Astroimaging is a broad term that we use to cover both EAA (Electronically Assisted Astronomy) and Astrophotography.

EAA (Electronically Assisted Astronomy): Traditionally the night sky is observed using a telescope with an eyepiece (a lens) that focuses the light, greatly magnified and brightened, directly into your eye. In EAA, the light from the telescope is captured by a camera and the resulting image observed live on a phone, tablet or computer screen. Using a camera for “live” observation offers distinct advantages over using the human eye. One can see objects in more detail and in color; and there is the possibility of reducing the effect of light pollution using filters. For people with visual impairments or those who have trouble using an eyepiece, EAA is a wonderful way to do “live” observations or sharing that experience with others.

Astrophotography: Astrophotography takes the approach of using a camera a step further. Images captured by the camera are generally swamped by “noise” introduced by electronic, mechanical and the optical components of the equipment used by astroimagers and also the atmospheric conditions. Astrophotographers attempt to reduce/eliminate this noise by capturing a large number of images and using computer applications to suppress the noise to extract much improved image of the distant objects. They then use photography software to produce beautiful rendition of these objects. Now that data from images captured by various terrestrial telescopes and also extraterrestrial scopes (such as Hubble or the Webb) has become accessible, astrophotographers are creating beautiful astrophotographs from that data as well.

In WVAC a large section of members is dedicated to these disciplines and use it to explore beyond the reach of our eyes. This growing group of members use a variety of equipment and processing software. We have a very active forum where we share our experience and help each other learn and grow in this rapidly growing area of astronomy.

Come join us if you’re interested in learning what’s beyond the reach of our eyes!