Perhaps the future of amateur observations in the next decade..?

[strongmanmike]

Today's APOD (http://apod.nasa.gov/apod/ap150507.html) may give a hint at a possible future for amateurs even...?

Let's hope, so :)

Mike

[Joshua Bunn]

That view would have blown my socks off! This would be awesome in the literal sense of the word. Imagine the possibilities.

[glend]

If its being processed prior to reaching your eye is it really visual observation? Seems to be closer to imaging, or perhaps computer augmented visual. Now if it could see through clouds.....:eyepop:

[rustigsmed]

I've got no doubt that this tech will be available to amateurs in the future - on a much smaller scale of course. it is just a matter of whether I can afford it or will be around for it ...

[xelasnave]

It should not be to hard to build a small system..

[clive milne]

It is not being processed as such, they are genuinely looking at the star directly.

from the website:

[RobF]

C'mon Mike. Get real!
That's like saying in the future amateurs won't need a 4m mirror to be able to get images like this. Impossible! ;)

http://messier.seds.org/Pics/Jpg/m20_adfm.jpg

[strongmanmike]

Exactly! I did indeed think that, doesn't look so impressive now huh?

Imagine looking through even a diffraction limited 12" scope :eyepop: :D

Mike

[sharpiel]

Pfffffttttt!! It's ONLY 6.5 meters! :D