First try at a spectrum

[barx1963]

So after a bit of research, I have decided to have a crack at a bit of spectroscopy!! Managed to get out tonight and try out an SA200 with my 8" Edge SCT and Atik One camera. After a few experiments I managed to get something from Iota Cenauri. I selected this star as it is an A type star (A2v to be precise) which is useful for calibration. Used the trial version of Rspec to calibrate and I have a spectra. The second image shows a reference overlay for an A2v star which show the same hydrogen lines as mine which is pleasing.
Image is attached, will be fun working on this I think!!

Malcolm

[JA]

Very nicely done Malcolm. :thumbsup:
Is it the start of something big, a new project perhaps, to document the heavens?

Best
JA

[barx1963]

Thanks JA
No particular plan in mind. Just seeing if it is something that I like, then will see where it takes me.

Malcolm

[Merlin66]

Looks like you’re of to a good start. Well done.
Always remember to focus on the spectrum not the zero order image.
Onwards and Upwards.

[barx1963]

Thanks Ken
Focus is a bit of an issue. I ran my usual auto focus routine via a lum filter before switching to the SA200. Could see it wasn't all that good but was OK to get a result. Will work on refining it next time I go out.

Hope this doesn't turn expensive on me!!

Malcolm

[Merlin66]

Comes with practice.....
The optimum exposure for the spectrum will usually over expose the zero order star.
The focus of the spectrum is usually in front of the zero order focus and is easier to establish when the zero order is positioned well to the left hand side of the FOV and the brighter 1st order spectrum placed close to the center.