The Arc Seconds Per Pixel Calculator is designed to determine the image resolution of a telescope-camera combination in terms of arc seconds per pixel. This measurement is crucial as it defines the level of detail that can be resolved in astronomical images, influencing both the quality of the image and the type of astronomical features that can be effectively observed and recorded.
Formula of Arc Seconds Per Pixel Calculator
To calculate the arc seconds per pixel, a specific formula is used:
Where:
- Pixel Size: The size of one pixel on the camera's sensor, typically measured in micrometers (µm).
- Focal Length: The focal length of the telescope or the lens being use, measured in millimeters (mm).
This formula helps astronomers and astrophotographers determine how well a particular telescope and camera combination will perform, particularly in terms of capturing detailed images of celestial objects.
General Terms and Conversion Table
Here’s a table with terms commonly associated with astrophotography and the calculation of arc seconds per pixel:
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Arc Seconds | A unit of angular measurement used in astronomy, equal to 1/3600th of a degree. |
| Pixel Size | The size of an individual pixel on a camera's sensor. |
| Focal Length | The distance between the lens and the sensor when the subject is in focus, usually stated in millimeters. |
| Field of View | The extent of the observable world seen at any given moment through the camera. |
Example of Arc Seconds Per Pixel Calculator
Suppose an astronomer uses a camera with a pixel size of 4.3 µm and a telescope with a focal length of 2000 mm. Using the Arc Seconds Per Pixel Calculator:
Arc Seconds Per Pixel = (4.3 µm / 2000 mm) × 206265 = 0.44 arc seconds per pixel
This calculation indicates that each pixel on the camera's sensor will cover 0.44 arc seconds of the sky, providing a basis for understanding the resolution capabilities of the imaging setup.
Most Common FAQs
Arc seconds per pixel is a measure of the angular resolution of an image, indicating how much sky each pixel of the image sensor covers. The smaller the number, the finer the detail the camera can resolve.
Calculating arc seconds per pixel helps in choosing the right combination of camera and telescope to achieve the desire image resolution, ensuring that the equipment is suitable for the type of celestial objects being observe.
Yes, the arc seconds per pixel value can significantly influence what details and objects can be effectively capture. Lower values generally allow for more detailed images, which is particularly important for viewing and photographing smaller or more distant celestial bodies.