John Murphy
Astrophotography
Updated 26th February 2019 Software Page
Most recent images can be found on Flicker
Thumbnail indexes:
Messier Index Bright deep sky objects
Caldwell Index More deep sky objects
NGC Index New General Catalogue (1888!)
Observing the Moon
Unlike most astronomical objects, the moon has an amazing wealth of detail that can be observed with even quite modest equipment. But where are the most interesting features? Check the current moon phase from the 'CURRENT MOON' gadget, and then select the appropriate moon phase page from the menu side bar (Located under 'Solar System'). The page will display an image of the moon at this phase, and crops from the image with descriptions of the most interesting regions to observe at this phase.
For the first 7 days (50%) after full moon, the brightness halves every 2 days. After this (crescent phases) the brightness decrease is even faster.
Imaging Calander (Deep sky Image Table)
Have you ever wondered 'what should I image tonight?' If so, this sortable table might just help. The table contains all the deep sky objects that I have imaged. The last column in the table displays the approximate RA of the object, and the month when the object is at the meridian at midnight (UT / GMT). For example, "08 Jan end" indicates that the object is approximatly at RA 8h, and towards the end of January you should be able to image it all night. So, simply sort the table on the last column, and draw up your imaging list!