SpiralCam - Astrophotography 4.0

M42 Orion Nebula and M51 Whirlpool Galaxy by Mike Weasner.
M83 Pinwheel Galaxy by Yongchong Loh.

It can be quite challenging to capture the intricate spiral arms of galaxies. Originating from Singapore, this application offers the capability to photograph galaxy M83 using a 114mm or 8" telescope. A demonstration video is available here.

Observing the spiral arm detail of M83 through a manual Dobsonian 8" telescope typically requires approximately a minute.

The application employs long exposure techniques and image stacking to enhance image quality. It comprehensively handles star identification, tracking, alignment, and stacking processes. By utilizing this app, users can unveil celestial objects that may not be perceptible through the telescope alone. It is compatible with manual, goto, or equatorial mounts.

Equipment needed includes a straightforward phone adapter that can be easily purchased online.

Operational instructions involve manually focusing the telescope on a deep-sky object, inserting the phone adapter with the eyepiece into the telescope, initiating the app to access deep sky treasures, and adjusting the telescope to maintain the galaxy within the view of the eyepiece. The software takes charge of identifying and stacking stars throughout this process.

Users have the option to allow the app to automatically select stars for tracking by pressing start or manually choose two stars before commencing tracking. Even after tracking has commenced, users retain the flexibility to select different stars for tracking by tapping them on the screen.

For imaging purposes, an additional "Nebula" function is available. Enabling this mode (indicated by a white color) is advisable when capturing bright objects like the Orion Nebula. Conversely, if targeting faint objects like galaxies, ensure that the Nebula function remains inactive (displayed in red).

This application is tailored for amateur astronomers seeking to explore and photograph celestial wonders with enhanced precision.