Google Pixel Astrophotography using Night Sight

Google's Night Sight feature on the Pixel phone offers an accessible option for capturing images of the night sky. The Google Tensor chip enables even casual photographers to take clear photos without the need for high-end equipment or advanced camera settings.

Nicholas Wilson, an astrophotographer, used the Pixel 6a to photograph the constellation Leo. He traveled to Arches National Park, Utah, to minimize light pollution and human interference. Timing his shots with the rising of Jupiter and Leo's position, Wilson used a tripod to stabilize the Pixel 6a and frame the stars against a sandstone arch. Using minimal artificial light, he captured a clear image of the night sky, highlighting the constellation. Wilson noted how the moon's light enhanced the landscape, demonstrating the phone's ability to handle low-light conditions effectively.

Google Pixel Astrophotography: The Power of Night Sight and Google Tensor

The introduction of the Google Tensor chip has enhanced the Pixel's Night Sight feature, making it easier to capture high-quality night photography. Traditionally, photographing the night sky required a DSLR camera, a telephoto lens, and a series of long exposures, followed by complex editing to reduce noise and enhance the image. Astrophotographer Tristan Greszko mentioned that his previous process involved taking over 120 long exposures and merging them to create a clear image, which was time-consuming and technically demanding.

The Pixel phones, equipped with the Google Tensor chip, can now take long-exposure photos without the need for a tripod or a steady hand. The chip detects motion before capturing the image, optimizing the process to reduce blur and ensure a sharp picture. Night Sight, first introduced on the Pixel 3, has been improved with the Tensor chip, allowing the camera to take 16 16-second photos and merge them into a single, detailed image. This process, which once took hours, can now be completed in just four minutes, with no need for post-processing.

Night Sight on Pixel phones includes a feature that automatically detects low-light conditions and activates astrophotography mode. This allows users to place their Pixel phone on a stable surface, enable Night Sight, and capture clear photographs of the night sky, including stars and surrounding landscapes. Additionally, the astro-lapse feature creates a one-second time-lapse video of the stars' movement, adding a dynamic aspect to the photos.

Preparing for the perfect shot

While technology has made astrophotography more accessible, preparation is still key to capturing the best images. Wilson, an astrophotographer, emphasizes the importance of scouting the perfect location. He spends weeks researching weather patterns, moon phases, and the position of constellations, ensuring he finds a spot far from city lights. "To get the best shots, you need a dark sky, clear weather, and an interesting foreground," Wilson advises. He also suggests bringing warm clothing and snacks, as the best shots often require patience.

Google Pixel's Night Sight feature has made astrophotography more accessible, allowing users to capture clear images of the night sky with a Pixel phone. The technology combines advanced computational photography features and the Google Tensor chip, reducing the need for specialized equipment and technical expertise. As Wilson notes, "Anybody can take these photos. If you have a desire to go take astrophotos and patience, you can get a great shot."

With Night Sight, capturing images of the night sky is not limited to professional photographers. Whether in a national park or a suburban backyard, users can now photograph and explore the universe's wonders.

Two hikers under a starlit sky captured using Night Sight on a Google Pixel phone

Photo credit: Made by Nicholas Wilson on Pixel 6a

A ​​​​​photograph of the starry night sky taken with the Night Sight feature on a Google Pixel device

Photo credit: Made by @theastropunk at Leon Mow Dark Sky Site, North of Heathcote (Bortle 2 Skies) with Pixel 5

​​​​​​A hiker standing on a mountain beneath a star-filled sky, photographed using Google Pixel's Night Sight mode

Photo credit: Made by Nicholas Wilson on Pixel 5a with 5G