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Posts Tagged ‘terrestrial telescope photography’

terrestrial telescope

April 5th, 2010 admin Comments off


terrestrial telescope

Orion StarBlast 4.5 Astro Telescope Orion StarBlast 4.5 Astro Telescope

Sale Price: $199.99

 

Description

Orion StarBlast 4.5 Astro Reflector TelescopeLaunch a lifetime of stargazing with this compact, ready-to-use telescopeTop-notch optics show you the moon, the planets, the stars and moreScope comes fully assembled so you can go from box to backyard in minutesHigh-quality optics, point-and-view ease of use, remarkable portability, all for less than $200Your ticket to space-tourism without the zero-G nauseaMaybe it's because many of us started out with those frustrating little department store refractors, but at Orion we strive to offer quality telescopes for beginners that are easy to use and will inspire their natural inclination to explore.The Orion StarBlast is one such telescope. Pint-sized in stature, it's a real reflecting telescope that's super-simple to use and yet manufactured with the kind of quality you'd expect in more expensive models.The Orion StarBlast is a point-and-view telescope that swivels smoothly on its sturdy, low-profile base. No complicated setup is required. In fact, it comes pre-assembled and ready for action right out of the box! Just carry it outdoors by its built-in handle, place it on the ground or on a picnic bench, and let the fun begin!Inside the StarBlast's 18"-long steel tube are real, quality telescope optics, including a 114mm (4.5") parabolic mirror. With the two Explorer II telescope eyepieces, upcoming skywatchers will see spectacular views of the Moon's craters, the planets, star clusters, and lots of other exotic space stuff. Aiming the Orion StarBlast is easy with the EZ Finder II "red dot" finder scope. The package also includes an eyepiece rack and a snap-on dust cap.The Orion StarBlast will not only give beginners hour after hour of fun, but will also nurture their interest in the night sky. One-year limited warranty. This item cannot be shipped internationally due to its size and weight.

Features

  • Compact 4.5-inch (113-mm) f/4 Newtonian reflector, comes ready to use
  • Only 25 inches tall, it makes a great "grab-and-go" telescope for impromptu observation sessions
  • With a tabletop altitude-azimuth mount, 6- and 17-mm Explorer II 1.25-inch eyepieces

terrestrial telescope

 

13 Unsolved Scientific Puzzles!

1. MOST OF THE UNIVERSE IS MISSING

We can only account for 4 per cent of the cosmos

If you’re wondering what the LHC might do for you, how’s this: it might just find a whole quarter of the universe. The collider is hoping to create some particles of what physicists call "dark matter", an enigma that is thought to make up roughly 25 per cent of the universe. Then there is the "dark energy", a mysterious force that seems to be ripping space and time apart. In total, a whopping 96 per cent of the universe has gone AWOL. Unless, that is, we’ve got our maths all wrong. Watch this space.

Times Archive: Pioneer 11 arrival at Saturn, 1974

3. VARYING CONSTANTS

Destabilising our view of the universe

A decade ago, we discovered that the fundamental constants of physics might not be so constant after all. These are the numbers that describe just how strong the forces of nature are, and make the laws of physics work when we use them to describe the processes of nature. Light that has travelled across the universe from distant stars tells us those laws might have been different in the past. Though the physical laws and constants have helped us define and tame the natural world, they might be an illusion.

4. COLD FUSION

Nuclear energy without the drama

In 1989, the world was rocked by claims that you could release nuclear energy without a catastrophic explosion. Various failures to replicate or explain these results soon ended the careers of the scientists involved. But, despite what you might have heard, "cold fusion" never really went away. Over a 10-year period from 1989, US navy labs ran more than 200 experiments to investigate whether nuclear reactions generating more energy than they consume - supposedly only possible inside stars - can occur at room temperature. Numerous researchers have since pronounced themselves believers. With controllable cold fusion, many of the world’s energy problems would melt away: no wonder the US Department of Energy is interested again.

5. LIFE

Are you more than just a bag of chemicals?

Are you more than the sum of the inanimate chemicals that make up your body? What turns a living tree into a lifeless piece of wood? No one knows. Researchers have even given up trying to define what life is. But they are still trying to understand it - by making it from scratch. In labs across the world, people are taking the raw materials of living things and trying to put them together in a way that makes them come alive. In an effort to resolve the anomalous nature of life, the idea of scientists playing God has taken a whole new turn. Times Archive: Dr Edmund Leach on when scientists play God, 1968

6. METHANE FROM MARTIANS

NASA scientists found evidence for life on Mars. Then they changed their minds

On July 20, 1976, the Viking landers scooped up some Martian soil and mixed it with radioactive nutrients. The mission’s scientists all agreed that if radioactive methane was released from the soil, something must be eating the nutrients - and there must be life on Mars. The experiment gave a positive result, but NASA denied an official detection of Martian life. Today, there is even more evidence that something is creating methane on Mars. Is it life? The Viking experiment suggests it was. Martin Rees, England’s astronomer royal, calls the search for extraterrestrial life the most important scientific endeavour of our time. But have we already found it? Times Archive: Spacecraft evidence suggests life on Mars was possible, 1976

7. THE WOW! SIGNAL

Has ET already been in touch?

It was an electromagnetic pulse that came from the direction of the Sagittarius constellation. It lasted 37 seconds and had exactly the characteristics predicted for an alien signal. Maybe that’s why, on 15 August 1977 it caused astronomer Jerry Ehman to scrawl "Wow!" on the printout from Big Ear, Ohio State University’s radio telescope in Delaware. The nearest star in that direction is 220 light years away. If that really is where is came from, it would have had to be a pretty powerful astronomical event - or an advanced alien civilisation using an astonishingly large and powerful transmitter. More than 30 years later, its origin remains a mystery. Times Archive: ET, The Extra Terrestrial, The Times review 1982

8. A GIANT VIRUS

It’s a freak that could rewrite the story of life

Mimivirus is sitting in a freezer in Marseille. Around thirty times bigger than the rhinovirus that gives you a common cold, it is by far the biggest virus known to science. But this virus’s biggest impact won’t be on the healthcare systems of the globe. It will be, most likely, on the history of life on Earth. Mimivirus doesn’t fit with the established story of how life on Earth got going. Mimi has a genome that, in parts, looks like yours. Mimivirus seems to be part of the story of life on Earth. It may even make us rewrite it.

9. DEATH

Evolution’s problem with self-destruction

Why must we die? It is a question that splits biologists, and over the years, theories have been batted back and forth as new evidence comes to light. One answer is that death is simply necessary - to avoid overcrowding, for instance. But evolution doesn’t - can’t - select for a "death switch" because evolution is supposed to be all about the inpidual. And yet there does seem to be a death switch: researchers have managed to locate genetic switches that massively extend the lifespan of some nematode worms. Can we solve the riddle of death? Times Archive: Why die? Experiments in immortality, 1921

10. SEX

There are better ways to reproduce

Sex is everywhere, but no one knows why. It is a question that "better scientists than I have spent book after book failing to answer," says Richard Dawkins. To Charles Darwin, the reason for the prevalence of sexual reproduction was "hidden in darkness". All the arguments in favour of sexual reproduction are countered by stronger arguments in favour of self-cloning: asexual reproduction, where an organism produces a copy of itself, is a much more efficient way to pass your genes down to the next generation. There’s no proof that sex makes a species more resilient, or better placed to cope with change. Why is it still around? Times Archive: Darwin on the Descent of Man, 1871 Part 1 Part 2

11. FREE WILL

Your decisions are not your own

Our gut instinct, our experience, is that we make the decisions to move, to think, to eat, to steal, to lie, to punch and kick. We have constructed the entire edifice of our civilisation on this idea. But science says this free will is a delusion. According to the world’s best neuroscientists, we are brain-machines. Our brains create the sense that somewhere within them is the "you" that makes decisions. But it is an illusion; there is no ghost in the machine. What does this mean for our sense of self? And for our morality - can we prosecute people for acts over which they had no conscious control? Times Archive: Necessity and free will, 1877

12. THE PLACEBO EFFECT

Who’s being deceived?

The placebo effect used to be thought of as just a manipulation, a mind-trick. Doctors wore white coats, spoke in soothing tones, exuding confidence and medical know-how, and if they told you a pill would make you better, it would. By the time you found out it was just a sugar pill, you were feeling great, so who cares? Well, lots of people, actually, because our new understanding of placebo is messing up medicine. Some prescription drugs that were judged to perform "better than placebo" in clinical trials don’t work unless you know you’re taking them. All in all, the gold standard of medicine, the placebo-controlled clinical trial, is looking a little peaky. Times Archive: Science report: Endorphins and the placebo effect, 1978

13. HOMEOPATHY

It’s patently absurd, so why won’t it go away?

Homeopathy’s claim is that you can take a substance of dubious properties, dilute it to the point where there are no molecules of the original substance left in the sample you have, and still use it to heal sickness. Sir John Forbes, the physician to Queen Victoria’s household, called it "an outrage to human reason." There is no justification in all of science for this idea — and yet there remains some slim evidence that homeopathy works. How can this be? Times Archive: Advertisement: The New Homoeopathy, 1914

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Need help focusing my telescope on planets?

I bought the Celestron Astromaster 114 EQ Newtonian mount reflector a few weeks ago. Aperture is 114 mm, focal length is 1000mm, it came with two eyepieces: 20 mm and 10mm. Star Diagonal is 1.25 inch.

So here's my problem: i can focus it in the sky well, but after focusing, the stars & planets I see through the eye pieces are the same size as I would see using my naked eye! I am a little bummed about this, I am not able to understand why there is no magnication of planets. There are two planets in the sky which I can easily make out through my naked eye, but when I focus on them, they appear in the same size and dont get magnified! When I foucs on terrestrial objects, there is good magnification and I can see far off objects quite well! But when it comes to sky, I dont understand why there is no magnification.

Any advice will help. Also, do I have to buy more powerful eye pieces? If so what size?

There is nothing wrong with your telescope. The problem is with your expectations.

First of all, stars. There is no telescope on Earth which can show a star as anything other than a point of light: all stars are so far away that they will never show a disk. However, if you look at a double star, such as Mizar in the handle of the Big Dipper, you will see that the separation between the components increases greatly with magnification.

Secondly, planets. The planets are all much smaller than beginners expect. Mars is particularly disappointing in this respect. Your telescope really is magnifying them by the amount calculated (50x with the 20mm, 100x with the 10mm), but the disk is so small to start with that you don't realise this. At present the disk of Mars is incredibly small, and requires at least an 8" telescope and at least 250x to show it. You should do better with Saturn, which is now rising in the East in the evening sky, but again it will be smaller than you expect, and will require quite a bit of training of your eye to see much detail.

I'd try an eyepiece around 7mm focal length (143x). That's probably about the most magnification your telescope can support.

Galileo GMEQ SC Astro Terrestrial Refractor Telescope NIB Equitorial Mount
Galileo GMEQ SC Astro Terrestrial Refractor Telescope NIB Equitorial Mount
Paypal   US $100.00
MEADE ETX 70EC ASTRONOMICAL TERRESTRIAL TELESCOPE
MEADE ETX 70EC ASTRONOMICAL TERRESTRIAL TELESCOPE
Paypal   US $274.99
New Protocol Terrestrial Astonomical Telescope 225 x 50mm
New Protocol Terrestrial Astonomical Telescope 225 x 50mm
Paypal   US $14.99
BSA Optics 10 30x30mm Terrestrial Pocket Telescope NEW IN BOX
BSA Optics 10 30x30mm Terrestrial Pocket Telescope NEW IN BOX
Paypal   US $39.95
Celestron SkyMaster Giant 15x70 Binoculars with Tripod Adapter Celestron SkyMaster Giant 15x70 Binoculars with Tripod Adapter

List Price: $119.95
Sale Price: $53.85
You save: $66.10 (55%)

 

Description

Celestron and ;s SkyMaster Series of large aperture binoculars are a phenomenal value for high performance binoculars ideal for astronomical viewing or for terrestrial (land) use - especially over long distances. Each SkyMaster model features high quality BAK-4 prisms and multi-coated optics for enhanced contrast. Celestron has designed and engineered the larger SkyMaster models to meet the special demands of extended astronomical or terrestrial viewing sessions. The 15x70 version is one of the most popular models in the series. It offers serious large aperture light gathering in an affordable and reasonably lightweight configuration.

Binoculars come in a wide range of shapes and sizes these days, and an even wider range of prices. It's easy to spend less than $100 or more than $500 for what may appear to be, at least outwardly, comparable models. While they may look the same, they are probably quite different on the inside. Recently, the binocular market has seen a flood of giant binoculars at prices that were unheard of just a few years ago. In general, giant binoculars are defined as those that magnify the view 10 times or more and have 70-mm or larger front (objective) lenses. It used to be that the least expensive giant binoculars cost in excess of $150, even $200. All that changed not long ago, when the bottom fell out of the price cellar. Now, several companies import giant binoculars that sell for half that, or less. Celestron's 15x70 SkyMaster binoculars are one of the leaders in the low-price giant binocular arena. They certainly sound good on paper. The SkyMasters include multicoated optics and BaK-4 internal prisms, two features that promise brighter, better images, and key points to look for when judging a pair of binoculars. They also come with an adapter for attaching them to a photo tripod, which is a must to use them to their fullest, and a soft carrying case. But just because they are cheap doesn't always mean they are worth the price. Would it be better to save up for a more expensive pair? To find the answer, I had an opportunity recently to judge the SkyMasters against a pair of Fujinon 16x70 FMT-SX binoculars , one of the finest pairs of giant binoculars sold today. Like the SkyMasters, the Fujinons feature BaK-4 prisms, but also have fully multicoated optics. As a general rule, superior coatings mean superior image sharpness and contrast. But then, that should be expected, given that the Fujinons cost many times more than the Celestrons. While the Fujinons were clearly the better performer, the Celestron SkyMasters held up admirably. Image brightness, quality, and contrast were all remarkable considering their bargain price. Although images were a little soft across the outer 25% of the Celestron's field, the overall view was impressive nonetheless. Some inexpensive binoculars have very sloppy focusing, causing the eyepieces to tilt and shift. Not so with the SkyMasters. I found that their center-focusing mechanism worked smoothly, with no apparently backlash or wobble. Eye relief (the distance you hold your eyes away from the eyepieces to see the full field) is stated to be 18 mm, a good distance for higher power binoculars and an important consideration if you must wear glasses when viewing. The SkyMasters are also light enough to support by hand for short periods of time, although buyers would be well advised to mount them on a sturdy photo tripod. The bottom line is, if you are considering a pair of giant binoculars, whether for bird watching, stargazing, or another recreational use, and have a limited budget, Celestron's giant 15x70 SkyMasters represent an excellent value. --Phil Harrington, author of Star Ware and Star Watch Pros: Exceptional value for the price Light enough to support by hand BaK-4 prisms Multicoated optics Cons: Outer 25% of the field is soft and a little blurry Requires a tripod to use for extended periods

Features

  • Multi-coated optics
  • Large aperture perfect for low light conditions and stargazing
  • Tripod adapter
  • 13 mm (0.51 in) long eye relief ideal for eyeglass wearers
  • Diopter adjustment for fine focusing
Celestron 21061 AstroMaster 70 AZ Refractor Telescope Celestron 21061 AstroMaster 70 AZ Refractor Telescope

List Price: $183.95
Sale Price: $99.99
You save: $83.96 (46%)

 

Description

TE3) Celestron astromaster 70AZ scope

Features

  • Quick and easy no-tool setup
  • Permanently mounted StarPointer
  • Erect image optics - Ideal for terrestrial and astronomical use
  • Quick release dovetail attachment - no tool setup
  • Pan handle Alt-Az control with clutch - for smooth and accurate pointing
Celestron 93625 Universal 1.25-inch Camera T-Adapter Celestron 93625 Universal 1.25-inch Camera T-Adapter

List Price: $30.95
Sale Price: $20.95
You save: $10.00 (32%)

 

Description

Fits (drop in style) any type of telescope that uses a 1.25" focuser or visual back. Allows you to attach your 35mm SLR camera to the prime focus of your telescope or spotting scope. Both a T-Adapter and T-Ring are required to mount a 35mm SLR camera to your instrument.

Features

  • Allows attachment of 35mm SLR camera to the prime focus of your telescope
  • Great for terrestrial, short exposure lunar and planetary photography
  • Use with separate guidescope for long exposure deep-sky photography
  • Fits any type of telescope that uses a 1.25-inch focuser or visual back
  • Both a T-Adapter and T-Ring are required to mount camera
Orion StarBlast 4.5 Astro Telescope Orion StarBlast 4.5 Astro Telescope

Sale Price: $199.99

 

Description

Orion StarBlast 4.5 Astro Reflector TelescopeLaunch a lifetime of stargazing with this compact, ready-to-use telescopeTop-notch optics show you the moon, the planets, the stars and moreScope comes fully assembled so you can go from box to backyard in minutesHigh-quality optics, point-and-view ease of use, remarkable portability, all for less than $200Your ticket to space-tourism without the zero-G nauseaMaybe it's because many of us started out with those frustrating little department store refractors, but at Orion we strive to offer quality telescopes for beginners that are easy to use and will inspire their natural inclination to explore.The Orion StarBlast is one such telescope. Pint-sized in stature, it's a real reflecting telescope that's super-simple to use and yet manufactured with the kind of quality you'd expect in more expensive models.The Orion StarBlast is a point-and-view telescope that swivels smoothly on its sturdy, low-profile base. No complicated setup is required. In fact, it comes pre-assembled and ready for action right out of the box! Just carry it outdoors by its built-in handle, place it on the ground or on a picnic bench, and let the fun begin!Inside the StarBlast's 18"-long steel tube are real, quality telescope optics, including a 114mm (4.5") parabolic mirror. With the two Explorer II telescope eyepieces, upcoming skywatchers will see spectacular views of the Moon's craters, the planets, star clusters, and lots of other exotic space stuff. Aiming the Orion StarBlast is easy with the EZ Finder II "red dot" finder scope. The package also includes an eyepiece rack and a snap-on dust cap.The Orion StarBlast will not only give beginners hour after hour of fun, but will also nurture their interest in the night sky. One-year limited warranty. This item cannot be shipped internationally due to its size and weight.

Features

  • Compact 4.5-inch (113-mm) f/4 Newtonian reflector, comes ready to use
  • Only 25 inches tall, it makes a great "grab-and-go" telescope for impromptu observation sessions
  • With a tabletop altitude-azimuth mount, 6- and 17-mm Explorer II 1.25-inch eyepieces
Orion Observer 70mm Altazimuth Refractor Telescope Orion Observer 70mm Altazimuth Refractor Telescope

Sale Price: $139.99

 

Description

Our Observer 70 is the perfect telescope for that budding astronomer in your family. This scope excels in both quality and performance. Its 70mm multi-coated achromatic objective lens - focal length 700mm focal length (f/10) - gathers 36% more light than a 60mm. And it's made of glass, not plastic, as you'd find in many department store models. The optical tube is supported on a sturdy aluminum tripod with accessory tray. This altazimuth model can also be used for terrestrial viewing. Standard accessories include a 10mm (70x) Explorer II eyepiece, a 25mm (28x) Explorer II eyepiece, 90-deg mirror star diagonal, and an EZ Finder II finder scope. One-year limited warranty.

Features

  • Entry-level refractor telescope for beginners.
  • 70mm (2.75-inch) aperture lens captures the vivid night sky.
  • The Observer 70 AZ's altazimuth mount and the adjustable tripod helps panning motion.
  • 2 X Explorer II 1.25-inch eyepieces (25mm, and 10mm focal lengths), an EZ Finder II reflex sight, and a 90-degree mirror diagonal
  • Also suitable for daytime terrestrial views with a correct-image diagonal (sold separately.
ASTRONOMICAL TELESCOPE ASTRONOMICAL TELESCOPE

Sale Price: $25.99

 

Description

Here's a great beginners telescope for backyard astronomers! Three interchangeable lens give you the option of 20mm, 30mm and 40mm viewing.

Features

  • Make the stars come to you!
  • This Astronomical Telescope with diagonal mirror and tripod is perfect for stargazing!
  • Telescope includes 20x, 30x, and 40x power lenses.
  • Box includes complete detailed components of the telescope.
  • For ages 8 and up.
Celestron 71012 SkyMaster 20-100x70 Zoom Binoculars Celestron 71012 SkyMaster 20-100x70 Zoom Binoculars

List Price: $143.95
Sale Price: $70.37
You save: $73.58 (51%)

 

Description

SkyMaster 20-100x70 Zoom

Features

  • Phenomenal value for high performance binoculars
  • Ideal astronomy binocular for astronomical viewing and also for terrestrial (land) use
  • 20x-100x Zoom Magnification
  • Weather Resistant
  • Engineered to meet the special demands of extended astronomical or terrestrial viewing sessions.
Celestron 21068 SkyScout Scope 90mm Telescope with Sky Scout Mounting Braket Celestron 21068 SkyScout Scope 90mm Telescope with Sky Scout Mounting Braket

List Price: $403.95
Sale Price: $264.99
You save: $138.96 (34%)

 

Description

The Celestron® SkyScout® Scope 90 is designed exclusively for use with the SkyScout™ Personal Planetarium (not included). The SkyScout® Scope 90 is easy to set-up, nearly maintenance-free and features Celestron's precision optics. It comes with a pre-assembled tripod to provide a rigid and stable viewing platform.

Features

  • 90mm refractor optical design with all coated glass optics and 660mm (f/7) focal length for crisp, clear images
  • Quick and easy no tool setup
  • Erect image 6x30 finderscope with quick-release bracket
  • Erect image optics are ideal for terrestrial and astronomical use
  • Convenient pan handleccurate pointing with built-in clutch for easy targeting and smooth motion.
Sharing the Universe: Perspectives on Extraterrestrial Life Sharing the Universe: Perspectives on Extraterrestrial Life

Sale Price: $49.08

 

Description

Scientists are scanning the skies for extraterrestrial life. The most sophisticated search takes place at California's SETI Institute. This book explains their fascinating work to general readers.

Schaum's Outline of Astronomy (Schaum's Outline Series) Schaum's Outline of Astronomy (Schaum's Outline Series)

List Price: $18.95

 

Description

- Provides a basic introduction to the topics covered in a beginning astronomy course, with an emphasis on problem-solving methods ordinarily taught on the fly or in ad-hoc tutorials- Closes the gap in student literature by providing a focused, comprehensive presentation of basic astronomical problem-solving techniques - Readers learn by example with the help of more than 200 detailed problems and step-by-step solutions, supplemented with over 100 detailed charts and graphs- Designed to accompany all leading 100-level astronomy textbooks, or to be used as a stand-alone guide for amateur stargazers

- Provides a basic introduction to the topics covered in a beginning astronomy course, with an emphasis on problem-solving methods ordinarily taught on the fly or in ad-hoc tutorials- Closes the gap in student literature by providing a focused, comprehensive presentation of basic astronomical problem-solving techniques - Readers learn by example with the help of more than 200 detailed problems and step-by-step solutions, supplemented with over 100 detailed charts and graphs- Designed to accompany all leading 100-level astronomy textbooks, or to be used as a stand-alone guide for amateur stargazers

terrestrial telescope

telescope photography

December 26th, 2009 admin Comments off


telescope photography

Carson Optical LED Flashlight (Red) Carson Optical LED Flashlight (Red)

List Price: $5.00
Sale Price: $3.95
You save: $1.05 (21%)

 

Description

The SL-11 StarMapLight from Carson Optical is a red LED flashlight designed for low-light use, and is ideal for applications such as photography darkrooms, astronomy, and illuminating your tent without disturbing fellow campers. The light includes a convenient attached keychain, making it easy to take with you everywhere. Specifications Runs on two G13A button cell batteries (included) Measures one by 3.6 inches (W x D) One-ounce weight About Carson Optical Carson is a leading supplier of consumer optics products for major catalog companies, nationwide retailers, and direct to consumers. The company's product line covers categories from recreation, sports, hobby, education, and crafts with products ranging from high-end binoculars to low-cost magnifiers.

Carson's StarMapLight is a red LED flashlight for low-light use. Great for astronomy, photographic darkrooms, or reading theater programs without disturbing others. Handy attached keychain.

Features

  • Red LED flashlight designed for low-light use
  • Ideal for photography darkrooms, astronomy, and illuminating your tent without disturbing fellow campers
  • Includes convenient attached keychain, making it easy to take with you everywhere
  • Runs on two G13A button cell batteries (included)
  • Measures one by 3.6 inches (W x D); one-ounce weight

telescope photography

 

The Origins Of Black And White Photography

Black and white photography is a number of monochrome forms in visual art. Monochrome comes from the Greek monochromos meaning "of one colour", which is a combination of monos, meaning "alone" or "solitary" and chroma meaning "colour".

Quite basic when you break it down!

For Many decades black and white photography dominated the scene until colour was introduced. From the 16th century when the brightness and clarity of camera obscuras was improved by enlarging the hole with a telescope lens until now, we still admire the purity of black and white photography. It was not until the 17thCentury, 1727 to be exact, when Professor J. Schulze mixed chalk, nitric acid, and silver in a flask, that the first photosensitive compound was created. And in 1816 Nicéphore Niépce combines the camera obscura with photosensitive paper and created a permanent image in 1826.

In the past black and white dominated the media. Movies, television and even computers, were all monochrome. It was not until the middle of the 20th century that colour photography became popular.

Choosing a subject is essential for this type of photography, more so than choosing a subject for colour photography. While some subjects can look amazing in colour, they often look dull in black and white. Black and white photography is both the simplest and most sophisticated of all the photography disciplines. It is, honest, fresh, crisp and clean and can result in the most powerful imagery. Capitalising on its popularity, black and white photography holds its own when it comes to photographic exhibitions. Such powerful imagery can be timeless and compelling at the same time. It captures emotions, impressions, and atmosphere that depict nostalgia in a dramatic way.

In black and white photography, you will need to consider the exposure, your background, making sure that the subject is well backlit and that it does not distract from your subject. Lights and shadows are also important. For example, when you strip an image of its colour, you are left with the strictly light and shadows and subtle tones of grey. To experiment with this, you could shoot at different times during the day, that way you will learn the importance of light and shadows and how it can enhance the mood of your image. Colour is also important when considering black and white. Try and choose a subject that has fewer colours. For example; purple and green look great in colour, but in black and white, they become unrecognisable. Therefore, it is important to choose a subject that is of interest and dramatic at the same time.

Nowadays, we are seeing resurgence in black and white photography. The demand for it is rife within the media sector, such as advertising, and print form. Even consumers who want timeless photographs of their weddings and various family occasions are using black and white photography.

Most well known photographers use this medium of photography especially for people photography. From early portrait photography in the 18th century, black and white photography has had a huge impact on the success of modern photography. British photographer Julia Margaret Cameron (June 11, 1815 - January 26, 1879) became well known for her images of celebrities of her time. Even though her career was short lived, 11 years to be precise, she did not show an interest in photography until she was given a camera at the age of 48 years old. She favoured the close crop style of portraiture, a style that is still very popular today.

It is true to say that black and white photography is timeless. It can literally stop time. We only have to take a look at Ansel Adams work of the American West. Even today his images are provoking in every sense as if they could've been taken yesterday.

Of course the use of black and white vs. colour is a personal one, nevertheless, if it was not for the geniuses of the early part of the 16th century, we would not have been to capture time, of which is the essence.

About the Author

Derek Rogers is a freelance writer who represents a number of UK businesses. For exclusive
Black and White Canvas Prints
, he recommends Shapes of Virtu.

What telescope should I get?

What is the best telescope for astrophotography (I want telescopes that can result in clean, clear and crisp photos of not only the nearer objects but also distant faint objects) and also deep-sky viewing? Also what would people regard as the best 3 telescope manufacturing companies?

Example:
I want a telescope that is equivalent in capability to a Canon EOS 40D in the world of photography and dSLR's.

Well I am a keen astro photographer, but also have spent almost 45 years as a visual observer using different types of telescopes from Reflectors to Refractors. I know the sky pretty well (I was also lucky enpugh to spend much of my life in the S Hemisphere) and also what I like to image.

I cannot speak for others, and you should take my answer as only my opinion, but you said you wanted a telescope that can result in clear and crisp photos.

The first thing you need to know is that a Canon EOS 40D, whist an excellent camera will not even approach the sensitivity of an astronomical ccd camera when it comes to clear and crisp astrophotography images. These cameras are not designed for that unless you get it modified by removing the IR Filter (which vrtually blocks all the really interesting Ha wavelenths above 650 nano meters). Remember though this means daylight photography (and your warranty) is out.

Secondly the mount is more important than the telescope (or camera). Unless you have a mount which can track stars unguided for 10 minutes or so (with PEC) you will need to autoguide the mount (with a smaller guide telescope) which will enable you to take longer exposures. Stacking short exposures is possible, to avoid noise and improve the signal/noise ratio but it is not the same as a single long exposure.

Thirdly you should not decide on the equipment based upon your camera, but in the order of Mount, Telescope, then Camera. You seem to be doing it back to front and I have never heard of anybody asking for advice on a telescope that is equivalent to a camera.

Finally you asked what telescope should you get. Assuming you want to do wide field astrophotography with your unmodified Canon, or maybe the Moon and brigter objects (faint objects will not be any good for an unmodified Canon) then I would recommend an Apochromatic refractor with an aperture of 100-125mm as a minimum and a focal length f6 or less. Some people say 80mm is a good size, but this is because these are relatively cheap with a wide angle, however this may be what you want..

As for the best 3 manufacturers of small refractors (80-150mm) and mounts these are Takahashi and Astro-Physics followed quite a way back by TMB. All make excellent astrographs with no abberations.

Obviously I am a Takahashi fan. You need to do some research on what you want, because the Canon has an image scale of about 2 arc seconds per pixel, whereas the FSQ-106 from Takahashi can resolve to less than 1 arcsecond and the Canon 40D will not do it justice. But again, you need to take into account the seeing at your location, in many places resolution will never be better than 5 arcseconds, so you need a really dark site with still atmosphere to do better.

If you want to take astrophotography seriously with good equipment your budget should be about U$20,000 in total. Some spend as much as US$30-40,000.

And let me tell you from experience it takes an awful lot of time, money, effort and frustration to succed.

Concentrate on the mount first, a decent mount (Tak or AP)will probably cost about US$6-10,000, the best mount for amateurs, the Paramount by Software Bisque, is about US$13,000.

The Takahashi FSQ-106 is about US$7,000 and a decent CCD camera say SBIG is about $8-10,000.

Software is also expensive, Maxim DL which I use is about US$500 just for starters, and dont forget the laptop computer because one nights imaging uses up about 1-2 Gigabytes.

Never buy a Meade or Celestron as these are pretty poorly made.
Good luck.

New Black 90 mm Cassegrain Telescope w Digital Photography Bundle w Extras
New Black 90 mm Cassegrain Telescope w Digital Photography Bundle w Extras
Paypal   US $575.73
Carson Optical LED Flashlight (Red) Carson Optical LED Flashlight (Red)

List Price: $5.00
Sale Price: $3.95
You save: $1.05 (21%)

 

Description

The SL-11 StarMapLight from Carson Optical is a red LED flashlight designed for low-light use, and is ideal for applications such as photography darkrooms, astronomy, and illuminating your tent without disturbing fellow campers. The light includes a convenient attached keychain, making it easy to take with you everywhere. Specifications Runs on two G13A button cell batteries (included) Measures one by 3.6 inches (W x D) One-ounce weight About Carson Optical Carson is a leading supplier of consumer optics products for major catalog companies, nationwide retailers, and direct to consumers. The company's product line covers categories from recreation, sports, hobby, education, and crafts with products ranging from high-end binoculars to low-cost magnifiers.

Carson's StarMapLight is a red LED flashlight for low-light use. Great for astronomy, photographic darkrooms, or reading theater programs without disturbing others. Handy attached keychain.

Features

  • Red LED flashlight designed for low-light use
  • Ideal for photography darkrooms, astronomy, and illuminating your tent without disturbing fellow campers
  • Includes convenient attached keychain, making it easy to take with you everywhere
  • Runs on two G13A button cell batteries (included)
  • Measures one by 3.6 inches (W x D); one-ounce weight
ProVision 100 PV100 Flexible Fiberoptic Scope ProVision 100 PV100 Flexible Fiberoptic Scope

List Price: $153.75
Sale Price: $111.99
You save: $41.76 (27%)

 

Description

See inside finished walls, floors and compartments with this unique tool. Fiber optic scope has adjustable focus and a lamp to illuminate dark crevices. Flexible 18in. shaft with a 40 degree field of view. Simple one hand operation is perfect for electricians, plumbers, carpenters and mechanics. Comes in a blow molded plastic case for carrying & protection of the unit. U.S.A.

Features

  • Powerful UV diodes emits light at the Wavelength of 395nm
  • Each diode emits 25mcd at 25 degrees
  • Flexible cable fits into 1/2-inch opening
  • Pressure activated light switch
  • Protective boot, flexible eye cup, and carrying case included
Orion RedBeam SP Self-Powered LED Flashlight Orion RedBeam SP Self-Powered LED Flashlight

List Price: $29.99
Sale Price: $19.99
You save: $10.00 (33%)

 

Description

When we say our newest astro flashlight is "self powered," we mean it is powered by your own bad self! The RedBeam SP has a small hand crank that, when wound, charges an internal rechargeable battery. There's no need for any other batteries, ever! Just 1 minute of winding cranks out up to 15 minutes of red LED light! Red light preserves your dark-adapted night vision while you read star charts or check your equipment. Choose from two brightness settings, which illuminate three or all five red LEDs. The RedBeam SP can also be charged from a USB port (USB charge cable included). It can even power a cell phone in an emergency (five popular cell phone adapters are included). Get the astronomy flashlight that never needs additional batteries!

Features

  • Get the astronomy flashlight that never needs additional batteries!
  • Winding the hand crank for 1 minute pumps out up to 15 minutes of red LED light
  • Red light preserves your night vision while you read star charts or check your equipment
  • Choose from two brightness settings, which illuminate three or all five red LEDs
  • Can also be charged from a USB port, and can even power a cell phone in an emergency
Orion Roll-A-Stool Folding Observer's Chair Orion Roll-A-Stool Folding Observer's Chair

List Price: $29.99

 

Description

When you're out for an evening of observing, just unroll and voila! Your throne is ready! Oversized tubing and triple-layer polyester comfortably support up to 250 lbs. Its 18" height and generous 15" heavy canvas seat fold to 26" long and just 3" in diameter. Easy to carry -- weighs only 23 oz. and includes convenient adjustable shoulder strap.

Features

  • Portable and super-sturdy observing stool rolls up tight and stores out of sight
  • Ideal for astronomers on-the-go, or for keeping in your car just in case
  • Oversized tubing and triple-layer polyester seat comfortably supports up to 250 lbs.
  • Roll-a-Stool folds to be 26" long and just 3" in diameter for convenient portability
  • Weighs only 23 oz. and includes an adjustable shoulder strap
Earthlight Earthlight

List Price: $24.95
Sale Price: $4.93
You save: $20.02 (80%)

 

Description

EARTHLIGHT - DVD Movie

Celestron SkyMaster Giant 15x70 Binoculars with Tripod Adapter Celestron SkyMaster Giant 15x70 Binoculars with Tripod Adapter

List Price: $119.95
Sale Price: $53.85
You save: $66.10 (55%)

 

Description

Celestron and ;s SkyMaster Series of large aperture binoculars are a phenomenal value for high performance binoculars ideal for astronomical viewing or for terrestrial (land) use - especially over long distances. Each SkyMaster model features high quality BAK-4 prisms and multi-coated optics for enhanced contrast. Celestron has designed and engineered the larger SkyMaster models to meet the special demands of extended astronomical or terrestrial viewing sessions. The 15x70 version is one of the most popular models in the series. It offers serious large aperture light gathering in an affordable and reasonably lightweight configuration.

Binoculars come in a wide range of shapes and sizes these days, and an even wider range of prices. It's easy to spend less than $100 or more than $500 for what may appear to be, at least outwardly, comparable models. While they may look the same, they are probably quite different on the inside. Recently, the binocular market has seen a flood of giant binoculars at prices that were unheard of just a few years ago. In general, giant binoculars are defined as those that magnify the view 10 times or more and have 70-mm or larger front (objective) lenses. It used to be that the least expensive giant binoculars cost in excess of $150, even $200. All that changed not long ago, when the bottom fell out of the price cellar. Now, several companies import giant binoculars that sell for half that, or less. Celestron's 15x70 SkyMaster binoculars are one of the leaders in the low-price giant binocular arena. They certainly sound good on paper. The SkyMasters include multicoated optics and BaK-4 internal prisms, two features that promise brighter, better images, and key points to look for when judging a pair of binoculars. They also come with an adapter for attaching them to a photo tripod, which is a must to use them to their fullest, and a soft carrying case. But just because they are cheap doesn't always mean they are worth the price. Would it be better to save up for a more expensive pair? To find the answer, I had an opportunity recently to judge the SkyMasters against a pair of Fujinon 16x70 FMT-SX binoculars , one of the finest pairs of giant binoculars sold today. Like the SkyMasters, the Fujinons feature BaK-4 prisms, but also have fully multicoated optics. As a general rule, superior coatings mean superior image sharpness and contrast. But then, that should be expected, given that the Fujinons cost many times more than the Celestrons. While the Fujinons were clearly the better performer, the Celestron SkyMasters held up admirably. Image brightness, quality, and contrast were all remarkable considering their bargain price. Although images were a little soft across the outer 25% of the Celestron's field, the overall view was impressive nonetheless. Some inexpensive binoculars have very sloppy focusing, causing the eyepieces to tilt and shift. Not so with the SkyMasters. I found that their center-focusing mechanism worked smoothly, with no apparently backlash or wobble. Eye relief (the distance you hold your eyes away from the eyepieces to see the full field) is stated to be 18 mm, a good distance for higher power binoculars and an important consideration if you must wear glasses when viewing. The SkyMasters are also light enough to support by hand for short periods of time, although buyers would be well advised to mount them on a sturdy photo tripod. The bottom line is, if you are considering a pair of giant binoculars, whether for bird watching, stargazing, or another recreational use, and have a limited budget, Celestron's giant 15x70 SkyMasters represent an excellent value. --Phil Harrington, author of Star Ware and Star Watch Pros: Exceptional value for the price Light enough to support by hand BaK-4 prisms Multicoated optics Cons: Outer 25% of the field is soft and a little blurry Requires a tripod to use for extended periods

Features

  • Multi-coated optics
  • Large aperture perfect for low light conditions and stargazing
  • Tripod adapter
  • 13 mm (0.51 in) long eye relief ideal for eyeglass wearers
  • Diopter adjustment for fine focusing
Olympus 7X21 PC III Classic Binocular (Blue) Olympus 7X21 PC III Classic Binocular (Blue)

List Price: $65.00
Sale Price: $21.56
You save: $43.44 (67%)

 

Description

This new classic version of the popular 7x21 PC III features a stylish Classic Blue body color and features new rubber grips for a steady and comfortable performance. With built-in dioptric correction and a compact, portable design that makes it ideal for all-around outdoor use including bird watching, hiking, and travel

Features

  • Compact, lightweight body for comfort and travel
  • New non-slip rubber grips
  • High-quality glass optics and anti-reflective lens coatings
  • Center focus knob
  • Porro-prism binoculars
Nikon 7216 Action 8x40mm Binoculars Nikon 7216 Action 8x40mm Binoculars

List Price: $79.00
Sale Price: $62.00
You save: $17.00 (22%)

 

Description

New Nikon 7216 8X40 Action Birding Binoculars W/Case.Includes deluxe case, strap, instructions, and box..Aspherical eyepiece lenses with multi-coated prisms Quick central focus system 420-foot field of view at 1,000 yards Magnification: 8x Objective lens: 40mmLike the Actions with 50mm objective lenses, the 8x40 and 7x35 models in this ever-popular series have been updated with enhanced and ergonomic styling and a lower price structure. They also feature aspherical eyepiece lenses with multi-coated prisms and a quick central focus system so that there is never a delay in observation. With a field of view of over 420? at 1,000 yards, these particular models of the Action Series are a true "wide-view" binocular. For the discriminating and value-conscious outdoorsman, there is no finer binocular than the Action.

Features

  • Aspherical eyepiece lenses with multi-coated prisms
  • Quick central focus system
  • 420-foot field of view at 1,000 yards
  • Magnification: 8x
  • Objective lens: 40mm
Celestron SkyScout Personal Planetarium Celestron SkyScout Personal Planetarium

List Price: $397.95
Sale Price: $191.36
You save: $206.59 (52%)

 

Features

  • Locates and identifies over 6,000 stars, planets, and constellations with GPS technology
  • Red LED backlit display for easy-to-read information
  • Accepts SkyTour SD multi-media cards for interactive tours of the night sky
  • Includes USB port for easy download of database updates
  • Measures 7.4 x 2.5 x 4.0 inches (W x H x D)
Celestron 44102 400x Power Laboratory Biological Microscope Celestron 44102 400x Power Laboratory Biological Microscope

List Price: $185.95
Sale Price: $99.95
You save: $86.00 (46%)

 

Description

Celestron 400X Laboratory Biological Microscope. For entry - level microscopes, it's in a class of its own! Reveal the magic in everyday objects! The texture of each rock, the fragile wings of an insect, or the veins of a leaf... all magnified in magnificent detail. You open your child up to a whole new intriguing world from the moment they open the box. Dollar-for-dollar, it might be the best entry-level Scope available. Where cheap-o beginner microscopes typically utilize plastic components and flimsy construction, Celestron®'s 400X Microscope is precision made with metal components, and includes a condenser and diaphragm, which beginner scopes rarely include. And it's amazingly powerful, up to 400X to reveal details you never knew existed. For performance and quality on a tight budget, Celestron is at the head of the class! Details: 40X / 100X / 400X magnification; 10X eyepiece, with 4X, 10X and 40X objective lenses; Precision all-metal body; Fully coated optics for top clarity, contrast and brightness; Microscope head: monocular, adjustable 0-60 degrees; Includes 5 prepared slides: intestine, honey bee mouth parts, corn stem, year tilia stem, and winter jasmine leaf; 50 mm (2") mirror illumination for extra-bright image picture; Condenser and 5-disc diaphragm built-in; Coarse and fine focus knobs; Eyepiece F.O.V.: 12 degrees; Stage: Plain, 110 mm x 120 mm; Weighs 5 lbs. Order yours today! Celestron Laboratory Biological Microscope

Features

  • An entry level microscope with features such as a condenser, triple objective nosepiece, diaphragm and yet at an economical price
  • 10x eyepiece and 4x, 10x, 40x objective lenses combine to provide powers of 40x, 100x, and 400x allowing for more serious usage
  • The arm is adjustable from 0° to 60° so you can position the microscope for comfortable views
  • 50mm (2") mirror provides illumination to make details of specimen slides easier to see
  • Basic condenser is provided to concentrate the light cone onto the specimen to make it easier to observe details of the specimen

telescope photography