, flats, and bias frames.
- Align and Stack: Let the software align stars and combine frames to improve signal-to-noise ratio.
Our calibration guide will be online shortly – check back for updates.
7. Processing Your Stacked Image
Basic Processing Steps
- Stretching the Histogram: Adjust brightness and contrast to reveal hidden details. This step is crucial for bringing out the faint structures in your astrophotography images, allowing you to see the intricate patterns and formations that are often obscured in raw data.
- Color Balancing: Correct color casts for a natural appearance. Proper color balancing ensures that your images reflect the true colors of celestial objects, providing a more realistic and aesthetically pleasing result. This step often involves adjusting the white balance and using color calibration tools to fine-tune the hues.
- Noise Reduction: Apply filters to minimize residual noise. Noise can obscure important details in astrophotography, so using advanced noise reduction techniques helps maintain clarity and sharpness in your final image. Techniques like multi-scale linear transform or wavelet-based noise reduction can be particularly effective.
- Sharpening and Detail Enhancement: Bring out fine structures in nebulae or galaxies. By enhancing details, you can highlight the unique features of celestial objects, such as the spiral arms of a galaxy or the filaments in a nebula. Techniques like deconvolution or unsharp masking are commonly used in this step.
Tips for Beginners
- Non-Destructive Editing: Work with layers or copies to preserve original data. This approach allows you to experiment with different processing techniques without permanently altering your original images, making it easier to revert to previous versions if needed.
- Incremental Adjustments: Make small changes and assess the impact. It’s better to under stretch and stretch some more than to over stretch and lose details. Incremental adjustments help you maintain control over the processing workflow, ensuring that you achieve the desired effect without compromising the integrity of the image.
- Experiment with Software: Try different image processing tools to find the one that suits your style and needs. Each software offers unique features and capabilities, and experimenting with various options can help you discover new techniques and workflows that enhance your astrophotography skills.
- Seek Feedback: Share your processed images with online communities or forums to receive constructive feedback. Engaging with other astrophotographers can provide valuable insights and suggestions for improving your processing techniques, helping you grow and refine your skills over time.
8. Understanding Image Formats
Common File Types
- FITS Files: Standard in astronomy, containing metadata and high bit-depth data.
- TIFF Files: High-quality format suitable for further editing.
- JPEG/PNG: Compressed formats for sharing but not ideal for processing.
Working with FITS Files
Ensure your software supports FITS files to fully utilize the data’s dynamic range. FITS file formats preserve observational meta data to help processing tools from color calibration to plate solving. It’s important to keep the data in FITS (or XISF if pix insight) through the duration of processing and using TIFF or JPG/PNG for final image sharing.
9. Troubleshooting Common Issues
Artifacts and Imperfections
- Dust Shadows: Use flat frames to correct.
- Hot Pixels: Darks and bias frames help remove these. We frequently “dither” so these should be removed through large integrations of many subs.
Alignment Problems
- Star Trails: Ensure clean subs during stacking. “Blink” your data to preview them to make sure we didn’t have any subs with star trails. This is usually a symptom of imaging through clouds or something where tracking/guiding may have failed. We have automations that will try and stop the current image run, re-calibrate, re-center and re-focus but some bad frames may make it through until we manually review.
- Double Stars: This may suggest a misalignment; please re-examine the calibration files and ensure that your subframes are correctly aligned. For instance, when processing LRGB, you should process each of L, R, G, and B separately and then perform a star alignment on the images again before combining them into a full-color LRGB image.
Software Errors
- Updates: Keep your software up-to-date. Regular updates not only introduce new features but also fix bugs and improve compatibility with the latest hardware and operating systems. This is particularly important for astrophotography software, which often requires precise functionality to handle large datasets and complex processing tasks. By ensuring your software is current, you can take advantage of the latest advancements and maintain a smooth workflow.
- Support Forums: Utilize online communities for assistance. The astrophotography community is vast and supportive, with numerous forums and discussion groups where you can seek help and share experiences. Platforms like Cloudy Nights, AstroBin, and Reddit’s astrophotography subreddit are excellent resources for troubleshooting software issues. Engaging with these communities not only helps resolve technical problems but also provides an opportunity to connect with fellow astrophotographers, exchange tips, and learn from their experiences. Additionally, many software developers maintain dedicated support forums where users can report bugs, request features, and receive guidance directly from the developers or experienced users.
10. Sharing and Learning
Join the Community
- Share on Discord: Join our discord server and share on our imaging forum. Every member should receive an invite link upon registration.
- Share on Astrobin: Upload to astrobin and select the “RockchuckSummit Observatory” as the observatory images were acquired from and they will show up on our observatory gallery!
- Online Forums: Participate in astrophotography groups to share your work and get feedback.
- Social Media: Share images on platforms like Instagram or Reddit.
You have 100gb of storage on our systems so you can share & link your final images right from our cloud!
Continuous Learning
- Tutorials and Workshops: Attend webinars or read advanced guides. Continuous learning is key to mastering remote astrophotography. By participating in online tutorials and workshops, you can gain valuable insights from experienced astrophotographers and learn new techniques to enhance your skills. These resources often cover a wide range of topics, from basic image processing to advanced calibration methods, providing you with the knowledge needed to tackle complex astrophotography challenges.
- Experimentation: Try different processing techniques to develop your style. Experimenting with various processing techniques allows you to discover what works best for your specific goals and preferences. By exploring different software tools and methodologies, you can refine your approach to image processing and develop a unique style that sets your work apart. This process of trial and error is essential for growth, as it encourages creativity and innovation in your astrophotography journey.
- Engage with the Astronomy Community: Join forums and online groups to connect with fellow astrophotographers. Engaging with the astronomy community provides a wealth of opportunities to learn from others and share your experiences. Participating in discussions, asking questions, and offering advice can help you build a network of like-minded individuals who can support and inspire you. This interaction not only enhances your learning experience but also keeps you updated on the latest trends and advancements in the field of remote imaging.
- Stay Informed on Technological Advancements: Keep up with the latest developments in telescope equipment and remote observatory technology. The field of remote astrophotography is constantly evolving, with new technologies and equipment being introduced regularly. Staying informed about these advancements ensures that you are aware of the latest tools and techniques available to improve your image quality and efficiency. By embracing new technologies, you can enhance your remote observatory experience and capture even more stunning images of the night sky.
- Participate in Educational Outreach: Share your knowledge and passion for astrophotography with others. By participating in educational outreach programs, you can inspire the next generation of amateur astronomers and foster a greater appreciation for the wonders of the cosmos. Whether through workshops, lectures, or online content, sharing your expertise helps to expand the community and promote the importance of preserving dark skies for future astrophotographers.
Remote observatory
Embarking on a journey into remote astrophotography is an exhilarating experience that combines state-of-the-art technology with the awe-inspiring beauty of the cosmos. By leveraging the data from our remote observatory, you can create stunning images of the night sky without the need for your own equipment or access to pristine dark skies.
Remember, patience and practice are crucial. Start with the basic concepts outlined in this guide, and as your confidence grows, explore each topic in greater depth.
Clear skies!
