Video astronomy

Lore & Background

The field has a long history reaching back to 1928 with the inception of live television broadcasting of the planet Mars. However, it has largely been developed more recently by amateur enthusiasts and is characterized by the use of relatively inexpensive equipment, such as easily available sensitive security cameras, in contrast to the equipment used for advanced astrophotography. Unlike lucky imaging, video astronomy does not discard unwanted frames, and image corrections such as dark subtraction are often not applied, though the gathered data may be retained and processed in more traditional ways.

Reader's Guide

Video astronomy's significance lies in its accessibility and ability to overcome common observational challenges. By using either rapid internally stacked images or very short exposure times, and displaying the result on a TV monitor or computer with readily available software, it allows observers to see color and detail invisible to the naked eye. Because the image can be displayed on a monitor or television screen, it allows multiple people to share 'live' images; using the internet, a worldwide audience can share such images, with live broadcasting websites existing for sharing feeds. Combined with remote control of a telescope, video astronomy allows anyone—including disabled people or observers in light-polluted areas—to operate a telescope remotely, even in another country. Other benefits include the ability to see through thin cloud and to see many faint objects in areas suffering from light pollution. The equipment used varies from webcams and basic security cameras to specialized video astronomy cameras. Recent growing interest in the video 'near-live' aspect has brought about websites devoted purely to the practice and forums for users of the equipment.

Did You Know?

• Video astronomy dates back to 1928 with live television broadcasting of Mars.
• Video astronomy allows observers to see through thin cloud and in light-polluted areas.