Orion STARSHOOT G3 User Manual
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1. Introduction
Welcome to the exciting world
of astro-imaging. Your new
StarShoot G3 Deep Space
Imaging camera is capable of
capturing impressive celestial
objects like galaxies, star clus-
ters, and nebulae, as well as
the planets, Moon, and the Sun
(with an optional solar filter).
Additionally, the StarShoot G3
can be used as a dedicated
autogudier for any other astro-
imaging camera you might use
like a DSLR camera or large
array CCD camera. This man-
ual will show you how to install
and use your new StarShoot
G3. In a short time, you will
be capturing astrophotos and
sharing them with friends, fam-
ily, and the world!
1.1. the StarShoot G3
The StarShoot G3 is an astronomical imaging CCD camera with a 16-bit image
output and a regulated thermoelectric cooler to enable maximum imaging perfor-
mance. Both the G3 Color and G3 Monochrome are very sensitive and capable
of detecting faint deep sky objects in a short exposure; and longer exposures
can reveal extremely deep fields with subtle nebulosity and galaxies in the
background.
You may also choose to use the G3 as a dedicated autoguider. The highly sensi-
tive, low noise, 16-bit camera allows faint guide stars to be detected. The on-
board autoguiding output allows you to connect the autoguide cable directly from
the camera to your ST-4 compatible mount.
1.2. Feature Highlights
• Simple interface: A USB port is all that’s needed to connect the G3 to your
computer (Figure 3). The power port is used to power the thermoelectric
cooler, which is recommended for the best imaging performance.
• Regulated cooling: Enables you to set the exact temperature within the
cooling range of the camera. This allows you to take calibration images like
dark frames at the exact same temperature as your light frames, making
for the cleanest images possible. Additionally, since you can match the
CCD temperature at any time (within the range of the cooler), you have the
freedom to take dark frames when it’s most convenient for you, so you don’t
have to use up valuable imaging time to take dark frames.
• Vibration-free MagLev Cooling Fan: This essential component of the
cooling system vents out the head generated by the TEC.
• Autoguider output: (Figure 3) When used as an autoguider, the G3
can connect the autoguider relays directly from the camera body to your
equatorial mount. This eliminates the need to relay an additional adapter
from your PC.
Figure 1. StarShoot G3 Imaging Camera and included items.
Figure 2.1. The G3 can be connected
to your telescope in three different ways,
1.25", 2", or T-thread.
Contents
1. Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
1.1. The StarShoot G3 . . . . . . . . . . . . .3
1.2. Feature Highlights . . . . . . . . . . . . .3
2. Getting Started . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4
2.1. Parts List. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
2.2. System Requirements . . . . . . . . . .4
2.3. Software and Driver Installation . .5
3. Software Walk‑Through . . . . . . . . . . . .6
3.1 Camera Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
3.2 Capture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
3.3 Histogram . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
3.4. Analysis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
4. Astronomical Imaging . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
4.1. Focusing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
4.2. Using the Thermoelectric Cooler
(TEC) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
4.3. Imaging Deep Sky Objects . . . . .14
5. Image Processing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17
5.1 Save and Export . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19
6. Using the StarShoot G3 as an
Autoguider . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20
7. Optional Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21
8. Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22
Figure 2.2. Standard 1.25" filter
threads add versatility to allow additional
accessories to be used.
DC power cable
with lighter plug
2" Mounting base
1.25"
Nosepiece
T-threads
Standard 1.25"
filter threads
(M28.4x0.6)
T-threads
(M42x0.75)
USB cable
Dust cap
1.25"
nosepiece
(removeable)
StarShoot G3
Deep Space
Imaging Camera
Software CD