lumpy darkness

Observation notes (with equipment details), photos, sketches, reviews, software tips, random thoughts, by an amateur astronomer.

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2016

ISS capture plan

A reminder checklist for steps to take to capture video of an International Space Station flyover using the C14 at the CAO with a Canon DSLR.

Refined the steps a bit since the first use 1 Aug 2015.

 

  1. consider where to pick up the ISS, before or after the meridian
  2. ensure the camera has continuous power
  3. prepare the mount & focuser control computer
    1. ensure TheSky 6 is connected to the Paramount
    2. get satellite ephemeris data update for TS6
    3. connect the Optec temperature-controlled focuser
    4. launch the focuser app
  4. prepare capture computer
    1. reboot
    2. close all unnecessary apps
    3. ensure computer connected to camera
    4. launch Backyard EOS
  5. consider cable wrap issues...
  6. access Frame & Focus mode in BYE
  7. focus
    1. crude focus, primary mirror
    2. lock mirror!
    3. fine focus, with TCF-S and Frame & Focus FWHM
    4. set TCF-S to Auto
  8. access Planetary mode in BYE
  9. set exposure settings in BYE
    • still image a similar magnitude star to get exposure
    • if the ISS will be -3.5, choose brightest star or planet
    • suggestion: 1/30th second; ISO 800
  10. set Target Name of the capture plan, e.g. "ISSpass1-CAO-C14"
  11. turn on 5x in BYE
  12. slew near the starting position in TS6
  13. select ISS in TS6
    • carefully click ISS point in sky chart; or,
    • perform Find command for SAT ISS ZARYA (under non-stellar)
  14. access Telescope tab
  15. as flyover starts, hit Record in BYE!
  16. track the ISS in TS6
    1. click Track Satellite button
    2. prepare to press the Slew button multiple times to catch up

 

Will be handy in the future.

 

 

 

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