A dual narrowband filter is an astrophotography filter that allows only two specific bandpasses of light to pass through. The most common wavelengths isolated in a dual narrowband filter are h-alpha (656nm) and OIII (500.7). This type of filter is intended to be used with a color astronomy camera, or, a ‘one-shot-color’ (OSC) camera. When…
This article was written by Trevor Jones. It was last updated on January 21, 2025, to include new telescope options and further clarification throughout. In this article, I will share 10 of the best astrophotography telescopes available in 2025. What makes this list of suggestions different than other websites ‘best astrophotography telescope’ lists? I’ve used…
I recently photographed a galaxy in the night sky with my telescope, using a new approach I have never tried before. The technique is not new, but it is something I’ve never actually tried on a galaxy before. Not only did it produce one of my favorite images I have ever captured, it revealed a…
The James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) has just released a new image of the Crab Nebula using its NIRCam (Near-Infrared Camera) and MIRI (Mid-Infrared Instrument). This supernova remnant lies about 6,500 light-years from Earth in the constellation Taurus. The Crab Nebula has fascinated astronomers for many years since a ‘guest star’ was first documented by…
The William Optics GT 81 (Gran Turismo) is an apochromatic refractor telescope with an innovative internal focus design (WIFD). William’s ‘Gran Turismo’ line of refractor telescopes have been around for many years, and are well enjoyed in the amateur astrophotography community. This telescope features an impressive full-frame image circle (44.4mm), which is an important specification…
The Ghost Nebula (Sh2-136) is a reflection nebula located in the constellation Cepheus. This object lies very close to the star cluster known as NGC 7023, and the Iris Nebula. The Ghost Nebula spans roughly 2 light-years across and appears as a yellowish-brown color in photographs. Its appearance is indeed ‘ghostly’ which is the origin…
This year, the Perseid meteor shower peaks on the night of August 11th. On this night, the first quarter moon will set around 11 p.m., which is the absolute best time to start watching the meteor shower. You do not need a telescope or binoculars to enjoy the Perseid meteor shower. The best way to…
Have you ever wondered what the same deep-space object would look like using two very different telescopes? I thought this was a great concept for a video (see below) and a real eye-opener for those looking into upgrading their telescope for astrophotography. For this experiment, we used two high-quality refractor telescopes that were very different…
If you are interested in the hobby of astronomy, you know the key role many U.S. observatories play in advancing the space sciences and understanding our universe. From ground-breaking discoveries to monitoring near-Earth asteroids, the research being done by astronomical observatories is essential. In addition to their scientific importance, observatories make great tourist destinations, offering…
The Cherry Springs Star Party has become an increasingly popular destination for stargazers along the east coast, for good reason. Now that the word is out about the pristine skies of Cherry Springs, the event sells out quicker every year. It is held at a state park between Coudersport and Galeton in Potter County, Pennsylvania…
The Texas Star Party is held annually at Prude Ranch in the Davis Mountains during the new moon in May. The 3,500-acre ranch sits at 5,000 feet elevation and is located six miles northwest of Fort Davis, and only 12 miles (19 km) from the McDonald Observatory. It started in 1979 as a weekend event…
You have completed the research and purchased your first telescope and now you’re wondering how to use this new piece of astronomy equipment. You’re ready to look at the moon and planets up close for the first time, and can’t wait to show your friends and family the Rings of Saturn. As a beginner, you…