150912 - Okie-Tex 2015
ASTRO:
type=starscape; North end of Milky Way galaxy in background
OTHER:
Andromeda Galaxy visible just above the telescope and right of
the MW
IMAGE:
location=Okie-Tex Star Party 2015
BrtlCls=1
moon=0% (new)
exposure=DSLR OSC: 1x30s, ISO3200
EQUIPMENT:
scope=NIKKOR "fisheye", FL=10.5mm, f/2.8
camera=Nikon D90 (stk)
filter=(none)
mount=simple, fixed tripod
SOFTWARE:
acquisition=(in-camera)
processing=Photoshop
click image to enlarge
Silhouette of Pearre ("Perry") Chase looking skyward through an 18" Dobsonian Reflector telescope while attending the 2015 Okie-Tex Star Party. This particular model is made by Obsession Telescopes, Ltd. Dobsonians are a variation on the Newtonian reflector design, where because its primary mirror is very large and heavy, the scope is made to stand low to the ground, and with its secondary mirror mounted a long distance away from the primary mirror. This one stands about six (6) feet tall. When pointed toward the celestial zenith (directly overhead), a step-stool must be used to look through the eye-piece. Dobsonians with 25" or 30" primaries can stand in excess of eight (8) feet tall when pointed near the zenith.
In the hobby / craft of Astronomy, there are two (2) basic approaches used by amateur astronomers, ...observation, and imaging. Here, Pearre is engaged in the first of these - observation. Many observers tend to favor this aspect of the craft; because, they love the thrill of literally seeing with their own eyes the wonders the night sky has to reveal. Because of their large apertures, Dobsonians offer the ability to see details not apparent in other types of telescopes. (Their owners often refer to them as "light buckets".) Imagers, on the other hand, also tend to favor their aspect of the craft; seeking enjoyment thru learning and using advanced, computer controlled technical equipment, and of seeing the colors and details that come from photographic images resulting from their efforts. Generally, telescopes can be "rigged" for one (observing) or the other (imaging); but not both.
It is interesting to note in this image that, although Pearre has his Dobsonian pointed toward a different object, the Andromeda Galaxy is plainly visible just over the 'head' of his scope.
The OkieTex Star Party is one of several dozen similar events held across North America each year. They can be somewhat thought of as 'conventions' for amateur astronomers. This one is an annual event hosted by the Oklahoma City Astronomy Club, and is renown for its dark skies (Bortle Class 1). To watch a video on Okie-Tex 2015, click here: https://vimeo.com/141622746. To learn more about Okie-Tex, visit the Videos page.