Astrophotography Blog: May 2016

Tuesday, May 31, 2016

Long Island Astrophotography - Custer Astronomical Observatory

Custer Astronomical Observatory is the oldest public observatory on Long Island, founded in 1927 and still active today. It remains a community hub for astronomy education, public stargazing events, and member observing sessions. These night-sky photos were taken during my visit, using a Canon 60Da and EF 16–35mm f/2.8L II USM lens (ISO 6400, 20–30 seconds). The observatory grounds include a classic research dome, a large radio telescope — an inspiring place for both amateur and professional astronomers, as well as astrophotographers who enjoy night-sky observation and imaging.

Long Island Astrophotography at Custer Astronomical Observatory – dome and radio telescope under night sky

Long Island Astrophotography - Custer Astronomical Observatory - Dome and Radio Telescope

Custer Observatory radio telescope with bright Jupiter over Long Island night sky

Custer Observatory Radio Telescope and Jupiter - Long Island Astrophotography

Big Dipper rising above the Custer Observatory dome during Long Island nightscape photography

Custer Observatory Dome and Big Dipper - Long Island Astrophotography

Interior of the Susan Mini Observatory at Custer Observatory during night landscape photography

Susan Mini Observatory inside Custer Observatory - Night Landscape

Silent Sky over Custer Astronomical Observatory on Long Island during night astrophotography

Silent Sky - Custer Observatory Long Island

Custer Astronomical Observatory continues to operate as an active nonprofit organization with weekly public observing nights, lectures, and special astronomy events. The site includes a main dome, a large radio telescope, and several smaller member-owned observatories. Amateur astronomers store their telescopes on-site and regularly conduct observations, making Custer one of the most vibrant astronomy communities in the New York region.

Monday, May 9, 2016

Peru Astrophotography

Finally, my dream happens and I was able to see south sky – Southern Cross, Alpha Centauri, Large Magellanic Cloud etc. These photos were done during my trip to Peru, Central Andes, near Inca sacred valley and Cusco city - Chinchero village. I had limited time for astrophotography during shopping time of our women. Altitude is about 3,762 m or 12,339 ft. At such altitude the sky absolutely amazing! You really feel that stars are much closer.

Canon EOS 60Da, EF16-35mm f/2.8L II USM lens, ISO-4000, f/2.8, 30 seconds. on this photo you can see Alpha Centauri which is the closest star to the Sun, just 4.37 light-years. Thinking about next vacation :)

Peru Astrophotography - Milky Way and Alpha Centauri

Canon EOS 60Da, EF16-35mm f/2.8L II USM lens, ISO-4000, f/2.8, 30 seconds. Peru is on South hemisphere and on the photo you can find the south pole (3 1/2 times the distance between Gacrux and Acrux).