User`s guide

User’s guide
(v2.90)
Contents
I.
Installation ............................................................................................................. 2
II.
Starting APT (EOS or CCD) .................................................................................. 2
III.
Multi-Camera Support ........................................................................................... 3
IV.
Connecting to Camera (EOS) ............................................................................... 3
V.
Connecting to Camera (CCD) ............................................................................... 3
VI.
Additional cables (serial, DSUSB, Biula Audio) .................................................. 4
VII.
LiveView/Image Preview (EOS) ............................................................................ 4
VIII.
LiveView/Image Preview (CCD) ............................................................................ 5
IX.
Camera parameters Tab (EOS) ............................................................................. 5
X.
Camera parameters Tab (CCD)............................................................................. 8
XI.
Tools Tab ............................................................................................................... 9
XII.
Plan Editor ............................................................................................................13
XIII.
Plan Execution .....................................................................................................15
XIV.
Minimized mode and Camera monitor ................................................................16
XV.
Darkness Clock and Deep Sky Darkness calculator ..........................................16
XVI.
Settings dialog .....................................................................................................17
XVII.
Object Browser.....................................................................................................21
XVIII.
TEMPer and TEMPerHUM sensor........................................................................22
XIX.
Guiding programs integration .............................................................................23
XX.
Gear Control Tab ..................................................................................................25
XXI.
Img Tab (Image Browser).....................................................................................26
XXII.
Drift Alignment (DARV) ........................................................................................27
XXIII.
Planetary Panel. ...................................................................................................28
XXIV.
Meridian Flip Clock. .............................................................................................29
XXV.
Lacerta MGen configuration ................................................................................29
XXVI.
Auto Focusing Aid ...............................................................................................29
XXVII.
Multi-camera Dithering / Synchronizing .............................................................31
XXVIII. PointCraft ..............................................................................................................32
XXIX.
Keyboard shortcuts .............................................................................................34
In order to use Astro Photography Tool – APT with your Canon EOS camera you must
take the following actions – hereafter referred to as “Camera Preparation”. It is not a bad
idea to print this list for reference when you are in the field.
1. Connect the USB cable to the camera and to a PC. Optionally connect your PC
operated shutter cable to the camera
2. Set the camera in M mode. If you have B mode, then use it for exposures longer than
1s and M mode for exposures under 1s.
3. Check in camera’s menu if there is “Communication” setting, if exists, set it to “PC
connection”.
4. Turn off the Auto Focus of the camera lens if you are using photo lens.
5. If you want to make Anti-Vibration pause through PC operated shutter cable (COM
port), turn on “Mirror lockup” from “Custom Functions” menu of your camera. APT will
enable/disable automatically the “Mirror lockup” for cameras with Digic III and Digic IV
processor.
6. Power the camera on, wait for a few moments and stop any other software that uses
the camera i.e. Canon EOS Utility and etc.
7. Be sure that the red LED is not flashing. It can take a while if you have a lot of images
on your card.
8. Click on Connect button located in “Camera” tab
Note that there are two editions of APT one for cameras with Digic II processor
(like 350D, 400D and etc.) which is named 2.90” (second). The other edition is 2.90
(without quotes) is for all other models. The CCD part is same in both editions.
Here is a short user’s guide for APT. Important note is that APT uses Canon and ASCOM
libraries for communication with EOS and CCD cameras, thus APT has limitations that
cannot be avoided. We tried to round some of them and to enhance the control in regards
to the astro imaging.
I.
Installation
Installation is simple. In the zip file there are setup files. Unzip them in temporary
folder and execute setup.exe.
If you upgrade from demo or older version, please uninstall the previous version
and remember that the file APT.XML contains all data for your plans, so you
may want to backup this file and restore it after the installation.
It is good to install the latest Canon EOS utility in order to get the correct drivers
installed and MS Windows to be able to recognize your camera.
If you will use ASCOM compliant devices like CCD camera, telescope mount,
focuser or filter wheel, you have to install the ASCOM platform v6 or later and all
the ASCOM drivers that you need.
II.
Starting APT (EOS or CCD)
The first time you run APT it will start in DSLR mode. This means that you will see
the options used for imaging with Canon EOS cameras. In order to change the
APT mode hold the Shift key and click on the Connect button (Shift+Connect).
This will open a dialog box to switch between DSLR and CCD modes.
Once you select the mode, APT will use it until you change it again with
Shift+Connect.
III.
Multi-Camera Support
The setup creates 3 icons “APT”, “APT Camera 1”, “APT Camera 2”. The first two
can be used if you have one camera. The last is used when you want to use
second camera. There is no limitation of cameras number. If you want more,
create as much shortcuts to APT.EXE as you want and put the corresponding
number as start parameter (take a look on “APT Camera 2” shortcut). For every
camera APT will create folder “Camera X” in your installation place where the
images will be stored, sorted by date.
The different instances have their own configuration. This means that you can
have one set of settings for CCD and other for EOS.
When you use multiple cameras in same time you can configure the APT
Dithering System to synchronize the exposures and the dithering. For details
please see Section XXVII.
Tips & Tricks. Every time, turn ON your EOS cameras in same sequence. The
first turned on camera will be found from APT as Camera 1, second will be found
as Camera 2 and so on.
Tips & Tricks. Using Shift+Connect you can define to which EOS/CCD camera
APT to connect. For example you can define “APT Camera 1” to connect to the
CCD and “APT Camera 2” to connect to first EOS.
IV.
Connecting to Camera (EOS)
Before you try to connect APT to your EOS camera please make sure that you
had executed all steps described in the “Camera Preparation” list.
Click on the “Connect” button located in “Camera” tab and take a look on the Log
panel in the lower left area. There will be message if the connection is successful
or not. If there is a problem, exit APT, turn off the camera and execute the steps
from the “Camera Preparation” list.
If your camera is with Digic III or Digic IV processor, when you make a connection
you will see the current shutter counter in the Log panel.
V.
Connecting to Camera (CCD)
Before you try to connect APT to your CCD camera please make sure that it is
connected to the computer and that it is powered properly.
Click on the “Connect” button in “Camera” tab to open the standard ASCOM
selector dialog. There you have to select your camera and optionally to tune some
parameters. When you make your selection take a look on the Log panel in the
lower left area. There will be message if the connection is successful or not.
Once you have made successful connection APT will try automatically to connect
to the same camera every time you click on the “Connect” button. If you want to
change the camera use Shift+Connect to open the ASCOM selector again.
If you have problems to connect to the CCD camera try to run APT using
“Run As Administrator” option of Windows 7 or 8. Don’t forget to start PHD
or MetaGuide with the same option.
VI.
Additional cables (serial, DSUSB, Biula Audio)
There are three options to control EOS Digic II shutter – serial cable, DSUSB and
Biula Audio Trigger.
The list of the serial cable vendors that are confirmed to work with APT is:
Astronomiser - http://www.astronomiser.co.uk/300d.htm
– it includes
astro.com/ControleAPN.html#1
Pierro-Astro
RS232 to USB converter.
http://www.pierro-
Hap Griffin Astro-Cables - http://www.hapg.org/astrocables.htm
Also any other RS232 cable should work too.
Shoestring Astronomy DSUSB http://www.store.shoestringastronomy.com/products_ds.htm
Instructions how to build Biula Audio Trigger can be found here:
http://www.ideiki.com/astro/biula_audio_trigger.pdf
To use Biula Audio Trigger make sure that the audio volume is set to maximum!
VII.
LiveView/Image Preview (EOS)
When your EOS camera is successfully connected to the APT you can start
sending commands to it. From the Camera Tab you can select exposure time and
ISO. They are valid for single shot using the “Shoot” button. It is important that
“Mirror Lockup” must be set to OFF in order to use “Shoot” button. If the “Image
preview” is on you can see the picture. (See section IX)
If your camera supports LiveView you can enable it with the “Live View” button.
The image from LiveView will be displayed in the preview area. ISO and Exposure
parameters affect the LiveView too, so you can use them to get the view you
want. By default APT will tune the LiveView parameters for maximum sensitivity (if
you want to disable this automation uncheck the “LV Automation” option from the
Settings dialog)
There is option to set 5x and 10x Zoom. Before you set the 5x zoom you can click
on the portion which you want to zoom. Currently, the 10x option zoom only the
center of the previously zoomed image. Use “Zoom+” and “Zoom-” buttons to
switch between zooming levels.
The Target button is placed right after Zoom buttons. It is a tri-state button. OFF>Cross Hair mode->Object Scale mode->OFF. These modes use the preview
area and work without camera connection, during LiveView or over a previously
taken image. Cross Hair mode is designed to help in alignment tasks like: Drift
Alignment, GoTo Alignment, Precise mode checks for Meade mounts and
everything else that you can think up. Hold the Shift key plus left mouse button
and move mouse to change the place of the cross center. Hold the Control key
plus left mouse button and move the mouse horizontally to rotate the cross. Shift
or Control key plus double click with the left mouse button will restore the initial
cross position. “Object scale mode” will show oval-shaped outline of defined
object in exact scale for your camera and telescope/lens. See more in Tools tab.
Tips & Tricks. If your camera has LiveView support, while it is ON you can take a
picture with the Shoot button, no matter what the “Mirror Lockup” status is. This
comes in handy when you try to frame a faint object.
Tips & Tricks. Some newer EOS models will not allow use the LiveView zoom
feature if the "AF Method" is set to "Face Recognition + Tracking". To avoid this
limitation, select other auto focusing method for LiveView during the astro imaging
sessions.
Tips & Tricks. When you are in 5x or 10x Zoom you can use Shift+Left Double
click to move the zooming window to the center of the sensor.
Tips & Tricks. When you are in 5x or 10x Zoom you will see a small cross
that marks the exact center of the CMOS sensor.
VIII.
LiveView/Image Preview (CCD)
When your CCD camera is successfully connected to APT you can start sending
commands to it. From the Camera Tab you can select exposure time and binning.
They are valid for single shot using the “Shoot” button. If the “Image preview” is
on you can see the picture. (See section IX)
The LiveView for CCD is an endless series of images that are not stored on the
computer disk. Binning and Exposure parameters also affect the LiveView, so you
can use them to get the view you want. This option is useful during focusing and
framing. By default APT will tune the LiveView parameters for maximum
sensitivity (if you want to disable this automation uncheck the “LV Automation”
option from the Settings dialog)
The Target button is placed right after Zoom buttons. It is a tri-state button. OFF>Cross Hair mode->Object Scale mode->OFF. These modes use the preview
area and work without camera connection, during LiveView or over a previously
taken image. Cross Hair mode is designed to help in alignment tasks like: Drift
Alignment, GoTo Alignment, Precise mode checks for Meade mounts and
everything else that you can think up. Hold the Shift key plus left mouse button
and move mouse to change the place of the cross center. Hold the Control key
plus left mouse button and move the mouse horizontally to rotate the cross. Shift
or Control key plus double click with the left mouse button will restore the initial
cross position. “Object scale mode” will show oval-shaped outline of defined
object in exact scale for your camera and telescope/lens. See more in Tools tab.
IX.
Camera parameters Tab (EOS)
o
Object Name
You can define prefix that will be added the image file names stored on PC.
For example if you enter “M11_” the image name stored will be:
“M11_ IMG_5034.JPG”.
o
Exposure – contains the list of the predefined exposure durations that to be
used for making single images by “Shoot” button or in LiveView. If you want to
make exposures longer than 30s or duration that is missing in the list, select
the “Bulb” option and enter the desired duration in the edit box right to the list.
o
ISO – defines the ISO that to be used for making single images by “Shoot”
button or in LiveView.
o
Image Quality – defines the image quality to be used for making single images
by “Shoot” button.
o
AV – defines the lens aperture that to be used.
o
AntiVibration pause – This is a parameter which is used within exposures plan
or bulb exposures. It defines how many seconds to wait after the camera’s
mirror is flipped before making the real exposure. This is a valuable option
when mirror flipping causes vibrations to your setup. We recommend to
experiment and define how long it has to be. Keep in mind that in some
positions of your telescope the vibrations can be longer than in others.
If the camera supports LiveView you can set “Long exposure control” to
“Virtual” (see next point). With this setting, APT will use LiveView to simulate
“Mirror Lockup”. It is a handy option when you don’t have PC operated shutter
cable or you don’t have free COM or USB ports or want to use only one cable.
Note that simulated “Mirror lockup” leads to amp glow when is used in
long exposures!
In the next two links you can compare the level of the noise that 25s LiveView
generates. Both images are RAW files taken with Canon 1000D.
25s LiveView + 65s exposure, environment ~19°C
http://www.ideiki.com/astro/skinastro/19deg_anti25s_exp65s_Virtual.CR2
25s Mirror Lock + 65s exposure, environment ~19°C
http://www.ideiki.com/astro/skinastro/19deg_anti25s_exp65s_Com.CR2
If you want to set AntiVibaration pause to 0s, make sure to set “Mirror Lockup”
to OFF.
If you want AntiVibaration greater than 0s and to use PC operated shutter
cable, you must set “Mirror Lockup” to ON.
APT will enable/disable automatically the “Mirror lockup” for cameras
with Digic III and Digic IV processor.
All cameras with Digic IV processor can make true “Mirror Lockup” only
with USB cable. The rest models need separate PC operated cable for
true “Mirror Lockup”. For more information, take a look on “EOS models
matrix” page in our site.
There are three options for PC operated shutter cable:
- Shoestring Astronomy DSUSB/DSUSB2 long exposure shutter controller.
Once a DSUSB or DSUSB2 option is selected from the “Long exposure
control” list, APT will try to make a connection to the controller. More
information
about
DSUSB/DSUSB2
can
be
found
on
http://store.shoestringastronomy.com/products_ds.htm
- Any serial control cable (RS232) connected to COM port or to USB (with
appropriate Serial to USB converter). APT is tested with various cables. Take
a look on section VI for complete list.
- Biula Audio trigger. Instructions how to build this cable can be found here:
http://www.ideiki.com/astro/biula_audio_trigger.pdf
o
Long exposure control
In this list you will see “Virtual” option, all of the COM ports that are visible,
including the RS232 to USB converters, DSUSB, DSUSB2 and Biula Audio
Trigger options.
“Virtual” will command the camera only through the USB cable connected to
your camera. NOTE: This feature works only for EOS models after 2006.
Choosing any COM port from the list will instruct APT to use a PC operated
shutter cable connected to this port to make mirror lockup and to command
the shutter. APT is tested with various cables. Take a look on section VI for
complete list.
DSUSB or DSUSB2 options will try to find Shoestring Astronomy DSUSB or
DSUSB2 controller and will use it to make mirror lockup and to command the
shutter. More information about DSUSB/DSUSB2 can be found on
http://store.shoestringastronomy.com/products_ds.htm
Biula Audio Trigger will use the audio output connector to control the shutter
using an easy to make cable. Make sure that the audio volume is set to
maximum.
Tips & Tricks. If you connect the camera and shutter cable to same USB
ports you will have same COM port number between the sessions.
o
Image preview
On – will show the image in the preview area after every exposure. The image
will be scaled to fit in the area.
Off – Will not show preview
On (1:1) - will get un-scaled center part from the last image that fits in the
preview area.
On (1:1) Scroll – will show scrolling buttons to select the image area that you
want to see in mode “On (1:1)”. Use the central rectangle to view the center of
the image.
In To scroll the image smoothly in “On (1:1)” or “On (1:1) Scroll” modes, hold
the Shift key and drag with the mouse.
To switch quickly between “On” and “On (1:1)” modes double click on the
image. This allows two center the part of the image without scrolling.
Tips & Tricks. If you double click on a scroll arrow, position will be moved to
the corresponding border.
X.
o
Image Destination
You can choose where to save the taken images – “Camera”, “PC” or
“Camera and PC”. This setting can be changed after the camera is connected.
o
White Balance
This drop down list can be used to select the desired White Balance setting.
Camera parameters Tab (CCD)
o
Object Name
You can define prefix that will be added the image file names stored on PC.
For example if you enter “M11_” the image name stored will be:
“M11_ IMG_5034.JPG”.
o
Exposure – contains the list of the predefined exposure durations that to be
used for making single images by “Shoot” button or in LiveView. If you want to
make exposures longer than 30s or shorter than 1s select the “Bulb” option
and enter the desired duration in the edit box right to the list.
o
Bin – contains the list of binning options that are supported by the camera and
to be used for making single images by “Shoot” button or in LiveView.
o
Cooler – turns ON/OFF the camera cooler.
o
Image preview
On – will show the image in the preview area after every exposure. The image
will be scaled to fit in the area.
Off – Will not show preview
On (1:1) - will get un-scaled center part from the last image that fits in the
preview area.
On (1:1) Scroll – will show scrolling buttons to select the image area that you
want to see in mode “On (1:1)”. Use the central rectangle to view the center of
the image.
Tips & Tricks. If you double click on a scroll arrow, position will be moved to
the corresponding border.
Tips & Tricks. Double clicking on the image toggles between On and On (1:1)
modes. It is a very easy and fast way to center a part of the image.
o
Region of Interest (ROI) – allows speeding up the image download time, by
selecting small part of the image. Provided are several options that are
fraction of the sensor size for easy selection. APT automatically uses the
center of the sensor where usually is the focusing star.
o
Cooling and Warming Aids – these tools allow controlling camera cooling and
warming in small steps in order to prevent thermal shock. Required is camera
with temperature control.
Cooling Aid turns the cooler on automatically.
Warming Aid will use the available external sensor to suggest end point of the
warming.
XI.
Tools Tab
o
Histogram (EOS)
It shows/hides the histogram of the Red, Green, Blue and Luminance
channels as well as the Light histogram. It is drag-able to place where you
want.
o
Histogram (CCD)
It shows/hides the histogram of the image data as one channel. It is drag-able
to place where you want. In CCD mode is possible the stretch the histogram.
You can change the position of the black and white points by right mouse click
in the histogram. Make sure that you have selected the point which you want
to move with one of the buttons “Black Point” or “White Point”.
In order to make more precise adjustments of the white and black points,
expand panel and use << and >> buttons. The button Fine/Coarse defines the
size of the steps.
Tips & Tricks. If you double click the selected point will be moved to the
corresponding border, i.e. the black point will go to most left, white point to
most right.
o
Graphs
It shows/hides the Graphs panel. There you can see the graph of the values
changes for different readings from the current session like EXIF, CCD
Temperature, CCD Power, Ambient temperature, Humidity, Dew Point,
Distance to the guiding star and Sky Quality value. For the last three you will
need external sensor like TemperHum, USB_DewPoint, ASCOM focuser with
temperature sensor. You can change the graphs using the corresponding
button or double clicking on the graph.
o
Focus Aid
Focus Aid allows focusing on a star image using the FWHM (Full Width Half
Maximum) and HFD (Half Flux Diameter) methods. Drag the panel over the
preview area to frame the star that you want to use. The lowest value on same
the star gives the best focus. It works both on images and in LiveView. Note
that in EOS LiveView mode there is a stacking algorithm that makes the
measurement more accurate, so after every focus change wait a second or
two. You can control the number of the stacked images with the + / - buttons.
In the bottom of the aid you can find a graph of the values since the last reset
allowing determining if the focuser is moving in the right direction. To switch
between the FWHM and HFD graph, simply double click on that area.
Tips & Tricks. When you focus on images you can define a focusing plan
with short exposures. In such plan set pause between the exposures long
enough to change the focus and vibrations to calm down.
Peak - Shows the peak brightness value. Choose stars with higher values.
Saturation - Shows the star saturation. The best value is 1. Use shorter
exposures if saturation is greater than 1.
Best FWHM / HFD – shows the lowest FWHM / HFD value so far. To reset it,
move a bit the panel or click on ‘Reset’ button.
o
Bahtinov Aid
Bahtinov Aid is powered by the Bahtinov Grabber technology developed by
Neils Noordhoek. It allows getting precise focus using a Bahtinov mask. In
order to get the calculations you have to enter the pixel size (for EOS it is
automatically determined), the focal length and aperture of the telescope.
Drag the panel over the preview area to frame the star that you want to use.
Use the Cross mode to center the star in “Focusing Region”. Then click on
Recalc button. You will see two graphical interpretations of the results “Lines”
– the usual Bahtinov pattern and “Circles”. To make the focus perfect join the
two circles. Also you can see the focus error/distance in pixels. Try to get the
lowest possible reading. In the bottom of the aid you can find a graph of the
values since the last reset.
Note that Bahtinov Aid works on sub-pixel level. In the EOS LiveView mode
there is a stacking algorithm that makes the measurement more accurate, so
after every focus change wait a second or two. You can control the number of
the stacked images with the + / - buttons.
Make sure to check the focus using a short exposure.
o
Auto-Focus Aid
See section XXVI
Above the graph area is displayed the last logged value and the time. To see
the previous values, just move the mouse horizontally (this is no need the
pointer to be exactly on the curve).
o
Framing Mask
You can use the Framing Masks panel only in the registered version. This is a
multi-session imaging aid used to orient the camera by same angle and
position in different nights or after a meridian flip. Use the image browser to
load an image that will be the source of the mask. Mark two or more stars on
an image, by single clicks and save this mask. On the next session load the
mask and match the new image to it by rotating the camera and/or moving the
telescope. If the mask and the image are from different sides of the meridian
use the “Meridian flip” check box to display the mask by the right way.
You can use the Framing Masks with images, LiveView or combination of
both.
Note that a mask has to be created on the same computer on which will be
used.
o
Pixel Aid
Pixel Aid allows see various statistics for part of the image like Median, Std
Dev and etc. Note that you have to be in Preview Mode “On 1:1” if order to
evaluate the raw data in FITS files.
o
CCD Flats Aid
CCD Flats Aid is made to help determining the right exposure time when
making flat frames with CCD camera.
The parameters are:
Target ADU - the value that is desired, in most cases around 20,000.
ADU Range – this is the tolerance range of the ADU value that is
acceptable.
Start Exp – is the starting exposure duration in seconds.
Min Exp – is the shortest exposure that you want to try.
Max Exp – is the longest exposure that you want to try.
Bin – what binning to be used.
ROI – the Region Of Interest to be used.
Use filter wheel – define if you want to change the filters and determine
the exposures for more than one filter.
Create Flats Plan – if checked when the exposure(s) is(are)
determined the Aid will automatically create a Flats Plan.
Flats count – defines how many flats you want to take in the created
Flats Plan. If you use filter wheel the count is per line.
o
APT Settings
See section XVI
o
Magnifier
Magnifier allows viewing part of the image or Live View with software
magnifications – x3, x5, x10 and x15
You can use the Magnifier to zoom the image in Focus Aid. To enable this,
select “Bind to ‘Focus Aid’ star image”. If Focus Aid panel is closed, then
Magnifier will work as usual.
o
Set Focus Mark
Places a focus mark for the current ambient temperature. This function is
available in the registered version and requires TEMPer or TEMPerHUM
sensor. See sections XI and XIII.
o
Lens Control
APT can control lens when they are attached to Digic III or latter camera.
Lens’ Auto focus must be set to ON and you have to be in LiveView mode.
Don’t forget to set your lens in manual focus mode before plan
execution!
APT has its own automatic lens focusing. To use it, Turn ON the Lens control,
turn ON Focusing Aid panel, make a rough focusing using the lens drive
buttons and frame a star in the Focusing Aid panel. Then click on the “Start
Auto Focus” button. The precision of the focusing depends on the precision of
your lens drive. If you are not satisfied by the focus precision you can run auto
focusing for second time or to try with manual control of the lens. Auto
focusing can work with LiveView Zoom options.
Here is the usual scenario:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Set the lens in AF mode
Start LiveView, Focus Aid and Lens Control
Frame a bright star with saturation 1 or 2
Make rough focus
Start Auto focus
Set the lens in MF mode
o
DARV Drift Alignment (DARV)
See section XXII
o
Collimation Aid
It shows a set of concentric circles that helps to check or tune the collimation.
You can use the Aid over either LiveView or images. An image with duration
1-5s, combined with Sharp effect and/or the Magnifier can produce diffraction
picture that is hard to see by eye. The Aid gives complete control over the
circles size, count and distance. To move the circles drag them with the left
mouse button, for fine movements use the direction buttons.
o
Planetary panel
See section XXIII
o
Camera drop-down list
There are listed all EOS models. Once you select one, in Log panel you will
see the following parameters: sensor size, crop factor, max resolution. On
camera connection your model will be automatically selected from this list.
If you use CCD camera select the “CCD Camera” option and enter the pixel
size to be used for the object scale and size calculations
o
Focal Len
Enter the focal length of your telescope or photographic lenses and in
conjunction with the selected camera model it will be possible see the
following parameters in Log panel: Field Of View, Resolving power and
Magnification. Please click on “Recalc” button to make again the calculations
after camera or focal length change. This is a kind of FOV calculator for you
camera/telescope.
In right of the “Focal Len” there is a button “…”. It opens a small dialog where
you can define different Focal Length profiles for quick selection. Also when
Focal Len edit box is focused you can use arrow up/down keys to scroll
through the profiles you have defined.
o
Obj Size X’ x Y’
In this field you can define the dimensions of object which you want to see as
outline in preview area. The object will be with the same size as it will be
captured on your images. This feature will helps you to get idea what is the
scale of the object you want to image or will helps to frame it better by placing
it in the outline by using LiveView or test images. The entered sizes have to
be in Arc minutes and in the format like “12.5x43.2” or 25.8x11.6” or “13”. The
first sample will draw an ellipse tilted by the diagonal lower left-upper right.
The second one will draw ellipse tilted by the diagonal upper left-lower right.
The third one will draw circle in the middle of the preview area. In order to see
the object outline, you have to select a camera, enter focal length, object size
and to click on “Recalc” button. If you change any parameter, click again on
the “Recalc” button to recalculate and re-draw the object.
If you have size like “12.5x43.2” double click with the left mouse button will
swap the dimensions to “43.2x12.5”. Then you can click on the “Recalc”
button to recalculate and re-draw the object.
In addition to the object scale drawing APT calculates the object size in pixel.
The value is displayed in the Log panel.
XII.
Plan Editor
Using the “Edit” button in the Camera tab you can edit your plans, no matter if the
camera is connected or not. The plan editor has different options in EOS and
CCD modes. Please switch the mode to the one you need before start editing
your plans.
There is possibility to define six types of plans - Light, Dark, Bias, Flat,
Focusing/Framing and Dark Flat frames. For easier separation of your images
during processing are used automatic prefixes L_, D_, B_, F_, DF_ (or Light_,
Dark_ Bias_ Flat, DarkFlat_) that stand for Light, Dark, Bias, Flat, Dark Flat plans.
Here are some properties of the different types:
- Light plans can use dithering.
- Dark plans don’t use dithering.
- Bias plans don’t use dithering. In EOS mode can use automatically the fastest
supported speed or to be configured for manual exposure (see Section XVI)
- Flat plans don’t use dithering. In EOS mode can use the AV dial mode to
determine the optimal exposure or to be configured for manual exposure (see
Section XVI)
- Dark Flats plans don’t use dithering.
- Focusing/Framing plans don’t use dithering and don’t store images in the
Camera and keep only one temporary image on the hard disk.
So in a short summary, you can add new plan, change the name, add some
exposures and with OK button you will save the changes in your configuration.
Clone button will create a copy of the currently selected plan.
Please note that there is no validation for the exposure parameters. You have to
enter values that are supported by your camera or it will behave strange. If you
define exposure with duration 0s, only the pause will be used. This feature allows
defining a pause between the plan lines
After editing an existing exposure use the “Update Current” to keep the changes.
You can change the order of the exposures by using “Up” and “Down” buttons
under the list.
“Vertical Plan” option allows controlling the plan execution order. When it is
unchecked, APT will take all exposures in the first line and then will continue with
the next line. When it is checked the execution order will be:
Line1->Exposure1, Line2->Exposure1... LineN->Exposure1
Line1->Exposure2, Line2->Exposure2... LineN->Exposure2
Line1->Exposure3, Line2->Exposure3... LineN->Exposure3
…
Line1->ExposureX, Line1->ExposureX... LineN->ExposureX
The vertical mode is useful if you want to make HDR eclipse images, or when
filter wheel is used and you are not sure that weather will permit to gather all
channels one after another.
Edit button will load the currently selected plan in the Editor. The OK button in
Plan Editor will select automatically the last plan you have edited.
Tips&Tricks. We recommend longer pauses between exposures, because this
will reduce the noise in your images.
If you have defined the filter names in the Settings dialog, Plan editor will show
them rather than the filter position.
In EOS mode you can define a plan with lower quality settings. This will give
faster transfer of the images and is handy when you try to focus/frame
without LiveView, but with series of short exposures or you want to frame
your object.
You can explicitly disable Dithering for certain plans by using “Don’t Dither this
plan”. This option is useful for plans that are used for focusing or framing.
The Plan editor provides advanced control over the imaging session. There is
possibility to execute external scripts or programs after exposure end. Enter the
command that you want to be executed in the field “Script”. If you check the box
“Wait script to end” the execution of the command will be synchronous and APT
will not continue with the next exposure until the end of the external operation.
Leaving it unchecked APT will execute the command asynchronously and will
continue with the plan as soon as the command is started.
There are several parameters that you can send to the script or command:
%LastFile% - the path and file name of the last saved image
%CurrExp% - the number of the current exposure
%TotalCount% - the total count of exposures to make in a plan
%EDuration% - the expected remaining duration (00X’ or 00X”)
%ETime% - the expected time when the plan will end
%PCBat% - the PC battery percent
%CamBat% - the Camera battery percent
%CamSpace% - the free space on the camera card
%ExifT% - the temperature reported by EOS Exif or by the CCD
%Temp% - the temperature reported by Temper or TemperHum
%Hum% - the humidity reported by TemperHum
%DewP% - the dew point reported by TemperHum
%RA% - the right ascession reported by ASCOM telescope
%DEC% - the declination reported by ASCOM telescope
%Obj% - the enetred object name
%FocalLen% - the entered focal length
%FilterPos% - the current position of the ASCOM filter wheel
%FocusPos% - the current position of the ASCOM focuser
%ImageY% - the image height
%ImageX% - the image wigth
%Pixel% - the pixel size
%Lat% - the site Latitude
%Long% - the site Longitude
%SQM% - the Sky Quality value
Example : test.vbs %LastFile% %CurrExp%
This will try to execute the script test.vbs (located in the APT folder) and will pass
the current exposure number as first parameter and the total count as second.
You can combine the scripts with 0s exposures. This allows executing a script
without taking an image for example - to rotate to dome or to close the roof in the
plan end.
XIII.
Plan Execution
When your camera is connected, the LiveView is OFF and a plan is selected the
“Start” button will be enabled. If it is needed you can stop a plan using “Stop”
button. The action will be executed in the first possible moment. Note that APT
can’t stop Mirror Lockup in EOS mode. This is behavior defined by Canon.
Pressing Shift + Start opens a dialog box with execution options. You can loop
the plan for number of rounds (0 means to execute it until you stop the plan). Also
you can schedule the plan execution for exact moment. The time is in 24h format
HH:MM:SS.
The Pause button will become visible when a plan is started. Click on it to pause
plan execution as soon as APT finishes the current exposure.
The Resume button will continue the execution of a paused Plan.
The Stop button will immediately stop current plan. If the image destination is PC
or Cam+PC the file will be marked with prefix “incomplete_”
Tips&Tricks. You can turn off the camera display before plan execution. This will
save some battery energy for more exposures.
Don’t forget to turn off the wireless networking adapter if it is not needed!
Try to find the lowest brightness level of the laptop screen that is comfortable with
you, it will save battery life in the field.
You can use lower CPU performance settings during the imaging.
XIV.
Minimized mode and Camera monitor
In the Status panel, there is small monitor that shows the camera status during
plan execution. It will show short code of the current operation and the seconds
since its start (the count can be no exact, the precision is +/– one second)
NC – No camera connection.
C – Camera connected, but it is in idle mode, no plan in progress.
D 0000” – Delayed plan execution (in the registered version only. See section
XVI)
A 0000” - Ant -vibration pause and the count of the seconds passed.
E 0000” - Exposure and the count of the seconds passed.
P 0000” - after exposure Pause and the count of the seconds passed.
BUSY – camera and/or APT are busy in the moment.
PAUSE – the plan is paused
DITHER – a dithering is in progress (see section XIX)
DARV – DARV in progress…
SYNC – Multi-cameras synchronization is in progress (see section XXVII)
When APT is minimized small floating window will become visible, you can drag
and place where it is comfortable with you. In this floating window the same
messages will be shown as in the status monitor in the main APT screen. This
allows seeing what is the APT status during you use your guiding or other tools.
Also you can see the number of the taken images and the total number in the
current plan. If you want to restore APT window, double click with the left mouse
button on the floating window, or use right mouse button over the APT icon in task
bar and select “Restore”
The status window will be expanded automatically when the preview option in the
main the Camera Tab is ON and will display the center of the image in the main
window. With right mouse button click you can hide/show the small preview area.
In minimized mode Ctrl+S is equal to click on Shoot button. Click on the small
window before you use the short-cut.
XV.
Darkness Clock and Deep Sky Darkness calculator
In the Status panel you can see the darkness clock. It shows in real time what the
“status” of the sky darkness is. This means that you can see if it is dark enough to
shoot deep sky objects. The sections are:
1 - the time between midday and sunset
2 - the Nautical twilight
3 - the Astronomical twilight
4 - the full darkness
5 - the Moon
6 - a pointer showing the current moment. It will blink 15 minutes before a zone
change
7 - the time between sunrise and midday
In order the clock to show accurate data you have to enter you site geographic
location in the Settings dialog (see section XVI)
To open Deep Sky Darkness (DSD) calculator double click on the Darkness
clock. In this calculator you will find all the information related a desired night. You
can easily scroll through nights. An interesting feature is the possibility to find the
closest night with defined duration of the time suitable for deep sky photography.
Enter the desired minimum DSD duration and clink on the “Find” button.
XVI.
Settings dialog
With this dialog you can manage many additional parameters of APT. Here is
what can be configured. They are grouped in three tabs.
Main tab
Skin Color - there are three skins more available in addition to the Red one Grey, Green and Blue. You have to restart APT in order to see the change (in the
registered version only).
Sound – ON value enable sound notification when the plan is finished. In APT
folder there is file named “APT_plan_end.wav”. You can change the melody with
simply replacing this file with any WAV file you like, just use the original file name
(in the registered version only).
Tooltips – Turns ON/OFF the tooltips help displaying
No Thumbnails in Image Browser – when off APT will not generate thumbnails
Auto-hide Meridian Flip Clock – when enabled the clock will be visible only when
there is active connection to telescope
LiveView Automation - Turns ON/OFF the automation that tunes LiveView
parameters for maximum sensitivity.
C.Fn. Mirror Lockup automation - Turns ON/OFF the automatic enabling/disabling
of the Mirror lockup camera function, depending on the defined Anti-Vibration
pause
Color FITS preview. When enabled will use de-bayering method to show color
image
Bayer Filter – defines the bayer filter combination
Images Path – With this setting you can define where you want to store the
images in “PC” and “Camera and PC” image destination mode. You can use any
local or network folder that exists.
File Grouping – defines the folders that you want to use for images grouping. A
sample for the selected combination can be seen in the “Sample Path”.
Name Parts – defines how you want to build the images file names – like ISO,
Duration, Exif temperature and etc. A sample for the selected combination can be
seen in the “Sample Name”. Note that in CCD mode the image ID is built from the
Date and Time, so there is no need to select these options.
Export Log File – allows exporting logged data in order to help resolving a
problem.
Backup Settings – allows exporting the settings for use of other computer.
Restore Settings – allows importing the settings from a saved file. You will have to
restart APT after this action.
Temperature and Sky tab
Temperatures in C° or F° – Defines how to show the temperature values – in
Celsius or Fahrenheit. Required is TEMPer or TEMPerHUM sensor (See section
XVIII).
Refocus on every X° - Defines when you want to be notified that there is need to
refocus. When your telescope or lens is focused, click on the “Thermometer”
button in the main screen to place a “Set Focus Mark” on the temperature that
focus was achieved. Let describe this feature with one example. If 4° is selected,
when APT detects change of 2°, the temperature reading will start flashing to
show that soon there will be need to refocus (in minimized mode there will be
flashing “F” letter). When APT detects change of 4°, the temperature will be
displayed with bright font and message will be printed in the log area than there is
need to refocus (in minimized mode there will be non-flashing “F” letter). 0°
disables this feature. Required is TEMPer or TEMPerHUM sensor (See section
XVIII) (in the registered version only).
Tips&Tricks. Don’t forget to click on the “Focus Mark” button every time you
focused to place the “Focus Mark” on the right temperature reading.
Dew point within X° - Defines when you want to be notified for closing dew point.
There is no need to heat your optics when the dew point is not even close. Let
describe this feature with one example. If 4° is selected, when APT detects the
dew point is on 2° or less from the current temperature, the DewP reading will
start flashing (in minimized mode there will be flashing “D” letter). When APT
detects that temperature dropped under the dew point, the DewP reading will
displayed with bright font and message will be printed in the log area (in
minimized mode there will be non-flashing “D” letter). 0° disables this feature.
Required is TEMPerHUM sensor (See section XVIII) (in the registered version
only).
Tips&Tricks. To get more accurate readings, place the TEMPerHUM sensor
close the objective, but not on the heating strips.
You have to experiment when you have to start the heating. It depends on
your heating solution, telescope size and etc.
Temperature Calibration – Allows you to enter a value to be added or subtracted
from TemPer or TemPerHUM readings.
Humidity Calibration – Allows you to enter a value to be added or subtracted from
TemPerHUM readings.
Temperature sensor to use – defines which external sensor to use. Supported are
Temper(Hum) and USB_DewPoint. If there is no sensor, but there is ASCOM
focuser with temperature probe, APT will use the focuser readings.
Enable Sky Quality Tracking – defines if you want to use the Sky Quality
Tracking. It can be made automatically by using the Unihedron SQM devices and
manually by observer’s estimation of the limiting magnitude or by using the SQML manual device. More information about Unihedron can be found on http://www.
unihedron.com
Sky Quality can be measured in two metrics – MPSAS (magnitudes per square
arc second) and NELM (naked eye limiting magnitude). Select the one that you
like more to see in the Status panel of the main screen or which you will use to
enter the manual data.
Select the device you are using or the SQM-L if you want to track the quality
yourself.
When Sky Quality Tracking is enabled in the Status panel of the main screen you
will see the current reading of the sky quality value. Double click on the label will
open additional panel where you can see the value in both MPSAS and NELM
metrics as well the ambient temperature if the device supports this function. Also
you expand the panel you can enter the value that you have measured if SQM-L
device is selected. The “Convert” section allows converting values between
MPSAS and NELM metrics.
If there is Sky Quality value available APT will store it in the FITS header section.
Location tab
Here can be entered all geographic coordinates of up to five sites. APT will accept
any coordinates format. The signs + or – will set automatically the hemisphere
letter.
Coordinates synchronization – APT can import or export the coordinates of the
current location with the data in ASCOM. If Import is used the current coordinates
will be updated with the values in ASCOM on every telescope connection. If
Export is select APT will update the ASCOM coordinates with the data of the
current location on telescope connection.
Filter Wheel tab
Here can be entered the filter names and focus offset for the filters mounted in
your wheel. Describing the names here allows APT to show them in the Plan
Editor and in the Camera tab rather than using the filter position number. This tab
is need for SBIG wheels, but it will be more comfortable if you enter the
information even if you use ASCOM compatible wheel.
Advanced Tab
Plans Start Delay – Defines how many seconds to wait after click on the Start
button, before begins plan execution.
LV Stack count – defines how many images to be used in LV Stack.
Camera Low Space Limit – defines when to notify you about low space on the
camera card. 0 disables this notification.
Camera Low Battery Limit – defines when to notify you about low Camera battery.
0 disables this notification
PC Low Battery Limit – defines when to notify you about low PC battery. 0
disables this notification
Biula Audio Trigger delay – defines the delay to be used for exposure end when
the audio trigger is used. The value depends on the cable implementation
Dithering delay – defines the number of seconds to wait before sending the
dithering command. Usually there is no need to use it.
AstroTortilla ISO – defines what ISO to be used for the images taken through
AstroTortilla. 0 means to use the maximum supported value.
Hide Location in FITS – when enabled APT will not store the location coordinates
in the FITS headers
Apply BZERO in FITS – it can help if FITS are hard to process. The
recommended setting is disabled. Make some experiments before you decide to
enable it for a full imaging session!
Disable FITS auto orientation - Some CCDs like QHY10 MkII provide images with
height bigger than width. In such case disable auto orientation in order APT to
save FITS correctly.
New images folder after midnight – On session start APT creates a folder for the
current date and stores all the images in this folder or in sub folders (depending
on the selected grouping option). If you want to keep the images strictly separated
by date, enable this option to create a new folder after midnight.
Bigger UI Fonts – defines to use bigger fonts for most of APT interface. This can
be hand on notebooks with big screen resolution and small display
Advanced Flat/Bias plans – when it is selected you will be able to define the
duration for exposures in Flat and Bias plans. When it is unchecked, Flat plans
will use the AV dial mode and will leave the camera to select the exposure; Bias
plans will use the shortest supported by the camera exposure
Auto connect Scope – reconnects automatically the last used telescope on APT
start
Auto connect Focuser – reconnects automatically the last used focuser on APT
start
Auto connect Filter Wheel – reconnects automatically the last used filter wheel on
APT start
Meade Focuser – will show the special section in the Gear tab for using Meade
focuser. In this case you don’t need to make a connection using “Connect
Focuser” button
LX200 Compatible mount – when enabled will force APT to use the LX200
communication protocol
Remember Effects – when enabled APT will keep the select image effect between
the restarts
Convert .CR2 to TIFF – when enabled APT will make on fly conversion of the
EOS raw files into TIFF format. The original file will not be deleted. The TIFF file is
without ICC profile and compression.
Don’t remember Object Name – when enabled APT will not store the object name
between the sessions.
Don’t sync camera clock – when enabled APT will not update the EOS clock on
camera connection
RDP mouse cursor fix – if you have problems with the mouse cursor when you
use Remote Desktop enable this option
Stop Initial CCD auto cooling – most CCDs start the cooling routine as soon as
connection is made. Enabling this option allows to start cooling by your command
Higher CCD Compatibility – Try to enable this option if you have problems with
your CCD camera.
XVII.
Object Browser
You can use the Object Browser using the Objects button to review and use
various information related to the objects in our data base which contains 545
deep sky objects (Messier Catalog, Herschel 400 Catalog, and most of Caldwell
and Hidden Treasures catalogs), 78 alignment starts and 2 star maps. Selecting
an object will display information like Name, Constellation, Magnitude, Size and
interesting fact about it. Double click with left mouse button on an object or
selecting a row and click on OK button will automatically populate the “Obj Size X’
x Y’” in the main window, will automatically populate the object’s coordinates in
the Telescope control panel (if it is enabled) and will automatically populate the
file name prefix with the catalog number of the select object. If you had already
selected a camera and focal length then the object borders will be drawn in the
preview area in the correct scale and the size in pixels will be displayed in the Log
panel.
In the Custom tab you can enter your own objects. The list can be exported and
shared with friends or imported on other computer. The Import button will add all
items in the file to the existing list.
Mosaic plans created by Asimoplan (mosaic planning software www.asimoplan.com) can be similarly imported, each panel of the mosaic
creating a separate object. When using Asimoplan simply select the “Application
Specific” page in the “Export Frame Coordinates” window and check the “Astro
Photography Tool – APT” check box before clicking the “Export” button. Once
imported each frame's object contains that frame's central RA and Dec
coordinates. Double-clicking any listed frame transfers those coordinates to the
Gear page of the main window where they can be used to slew the attached
telescope into position for imaging.
You can also import data from AstroPlanner (http://www.astroplanner.net/). In
AstroPlanner go to “File” then “Export” and select “APT Object List...” option.
Tips&Tricks. You can use Shift+Click or Ctrl+Click to select multiple lines for
deletion.
On the tabs Deep Sky, Stars and Custom you can make search. Just enter the
word you are looking for in the top right and click on “Search/Next” to find the next
line below the current one that contains the word. If the cursor is still in the input
box then pressing Enter is same as clicking on “Search/Next”.
When you are editing or adding new object in the Custom tab, if there is
connection to the scope you can use the button “Get Scope Ra/Dec” to populate
the coordinates of the object. This feature is useful if you want to bookmark the
current position for future use.
The objects size in pixel can be calculated for all entries in “Deep Sky” and
“Custom” tabs. To enable this feature select the camera model and focal length of
the instrument in the Tools tab of the main screen.
The sources used for the interesting facts are “http://wikipedia.org” and
“http://seds.org/messier”. Many thanks to Jeff Seivert for providing more interesting
facts!
Thank to Jeff Seivert many interesting facts are added to the Deep Sky tab. Also
for many objects there is audio version of the text. To install the audio extension
download the desired package from the Download page of the APT’s site. Then in
the place where APT is located make a sub-folder named "ObjectBrowserAudio"
and extract the audio package there. The button "Play" in Object Browser will be
available for all objects with audio information.
Selecting a star will show a hint how to find it in the sky. Changing the tab to Maps
will show the map that contains the star. Clicking on OK will load the star
coordinates in the Telescope control panel and there you can synchronize the
GoTo of your mount.
XVIII. TEMPer and TEMPerHUM sensor
TEMPer can be used to monitor the ambient temperature. TEMPerHUM is more
advanced and can be used to monitor both the temperature and the humidity,
which allows calculating the current dew point. Both sensors give interesting
features, especially in the registered version. You can get notifications to refocus
on temperature change or for closing dew point. The settings can be tuned in the
Settings dialog box (see section XVI).
The presence of the sensors is detected on APT start. If TEMPer is detected the
current temperature will be displayed in the space between application name and
the local time. If TEMPerHUM is detected, on the same place will be displayed the
current temperature, current humidity and the calculated dew point temperature.
The readings of the sensors are updated on the screen on every minute.
The sensors can be found in various stores as well as in eBay.
XIX.
Guiding programs integration
APT can cooperate with two guiding programs:
- Stark Labs PHD Guiding (www.stark-labs.com)
- MetaGuide by Frank Freestar8n (www.astrogeeks.com/Bliss/MetaGuide/).
Also supported is the Lacerta MGen auto-guiding solution.
When there is no guiding, APT can make dithering itself when there is
connection to the mount.
The supported functions are fast switching to the guiding program window, autodithering between exposures and auto real-time monitoring of the distance to the
guiding star when PHD or MGen are used (in the main window, ‘Info’ section,
PHD/MGen Status)
Auto-dithering is a small change of the position of the telescope between the
exposures. It reduces the banding noise in your images and minimizes the data
loss from hot and cold pixels.
Auto-cancel allows stopping the exposure before a guiding problem becomes
visible on your image allowing to use the gathered so far data.
The fast switching can be made with a simple click on the ‘Guide’ button. It will
minimize APT’s window and will bring to focus the window of the guiding program.
NOTE: to use PHD integration functions it has to be configured in Server mode.
Select from PHD’s menus 'Tools'->'Enable Server'.
To enable/disable and tune the other guiding functions, please use “Shift+Click”
on the ‘Guide’ button. This will open the Guiding settings dialog box.
In the settings dialog you can tune the following parameters:
o
Guiding program – select the guiding program you are using.
o
Auto-Dithering - enables/disables auto dithering.
o
Auto-Dithering Distance – defines what to be the dithering distance
(implemented for PHD, APT and MGen only)
o
MGen mode – defines the dithering mode for the MGen device
o
Dithering Stability Distance - defines the acceptable distance to
consider
that dithering is completing. The distance is in pixels from 0.00 to 2.55. See
the explanation below. (implemented for PHD only)
o
Dithering Settle Time – defines how many seconds to wait after Dithering
Stability distance is reached. It gives time guiding to settle down. See the
explanation below. (implemented for PHD, APT and MGen only)
o
Dithering Timeout - defines the maximum time for dithering. After that time
APT will continue with the next exposure no matter what is the distance to the
guiding start. 0s means that there is no time limit to complete the dithering.
When MetaGuide is used this defines when to resume with next exposure.
o
Dither on # images – Defines how many images to take before making
dithering. Values 0 or 1 means to make dithering after every image.
o
Auto-Cancel - enables/disables Auto Canceling. Auto Canceling allows
canceling exposure when the distance to the guiding star becomes greater
than a defined value. (implemented for PHD and MGen only)
o
Auto Cancel Distance - defines the maximum acceptable distance to the
guiding star. After this point the exposure has to be canceled. The values are
in pixels form 0.00 to 2.55. (implemented for PHD and MGen only)
o
PHD IP address – Defines the IP address of the computer that is used for
guiding. This feature is useful if you use separate computer for guiding. The
default value is 127.0.0.1 which means that same computer is used for
imaging and for guiding.
o
PHD Port – Defines which TCP/IP port to be used. This feature is useful if you
want to control two or more guiding setups with one computer. The default
value is 4300.
o
Multi-Camera Dithering Mode – “Free Mode” defines that APT runs in single
camera mode and there is no need to synchronize the dithering. “Server
Mode” configures the current instance of APT to be the server that makes
dithering or exposure synchronization. “Client Mode” configures the current
instance to be a client and will wait the server to define when to start
exposures. For more details please see Section XXVII.
o
Multi-Camera Dithering Sync Mode – Used only in Client/Server configuration.
“Strict Mode” defines server and clients to make synchronous exposures.
“Loose mode” allows if possible the Clients to take multiple exposures during
the long exposures of the Server. For more details please see Section XXVII.
The auto-dithering and auto-canceling are applied only to the exposures plans of
LIGHT type. When it is enabled it works by the following algorithm:
PHD version – After the exposure is finished, APT sends command to PHD to
make a dithering, and starts to monitor when the distance to the guiding start will
become smaller than the defined Stability distance. Once this happens it will wait
a number of seconds defined for Settle time, which gives possibility of PHD to
settle down. After that time APT will resume with the next exposure. The timeout
value defines how many seconds you want to give to PHD to reach the settle
distance, and after this moment APT will resume with the next exposure, no
matter what is the distance to the guiding start. If the settle distance is reached
the timeout value will be ignored.
MetaGuide version – After the exposure is finished, APT sends command to
MetaGuide to make a dithering and waits the number of seconds defined by
timeout value and after that will resume with the next exposure.
APT Dithering – After the exposure APT will move the mount in small steps with
random length and direction. In order to work there is need to enter the focal
length of the telescope and when CCD is used to enter the sensor dimensions
and pixel size.
MGen version – After the exposure is finished, APT sends command to MGen to
make a dithering, and waits for the command completion. Once this happens it
will wait a number of seconds defined for Settle time, which gives possibility of
MGen to settle down. After that time APT will resume with the next exposure. The
timeout value defines how many seconds you want to give to MGen to complete
the command, and after this moment APT will resume with the next exposure. If
the dithering command is completed in time the timeout value will be ignored. See
section XXV for instructions about the MGen usage.
Note: If you have started APT using “Run As Administrator” option then you
have to start PHD or MetaGuide with the same option!
APT has powerful dithering system that allows using dithering in a setup with
multiple cameras. This system synchronizes the exposures and the other events
in order to make the dithering action in the right time. For details please see
Section XXVII.
XX.
Gear Control Tab
APT can control any ASCOM compatible telescope. To control a telescope
simultaneously from several programs use one of the “ASCOM hubs”
The first time you connect to a telescope you will be asked to select the
connection parameters by the standard ASCOM dialog. Then APT will remember
your selection and when you click again on the “Connect” button it will use the
previous settings automatically. If you want to change the connection parameters,
use “Shift+Click” on the Connection button.
The Gear Tab gives possibility to review the current coordinates, to align the
GoTo, to GoTo to new coordinates or to move the telescope in any direction. You
can use the Object Browser for speed access to the coordinates of 545 objects.
“Shift+Click” on the GoTo button opens the Advanced GoTo panel which allows to
change the telescope position using Alt/Az coordinates or to make offset of the
current position using arc minutes (by Alt/Az ot Ra/Dec). The Alt/Az offset moves
are useful when you want to use the AstroTortilla polar alignment routine.
Don’t forget to turn off the guiding before you move the telescope.
PointCraft is described in section XXVIII.
On this tab you can also control ASCOM compatible focusers. The first time you
connect to a focuser you will be asked to select the connection parameters by the
standard ASCOM dialog. Then APT will remember your selection and when you
click again on the “Connect” button it will use the previous settings automatically.
If you want to change the connection parameters, use “Shift+Click” on the
Connection button.
In right of the “Step size” there is a button “…”. It opens a small dialog where you
can define different step size profiles. Then you can quickly select one of them.
Also when Step size control is focused you can use arrow up/down keys to scroll
through the profiles you have defined.
Another type of devices that you can control from this tab is ASCOM compatible
filter wheels. The first time you connect to a filter wheel you will be asked to
select the connection parameters by the standard ASCOM dialog. Then APT will
remember your selection and when you click again on the “Connect” button it will
use the previous settings automatically. If you want to change the connection
parameters, use “Shift+Click” on the Connection button. If you have defined focus
offset for your filters APT can apply these offsets on every filter change.
Gear tab allows using ASCOM compatible rotator. The first time you connect to
a rotator you will be asked to select the connection parameters by the standard
ASCOM dialog. Then APT will remember your selection and when you click again
on the “Connect” button it will use the previous settings automatically. If you want
to change the connection parameters, use “Shift+Click” on the Connection button.
You can move the rotator to exact position using GoTo or to move with fixed steps
– 1 degree (with the buttons “<” and “>”) or 10 degrees (with the buttons “<<” and
“>>”). The direction depends on the settings in the ASCOM driver.
XXI.
Img Tab (Image Browser)
The Image Browser is designed to give comfortable way to preview the images
taken from the current or previous imaging session. In addition it allows deleting
the files that cannot be used for stacking. One of the main advantages is that you
can use it in “Image Preview 1:1” mode and to inspect the same area of multiple
images without need to scroll on new image loading.
The browser generates thumbnails for fast preview during the imaging session or
on in background when other folder is navigated. Keep in mind that when you
shoot in RAW only mode it can takes significant time to generate the thumbnail or
to load the image in the Preview area. In our days where hard disks are quite big
it is recommended to store the images in RAW+L mode. This allows faster
preview.
The Image Browser works only the files that it recognizes (JPG, CR2 and FITS)
and groups them to show one item per image no matter how in many formats it is
saved. For example if you configured APT to store JPG, CR2 and Tiff, the
browser will show one line per every set of the three files. If you decide to delete
an image, all the three formats will be deleted.
Note that when you delete an image the Image Bowser will move the files in
the Recycle Bin in order to provide a way to restore them in case of deletion
by mistake.
There are buttons to allow easier scrolling through the images. In addition to the
mouse you can use the keyboard arrows keys and Enter to select an image or
folder.
The Refresh button will reload the current folder and also will re-generate the
thumbnails.
The button “Go to Last Taken” will go to the folder where is stored the last taken
image since the APT start.
Info button opens the FITS Header viewer that shows information about the
current FITS file.
o
Preview Effects
APT can apply some image effects over the images in the Preview area and
LiveView stream. There real images are not affected, because the effects are
applied only on the screen. Note that the effects can decrease the
performance on slower PCs!
LV++ - This is method to intensify the LiveView image in real time to
show fainter objects.
LV Stack – Stacks a set of LiveView images to show fainter objects.
The stack is periodically reset to show the image position changes
during the framing.
Sharp – Applies sharpening effect on the image/LiveView to help
focusing.
Flip Hor – Flips image/LiveView horizontally. Helps to achieve correct
image for easier object framing
Flip Vert – Flips image/LiveView vertically. Helps to achieve correct
image for easier object framing
Negative - Applies negative effect on the image/LiveView to help
focusing. Note that this will affect your dark adaptation!
Gamma – allows changing the gamma correction from 1.0 to 3.0 in
steps of 0.25. To increase the correction click again on the button.
Double click on the button clears the correction. Can be applied on
image or LiveView.
Brightness - allows changing the brightness from +0% to +200% in
steps of 25%. To increase the correction click again on the button.
Double click on the button clears the correction. Can be applied on
image or LiveView.
Rotate – rotates the image clockwise on 90, 180 and 270 degrees.
Double click on the button clears the rotation. Can be applied on image
or LiveView.
XXII.
Drift Alignment (DARV)
DARV stands for 'Drift Alignment by Robert Vice method'. The essential idea of
the method is to make one long exposure during the mount is moved on East and
then back to West (or in reverse in the southern hemisphere) if the polar
alignment is perfect the result will be a flat line, in other case the track in the
image will have the shape of the letter V. So you have to make corrections till the
track becomes a line.
The scenario is easy to follow:
1. Locate a star in the South close to Declination 0.
2. Run DARV and wait for routine to complete.
3. If the track is not line adjust the Azimuth (left/right).
4. If you see V shaped track, repeat the steps 2 and 3 till you get line.
5. Locate a star in the Eastern or Western horizon and close to Declination 0.
6. Run DARV and wait for routine to complete.
7. If the track is not line adjust the Altitude (up/down).
8. If you see V shaped track, repeat the steps 6 and 7 till you get line.
This tool is made to take care for exposure and telescope move, so it requires
Camera and Telescope connection.
The duration of the drift depends on the focal length of your telescope or lens.
Longer it is shorter drift time has to be used.
More information about Robert Vice method can be found here:
http://rcfotos.selfip.net/darv/DARV.pdf
XXIII. Planetary Panel.
Planetary mode panel is useful for planetary, Moon, Sun and etc. imaging where
the required frames per second speed is bigger. Also it saves your shutter from
making too many cycles, vibrations and etc. Supported are two modes - LiveView
and HD Video.
The LiveView mode allows you to capture the LiveView stream as series of JPG
files that are stored on the PC hard disk. These JPG files can be easily be used in
Registax or similar processing application without modifications. In the panel you
can define how many images you want to capture.
The second mode – HD Video is available only in the registered version. This
mode allows to start/stop the HD Video recording of your Digic IV camera (if it has
such feature). After the video is recorded APT will transfer the MOV file to PC’s
hard disk, if Image Destination is set to “PC” or “Cam+PC” in the Camera tab.
Note that the MOV video file has to be converted before it can be used in
Registax. There are several freeware options to make that.
o
o
Pazera Free MOV to AVI Converter
http://www.pazera-software.com/products/mov-to-avi-converter
FFMPeg
http://ffmpeg.org/
o
Media File Converter
http://www.erightsoft.com/SUPER.html
Warning: While you installing this program, pay special attention to things that
are checked or unchecked. By default it is configured to install some type of
internet tool bar or something like that. Make sure you deactivate anything that
you do not want to be installed.
You can follow these steps when you use that program:
Choose AVI as the Output Container.
Choose RAW Uncompressed as the Video Codex
Disable AUDIO for Audio Codex or check the Disable box in the Audio
specification box below that.
Choose NO CHANGE for Video Scale Size
Choose 30 or 60 Frame/Sec
Choose the highest Bitrate kbps for best quality.
Choose Hi Quality for additional Options
Jerry Lodriguss has published a great book related to planetary imaging named “A Guide to
DSLR Planetary Imaging” that covers every aspect of this type of photography starting from
data acquisition to processing. There is special chapter dedicated to APT. The address
Jerry’s site is www.astropix.com
XXIV. Meridian Flip Clock.
Meridian Flip Clock shows information about the Meridian. It requires a telescope connection.
When the light part is bigger, the Telescopes points on east of the Meridian. The clock
alternates between the time of the flip and minutes till the flip.
When the back part is bigger, the Telescope points to west of the Meridian and the clock
shows the minutes passed after the flip.
When both parts are equal then the Meridian flip is close. An asterisk (*) shows the exact
part that the Telescope points.
Question mark is displayed when there is no telescope connection or the scope is not
tracking.
Use Settings to hide Meridian Flip Clock when there is no telescope connection.
XXV. Lacerta MGen configuration
There are several requirements for the usage of MGen with APT.
The MGen firmware has to be version 2.04 or newer. If it older than 2.04 here is a link for
updating:
http://www.teleskop-austria.at/information/ccd-standalone-hu/pdf/Lacerta_MGEN_FW204.zip
There is need to install the D2XX drivers that take care for the USB to MGen communication
from here:
http://www.ftdichip.com/Drivers/D2XX.htm
There is need to enable the “Application Mode” from MGen menus.
XXVI. Auto Focusing Aid
The automated focusing requires some initial preparation and measurements in order to
provide best results. Please read this section before you give the first try.
-
Hardware requirements
o
Focuser with stepper motor and ASCOM driver
o
-
Measure and set into your controller the backlash of the motor and the
focuser. This is important in order to get repeatable position values.
Settings –Click on the settings button located in Auto-Focus Aid
o
Threshold - This is the focus value tolerance. Usually because of the
atmosphere turbulence FWHM / HFD changes even when there is no focus
move. Threshold is here to ignore these changes. It is important to measure it
well. If it is too big the focusing will be inaccurate. So make the focus manually
using Focus Aid on a star, then:
If you use EOS LiveView increase the stack count this you get most
stable readings of FWHM / HFD. Leave it for few seconds and mark
what the scale of the changes is and enter for Threshold a bit bigger
value than the observed. For example if you see that FWHM is
changing in the range 3.78 - 3.76 set the Threshold to 0.03 or 0.04.
If you use focusing with images, it is better to use exposures with
duration enough to eliminate the turbulence usually 2-5s is enough. As
for LiveView see the scale of FWHM/HFD changes and set a bit bigger
value.
o
Coarse step - APT makes the focusing into two passes. The first is to find the
range where the focus point is using bigger steps and then find the exact point
using fine steps. Use the controller or APT to move to focuser and find how
many steps make a noticeable change in the FWHM/HFD readings. The
change should not be smaller than Threshold*2. Don't set too big step
because the second pass will be very long. Also don't set too small value
because APT can miss the FWHM/HFD change.
o
Fine step - this is the step for the fine focusing. Here you can find how many
steps are needed to see any change in FWHM/HFD (that is bigger than
Threshold). It depends on how the motor is installed, the f-ratio of the scope,
how fine the steps are and so on. The idea is that there is no need to make 5
moves if the FWHM/HFD will not change at all for less than 5 steps. Just set
Fine Step to 5.
o
Max moves - defines how many focuser moved to make before APT decided
that can't find the focus point.
o
Focus Using - defines what to use for focusing Images or LiveView - LiveView
is supported only for EOS.
The settings Threshold, Coarse/Fine Step and the backlash compensation are the things that
affect the quality and success of the auto focus. Usually these parameters are set one time
only.
Here are two scenarios how to use the automated focusing
-
Auto-Focusing with LiveView
o Make connection to the focuser from the Gear Tab
o Start LiveView. If there is need from Camera tab tune Exposure/ISO to get
good image of the star. It is better to use x5 Zoom
o Open Focus-Aid and frame the star
o
o
-
Open Auto-Focus Aid and click on Run
Wait till the process completes
Auto-Focusing with Images
o Make connection to the focuser from the Gear Tab
o Go to Camera tab. Tune Exposure/ISO/Bin and take a picture with Shoot
button
o Set the preview mode to 1:1 and scroll to the star that will be used
o Open Focus-Aid and frame the star
o Open Auto-Focus Aid and click on Run
o Wait till the process completes :)
The Auto-Focusing Aid is designed to collect data that at later stage can be used to calculate
the temperature compensation. When “Record results” is enabled APT will store data for
every successful focusing. If you want to make deep study of the focus change during the
night you can leave APT to make continuous re-focusing by enabling “Loop focusing”.
The collected data will be analyzed in the Analyzer which is expected to be ready for the next
version. Meanwhile you can use the Analyzer button to export the data in a file that to be
opened with MS Excel or similar application.
Tips&Tricks. Closer to the focus point you start Auto-Focusing faster APT will
finish.
XXVII. Multi-camera Dithering / Synchronizing
APT has powerful Dithering System that allows using dithering in a setup with multiple
cameras. When your setup contains two or more cameras there is need APT to synchronize
the moment when dithering will be made in order to be sure that none of the cameras is
taking an exposure.
Here are the summarized steps of the workflow:
-
Configuration (one time only)
o In the main APT instance open Gear->Guide->Shift+Click. Then select “MultiCamera Dithering”->Server Mode
o If there is need tune dithering parameters
o In the other APT instances open Gear->Guide->Shift+Click. Then select
“Multi-Camera Dithering”->Client Mode
-
Regular use
o Connect the cameras in all APT instances
o Start the plans in the client APT instances
o Start the plan in the server APT instance
o The Dithering System will synchronize all exposures and dithering
Here is more detailed information.
Please see Section III in order to see how to connect to multiple cameras.
Once you have started the different APT instances you have to configure a Client/Server
configuration. In the instance that controls the main camera use Shift+Click on Gear->Guide
button to open the dithering settings dialog and select from “Multi-Camera Dithering” select
“Server Mode”. Then from “Multi-Camera Sync” select the synchronization mode. Available
are two modes – “Strict” and “Loose”. In the first mode all clients and the server will make an
exposure and then will wait the server to make dithering. In “Loose” mode, if a client APT is
taking shorter exposures than the server and if there is enough time then the client will start
new exposure. For example if the server is taking 10 minutes exposure the client has time to
make several 2 minutes exposures without waiting the dithering action.
The server defines the dithering program that will be used as well as the other parameters
related to that action.
Then in the other APT instances select from “Multi-Camera Dithering” the option “Client
mode”. With this configuration is finished. There is no limitation for the number of the clients,
but the server can be only one.
The most common workflow is to connect the cameras to all APT instances and to select the
plans that will be executed. Then to start the clients first and the server last. This order allows
the Dithering System to synchronize the exposures from the first one.
If the server is started first then clients be put in SYNC state till server finish the exposure
that is in progress.
The clients <-> server connections and the server <-> guiding program connection are
checked and initialized (if there is need) on every plan start. So you don’t need to take any
additional actions.
Tips&Tricks. If you want to monitor closer the work of the Dithering System use
Ctrl+Click on the Gear->Guide button to open the Dithering System Monitor. There
you can see the status of the system in current APT instance. The server monitor can
show the status of up to 10 clients.
Tips&Tricks. If you don’t need dithering you can still use the Dithering System to
synchronize the exposures by disabling the Auto-Dithering.
XXVIII. PointCraft
PointCraft is a set of tools that are powered by platesolving technology. Platesolving is
process that identifies the stars in an image. This gives possibility to point telescope more
precisely. The solving is achieved by external application named PlateSolve2 made by
PlaneWave Instruments. Please see below for downloading and setup instructions.
Here is a list of the features of PointCraft:
-
Solve an image.
Synchronize the telescope coordinates with the coordinates of the image.
Store the found RA/DEC for use after meridian flip or in imaging session.
Determine the coordinates of every point in an image using Aim mode just with a
mouse click.
Make GoTo moves with position confirmation using GoTo++
The PlateSolve2 application is small application that can platesolve an image very fast, but to
accomplish the task it requires to provide two parameters. The Field-Of-View (FOV) size and
the approximate coordinates of the image center. If you have entered in Tools Tab the focal
length of your telescope and camera model (if there is connected camera, the model is
already selected), APT will take the care to calculate the FOV size for you. If you want to use
other FOV size, hold the Shift key when you click on Solve button.
Let describe some PointCraft usage scenarios.
1. Solving an image
-
-
Use the Img tab to load an image or take and image with Shoot button
Enter the approximate RA/Dec of the image center. You can copy-paste the
coordinates or use Object Browser (Objects button in the “Current Image” section) to
select the nearest object. If it is FITS file that contains the RA/Dec data (stored
automatically if there is connection to the scope) the coordinates will be populated.
You can also use the current telescope position by using the “Scope Pos” button.
Click on Solve button and wait the process to finish.
Once the image is solved you will see the exact coordinates of the image center in
the Results section, as well as frame orientation and the arc-seconds per pixel. Also
in the Image Preview you will see the North direction and the image center is marked
with two small circles.
Once an image is solved you can synchronize the telescope position with the image center
and get more accurate GoTo commands by the Sync button. Use this function if you have
solved and image that represents the telescope position. Also you can use the “Store”
button. It opens the Object Browser to the Custom tab, creates a new record and populates
the RA/Dec fields with the solving results. This feature is helpful if you want to save the
position and use it after meridian flip or in other imaging session.
2. Frame an object
-
Go to the object
Take an image with exposure that can show its position
Solve the Image
Click on Aim button
Click in the image to define the point that you want to be in the image center
Click on GoTo++ button or on GoTo button in Gear tab
If you use GoTo++ APT will make one or more iterations GoTo->Take Image->Solve to
confirm that the given coordinates are in the image center. The exposure parameters for the
image will be these set in Camera tab.
3. Go to saved position
-
Use Object Browser (the Objects button the “Center FOV at position” section) to
populate the Center RA/Dec coordinates with a saved object.
Click on GoTo++ button
4. Use a downloaded image
-
Load the image
Enter the approximate coordinates
Hold Shift key and click on Solve button
Enter the approximate FOV size in arc-minutes
Click on OK
In order to use PointCraft there is need to download version 2.28 or later from PlaneWave’s
site - http://planewave.com/downloads/software/
Scroll to the PlateSolve 2 section and download PlateSolve2 and UCAC3 catalog. Both are
in ZIP files which you have to extract somewhere. Then start PlateSolve2 and from “File>Configure Catalog Directories” select the folder of the catalog.
Then in APT, open Gear tab->PointCraft->Settings and using the “…” button select the folder
where PlateSolve2 is located. You may want to tune the other parameters for PointCraft
-
Plate-solving Timeout - defines how many seconds to wait platesolving to finish
-
GoTo++ Attempts - defines in how many attempts GoTo++ will try to center the target.
-
Acceptable GoTo++ Error - defines the tolerance for the GoTo++ accuracy. If
distance between the image center and the target is smaller than the entered value,
the GoTo++ is considered as successful. The value is in pixels.
-
Pause after GoTo++ move - defines how many seconds to wait after scope move
before taking an image. Usually the scope needs few seconds to settle after a move.
Increase the value if you see trailing in the images.
-
Flip the Directions - enable this option if Aim mode calculates wrong coordinates or
GoTo++ moves the scope in opposite direction.
XXIX. Keyboard shortcuts
In order to speed-up the access to the main APT functions there are 27 keyboard shortcuts.
If Tooltips are turned On (via “i” button in top right corner) you can refer the shortcuts list by
moving the mouse over the “?” button.
Here is the list:
Alt+Space - Shoot
Alt+H - Histogram
Alt+F - Focus Aid
Alt+A - Auto Focus Aid
Alt+K - Framing Masks
Alt+O - Object Browser
Alt+P - PointCraft
Alt+D - DSD Calculator
Alt+L - LiveView
Alt+T - Cross
Alt+S - Settings
Alt+G - Graphs
Alt+B - Bahtinov Aid
Alt+M - Magnifier
Alt+X - Pixel Aid
Alt+I - FITS Headers
Alt+V - Advanced GoTo
Alt+Q - Sky Quality
Alt+E - Preview Effects
F1 - Camera Tab
F2 - Gear Tab
F3 - Tools Tab
F4 - Img Tab
F5 - Plan Start/Stop
F7 - Dithering Settings
F8 - Dithering Monitor
F12 - Stop GoTo, Focuser, Wheel and Rotator moves
Support
If any problem had occurred, or you have comment or suggestion, please contact us on
[email protected]. We will take an action as soon as possible. Please include in the
mail the version you use, your operating system and camera.
Other places where you can get support and share your ideas, thoughts and images taken
with APT are:
The forum dedicated to APT - http://www.aptforum.com/
The Yahoo group named Astroplace - http://tech.groups.yahoo.com/group/Astroplace/
Also we can be contacted trough themes in some popular forums:
Звездно общество - http://forum.starrydreams.com/viewtopic.php?t=3407
Cloudy Nights http://www.cloudynights.com/ubbthreads/showflat.php?Cat=&Board=DSLR&Number=3687254
Astronomy Forums - http://www.astronomyforum.net/astronomy-digital-cameras-forum/94324astro-photography-tool-apt.html
Astronomy Shed - http://www.astronomyshed.co.uk/forum/viewforum.php?f=90
UK Astro Imaging - http://ukastroimaging.co.uk/forums/index.php?topic=48593.0
IceInSpace - http://www.iceinspace.com.au/forum/showthread.php?t=59003