Sol is Back: Capturing Our Star with a Smartphone
It's always a thrill when our local star, Sol, puts on a good show. Recently, an astrophotographer managed to capture a fantastic image of the Sun, showcasing its activity and demonstrating the incredible capabilities of modern smartphone cameras when paired with the right equipment.
The Gear Behind the Shot
This incredible image was made possible using a combination of accessible yet powerful tools:
- Telescope: Celestron Astromaster 130eq
- Eyepiece: 10mm
- Solar Filter: Celestron Solar Filter
- Camera: Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 Pro
The Process: From Raw Data to Stunning Image
The process involved capturing a short 4K video, which was then rendered into approximately 400 individual images. To achieve the final result, a rigorous stacking process was employed, utilizing software like Autostakkert. Out of the 400 images, only about 25 were stacked, highlighting the importance of manual intervention and skill in selecting the best frames for processing. This approach, often referred to as 'Manual APs' (Astrophotography Processing), is crucial for refining details and reducing noise.
What This Means for Aspiring Astronomers
This successful capture is a testament to the fact that you don't always need the most expensive equipment to achieve breathtaking results in astrophotography. With a good smartphone, a decent telescope, and the right filters and processing techniques, even the Sun can be a rewarding subject for observation and imaging. It encourages enthusiasts to experiment and push the boundaries of what's possible with their gear.
Keep looking up!
