Skip to main content

Posts

Building a Nuno's Robotized Flat Field Cover for Astrophotography

Building a Nuno's Robotized Flat Field Cover for Astrophotography Astrophotography is a fascinating practice that allows for the capture of detailed images of the cosmos. However, it requires specialized equipment to ensure the stability and precision needed for long exposures. In this project, we developed a Robotized Flat Field Cover specifically designed to perform flats, which are images used to calibrate astronomical photographs, removing imperfections and enhancing the final photo quality.  Project Objective Create a Robotized Flat Field Cover capable of performing flats efficiently and precisely, and protect the lenses from dust and atmospheric conditions. All that using readily available market materials and 3D-printed components. The project aimed for high precision and durability, ensuring ease of assembly and maintenance.  Materials Used Microcontroller (such as Arduino) Servo motors Led Strip Power supply 3D Printing PLA(tests) PTEG filament Screws and nuts Some...

SN2011dh, discovered in the famous Whirlpool Galaxy (M51)

The supernova SN2011dh , discovered in the famous Whirlpool Galaxy (M51) , has captivated astronomers and the public alike since its explosion in May 2011.  This stellar event, classified as a Type II supernova, marked the dramatic end of a massive star's life cycle. Astronomers around the world turned their telescopes towards M51 , eager to observe and study the intricacies of this cosmic phenomenon. The supernova was first detected by amateur astronomer Tom Reiland and quickly confirmed by professional observatories. Its brightness and relatively close proximity to Earth made SN2011dh an exceptional opportunity for detailed observation and analysis. Researchers utilized a range of instruments, from ground-based telescopes to space observatories like the Hubble Space Telescope, to gather data across multiple wavelengths. One of the key insights from SN2011dh was the identification of its progenitor star. Pre-explosion images from the Hubble Space Telescope revealed a yellow sup...

Astronomical Publications and Contributions

Astronomical Publications and Contributions Rui Branco (RBR) - CCD Observer in the MEDÚZA / HERO project, Variable Stars and Exoplanets Section, Czech Astronomical Society (Česká astronomická společnost). Contribution recognized in the official report: Česká astronomická společnost (2011) — Výroční zpráva České astronomické společnosti za rok 2011 (Relatório Anual da Sociedade Astronómica Checa). Listed as a CCD observer in the MEDÚZA/HERO ranking (10th place, 37 observations). Published on:   ČAS Annual Report 2011 .