The CCD (Charge-Coupled Device) has revolutionised optical astronomy during the past 20 years, and specialised astronomical CCD cameras are now even more affordable, colour is standard, and they provide spectacular results.
Preface.- Introduction.- Section 1: Getting Started.- Afocal Photography with Digital Cameras.- An Introduction to Webcam Imaging.- Long Exposure Webcams and Image Stacking Techniques-. Deep-Sky Imaging with a Digital SLR.- Section 2: Getting Serious.- IRIS: Astronomical Image Processing Software.- High-Resolution Imaging of the Planets.- High-Resolution Color Imaging.- Out-Smarting Light Pollution.- Section 3: Advanced.- The Hybrid Image ? A New Astro-imaging Philosophy.- Amateur Spectroscopy in the 21st Century.- Successful Patrolling for Supernovae.
From the reviews: "This colourful book is yet another addition to the forty-strong library of 'Patrick Moore's Practical Astronomy Series' produced by Springer. ! it is a very interesting book and the colour illustrations are excellent and beautifully reproduced. Undoubtedly it will inspire many beginners to find out much more information about astronomical imaging." (Martin Mobberley, Astronomy Now, February, 2006) "This compendium by S&T contributing editor David Ratledge offers a mother lode of practical information for imaging neophytes, but expert sky shooters can pick up a lot of useful tips as well. Its 11 chapters are lavishly illustrated, often in color, and they cover a wide range of techniques ! . Ratledge's ambitious goal of covering 'the state of art' is laudable ! ." (Edwin Aguirre, Sky & Telescope, March, 2008) "This is certainly a book to inspire. Ratledge has used many of the acknowledged experts in the field, each of whom has written a chapter on their own particular specialisation. ! I can thoroughly recommend this book. Many excellent images are included and the reproduction in colour is very good. If you are new to digital imaging it will help you get started. If you are already an 'expert' it will inspire you to higher things ! ." (Nick James, Journal of the British Astronomical Association, Vol. 116 (4), 2006)