Using the OGMA GP662C, GP678C, and GP678M cameras for autoguiding in your astrophotography setup can significantly enhance the accuracy of your long-exposure images by compensating for tracking errors. Here’s how to use these cameras with PHD2, a popular autoguiding software:
Step 1: Install Necessary Drivers and Software
Before starting, ensure that you have the latest OGMA ASCOM driver installed on your computer to facilitate communication between the camera and PHD2. You can download this driver from the OGMA website or the product support page. Also, install PHD2 if you haven’t already done so.
Step 2: Connect the Camera to Your Telescope
Attach the OGMA camera (GP662C, GP678C, or GP678M) to the guide scope or OAG attached to your main telescope. Ensure the camera is securely fitted to prevent any movement during imaging.
Step 3: Connect the Camera to Your Computer
Connect your camera to your computer using the USB cable provided. Ensure the connection is secure to avoid any disconnections during the guiding process.
Step 4: Launch PHD2 and Select the OGMA Camera
Open PHD2 on your computer.
Go to the “Camera” menu and select “Connect Camera.”
From the camera selection window, choose “ASCOM Camera” and click “OK.”
In the ASCOM Camera Selection window, select the “OGMA ASCOM Driver” from the list and click “Properties” or “OK” (depending on your version of PHD2).
Step 5: Configure the OGMA ASCOM Driver
Upon selecting the OGMA ASCOM driver, a configuration window will appear. In this window, you need to select the specific model of your OGMA camera (GP662C, GP678C, or GP678M) from the dropdown menu. This step is crucial as it ensures the software communicates correctly with your specific camera model.
After selecting your camera model, confirm any other necessary settings and click “OK” to close the configuration window.
Step 6: Establish Connection in PHD2
With the camera selected and configured, click “Connect” in PHD2 to establish a connection with your OGMA camera.
Once connected, you should see a live feed from your guide camera in the PHD2 interface.
Step 7: Begin Autoguiding
Use PHD2 to select a guide star in the camera’s field of view. Ideally, choose a bright star for more reliable guiding.
Calibrate PHD2 by following the on-screen instructions. Calibration allows PHD2 to understand how the movements of the motors of your mount correspond to changes in the position of the guide star.
Once calibration is complete, start guiding. PHD2 will now monitor the guide star and correct your mount’s tracking to compensate for any drift.
Additional Tips
Ensure your guide scope is securely mounted and aligned with your main telescope.
Regularly check for updates for both the OGMA ASCOM driver and PHD2 software to ensure optimal compatibility and performance.
Experiment with PHD2’s settings, such as the guiding algorithm and exposure times, to achieve the best results for your specific setup.
By following these steps, you can utilize your OGMA GP662C, GP678C, or GP678M camera for precise autoguiding, enhancing the quality of your astrophotography with minimal tracking errors.