I have listed below some space and astronomy apps, some of which I have used personally and some I have not. The world of astrophotography and astronomy can be overwhelming for beginners. It certainly was for me. There are countless apps, tools, and software options, and choosing the right one can often make all the difference in your stargazing or imaging experience, ultimately making it slightly less frustrating. Here's a beginner-friendly guide to the top 20 apps you might want to consider and in no particular order I hasten to add. SkySafari 7 Pro Price: £19.99 Why Beginners Will Love It: Intuitive and easy-to-use interface for identifying stars, planets, and constellations. Perfect for beginners learning the night sky. I sometimes use the light version of this app and it's realy easy to use. Expert Appeal: Rich with information and advanced tools, such as telescope control, and detailed historical data. Key Features – - Massive star database with detailed descriptions. - Night vision mode. - Telescope control for advanced users. Stellarium Mobile Plus Price: £12.99 Why Beginners Will Love It: Visualise the night sky from any location, at any time. It has a sleek UI that’s simple for newcomers. Expert Appeal: Highly accurate with 3D visualisation and comprehensive sky maps. Key Features – - Over 1.4 million stars, planets, and deep-sky objects. - AR integration for real-time sky identification. - Ideal for use with telescopes. SkyView Price Free / £2.99 Pro Why Beginners Will Love It — Point your device to the sky, and instantly identify stars, constellations, and planets. This is a great little app and I sometimes stil use it from time to time even to this day. Expert Appeal: Reliable companion for quick object identification, with a clean and straightforward interface. Key Features– - Augmented reality sky overlays. - Time travel mode to see the night sky at any date. - Simple and user-friendly. Photopills Price:£9.99 Why Beginners Will Love It: Plan your astrophotography shots with ease. It helps determine the best time and place for shooting you deep sky images. Expert Appeal: Packed with planning tools like sun and moon positions, star trails, and augmented reality overlays. Key Features– - Precise planning for Milky Way, lunar, and solar shots. - AR overlays for planning compositions. - Deep integration with camera settings. Polar Align Pro — iOS Price: £2.99 Why Beginners Will Love It: Simplifies the tricky task of polar alignment with clear instructions and visual aids, making it beginner-friendly. I used this for a while before I upgraded to my current ASI Air sytem, and it was a great way to help PA. I used this astro app with my EQ5Pro mount shown in the image above. I also had to make a small jig to hold my phone in the saddle of the mount. Expert Appeal: A must-have for fairly accurate polar alignment, especially for those using equatorial mounts. Key Features – - AR-guided polar alignment. - Comprehensive tools for checking alignment accuracy. - Optimised for all levels of astrophotographers. Star Walk 2 Price: Free / £2.99 Pro Why Beginners Will Love It: Beautiful graphics and an engaging interface makin the experience of stargazing exciting. Expert Appeal: In-depth information and loads of detail, from deep sky objects to satellites. Key Features – - Real-time star maps. - Customisable sky view. - Augmented reality feature for identification. Heavens-Above Price: Free Why Beginners Will Love It: Accurate and detailed predictions of satellite passes, including the ISS. Expert Appeal: One of the most accurate sources for satellite tracking, making it perfect for astrophotography setups. Key Features – - ISS and satellite tracker. - Detailed star charts and maps. - Offline use and customisable settings. Light Pollution Map Price: Free Why Beginners Will Love It: It shows the best dark-sky locations nearby for capturing pristine images of our night skies. Expert Appeal: Essential for finding remote, low-light areas. Key Features– - Global light pollution data. - GPS integration for finding dark sky locations. - Heat map overlays for dark sky sites. AstroAid Price: £4.99 Why Beginners Will Love It: A handy calculator that helps with astrophotography settings and field-of-view calculations. Expert Appeal: Perfect for precise focal length and sensor calculations. Key Features– - Field-of-view, resolution, and exposure calculators. - Presets for common camera and telescope setups. - User-friendly interface. StarTracker Price:Free / £2.99 Pro Why Beginners Will Love It: A minimalist app that’s excellent for beginners to explore the stars. Expert Appeal:A great option for those looking for lightweight apps that don’t drain battery life. Key Features– - 3D star map. - Night mode to reduce eye strain. - Smooth and fluid graphics. Astrospheric Price: Free / £6.99 Pro Why Beginners Will Love It: Offers precise weather predictions for stargazing and astrophotography. Expert Appeal: Data from multiple weather models, including seeing, transparency, and cloud cover. Key Features– - High-resolution weather forecasts. - Data overlays for sky conditions. - Cloud cover and seeing conditions. Sky Map Price: Free Why Beginners Will Love It: An open-source, easy-to-use star map. Just point and learn. Expert Appeal: Lightweight and highly accurate. Great for quick checks on constellations and planets. Key Features– - Point-to-sky learning tool. - Quick identification of celestial objects. - Open-source, community-driven. ISS Detector Price: Free / £2.49 Pro Why Beginners Will Love It: Never miss an ISS pass again! Simple alerts for ISS and satellite passes. Expert Appeal: Highly accurate timings and notifications for both satellites and the ISS. Key Features– - Customisable notifications. - Detailed information on passes. - Easy to use for all levels. Clear Outside Price: Free Why Beginners Will Love It: Check weather forecasts specifically tailored for stargazing. This is my goto for checking upcoming weather, but like most weather apps can sometimes get it a little wrong. Expert Appeal: Detailed cloud cover predictions and night-time forecasting. Key Features– - Cloud cover, temperature, and humidity forecasts. - GPS-based forecasting. - Nighttime mode for astronomers. Lunar Phase Pro Price: £4.99 Why Beginners Will Love It: Track the moon’s phases, rise/set times, and best viewing dates. Expert Appeal: Detailed lunar data, making it perfect for planning lunar observations and photography. Key Features– - Lunar phase calendars. - Rise, set, and transit times. - Customisable notifications. Sky Tonight Price: Free / £1.99 Pro Why Beginners Will Love It: A beautiful app for skywatching, with a focus on ease of use. Expert Appeal: Offers detailed object information and dynamic sky maps for precision observations. Key Features – - Real-time star maps. - Night vision mode. - Customisable notifications for events. Whether you’re gazing through a telescope for the first time or planning complex astrophotography shoots, these apps might simplify the process a little and help you to make best use of your time during your imaging or planning sessions. Investing in the right space app for astro will help you enjoy and appreciate the night sky even more—no matter your skill level. Happy stargazing, astronerds!

Don’t let the plain interface fool you. DSS is a mature, stable piece of software with thousands of great images to its credit. By understanding its workflow and respecting its constraints, you’ll turn scattered subs into a solid foundation for your astrophotography edits. Deep Sky Stacker is an astrophotography software programme for processing (DSS) and is often a beginner's first real foray into post-processing. It certainly was for me. It's free, reliable, and surprisingly powerful—if you know how to use it. In this expanded guide, we walk through every step of the process using real interface insights, tips, and common mistakes to avoid. If you haven't already you can download Deep Sky Stacker from here before you start. DSS is native to a PC, but you can run it on a Mac using Wine or similar. Check this link out here . Step 1 : Launch DSS and Get oriented once opened, DSS greets you with a basic interface. The toolbar has options like "Open picture files," "Open dark files," and "Register checked pictures." To the left, there's a log pane that will update with stacking actions. The central pane is for previewing and working with loaded frames. While it’s no Photoshop, its simplicity makes it less intimidating for first-time users. It can be confusing though and today when we expect apps to look beautiful and function equally well. Stick with it though. it has definitely helped me out of a few holes from time-to-time. Step 2 : Import Your FramesClick "Open picture files" to load your light frames (actual photos of the night sky). Use "Dark files" to load dark frames, and likewise for flats and bias. Each frame type plays a role in cleaning your data: Lights contain your target image. Darks remove sensor noise. Flats correct for vignetting and dust. Bias help clean up read noise. Keep a structured folder system for each frame type. DSS doesn't auto-detect frame types, so naming and organizing upfront saves frustration later. Step 3 : Register Your FramesOnce all files are loaded, check each list and ensure frames are recognized. Hit "Check all" and then "Register checked pictures." A pop-up allows you to set star detection threshold (start at 10%) and choose a stacking method. DSS analyzes each frame, aligns them using stars as reference points, and scores them based on clarity. You’ll see scores in the list—sort by score and uncheck low-scoring images that may degrade your final stack. Pro Tip: Star detection too low? Increase exposure or sharpen your focus next session. DSS relies on clear points of light. Step 4 : Stack the FramesNext, click “Stack checked pictures.” This brings up the “Stacking Parameters” dialog: Result Tab: For standard imaging, keep “Standard” selected. Use “Mosaic” for wide-field or multiple imaging sessions. Light Tab: “Kappa-Sigma Clipping” is a great default for removing outliers like satellites. Dark/Flat/Bias Tabs: Defaults usually suffice unless artifacts appear in the final image. Output Tab: Check “Create output file in 32-bit” for preserving detail. Click OK to start stacking. This may take time depending on image count and resolution. Monitor the progress bar and log for any errors. Common Pitfall: If DSS crashes during stacking, check if you’ve mixed image sizes or orientations. It’s picky about uniformity. Step 5 : Review and SaveOnce stacking completes, you’ll see a washed-out version of your image. This is normal—DSS applies no automatic stretching. Click "Save picture to file" and choose 16-bit or 32-bit TIFF. These formats retain the detail necessary for further processing in tools like Photoshop, PixInsight, or Siril. You can apply a basic stretch using the sliders below the preview pane, but avoid over-processing at this stage. DSS isn’t built for full editing. Optional: Batch Mode and Settings TemplatesIf you image often, consider saving your settings as a template. DSS also offers batch processing, though its simplicity can sometimes be a limitation. More advanced workflows may migrate to other tools, but DSS remains a reliable stacker for your astrophotography images.

Astrophotography: A Journey Through the Cosmos Tom Cruise then and now - Image from Google Understanding Astrophotography Astrophotography is often admired for its breathtaking results—detailed images of distant galaxies, huge glowing nebulae, and sharp views of planets fill our social media feeds and astronomy websites. Many newcomers might think that capturing these stunning images is as simple as pointing a camera at the sky and pressing a button. However, anyone who has tried astrophotography knows the reality is very different. Misplaced Expectations Many beginners enter the realm of astrophotography believing it’s just an extension of daytime photography. They assume that a simple longer exposure or a telescope will lead to great results. But capturing celestial images requires a different mindset and approach altogether. In reality, a camera does not capture the night sky the same way our eyes see it. Colors, shapes, and textures of deep-sky objects don’t appear in a single frame. Instead, they are built up through long exposure times, digital stacking, and intricate post-processing techniques. A common misconception is expecting vibrant color images to appear directly on the camera’s screen. In practice, initial captures—especially of nebulae or galaxies—are often grey, noisy, and unimpressive. The true colors and details emerge only after careful processing, which might take several nights of exposure. The Reality of a First Session Many enthusiasts find their first astrophotography session to be a humbling experience. It’s common to spend hours setting up gear, aligning mounts, and adjusting software—only for something to go wrong. Perhaps a forgotten cable, flat batteries, dew on the lens, or an unexpected cloud bank can ruin an evening before it even starts, which can be immensely frustrating. Even under ideal conditions, there's a great deal of waiting involved. Astrophotographers wait for astronomical darkness, for a target to clear the horizon, or for guiding to stabilize. The night sky doesn’t hurry, and as an astrophotographer, one must learn to work within its constraints. Equipment: More Than Meets the Eye The equipment used in astrophotography can be deceptively complex. It includes telescopes, mounts, cameras, filters, dew heaters, and guiding scopes, all of which have their own quirks. The learning curve can be steep for beginners. Often, newcomers mistakenly invest heavily in telescopes without realizing that the mount is just as crucial—if not more important—for long exposure work. Factors like tracking accuracy, payload balance, and polar alignment significantly impact image quality. Additionally, the software plays a vital role in the process. Tools for acquisition, guiding, stacking, and post-processing, such as NINA, PHD2, PixInsight, Photoshop, and DeepSkyStacker, offer powerful functionalities. However, they require time to learn and master. While the complexity can be daunting, those who persist will find significant rewards and a transformative experience. What’s Actually Being Captured? It’s easy to underestimate the emotions linked to what’s being captured in astrophotography. A faint, fuzzy patch on a sensor may not look like much initially, but that patch could represent a galaxy millions of light-years away or a massive emission nebula, its light having traveled across time and space before it gets recorded. Astrophotography offers a unique perspective, compelling individuals to look up and understand celestial movements. Over time, enthusiasts notice seasonal shifts, lunar phases, and subtle planetary alignments. This hobby fosters a deep appreciation for astronomical rhythms. The Processing: where the image emerges Perhaps the most significant misconception in astrophotography is that the camera provides a finished image. In reality, most of the work occurs during post-processing. This process involves stacking dozens—or even hundreds—of exposures to reduce noise and enhance signal quality. Calibration frames, such as darks, flats, and bias frames, must be applied to correct imperfections. Techniques like histogram stretching, color balancing, contrast adjustment, and noise reduction slowly bring the image to life. Post-processing combines art and science in a unique way. Each astrophotographer has a personal workflow reflecting their judgment and style. This painstaking work creates immense satisfaction when a faint nebula emerges from raw data. The image below illustrates how a simple light stretch can enhance what originally seemed like a vague capture. Patience is non-negotiable Patience is not merely helpful in astrophotography; it is essential. Equipment failures can happen. Conditions won’t always cooperate, and progress may feel slow. Each session provides invaluable lessons, even if no images are captured. Astrophotography grounds individuals. It demands attention to detail, consistency, and resilience. Rushing through the process won’t yield results. This aspect of the hobby is part of its appeal. When an image finally comes together, it genuinely feels earned. A supportive community One of the most rewarding aspects of astrophotography is the community. Online forums, social media groups, and platforms like Picastro connect enthusiasts from around the world. They share advice, offer feedback, and inspire each other. There is a sense of mutual respect. Whether someone is using a DSLR and a tripod or a full observatory-class setup, everyone understands the struggles of guiding or dealing with unusable data. This shared experience fosters camaraderie. Picastro thrives on this principle of sharing; there’s nothing worse than gatekeepers in the hobby, as they alienate newcomers. Not every image needs to be perfect In a world where social media often highlights flawless results, it’s easy to feel inadequate. However, astrophotography isn’t about capturing perfect images every time. Often, the most meaningful captures are personal milestones—like the first photograph of the Moon or a glimpse of Saturn’s rings. These images may not impress everyone, but they mark genuine achievements for the individual. They represent growth, learning, and progress. Setting the right expectations for learning Expectations often do not align with early experiences in astrophotography. This disparity is what makes the journey worthwhile. It’s a slow, complex, and occasionally frustrating hobby, but deeply rewarding. Behind every image lies hours of effort, troubleshooting, and patience. Each photograph is a quiet triumph over weather, gear, software, and personal limitations. For new astrophotographers: anticipate setbacks. Embrace the learning curve. Don’t rush, and avoid worrying about perfection. Astrophotography isn’t easy, but its challenges and rewards make it a truly special pursuit. If you want to learn more, feel free to download the app from your app store today. App Store : Download Picastro Google Play : Download Picastro

Image above by Paul Cameron, taken at the SDSO near Dalmellington before it was razed to the ground by vandals Scotland’s beautiful and rugged landscapes, vast open spaces, and low levels of light pollution make it one of the best places in the world for dark sky photography. Whether you’re a casual stargazer or a serious astrophotographer, there’s no shortage of incredible locations to capture the night sky in all its glory. Here are five must-visit dark sky destinations in Scotland, along with tips for making the most of your experience. 1. Galloway Forest Park (Scotland’s First Dark Sky Park) Recognised as the UK’s first Dark Sky Park, Galloway Forest is a dream destination for astrophotographers. Covering 300 square miles, it boasts some of the darkest skies in Europe. The Scottish Dark Sky Observatory will be launching soon at Clatteringshaws and will boast some of the finest dark sky sites on Europe. Best for: Deep-sky imaging, Milky Way shots, and meteor showers.
 Accessibility: Will be easily accessible by car with ample car parking and bus links. Best time to visit: Autumn and winter months for the clearest skies. 2. Isle of Skye Skye’s dramatic coastline and remote landscapes create a perfect setting for astrophotography. The Quiraing, Neist Point, and the Fairy Pools offer incredible foregrounds for night sky imaging. Best for : Combining landscape astrophotography with stunning natural features.
Accessibility: Some sites require off-road travel; best visited by car. Best time to visit: Winter for long nights and possible aurora sightings. 3. Cairngorms National Park The UK’s largest national park is home to vast dark sky areas, with Glenlivet Estate and Tomintoul designated as Scotland’s second official Dark Sky Park. The high altitude and dry air make it ideal for clear-sky observations. Best for : Wide-angle shots of the Milky Way, crisp star trails.
Accessibility: Car-friendly with parking areas; some remote sites require hiking.
Best time to visit: Late autumn through early spring for the darkest skies. 4. Moffat (Europe’s First Dark Sky Town) Moffat has taken serious steps to reduce light pollution, earning the title of Europe’s first Dark Sky Town. The surrounding countryside provides incredible stargazing opportunities, with minimal artificial light interference. Best for : Beginner-friendly astrophotography and casual stargazing.
Accessibility: Easily accessible by road with nearby accommodations.
Best time to visit: Year-round, though winter provides the longest dark hours. 5. Outer Hebrides (Isle of Lewis & Harris) The remote Outer Hebrides offer some of the most pristine dark skies in the UK. The Callanais Standing Stones add a mystical element to astrophotography, creating a perfect contrast between ancient history and the cosmos. Best for : Unique compositions blending history and the night sky.
Accessibility: Requires ferry travel or flights; local roads are manageable by car.
Best time to visit: Winter for aurora borealis, autumn for Milky Way shots. Top Tips for a Successful Night Sky Shoot in Scotland Check the weather : Scottish weather can be unpredictable; clear nights are best for astrophotography. Use a red flashlight : Preserve your night vision while adjusting settings. Layer up : Even in summer, temperatures can drop significantly at night. Stay safe : Many locations are remote; let someone know your plans and bring necessary supplies. Use Picastro to share your shots: Picastro preserves image quality with no compression, so your astrophotography stays as sharp as the night sky itself! Scotland’s dark sky locations offer something for every stargazer and astrophotographer. Whether you’re after Milky Way panoramas, meteor showers, or even the northern lights, these destinations provide the perfect backdrop. Where will your next night sky adventure take you? Want to see more incredible astrophotography? Join the Picastro community and upload your shots to connect with fellow stargazers worldwide! You can download from the App Store or Google Play Store and join for FREE!

Astrophotography has always demanded a combination of technical skill, artistic vision, and a deep understanding of the cosmos. With rapid advancements in technology, this beautiful and intricate art form is undergoing a revolutionary transformation. Photographers are now equipped with tools that enhance not only the quality of their images but also the accessibility of capturing the night sky. And the technology is rapidly changin and gettign better and faster month by month. An image of the Milkyway taken on a DSLR by Paul C The role of technology in astrophotography In recent years, technology has played a pivotal role in redefining astrophotography. From more sophisticated cameras to advanced processing software, each development enhances the quality and depth of images captured by astrophotographers. Digital cameras have replaced film, enabling photographers to capture images more easily and quickly. One major advancement is the introduction of high-resolution CMOS and CCD sensors. These sensors capture more light and in more stunning detail, making even the faintest stars visible. According to a 2022 study, digital sensors can now achieve a resolution of up to 61 megapixels, allowing astrophotographers to capture stunning details that were once impossible to image. Furthermore, technology has improved the ease of use for aspiring astrophotographers. Many cameras now come equipped with user-friendly interfaces with preset modes specifically for astrophotography. These settings allow users to experiment with long exposures and high ISO levels, making it easier to capture stunning celestial events. Innovations in Camera Technology for Astrophotography The camera itself is one of the most important tools for capturing the beauty of the universe. Innovations in camera technology have drastically improved both cost and performance, making professional astrophotography more accessible. One of the latest developments is mirrorless camera technology. These cameras weigh significantly less than traditional DSLR cameras, offering greater mobility for outdoor enthusiasts. Also, mirrorless cameras usually have a faster shooting speed and a more compact design, which is ideal for capturing those fleeting moments in the night sky. Additionally, cameras equipped with modified sensors, specifically designed for astrophotography, help capture even more detail. These specialized sensors increase sensitivity to infrared light, which is crucial for photographing celestial objects like nebulae and galaxies. Photographers can now choose a wide range of cameras to suit their needs. Whether it's a beginner, intermediate, or professional setup, technology has made it easier for anyone to start capturing the cosmos. Software Enhancements in Astrophotography Advancements in software have also changed the game for astrophotographers. Post-processing software enhances images, allowing photographers to maximize their raw captures. Programs such as Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop and Pixinsight for example, offer valuable tools for adjusting exposure, contrast, and color balance, making the final images way more striking. For more specialised needs, software like Starry Landscape Stacker and DeepSkyStacker allows photographers to compile multiple exposures, reducing noise and enhancing the details of celestial objects. According to data from the software developers, users have reported improvements in image quality by up to 80% when using stacking techniques. Furthermore, applications like the picastro app provide a platform for astrophotographers to share their hi resolution images with even more ease and speed. These software innovations are no longer limited to experts. Many of these programs offer simple interfaces and tutorials, making them accessible for photographers at all levels. The Use of Drones in Astrophotography The use of drones in photography, including astrophotography, is becoming increasingly popular. Drones can capture images from various angles and heights that are otherwise challenging to achieve on the ground. This aerial perspective often yields stunning photographs of celestial events against panoramic landscapes. Advanced drones come equipped with high-resolution cameras that can shoot in low-light conditions. Many models also support long exposure times, which is essential for astrophotography. A recent market survey indicated that drone usage in photography has increased by 30% over the past two years, particularly in the realm of night sky photography. One innovative approach is to combine drone footage with traditional landscape photography. This technique allows for unique compositions that highlight both the beauty of Earth and the heavens above. For instance, capturing the Milky Way arching over a mountain range from a drone's perspective produces awe-inspiring images that engage viewers. As drone technology continues to improve, it opens new avenues for creativity in astrophotography. Accessibility and Community Growth The revolution in astrophotography technology not only enhances image quality but also broadens its accessibility. Aspiring astrophotographers no longer require specialized training or expensive equipment to get started. Affordable cameras and easy-to-use software mean that anyone can dive into capturing the magic of the night sky. Online platforms and social networks have further encouraged community growth. With forums and photography groups, hobbyists can share tips, techniques, and experiences. Sites like Instagram and Flickr have made astrophotography more visible than ever, inspiring thousands of people to pick up a camera and explore the night sky. Workshops and online courses, often hosted by experienced astrophotographers, are also on the rise. These educational opportunities make it easier for newcomers to learn about equipment setup, shooting techniques, and post-processing tricks. The accessibility factor is crucial. According to a thesis published in 2023, participation in astrophotography workshops has quadrupled, demonstrating how technology creates a supportive environment for aspiring enthusiasts. The Future of Astrophotography As technology continues to evolve, the future of astrophotography appears bright. Innovations in artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning are poised to further revolutionize this art form. For example, AI can assist in identifying celestial bodies and automating post-processing tasks, making it easier for photographers to focus on the creative aspects. Another exciting development is the enhancement of virtual telescopes. Companies are now offering remote access to telescopes, allowing photographers to capture images from different locations around the globe without leaving home. This technology opens the field to more people, especially those who live in light-polluted areas. As technology advances, we expect even more exciting equipment and software that will continue inspiring a new generation of astrophotographers to document the wonders of the universe. Embracing the Technological Revolution in Astrophotography Technology's impact on astrophotography is profound and multifaceted. With enhanced camera options, superior software, smart telescopes and innovative imaging techniques, the possibilities for capturing the night sky are endless. As we look to the future, aspiring photographers are encouraged to embrace these advancements, continually learning and exploring new avenues for creativity. The night sky awaits; let technology guide you in capturing its wonders adn more.

I imaged this huge galaxy from my back garden on the west coast of Scotland. It is more commonly called The Pinwheel Galaxy. The Pinwheel Galaxy, also known as M101, is a spiral galaxy located in the constellation Ursa Major, the Great Bear. It was discovered by Pierre Méchain, a colleague of Charles Messier in 1781. Total Integration time : 6 hours 15 mins Moon coverage : 1% Location : Northern Hemisphere Bortle : 4 The galaxy is approximately 25 million light-years from Earth and spiral arms are filled with star-forming nebulae and young, hot, blue stars. The Pinwheel galaxy can be seen with a small telescope, and is best viewed in June, which is when I took this image. The galaxy has been the site of several notable events, including a type II supernova in 2011 and a luminous red nova in 2015 as well as the supernova discovered in 2023 by a Japanese astronomer. See below. Here are some more details about the Pinwheel Galaxy: It has a mean radius of 85,000 light-years and it has a magnitude of 7.9 so it is is fairly dim and not possible to see with the naked eye. It fills a region in the sky that's one-fifth the size of the full moon. The Pinwheel Galaxy : I took this image of this huge galaxy in June 2023 using my astronomy equipment. This galaxy is famous due to a star that went supernova. The closest supernova to Earth in five years was discovered in the Pinwheel Galaxy, M101, on 19 May 2023 by amateur astronomer Koichi Itagaki. See my image below for the exploding star. The actual explosion lasted a few weeks or so but I was one of the lucky ones who managed to capture it in an image. Copy below from BBC Sky at Night magazine: Spectral analysis indicates the explosion was a Type II supernova. These are catastrophic explosions that occur when a massive star with a mass between eight and 40 times that of the Sun no longer has enough fuel to support itself against gravity and collapses to form a neutron star or a black hole. The close proximity of SN2023ixf gives a unique opportunity to study these stellar explosions. The supernova occured in the southwest region of M101, close to prominent star-forming region NGC 5461. Previous studies of this area found it contained three clusters of young stars, which are common places to find the supergiant stars that eventually go supernova. A 15-solar-mass red supergiant identified in Spitzer Space Telescope images of M101 taken between 2012 and 2019 could potentially be the origin of the supernova, although this star didn’t exhibit the typical fluctuations seen in a pre-explosion star. Further analysis will be required to establish if it is actually connected to the supernova. Hope you enjoyed reading this post about the Pinwheel galaxy.

This image was taken in the chilly winter of 2023 with my one shot colour on OSC camera, and I won't tell you a word of a lie when I say that when I started to process this deep sky object, my mind was blown. This was the second time I had actually taken an image of this object. The Orion nebula is probably one of the most photographed deep sky objects. Many beginners and experts alike take images of it, and it is safe to say nobody will ever tire of taking images of this amazing nebulae in our night sky. I have seen some stunning wide-field versions of this object: you can check some out on the Picastro app. My field of view in my camera and telescope are very tight, and this only allows me to take a very tight close-up version of this stunning collection of dust and gas. The Orion nebula is around 1500 light years from us but is absolutely vast. It is around 24 light years across, but because it is so far away, its apparent diameter is about a degree in our night skies, which is about twice the apparent diameter of the Moon. Below, I have shown some close up views of my image of this nebula, highlighting some fantastic little details and features of this nebula, including a bow shock and some protoplyds or proto planetary discs. I was absolutely amazed that a backyard telescope could capture details like this from so far away! To the right of the topmost square, you can also see the trapezium core, which contains a total of 4 stars, two of which are double stars. This gives a total of 6 stars in the trapezium cluster. Everyone with an interest in astronomy and astrophotography loves to take images of this object. It is so fascinating to image and of course the Trapezium is famously sought after. Here is the rig setup I used to take this image. Telescope: Skywatcher 200P Telescope Mount: HEQ5 Pro telescope mount Camera: ZWO 533MCPro Image details: 161 x 60 sec exposures, Gain 0, Bin 1x1 Software for processing: Pixinsight and Photoshop Camera Raw

Using a remote imaging setup or private observatory to capture images of the night sky can be a great thing for the hobby of astronomy and astrophotography, more so if you live in an area with lots of inhibiting weather conditions or terrible viewing conditions, but it can have some drawbacks too. Some offer the facility to send your own telescope setup out there and some have their own setups too. Let's dive in... United States Siding Spring Observatory (SSO), New Mexico Best for: Deep-sky astrophotography, long exposure imaging Why it’s good: Located in a high-altitude, arid region, SSO benefits from stable seeing conditions and minimal light pollution. The facility hosts professional-grade telescopes and imaging equipment. Drawbacks: Limited access for amateur astronomers and high rental costs. Deep Sky West, New Mexico Best for: Wide-field imaging, photometric studies Why it’s good: Offers access to some of the best skies in North America with excellent seeing and transparency. Provides a range of telescope options for different imaging needs. Drawbacks: Subscription fees can be expensive for long-term use. Telescope Live (Sierra Remote Observatory, California) Best for: Advanced astrophotographers, research-grade imaging Why it’s good: Hosts a network of powerful telescopes accessible online, ideal for capturing high-resolution deep-space objects. Drawbacks: Weather can occasionally be unpredictable, affecting session availability. iTelescope.Net (Multiple locations, including California and New Mexico) Best for: Flexible, on-demand astrophotography Why it’s good: A global network of remote telescopes with a variety of focal lengths and sensor capabilities. Ideal for those looking to capture different types of celestial objects. Drawbacks: Some locations have limited availability during peak seasons. SkyPi Remote Observatory, New Mexico Best for: High-quality deep-sky imaging, robotic automation Why it’s good: Offers excellent dark skies and a range of advanced imaging equipment with automated scheduling capabilities. Drawbacks: Initial setup and learning curve for remote operation. Europe El Sauce Observatory, Spain Best for: Southern hemisphere imaging, high-resolution astrophotography Why it’s good: Offers premium imaging opportunities with high-altitude and stable atmospheric conditions. Drawbacks: More expensive than some other remote observatories. Observatori Astronòmic Albanyà, Spain Best for: Planetary and deep-sky imaging Why it’s good: Excellent Mediterranean seeing conditions and well-equipped with powerful telescopes and imaging cameras. Drawbacks: Can be affected by humidity during certain seasons. ICRAR Remote Observatory, Canary Islands Best for: Research-grade and public access imaging Why it’s good: Located at high altitude, reducing atmospheric turbulence. Regularly used by professional astronomers. Drawbacks: More suited to structured projects rather than casual astrophotography. Telescope Live (Chile and Spain locations) Best for: Access to professional equipment for various imaging projects Why it’s good: Offers a combination of wide-field and high-magnification options, making it suitable for all types of astrophotography. Drawbacks: Subscription-based model might not suit occasional users. OASI Remote Observatory, Italy Best for: Amateur astrophotographers looking for European access Why it’s good: Located in an area with minimal light pollution and well-integrated with imaging software for remote control. Drawbacks: Weather conditions can be variable compared to higher-altitude sites. Private observatories throughout the world – Al Sadeem Astronomy - UAE Al Sadeem Astronomy UAE Al Sadeem Astronomy is a privately-owned company registered in The Department of Economic Development in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (UAE) that aims to make astronomy accessible to everyone. Since 2016, Al Sadeem Astronomy has made astronomy accessible to all walks of life from the outskirts of the Abu Dhabi The Al Sadeem Observatory is home to three powerful telescopes that are used for research and astrophotography a fully-automated, high-powered 16-inch Meade LX850 telescope. In addition to Stellina and Vespera, two revolutionary smart telescopes developed and manufactured by French company Vaonis. It is located in a private farm in Al Wathba, which is an ideal place to stargaze–not too far enough from the city, but not too close that the city lights could spoil the observation. Since its completion in 2016, the Observatory has been instrumental in promoting space and astronomy across the country. A notable activity was Al Sadeem Observatory’s coverage of the July 27, 2018 total lunar eclipse, which was live streamed by NASA. At present, Al Sadeem Observatory offers paid guided tours and stargazing experience to individuals who wish to cultivate their curiosity about space and astronomy. www.alsadeematronomy.ae Hellas-Sky – Southern Greece Hellas Sky Observatory Hellas-Sky is a premier remote observatory service that provides astrophotographers with access to high-quality telescopes under pristine dark skies in Greece. Whether you're a beginner or an advanced astrophotographer, the platform allows you to remotely control professional-grade equipment, capture stunning deep-sky images, and process data from some of the best observing locations in Europe. With a focus on reliability and top-tier optical systems, Hellas-Sky makes deep-space imaging accessible without the need for personal telescope setups, offering a convenient and cost-effective way to explore the cosmos. https://hellas-sky.com Some advantages and Disadvantages of Remote Observatories Advantages Consistent Imaging Conditions Access to dark skies and stable weather patterns improves image quality significantly. High-Quality Equipment Most remote observatories house professional-grade telescopes and imaging sensors. Time Efficiency: Removes the need for travel and allows imaging while being in a different location or time zone. Global Access: Enables imaging of objects not visible from an observer’s home location. Disadvantages Cost: Renting time on a remote observatory can be expensive, especially for long-term projects. Disconnect: You might feel that you are not really connected to your equipment anymore and taking images of deep sky objects becomes transactional. A lot of amateur astronomers love the hands-on approach to using their own equipment at home. Limited Control: Unlike personal setups, there may be restrictions on customising equipment or settings. Learning Curve: Some remote platforms require knowledge of advanced software and automation. Check this out before you embark on sending your whole rig to a remote site. Weather and Technical Failures: Despite optimal locations, occasional weather disruptions or technical issues can impact imaging sessions. Remote observatories provide an invaluable resource for astrophotographers seeking high-quality imaging opportunities without the challenges of local weather and light pollution. While they come with costs and learning curves, they offer unparalleled access to some of the best skies on Earth. Whether you are a hobbyist looking to capture deep-sky wonders or a researcher conducting long-term studies, remote observatories offer a practical and powerful solution for astrophotography enthusiasts.

I imaged this huge galaxy 11 million light years away from our Milkyway galaxy, using my dedicated astronomy camera, my HEQ5Pro equatorial mount and my Skywatcher 200P telescope. Total Integration time : 2 hours 40 mins Moon coverage : 50% Location : Northern Hemisphere Bortle : 4 M81 or Bodes galaxy : Messier 81 is a grand design spiral galaxy about 12 million light-years away in the constellation Ursa Major. M81 is to the righ of the plough as you can see in the iamge below taken from Stellarium on a Mac. M81 is actually the very first galaxy I ever took an image of. The image above was the second time I had tried to image this galaxy. I first imaged it in 2023, using my slightly older EQ5 Pro mount and my previous colour astronomy camera, the ZWO 294MC. The first time I imaged and procesed for the first time was such an amazing feeling. Seeing some of teh details appear around the sprial structire of this galaxy was so cathartic. Even though my imaging and processing experience was very limited I will never forget the feeling of taking an image of a distant galaxy and processing it. My memory of processing Bodes galaxy for the first time will always stay with me for a very long time. Going from a black screen in Photoshop with some white specs for stars, to an image of a galaxy so far away, was mind blowing! Processing this galaxy was actually a little easier to be fair than processing Triangulum galaxy. Bodes galaxy, being so far away meant there were actually less stars to resolve in the image which oddly made processing this a little easier. I do intend to reshoot this galaxy using my monochrome camera setup using some of my Antlia 3nm LRGB filters. Anyway, I hope you enjoyed looking at my Bodes galaxy image

IC1848 / Westerhout5 or the Soul nebula is an emission nebula in the constellation of Cassiopeia and it is my first ever two panel mosiac, which means it is made up of two separate stacked images, imaged over a couple of nights from my back garden. Total Integration time : 18 hours 40 mins Moon coverage : 75-85% Location : Northern Hemisphere Bortle : 4 The deep sky object and nebula image below is absolutely vast and is only a small part of a wider nebula called the heart and soul nebula. I have imaged the heart of the heart nebula and you can see this image here . The Soul nebula taken from my back garden on the west coast of Scotland. The Heart Nebula is an emission nebula, 7500 light years away from Earth and located in the Perseus Arm of the Galaxy in the constellation Cassiopeia. It was discovered by William Herschel on 3 November 1787. It displays glowing ionized hydrogen gas and darker dust lanes in and around this wonderful nebula. This is probably one of my best images to date so far and I am so happy I actually managed to finally achieve a two panel mosaic. This image was taken over several nights back at the start of 2025 with a total exposure time of over 18 hours. I then stacked all of the data in Pixinsight and processed it in Pixinsight also, to produce this wonderfully vibrant image of this amazing nebula. Below is what each of the different master stacks look like starting with the Oiii, Ha then Sii filters and you can see that the Oiii is the weekest of all signal. The black edge on the Oiii is stacking artefacts when the alignment is slightly out. This is of course only one of the panels in my master light stack, but hopefully you get the idea. I then stacked the other half of the mosaic and processed the same way, then aligned both of these master lights in Pixinsight to produce the colourful image shown above.

Hey, me again! I took this image over a few nights in September 2024 from my back garden on the west coast of Scotland. This is my longest integration time so far with my new monochrome astronomy equipment. This image also has the designation of Westerhout 5. Total Integration time : 9hours 25 min Moon coverage : 95% Location : Northern Hemisphere Bortle : 4 Westerhaut5 - The heart nebula The Soul Nebula or Westerhout 5 : This nebula is an emission nebula located in Cassiopeia. Several small open clusters are embedded in the nebula: CR 34, 632, and 634 and IC 1848. The object is more commonly called by the cluster designation IC 1848. (Source: NASA). I also imaged this deep sky object as a two panel mosaic as show above! I love the wonderful rainbow of colours I have managed to process out from this image. Normally, when you see this emission nebula processed, it tends to be in more traditional SHO or Hubble type colours (oranges, reds and blues), but I thought I would do it a little differently. This is one aspect of the hobby that makes it super creative. We all process our images in our own unique ways. The colours don't actually appear until I process the image using software like Pixinsight or photoshop. Otherwise, the final stacked image would just be a black image file with some dots for stars. Other deep sky objects in Cassiopeia that I have taken images of are as follows: the Pacman nebula, Bubble nebula, the Soul nebula (shown above), and Melotte15, which is more commonly called the Heart of the Heart nebula, shown below. Shown below are what the individual master images or master lights look like when I process them in Pixinsight. You will notice they are black and white as they were taken on my monochrome camera, but when I combine these images, they make one full colour image as you can see on the last image above. I will then process this image to produce the image you see above. It all sounds very complex, but once you get used to using the software for a while, it gets a little easier to do. Promise! So, this hobby can become complex quite quickly, and the further you get into the hobby of astrophotography, the more you begin to know... how much you actually don't know! As my experience grows and my astronomy equipment gets better, the most difficult part of the hobby comes from learning about the new equipment and learning how to process the image data, although, to be fair, the longer the integration time is, the easier the processing becomes. I think it would be fair to say this. I will do another blog post on processing image data to show how this works.

I don't know about you, but capturing my first image of The planet Jupiter from my back garden was the most amazing thing I had ever done. Well, not discounting getting married or the birth of my daughter. Oh, and running the London marathon, but all that aside, the feeling will never ever leave me: seeing Jupiter whizz past my eyepiece on my wobbly little reflector telescope was cathartic! A little background on Jupiter: it is the fifth planet from our Sun and the largest planet in our solar system. Jupiter is described as a gas giant, and so you can't walk on Jupiter, but scientists think that it has a solid core of ice, rock and heavy metal elements. Jupiter's mass is more than 2.5 times that of all the other planets in the Solar System combined, and slightly less than one-thousandth the mass of the Sun. Its diameter is eleven times that of Earth, and a tenth that of the Sun, and it lies around 728 million kilometres away from us. Yup, Jupiter is pretty far away. To put that into perspective, it would take you roughly 19,200 years to walk there, so get your walking shoes on now! This is an image I took of our Jovian neighbour, Jupiter, and you can see the great red spot and one of the Galilean moons, possibly Ganymede. Jupiter has 95 moons to date. (Source: NASA.org ) Planetary imaging is, of course, a totally different challenge compared to taking images of deep space, and I can say this from personal experience as I have only imaged Saturn and Jupiter, and not very well! I needed to use a slightly different set-up to capture images of planets, as my camera was different to the dedicated and refined astronomy camera I use now: I used a special planetary camera with a high frame rate and lower sensitivity, which is very different to my deep sky set up. Atmospheric wobble and disturbances will impact planetary imaging far more than deep sky imaging, but both will continue to be affected by clouds. Gah! The filters I used for planetary imaging were also quite different: I used a UV/IR cut filter for taking images of planets. I am by no means an expert at this hobby, and I still have so much to learn, but I am very pleased with my image of Jupiter. If you wish to see truly fantastic images of Jupiter from an amateur astronomer's telescope, look out for the work of Damien Peach and Jorge Segura, or even Ivana's images. Ivana happened to write a great post about planetary imaging on this very website, so be sure to check it out here ! How did I take this image? I used my Skywatcher 200P telescope OTA (Optical Tube Assembley) Camera: ZWO 224MC (I now use this as a guide camera for my DSO setup) 1 x 3 minute video with frames extracted Pre-processed in PiPP (Planetary image Pre Processing) Stacked in Registaxx and procesed in the same software.