PrimaLuceLab has announced the release of update 1.9.2 for its PLAY astrophotography software, introducing significant enhancements to the Sequencer feature. This update aims to streamline the process of astrophotography image acquisition, making it more efficient and user-friendly for both novice and experienced astronomers.
The newly updated Sequencer not only automates the acquisition of astrophotography images but now also includes automation for capturing calibration files such as darks, bias, and flats. This addition simplifies the workflow for users, ensuring that all necessary calibration images are collected seamlessly alongside the primary astrophotography images.
The update offers a detailed guide on utilizing the Sequencer for image sequence acquisition. Users can easily set their preferred acquisition settings and frame their target object. Once ready, the large PLAY button in the lower-right part of the PLAY window initiates the sequence, displaying a new popup window with the Sequencer.
Within the Sequencer, users can specify various parameters for each image set, including type (light, dark, bias, flat-auto, flat-manual), filter (enabled if a motorized filter wheel is connected), exposure time in seconds, binning settings, and the number of shots. Additional lines can be added, and existing ones can be modified or deleted with ease.
Located below the Sequencer table, the automatic shutdown procedure option allows users to automate the closing of caps, dome, and the parking of the telescope. It also facilitates device disconnection from PLAY and powers off the EAGLE computer if PLAY is installed on it. An autostacking option is available for users who prefer to automate the stacking process.
The Sequencer's integration with external devices such as the GIOTTO flat field generator and ALTO cover motor adds another layer of automation. When connected to the GIOTTO flat field generator, users can choose between manual and automatic flat image recording. The FLAT-MANUAL option allows users to input their preferred brightness and exposure settings, while FLAT-AUTO calculates the optimal settings automatically.
For those using the ALTO telescope cover motor, the Sequencer will manage the cap status during image acquisition. It will open the cap at the start of the sequence and close it as needed for capturing dark and bias images, provided the "Use motorized cap for DARK and BIAS capture" option is selected.
PrimaLuceLab emphasizes the importance of capturing dark and bias images in a very dark environment to avoid light pollution that could compromise the calibration files' quality. Users are advised to manually cover the telescope if there is any doubt about the environment's darkness.
Upon completion of the sequence, users receive a popup window confirming the capture of all images. The "Click here to open FITS directory" button provides quick access to the directory where all images are stored in FITS format, ensuring maximum image quality and flexibility in post-processing.
The 1.9.2 update for PrimaLuceLab's PLAY astrophotography software represents a significant advancement in automated astrophotography. By incorporating enhanced sequencing capabilities, advanced device integration, and user-friendly settings, this update aims to make the astrophotography process more efficient and accessible. Astronomers can now look forward to capturing high-quality images with greater ease and precision.
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