Capturing the Moon in Stunning Detail: A Journey with a Small Telescope

On October 8th, 2025, a remarkable image of our Moon was captured, showcasing the potential of accessible astrophotography equipment. This stunning result was achieved using a compact 50mm telescope with a 210mm focal length, paired with the IMX 715 sensor and the sophisticated live stacking capabilities of SharpCap software.

The Equipment and Technique

The beauty of this image lies not only in the subject but also in the ingenuity of the setup. A 50mm telescope, often considered a smaller aperture instrument, was employed. However, when combined with its 210mm focal length, it provides a good magnification for lunar observation and imaging. The IMX 715 sensor, known for its quality and sensitivity, was the digital eye that captured the light.

The real magic, however, happened through the use of SharpCap and its live stacking feature. Live stacking is a technique where multiple frames are captured and averaged in real-time. This process dramatically reduces noise and enhances detail, allowing even smaller telescopes to produce impressive results that rival those from larger, more expensive setups.

The Result

The resulting image is a testament to the power of modern astrophotography techniques. The craters and textures of the lunar surface are rendered with impressive clarity and sharpness, a feat that would have been challenging without the benefits of live stacking.

This image serves as an inspiration to aspiring astrophotographers, demonstrating that high-quality results are achievable with a thoughtful combination of equipment and software. It highlights that the journey into capturing the wonders of space doesn't always require the most advanced gear.

Key Takeaways for Aspiring Astrophotographers:

• Don't underestimate smaller telescopes: With the right techniques, even compact instruments can yield spectacular results.
• Embrace live stacking: This software feature is a game-changer for noise reduction and detail enhancement.
• Sensor choice matters: While not the only factor, choosing a sensitive and capable sensor can significantly improve image quality.

Keep looking up, and keep capturing the universe!