Astroart Forum

Maybe I missed it but I am wondering about the following:
Is it possible to have AstroArt execute a script right from the start, e.g. like in a command line: "AstroArt64 C:\Data\startup.txt"?
This is to get the whole setup ready for (automated) observation.
Thanks
Bernd

Hello Fabio, Thanks for the script and your valuable comments. I will use that. Yes, and also an option in the Meridian Flip Monitor would be a helpful tool. Before or after the plate solve, doesn't really matter, unless there is a large image shift (like with some SC telescopes at high focal length...

Hello Duncan,
Thanks for the quick reply. Yes, this is usually possible to time everything so the flip occurs only after one object is finished. But things may not always work out in this ideal manner.
Therefor my question.
Appreciate your answers
Bernd

Is it possible to force an autofocus (normal or full-frame) after a meridian flip, ideally before the "plate solve and center telescope command"? This is helpful to compensate for mirror and focus shift.

An update for the group: I have sorted out most of my automation needs in the meantime. By using the "dome", "weather", "Safety" connections in AA, things work pretty well. Also, the two "switches" do work ok. One help is the ASCOM switch hub V1.1.1 from "Dark Sky Geek", by Julian Lecomte. It works ...

In AA9, it should work from the Camera control window, "Other..." , "Flat Panel". It is called "Cover calibrator" in accordance with ASCOM standard.
Hope this helps.
Good luck
Bernd

Very impressive, Duncan. Congrats.
Appreciate also that you shared your processing steps. That is most helpful.
Clear skies
Bernd

Re-tested today with both BW and RGB-images. Works well as it should.
Thanks again
Bernd

Hello rudi,
very nice and helpful. Is it also working with a color image (RGB)?
Appreciate you sharing this work!
Bernd

Hello Fabio, Appreciate your quick Reply. Thanks for picking this up in a future release. I'll be happy to do the beta testing once available. And yes, I could spare the third switchbox by using an outlet on the Dragonfly, as an example, or use a second AstroArt instance. Not sure yet which way I'll...

I am working on the automation of my backyard observatory. I have used the "Switches" in AstroArt to control my Pegasus Advanced Powerbox (PPBADV) with success. Now, I am going to add an additional switch box (a Lunatico "Dragonfly") to control the observatory itself (It is kind of a roll-off observ...

I am saving different setups (scopes, cameras, locations) under "options", "Observatory" and select the appropriate one when needed. THis is not encompassing all equipment, but camera and scope to start with.
Hope this helps
Clear skies
Bernd