When a focus correction is required, if any, the controller computes the necessary focuser motion (how many steps and in which direction) and provides real time autofocus capability. Unlike conventional AF software, SharpLock’s advanced algorithms analyze each guide star image as it comes in, as well as their history, evaluating focus quality, and determining the required focus correction without actually having to move the focuser. This breakthrough technology is named SharpLock and it provides RTAF using the guide star during normal imaging of the target object.Īny RTAF system needs information not only about the quality of the focus (such as FWHM or HFD) but also in which direction the focuser mechanism should move to achieve focus. Recognizing that high performance astrographs and large CCD chips require an even more accurate focus, we have developed a new solution for providing real time autofocus (RTAF) operation while guiding with an ONAG®. SharpLock retrieves both, the focus quality and the focuser move (direction and amplitude), if any, to improve the focus. Unlike traditional auto-focus software looking at the size of the star for focusing using a V curve approach, SharpLock uses the shape of the star instead. There is no longer any need to slew the scope for refocusing. SharpLock continually monitors and maintains critical focus without any interruptions in imaging operations. Our patent pending SharpLock technology provides better and unique way to deal with focus changes using a true Real Time Auto Focus (RTAF) solution. It is quite common to find that the first frames after the target reacquisition have a poor FWHM due to the mechanical settling time linked to slewing. It can also result in additional problems if the mount is unsuccessful at accurately reacquiring the target after the focus routine.Īs a general rule, every time you move away from your target, you not only lose precious imaging time but you also open the door for problems. This is, at best, a time consuming procedure during which you are no longer imaging your target. The classical procedure calls for slewing the scope toward a bright enough reference star, then running an autofocus (AF) utility, such as a V curve focusing algorithm, and finally reacquiring the target. Imaging software packages typically allow for periodic refocusing. These types of issues are not easy to solve leading eventually to recurrent refocus interruptions. A less known and subtle focus problem can be traced from temperature gradients inside mirrors, as well as differential thermal inertia between secondary and primary mirrors. RCTs can deliver amazingly sharp images, but they may exhibit significant astigmatism even inside the critical focus zone, therefore they must be at best focus all the time. Maintaining best focus is crucial but over time load transfers due to the mount motion as well as changing temperature often cause a significant change in focus, see our eduction “ how much focus error is too much?” page for further information on this matter.Īdvanced scope designs, such as Ritchey-Chretien (RCT), are even more challenging on that matter. Optimal guiding Excel calculator downloadįocusing a telescope is a fundamental task for astro-photographic imaging.StarWave wavefront analyzer documentation & tutorial.SkyGuide/Guard, SkyWave documentation & tutorial.ONAG & accessories documentation & tutorial.TeamViewer Customer Support Module Download.ON Axis Guider – How does an ONAG work?.Telescope collimation using AI based wavefront sensing SkyWave mathematical models for telescopes & PPU credit reloads. SkyGuide, SkyGuard (SKG) & SkyWave (SKW).
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