Auto-guiding using PHD2
How to Use PHD2:
1. Open Windows and click the Start button.
2. Search for and open PHD2.
3. In the top toolbar, click Guide.
4. To connect your equipment, click Connect Equipment, or alternatively, click the green USB cable icon to link the camera and mount.
5. Click Connect All to establish all necessary connections.
6. Once you see the camera feed, click the Refresh icon (two arrows) to update the image.
7. Select a star by clicking the Star with Magnifying Glass icon. Shift-Clicking the same would result in PHD2 picking the best star for you.
8. After highlighting your target star, click the Crosshair icon to begin the guiding process.
9. When you are finished guiding one star, click the Stop icon before moving to the next star.
Important Tips:
After selecting each star, remember to click the Refresh icon to ensure the frame and focus are updated.
Always press the Stop button before moving from one target to another to avoid unintended guidance.
Do not panic when it Beeps, It happens when it loses the guiding star. (If it beeps too much you can mute from taskbar or with keyboard shortcut).
More Info:
What is PHD2?
PHD2 is a free, open-source telescope guiding software that simplifies tracking a star. It is specifically created to help astrophotographers by offering precise tracking, which is necessary to create sharp, long-exposure images.
Why Use PHD2?
PHD2 helps to achieve better astrophotography by controlling the telescope mount to correct periodic errors and tracking errors. This way, the telescope will stay locked onto the guide star, compensating for any subtle movements and changes of apparent position caused by atmospheric refraction. PHD2 therefore helps the astrophotographer capture sharper, more accurate images over long exposures.
Guiding vs. Tracking
While basic tracking maintains the position of the telescope, guiding includes precision adjustments made to counter imperfections in mount motion and atmospheric interference. Small adjustments like these contribute to greater tracking accuracy, especially in long-exposure photography.