This is my first pass for an imaging session checklist. It should help you get the most out of an evening
out under the stars. I would appreciate any comments. Send me an email
Before You Go
- All new equipment tested
- All software installed and tested with current software
- All software disks available for emergency re-installations
- Batteries fully charged (computers, cameras, radios...)
- Camera desiccant recharged on ___________
- Color filters checked for dust
- Camera power cable
- Camera parallel/USB cable for computer connection
- Camera relay adapter cable
- Camera filter wheel cables
- Camera water hoses
- Camera secondary power supply and cables
At the Telescope
- Telescope balanced in Dec
- Telescope slightly heavy in the east
- All cables managed, mount swung through expected range of motion
- Focal reducer verified, or not installed
- Focusser and motors checked
- Feldstein Adapter/SCT Adapter (no set screws)
- Guide scope aligned
- Telrad aligned
- All bolts tightened
At the Computer
- Imaging plan complete - You know what to image tonight
- Guide stars selected, watch for double stars
- Exposure times for the evening determined
- L and/or LRGB strategy mapped out
- CCD binning level noted
- Flat ready to be taken at end of twilight
- First dark taken after flat
- Focus verified
- Thermometer checked and temperature recorded
- Dew (or lack of) noted
- Cables checked
- Data backup plan identified
- 2 minute test exposure complete
During the Night
- Temperature checked hourly, focus adjusted and recorded
- Cables checked after every new object
- Dark frame taken between objects
- Data backed up
End of the Night
- Everything off, including the mount
- Telescope covered
- At least two sets of data available
- Go to sleep