Getting Started - iTelescope Basics

Quick tips for New Members.

Where can I learn more about the telescope I am using?
To Learn more about the specifications of the telescopes we have a Telescope Info page that breaks down everything you need to know! There are a couple of ...
Wed, 24 Apr, 2019 at 4:51 AM
What kind of filters do the CCD cameras have?
Filter fitouts on each of the  iTelescopes varies depending on the role the system plays. Some are Pure imaging platforms while others lend themselves to ...
Wed, 24 Apr, 2019 at 3:12 PM
Do you have saved darks and flats files or do I pay to take my own?
In most cases you get both a pre-calibrated FITs file and a raw FITS file in your FTP folder for each image. We also provide FREE master calibration files ...
Wed, 24 Apr, 2019 at 5:25 AM
What format do I use to input RA and DEC coordinates?
You can have the telescope go directly to the RA/DEC in a scripted plan without the need for a specific target. A simple format is decimal. -18.50  for Dec...
Wed, 24 Apr, 2019 at 5:38 AM
What is binning (BIN) in conjunction with the CCD camera?
Binning gives one the possibility to expand the sensitivity of a camera by combining pixels into a super-pixel. Binning is the process of combining charge f...
Thu, 2 May, 2019 at 8:55 AM
What format are my images and data available in?
All iTelescopes use advanced astronomical CCD and CMOS cameras which deliver the data as 32bit FITs files to the users FTP collection area. These are calibr...
Thu, 14 Sep, 2023 at 5:01 PM
What happens if my internet disconnects while on a telescopes?
iTelescope.Net does not require you to be actively connected during your imaging runs - you only need to be online to schedule reservations or manually star...
Wed, 24 Apr, 2019 at 12:04 PM
How are the iTelescopes aligned?
The telescopes have advanced mounts which are polar aligned by our ground crew and use advanced software for refined alignment and pointing. A computed mode...
Wed, 24 Apr, 2019 at 3:04 PM
Do I need to set the cooling temperature?
No. Cooling is set on each of the telescope cameras. The CCD temperatures vary depending on CCD cooling performance and ambient temperature.
Wed, 24 Apr, 2019 at 3:05 PM
Is there an automated focusing routine or is it a manual process?
By default the telescopes will attain a sharp automatic focus before the telescope starts your data/image acquisition. The systems will in most cases autom...
Wed, 24 Apr, 2019 at 3:07 PM