Astro photography tool

[Yoddha]

AstroUK,

Thank you for the kind words and for supporting APT development by purchasing it!

[hotspur]

Great work Ivo-the world astronomy community must be so pleased with this fine program.Thanks for your email last week.The after sales service is really brilliant-thank you:thumbsup: !- cheers Chris

[Yoddha]

Many thanks Chris!

[Yoddha]

Many thanks to Henrik for updating the Dutch version of the tooltips! The new file is available in the Download page.

[g__day]

Ivo,

I'm interested in the software but ponder why paypal over direct deposit or a payment directly from Visa or Mastercard? What does a payment from Visa or Mastercard linked to paypal offer parties?

I only ask because I get annoying spam e-mail from "paypal" all the time - and I've never signed up for paypal before. I know my wife has an account - I'll drop a hint this would make a nice birthday present!

Matt

[rcheshire]

Running demo in Wine, ubuntu Linux 11.10. Installed without a hitch! Will test with camera this evening if I get the time.

[mswhin63]

PayPal spam doesn't usually come from signing up with PayPal but from other sites. Just a way to get your attention to click on their virus links.

I find that good Junk filter are very good at junking these PayPal junk now, although i use Google mail.

[Yoddha]

Hi Matt,

The main reason to use PayPal is that so far I didn't find credit card processor that want to work with a business in Eastern Europe :( We are still discriminated in this field... Recently I found that the alternative AlertPay has some problems, so it is temporary disabled.

[Yoddha]

Great news Rowland! Please let me know what are the results! We can make a section in the User's guide that describes how to use it :D

[mswhin63]

Ivo,

PayPal has a merchant facility now that allow direct credit card transactions without people logging on. It doesn't offer the payment protection to the purchaser but if someone doesn't want to use PayPal then it is the only offer.

Unfortunately it cost $30.00 per month so you will have to way up the pro's and con of such a facility.

[Yoddha]

Thanks Malcolm! I'll investigate that option!

[rcheshire]

Camera detection is not working because of the Wine/USB interface. Given time to have a good look it will work just fine. I suggest downloading a trial copy of CrossOver and trying that. APT is a very nice program otherwise. I think it would be worthwhile the developers exploring the Wine option for Linux users. I'm sure that you will pick up some extra business.

[mswhin63]

:rofl: Drunk computers :rofl:

[Yoddha]

Hi Rowland,

I don't have experience with Linux and don't have a machine with it :( It will be great if you can give CrossOver a try! Please let me know if I can be in help!

[Yoddha]

Many thanks to Adam for updating the Polish version of the tooltips! The new file is available in the Download page.

[Yoddha]

Many thanks to Paolo for updating the Italian version of the Tooltips! The new file is available in the Download page.

[Yoddha]

Laurent Lamy was very kind to update the French translation of Tooltips help. Many thanks Lolo!


The new file is available in the Download page.

[Yoddha]

Nelson, just sent me the Portuguese update of the Tooltips. As usual you can get the file from the Downloads page.


Many thanks Nelson!


Is there somebody that wants to update the German version?

[Yoddha]

I'm happy to announce that now APT has Tooltips translations on eight languages! The newest addition is Bulgarian :) Many special thanks to Zlatan Merakov!

[Yoddha]

I'm happy to announce that APT provides hosting for 28 authors and more than hundred beautiful images :)

Take a look at: http://www.ideiki.com/astro/Gallery.aspx

Everybody is welcome to join!

There are only two limitations - up to 2MB per image (not very strict ;)) and APT (full or demo) to be used for capturing.

[Yoddha]

One of Santa's elves is working hard... The Christmas gift from astroplace.net is almost ready :) The APT 1.80 will be here just in time for the holidays.

Many thanks to everybody that support APT development!

[mswhin63]

Thanks Ivo,

On another note, I took some images to capture the eclipse but noticed I could not set-up AV exposure in a plan. This would have been a great help during the eclipse. Instead I sat there click Shoot every-time. I could see the benefit of putting AV in plans for such an occasion.

Maybe you could put it the list of to do.

The post on the timelapse. - http://www.iceinspace.com.au/forum/showthread.php?t=84114

AV does not work well on the 450D using Live View although I noticed you have a brightness control on the latest version (1.71) which I did get a chance to use. Whether it is good enough I am not sure.

[Yoddha]

Thanks Malcolm! I added the "AV in light plan" feature in the list. Currently it is available only in "flat" plans.

The Brightness feature can be in help, but it depends on many things. In one case it can be handy in other not... I found it useful when there are stars in the FOV that are close to the LiveView limit.

Great clip! :thumbsup:

[mswhin63]

Thanks for that, The live view limit was my issue as well, good fix :thumbsup:

[Yoddha]

There is a new version on the site – APT v1.80 :)

The list of changes is:

2011/12/22 - v.1.80 New features and bug fixes
-Added: Showing the remaining plan duration
-Added: Showing the expected plan ending time
-Added: Rotate image effect
-Added: Magnifier, allows x3, x5, x10 and x15 times zoom
-Added: AstroTortilla integration (AT team is still working on their side)
-Added: Scripts execution after exposure end
-Added: Small User Interface enhancements
-Added: Usability enhancements
-Added: Showing Alt/Az coordinates (full version only)
-Added: Support for M dial mode for Flat/Bias plans (full version only)
-Added: Possibility to change the limits for Low Cam/PC battery and Cam Space notifications (full version only)
-Added: Start APT in window mode (full version only)
-Added: AutoStar Sync function - Ctrl+Enter (full version only)
-Fixed: Bug that makes APT to crash sometimes when using Focus Aid and Zoom
-Fixed: Bug that degrades the LiveView image quality in some rare situations
-Fixed: Bug in scrolling image in left direction
-Fixed: No low space notification when there is no memory card
-Fixed: Bug that requires to click once before Zooming LiveView
-Fixed: 1:1 Scroll mode initially will show the image center
-Updated: User's Guide document (the new things are in green)

[Yoddha]

Happy New Year! Best wishes for the new 2012 to you and to your families!

Also wishes for many clear nights and magic moments under the stars!

Once more I want to thank you for your help and support!

[Yoddha]

I'm very happy to announce that there is a Spanish translation of the tooltips. Many thanks to Iván Jaén!

[Yoddha]

Today APT makes two years from its public debut :) This project would not be possible without your encouragements, suggestions, support and help!

Thank you!

[wasyoungonce]

Ditto Ivo...it wouldn't be possible to take the images I take without APT: sequences of differing ISO; sub length; dithering; image magnification; dark plans; FWHM; live-view magnification past the inbuilt camera limits; plan editors.......a multitude of incorporations since your initial version.

It has surely changed the DSLR Astro scene and you should rightly be proud of your baby. :thumbsup:

Brendan

[Yoddha]

Many thanks Brendan!

[mswhin63]

A well set-up software and continual support is fantastic. great job Ivo. Can't leave home without one. :thumbsup:

[Yoddha]

Many thanks Malcolm!

I have said several times that the biggest reward for me is to know that APT is in help :) The time unlimited "demo" is one proof :)

[Yoddha]

Hello,
I'm happy to announce that the new version is available on the site :) You will find that many functions are enabled in the demo version...

The changes log is:

2012/2/15 - v.1.90 New features and bug fixes
-Added: TemperHum v2 support
-Added: Close button for all panels
-Added: Shutter counter displaying on camera connection (Digic 3 and later)
-Added: Automatic enable/disable of the Mirror Lockup camera function depending on the selected Anti-Vibration pause (Digic 3 and later)
-Added: Possibility to disable dithering for particular plan (like focusing plan)
-Added: Minimize/restore the sections in Telescope Tab
-Change: Record LiveView button is upgraded to Planetary Panel
-Added: Possibility to define the number of frames to be captured in LiveView Planetary mode
-Added: Possibility to record HD Video (Digic 4 only, full version only)
-Added: ASCOM Filter Wheels support (full version only)
-Added: Filter Wheel can apply focus offsets to ASCOM focuser (full version only)
-Added: Other small User Interface enhancements
-Moved: Settings dialog is available in the demo version
-Moved: Images folder selection is available in the demo version
-Moved: Possibility to group the images, by Plan Type, Object Name or both is available in the demo version
-Moved: Automatic image name prefix and suffix - ISO, Exposure, Date, Time, EXIF or TemperHUM temperature is available in the demo version
-Moved: Delayed plan start is available in the demo version
-Moved: Selection between Celsius and Fahrenheit is available in the demo version
-Moved: Temper(HUM) calibration - entering calibrating constants is available in the demo version
-Moved: Changing the number of the images used for LV Stack is available in the demo version
-Moved: Tooltips ON/OFF is available in the demo version
-Moved: LiveView automation ON/OFF is available in the demo version
-Moved: Bigger User Interface fonts for notebooks with big screen resolution and small display is available in the demo version
-Moved: Support for M dial mode for Flat/Bias plans is available in the demo version
-Moved: Possibility to change the limits for the notifications for low PC/Camera battery, low Camera space is available in the demo version
-Moved: Possibility to change the path in Images browser is available in the demo version
-Moved: Keeping settings between APT restarts is available in the demo version
-Fixed: Bug in the remaining time counter when APT is minimized
-Fixed: Bug in the remaining time counter when APT is paused
-Fixed: Bug when Script and 0s pause are used.
-Fixed: Bug that causes tabs randomly to become invisible when APT is in background
-Updated: User's Guide document (the new things are in green)
-Updated: Some of the interesting facts in Objects browser are extended by Jeff Seivert. Thank you!

The next version is expected in April. The number is quite round - 2.00, so I decided to make it special. APT 2.00 will cross the DSLR border and will also support ASCOM CCD cameras :)

[mswhin63]

That is cool, now I have a better chance to select my next camera without changing software.

[Visionoz]

Great news from you Ivo - about ASCOM controlled CCD usability!:thumbsup:

Will await anxiously for it as I have two CCDs to try it now - if you want to beta test just let me know!:D

HTH
Cheers
Bill

[Yoddha]

Many thanks Bill! It will be a great help!

If you don't have anything against Yahoo groups, you can join to the APT's one. The main communication around the APT development is there.

[Yoddha]

The tooltips help translation in Dutch, Polish, French, Italian and Bulgarian are updated :) The rest are coming soon...

[Yoddha]

Hello,

A small update was released. It allows to make available few more features before the release of 2.0 that is expect in late April. The 500D and all Digic 2 cameras users will get guiding messages what is the required Mirror Lockup state. Thanks to Jeff Seivert for recording audio files for the objects in Object Browser.

The complete list is:
2012/3/02 - v.1.92 Small update

-Added: Mirror lockup status reporting for all models

-Added: Check if Mirror lockup is in the right status depending on the model, Anti-Vibration pause and Automation setting

-Added: Check if for the right dial mode when recording HD video

-Moved: Object Browser is available in the demo version

-Added: Possibility to play MP3 file for object in the Object Browser (requires an audio extension)

-Added: Full and short audio extensions as separate downloads in the site

-Added: Framing mask flip (180 degrees rotation) for use after Meridian flip (full version only)

-Change: Improved "Frames per second" ratio in LiveView Planetary mode, more than twice. The preview refresh rate is slower

-Fixed: Bug when plan is executed with Camera only destination and after that again with Camera+PC destination

-Fixed: Few more small odd things

-Updated: Some of the interesting facts in Objects browser are extended by Jeff Seivert. Thank you!

[Yoddha]

The work on enhancing the text and audio information in the Object Browser (now available in Demo version too) is in continuous progress, so everybody can download the part that want from the Downloads page in the APT's site.

The latest news are:
-There is a new version of the text version with some changes in the existing information.
-There is a new audio pack - Caldwel objects.
-Updated is the "full" audio pack. It includes 358 objects now.

Many thanks to Jeff Seivert for his hard work!

[Yoddha]

The tooltips help translation in German and Portuguese are updated :) You can find the latest translations in the Download page of APT's site.

[Yoddha]

Take a look on the APT's gallery :) There are more than 160 cool images!

http://www.ideiki.com/astro/Gallery.aspx

[Yoddha]

The APT's site was upgraded and now PayPal payments are handled automatically. As soon as Paypal marks a transaction as "Completed" you will receive your key (or your license will be extended if you are renewing) :)

No more waiting till I wakeup :D

[Yoddha]

The beta 1.94 is available on the site :) Note that CCD support is not included in it!

Here is the list if changes:

- Darkness Clock - shows the Sun and Moon set/rise, Nautical and Astro twilights. The clock shows the things from "nigh" point of view - most nights start in one day and ends in other :) Also there is a maker that shows the current time and flashes when there is approaching event in the next 15 minutes. The left end is 12:00 at mid day of the day in which the night starts/started. The right end is 12:00 at mid day of the day in which the night ends.

- Deep Space Darkness calculator. Double click on the Darkness clock to open it. It shows the exact times for all tracked events. Calculates the 'Deep Space Darkness' - the time when the sky is dark and Moon is not above the horizon. You can see the values for any date - input a date and hit 'Enter' key to recalculate or use Prev/Next buttons. Also you can search for the next night with at least X hours of DSD time, starting from the selected night :)

- Settings dialog is reworked to use tabs and there is new one - location. You can enter coordinates in the format +/-XX.XXXXX. APT will convert them in to readable form :)

- When PHD dithering is On, APT will check on every plan start if there is connection to PHD and will attempt to make connection if it is not available.

- Object calculator DB is extended with the new models - 5D Mk III, 1Dx and 60Da

- Recalc button will switch on the object scale mode of the 'Target' button.

- 1100D model has no native mirror lock function. APT is updated to support LiveView simulation for this model.

- Some UI enhancements.

Please keep a copy of the official version in case something with this beta goes wrong...

As usual I'll be more than happy to hear your opinions and suggestions!

[A23649]

Ivo,
First off I would like to congratulate on an exceptional piece of software. Secondly I would like some help with connecting my 350D to your software. When I set it all up I connect the the camera to the computer as the insrtuctions for APT. I then click connect and it starts up fine but after 15 seconds or so it says "Communication Error Restart Camera, APT and then reconnect the camera again". Once I follow these instuctions I connect it again and it comes up with the same message. I tripled checked the cables with my dad's 1000D and that works fine so I don't know what the problem is. I am running the demo version of APT. If you could help that would be absolutely fantastic.

Cheers,
Nathan

[Yoddha]

Thanks Nathan!

Is the camera set in "PC connection" mode? Also what is your version of Windows? 64bit editions can't work with the drivers needed for 350D. The solution is to configure 32bits virtual machine and install the drivers there.

[A23649]

Thanks for replying Ivo,:thanx:
I am only running a 32 bit machine on a small netbook so anything larger would crash th computer. I haven't tried setting the connection to "PC connection" because the computer only recognises the camera when it is set in "PTP/Printer". I will have another go tonight and see how it goes.

Cheers,
Nathan

[Yoddha]

Some very good news :) There is a Chinese translation of the tooltips. Many thanks to Zhendi Wang!

The CCD support is advancing well and soon we will have APT 2.00 released :)

[Visionoz]

That is good to hear Ivo - ie about the CCD support for APT - I have a new QHY11 waiting for first light so when you're ready I hope to test it out immediately!

Let's hope the ASCOM Camera choice will work straight off! - I know you will make it happen :thumbsup:

Waiting ......

Cheers
Bill

[Yoddha]

Thanks Bill!

[Yoddha]

There is a new beta - 1.95 that adds support for the models 5D MkIII and 1D-X. The new version of the Canon's communication library states that it adds support for 60Da, but I don't see any changes here and also have confirmation that the current official version works fine with that model...

There are few fixes in the Darkness clock and Calculator.

The CCD functionality is not fully finished yet, so it is not included. If there are no changes in the plans the beta 1.96 will be published in Friday for initial tests with real CCDs.

[Visionoz]

Ivo

Thanks for the feedback - waiting expectantly for the CCD imagers feature!!:thumbsup:

In the meantime I can test out APT with the EOS 60Da

Cheers
Bill

[Yoddha]

Thanks Bill! Please let me know if you see any issues with 60Da :) I tested myself with 60D (borrowed from a local photo shop) and think that it is fine... But who knows - 60Da is different model after all :)

APT is closing to CCDs more and more :D

[Visionoz]

Hello Ivo

Was wondering what's happening to APT for CCDs? Any more news yet?

Cheers
Bill

[Yoddha]

Hi Bill,

It was a bussy summer here... A lot of work in the office :(, vacation, astro-party, two more imaging sessions :) I'll have few more days off in the beggining of September...

Here are my best images from the summer (there are two more not uploaded yet, and two more to process) http://www.ideiki.com/astro/Author.aspx?AName=Ivaylo%20Stoynov&AFile=ISS&Update=2012/08/15

All this left much less time to work on APT, but the development never stopped completely :). There are few problems to resolve with the CCDs. When they are cleanded the new version will be complete :)

[Visionoz]

Hello Ivo

Hope that you're still working and improving APT ;) - haven't heard anymore progress re: CCD imaging functionality from APT since your last reply!

Anyway summer's over in your part of the world (it's Spring over here!) and look forward to hearing that you are indeed continuing with the improvements

Cheers
Bill

[Yoddha]

Hi Bill,

I'm working on the UI for Histogram stretching in CCD mode. I can't think-up relayable algorithm for auto-stretching that works for all CCDs :(

Also there are small improvements in the DSLR part too :)

Hope to have a new beta version in a week or two :)

[Visionoz]

Thanks Ivo

Looking forward to it! :thumbsup:

Cheers
Bill

[jwoody]

Gday Ivo
I have just stepped up to a CCD from my Eos 40D so I am also looking forward to your next version.
Keep up the good work with this great program
Cheers
Jeremy

[Yoddha]

Many thanks Jeremy!

[Yoddha]

APT 2.00 is coming very very soon! But I need your help by making final tests with real CCDs. The details can be found here: http://tech.groups.yahoo.com/group/Astroplace/message/2363

Two more announcements:
- When APT 2.00 is released all active licenses will be extended with 6 months to compensate the long development time of this significant upgrade of APT :)

- As usual there will no pricing changes or surprises... But now you have a chance to get a bonus by getting your license before the launch.

Thank you in advance for your help and support!

[Yoddha]

Are there Starlight Xpress, Moravian, Orion StarShooter/Parsec, Celestron Nightscape, QSI, FLI owners that want to give a try of ASCOM CCD support in APT?

[Yoddha]

There is a new beta - 1.99 (the last one I hope ;))

The 2.00 launch is scheduled for November 15th :) Don't forget that all active licenses will be extended with 6 months.

Details at : Yahoo! Groups (http://tech.groups.yahoo.com/group/Astroplace/message/2437)

[mswhin63]

Thanks Ivo, great work :thumbsup:

[Yoddha]

Hello,
I'm very happy to announce that APT 2.00 is finally available! As you know the main focus of this version is the ASCOM CCD cameras, but there are interesting features in the DSLR part too :) Many thanks to all that supported this project by one or other way!

Note that there are to editions of the new version 2.00 and 2.00" (second). The second one is for the EOS cameras with Digic II. The first one is for all other Digic generations.

Here is the list of the main changes:
2012/11/15 - v.2.00 The biggest update so far
-Added: Support for ASCOM compatible CCD cameras
-Added: CCD mode of the plan editor
-Added: CCD mode of the Histogram
-Added: Darkness Clock
-Added: Deep Sky Darkness Calculator
-Added: Support for Meade focusers
-Added: "Don't dither" option per plan
-Added: New Script parameters
-Added: Usage of the latest Canon library 2.11
-Added: Support for 650D, 1Dx, 5D MkIII, 60Da
-Added: Configurable auto connection to telescope
-Added: Configurable auto connection to focuser
-Added: Configurable auto connection to filter wheel
-Added: Tabs in the settings dialog
-Added: Support for Biula Audio Trigger
-Moved: ASCOM filter wheel control is available in the demo version
-Fixed: EOS 1100D mirror locking
-Fixed: Problem with RAW only images and exposures under 1s
-Fixed: Incorrect remaining time calculation is specific situation
-Fixed: Loosing connection to PHD when PHD is restarted
-Fixed: Many small enhancements and fixes.
-Updated: User's Guide document (the new things are in green)

[LewisM]

Brilliant, as usual! I was more than happy to donate when I first got it some time back. It is THE only DSLR program I use, and the only one I endorse. It does EVERYTHING I want it to do, and then some.

I still cannot get PHD to talk to it, but doesn't matter - I just run them totally independant of each other.

[Yoddha]

Many thanks Lewis!

To make APT to talk to PHD you have to make few steps.
- In PHD menu Tools select "Enable Server"
- In APT on Telescope tab Shift+Click on Guide button
- Enable dithering...

On next plan execution APT will send dithering commands to PHD. It is possible to experiment what parameters work best for you, but the default gives good result in most cases :)

[mswhin63]

I am currently using that configuration right at this moment.

Great that 2.00 is working. There is so much more that I should be able to do. One day I will find the time to investigate further.

Great job Ivo :thumbsup:

Capture is NGC253, it is quite small on a 80mm 480mm FL scope but so a looker

[Yoddha]

Hi Malcolm,

Big thanks! I'm very happy to see APT in action :) Maybe you will share some images for the Gallery?

[LewisM]

THANK YOU Ivo. Works PERFECTLY!

[Yoddha]

You are welcome! :) Most glad hear that it works!

[Yoddha]

Some issues were found and required to be addressed, so there is a small update availble :)

2012/11/23 - v.2.01 Small update
-Added: Saving .CR2 raw files in TIFF format
-Added: Setting the maximum ISO for Astro Tortilla
-Added: Integration of Astro Tortilla in CCD mode
-Fixed: Installer to use the right VS 2005 redistributable package
-Fixed: FITS format saving - the files were hard to process
-Fixed: Starlight Express filter wheel works fine
-Fixed: Small interface fixes

[Yoddha]

Happy New Year! A lot of wishes for health, happiness, success to you and your families! And of couse many wishes for clear skies!

[Shano592]

Hi Yoddha,

This software looks really good.

I will give it a run with my EOS 20D tonight, if the clouds will stay away.

It is great that, as the developer, you have made yourself available to the forum for feedback. I can't wait to see how this performs.

Have a great 2013.

[Yoddha]

Many thanks Shane! Looking forward to see your experience!

[LewisM]

Ivo,

Been having some small issues with the exposure stop recently - if the conditions necessitate stopping a series, I find that 90% of the time when I restart a run, the camera does NOT respond, APT tells me it's still working, and I have seen it tell me as long as 26 minutes required before the run will start! THe only solution is turning the camera off, removing the btteries, and leaving the USB out for 5 minutes. Then it "refreshes".

What is this issue?

[Yoddha]

Hi Lewis,

What EOS model do you use?

[LewisM]

5D MkII

Also, another issue: I create folders for each object. I tell the tools to save there, as well as the preview folder. No matter what I do, APT tells me it is saving where I specify, but it saves in the last used folder, regardless. Does not matter how I change settings - always saves same place!

I am using 2.01. The previous version did not have this folder issue.

[Yoddha]

Lewis,

In order to set the place where to save image you have to use Settings->Main->Images Path. This is the default place to save

If you have selected "Images Grouping" then APT will create sub-folders in the default palce.

About the other problem. Can you explain a bit more... You click Stop and APT behaves strange? Is the in-camera darks enabled? Can you check if the red camera indicator is on or blinking? Thanks!

[LewisM]

Ivo,

The in camera darks are off (DEFINITELY), because, if I do not stop a run, it will do my allocated number without the dark subtraction sub between each sub (I used to do that, but now time is of the essence!)

I have clicked STOP last night at the conclusion of a run of 5 x 5 subs. The C for complete appeared. I then did a series of dark subs (no different to the light except for the telescope lens cap was on). That completed with the C. I then reset APT settings to do a run of flats for me (after I attached the light box to the end of the scope). APT told me it would commence the run in 49 minutes, and started counting down. I gave up, disconnected, and ran the subs manually.

Regarding the folders, the way you suggested is how I have always organised/created folders. Since the 2.01 upgrade, it behaves as I initially suggested -I will ALWAYS have to look in other folders. I have tried many times, checked the paths constantly, and it still saves in another folder. It wil even sometimes switch folders half way during a run!

[Yoddha]

Thanks Lewis! I'm investigating...

[Yoddha]

Lewis,

What dail mode you use for the flats and in Settings->Advanced what state of "Advanced Flat/Bias"?

Please send me the file APT_Camera_1.log at the support mail. Thanks!

[Yoddha]

The beta version 2.05 is available now :) The weather here is bad and will be very thankful to hear your feedback, suggestions and ideas!

In short the changes are:
- Bahtinov Aid - works with LiveView and Images in both EOS and CCD mode. It is an incorporation of the Bahtinov Grabber technology into APT :)
- Canon's library 2.12 integration - 6D and 1D-C are supported now
- Fixed is a bug in turning CCD cooler to OFF
- Fixed is a bug for QHY9
- Some minor CCD fixes
- Some minor tweaks here and there

For the full version:
- Framing masks are upgraded to work with LiveView
- ASCOM focusers with temperature sensor now acts as Temper sensor and can be used, to monitor the ambient temperature, to store the reading as part of the name, to get notifications for refocusing.

There are some changes in the installer program, so take a look if everything is fine there too :)

Looking forward to see your comments!

P.S. A screen shot :) http://ideiki.com/astro/otherimages/bahtinov2.png

[toc]

Support for Nikon DSLR's would be nice...:)

[Yoddha]

One day there will be Nikon support too :)

[h0ughy]

hey that screenshot looks cool. great feature

[Yoddha]

Thanks David!

The Bahtinov Aid was reworked, in order to get better performance and ergonomics :) There is a new beta - 2.06 and testers are wanted :)

Here how the things look like:

http://ideiki.com/astro/otherimages/bahtinov3.png

[Yoddha]

The newest version of APT – 2.10 is available. The main addition is the Bahtinov Aid panel. It gives possibility to analyze the diffraction spikes from Bahtinov masks and to tune the focus on sub-pixel level. All this becomes possible thank to Neils Noordhoek and his project Bahtinov Grabber. With deep sorrow I learned that Neils passed away before he can see the result of our cooperation. Thank you Neils for all that you shared with our community!

The list of the other changes is below.

2013/02/12 - v.2.10 New features and bug fixes
-Added: Bahtinov Aid - works with LiveView and Images in both EOS and CCD mode
-Added: Canon's library 2.12 integration - 6D and 1D-C are supported now
-Added: Framing masks are upgraded to work with LiveView (full version only)
-Added: ASCOM focusers with temperature sensor now acts as Temper sensor and can be used, to monitor the ambient temperature and etc.
-Fixed: A bug in turning CCD cooler to OFF
-Fixed: A bug for QHY9
-Fixed: A bug when AstroTortilla calls APT in CCD mode
-Fixed: A bug in the scroll when APT is in window mode (not maximized)
-Fixed: A bug in CCD mode, that doesn't allow to make Bias frames
-Fixed: Some minor CCD fixes
-Fixed: Some minor tweaks here and there

The next version is planned to address as much as possible of the already requested features. It is scheduled for the early March.

Don’t be shy and share your images in the APT’s gallery :)

A screenshot of the new panel - http://ideiki.com/astro/otherimages/bahtinov3.png

[Yoddha]

With great pleasure I’m announcing that APT 2.20 is available for downloading, just in time for the coming new moon :)

The usual log of changes is:

2013/04/04 - v.2.20 New features and bug fixes
-Added: Smooth image scrolling with Shift and drag
-Added: Debayering in CCD (on camera connection and in settings dialog)
-Added: RGGB GRGB... options for Debayaring
-Added: Centering cross in Bahtinov grabber
-Added: Collimation Aid
-Added: Starts Catalog - 78 (in Object Browser)
-Added: Alignment stars maps (in Object Browser)
-Added: Smart sorting of the grids in Object Browser depending of the column type
-Added: ASCOM mount Sync by star (full version only)
-Added: Dithering without guide scope - APT Dithering (full version only)
-Added: Status for LiveView Exposure in CCD mode
-Added: LV Automation for CCD - auto selects the max binning
-Added: LiveView frames-per-second (FPS) in EOS mode
-Added: CCD Histogram is upgraded with controls for moving Black/White on steps
-Added: Possibility to store up to 5 locations in the Settings dialog
-Added: Check box "Don't save Object Name", Settings->Advanced
-Added: LX200 compatible mounts support, Settings->Advanced
-Added: Object Calculator for CCD mode
-Added: Single_ prefix for Shoot button images
-Added: Focus plan type - stores only one temporary image on the HDD and no images on the camera

-Changed: Faster cross rotation/moving
-Changed: Some UI and work-flow improvements
-Changed: Bahtinov Aid optimizations

-Fixed: A bug with EOS 40D Bulb exposures
-Fixed: 6D EXIF temperature readings
-Fixed: Bug in Plan cloning
-Fixed: No filter change when Pause = 0s
-Fixed: Shoot button file names and storing inconsistency
-Fixed: Minor fixes here and there

-Updated: User's Guide document (the new things are in green)

Looking forward to see your images and to hear your suggestions and opinion!

[Visionoz]

Thank you Ivo:thumbsup:

Cheers
Bill

[LewisM]

Thanks Ivo - got it when you sent the email.

I continue to use APT with my CCD. Superb product, great interface.

[Yoddha]

Thank you Bill and Lewis!

[Visionoz]

LewisM

Did you get a resolution to the abovementioned issue yet?

Reason I ask is I've just got a similar issue after taking a long break from imaging and just getting back into it with the v2.20 - tried to do a run and the captures were all saved in the last used folder instead of the new path I specified!!:(

Cheers
Bill

[Yoddha]

Hi Bill,

Did you changed the path in the settings dialog box? A common mistake is to change the path of the Image browser in the tools tab :)

[Visionoz]

Thanks Ivo - I should have posted earlier that I did resolve this already - but was at work and too busy; just got home! :D

As usual your service is absolutely marvellous! :thumbsup:

Cheers
Bill

[Yoddha]

Many thanks Bill! Happy that problem is resolved :)

[Yoddha]

Hello,

There is a new section in the APT's site that contains video tutorials :) Take a look!

http://www.ideiki.com/astro/Videos.aspx

[g__day]

Hey Ivo,

Just sent you an e-mail asking is there a way to purchase the software on Mastercard or VISA without having to register all my identity details to Paypal?

Many thanks if you can help,

Cheers,

Matthew

[Yoddha]

Hi Matthew,

You have mail :)

[g__day]

Wow Ivo - that was fast!

So if no M/C, VISA or direct account payment options yet; sigh - must plead with the wife to see if she will use her Paypal account...

BTW - sent you a reply on one feature I'd really like to see in an astronomy photograph control program - framing to centre a target (maybe leveraging Astro Tortilla) to place very faint targets dead on the imager!

Best regards,

Matthew

[Yoddha]

Thanks Matthew!

I hope this summer finally to implement the planned PointCraft. It is designed to do exactly the feature you are suggesting :)

[g__day]

Well finally I found someone with a Paypal account - thanks Ally - my son's girlfriend!

Anyway have APT controlling my Canon 400D via DSUB -> bulb, whilst BYE controls my Canon 40D. Both seem to control things correctly.

A few small anomalies:

1. on first run APT halted on the splash screen detecting TemperHum, which BYE was reading fine.

- Closed BYE - tried APT a few more times, cursed, killed it in Task Manager, ... removed and re-installed TemperHum - now both programs run and share the weather service correctly

2. Had APT try and discover Canon 40D (using Digic III version of APT) - no joy...

3. Had APT Digic II version try and connect Canon 400D (worked second time after power cycling camera and shutting down EOS utility).

Realised I had to have DSUB selected as the Bulb controlled.

Ran both Canon 40D (BYE) and 400D (APT) and both worked well. Now I have reading to do!

Cheers,

Matthew

[Yoddha]

Hi Matthew,

You can use the Digic II version of APT to control both cameras, but keep in mind that only one program can make connection in same time. EOS utilities has to be closed because takes exclusive control... The case with TemperHum is similar. It doesn't like too much connections in same time...

If you want to control the both camera in same time, use the shortcuts in the Start menu - there you can find shortcuts APT_Camera1 and APT_Camera2 ;)

[g__day]

Thanks Ivo,

I tried that - I know a bit about EOS utilies; my elder brother works just down the road from where I live at Canon's research labs for the last twenty years and we tend to discuss cameras and software a bit!

When you say only one program can make a connection at the same time - you mean per Canon camera don't you - as I have two running simultaneously on different telescopes. I don't suppose the two cameras are loading one Windows driver and confusing the system stack, don't expect this as they are connected via individual USB ports!

I didn't realise the Digic II version of APT could control both cameras, thanks for that. I thought I would have to start one Digic II version and a separate Digic 3 version.

Any idea why neither version of APT couldn't see the Digic III 40D when BYE was closed and the 40D was the only camera powered? It had no problem seeing the 400D when it was on, but the 40D appeared invisible to it. Mind you after shutting down BYE I didn't try power cycling the 40D and then reclosing EOS utilities; just in case any connections weren't cleaned up and the 40D looked unavailable.

I tried APT, Camera 1 and Camera 2 for both the Digic II and Digic III versions of the software (all six combinations) as I installed both versions of software and simply created separate folders for the launch menu items. None of these options connected to the 40D (yet).

Must say I like several elements of your software on first walkthough - the plans groups of shots is a great idea and I love the suggestions of viewing targets. I am also keen to see how the sync function works (into The Sky 6, using "A Sky controlled telescope" hub driver connection). I've had no luck sync-ing Asro Tortilla to the Sky6 and wish to see if your software might... The ASCOM Vixen Skysensor2000 driver developers suggest it should work on a direct connect to the latest driver and that it may be The Sky6 disabling sync...

Keen to try the Liveview functionality of the 40D on APT; when I figure how to get it to finally connect I'll share the details!

Many thanks,

Matthew

[Yoddha]

Matthew,

I have tested 2.20 with 40D myself :) I would suggest the following test.

Stop the both cameras. Start the 40D make sure that there is no other software that use the camera and start the Camera_1 icon. Then start the 400D and use the Camera_2 icon.

[g__day]

Thanks will try exactly that tomorrow and let you know the results. I reckon a power cycle will make it all work again the way you suggest!

BTW - with your telescope control SYNC function, do you keep track of what software programs and which mount drivers SYNC works with (or doesn't); over time that could be extremely useful. For instance the developers of ASCOM drivers for Vixen let me know directly connecting Astro Tortilla to Vixen driver has SYNC working fne for them, but not if you pass it through Plain Old Telescope Hub (POTH) - it apparently drops the SYNC command!

Cheers, Matt

[Yoddha]

I have no feedback if SS2K works fine with 2.20. Before that there were problems, but 2.20 introduced a way to force LX200 protocol usage which I believe will in help for SS2K...

[Yoddha]

Hello,

I'm happy to announce that the new version of APT is available for download :) Many thanks for all the help that made it possible!

The usual list of changes is below.

2013/08/16 - v.2.30 New features and bug fixes
-Added: Custom support for QSI cameras (check the User's guide for filter names definition)
-Confirmed: Works with Moravian cameras
-Added: Don't sync EOS clock setting in Advanced Tab
-Added: Import/Export site coordinates from/to ASCOM in Location Tab
-Added: Canon library 2.13 is incorporated
-Added: Correct B or M dial mode check for Shoot button
-Added: Filter wheel usage in EOS mode plans
-Added: Filter name is part of the file names in EOS mode
-Added: Region of Interest in CCD mode
-Added: Meridian Flip Clock (full version only)
-Added: Countdown beeps for the last 3s of a pause in focus plans and delayed execution
-Added: Temperature tab in settings dialog
-Added: Support for USB_Dewpoint sensor
-Added: Cooling/Warming Aid for CCD mode
-Added: Detection of possible thermal shock in CCD mode
-Changed: Faster focuser position feedback

-Moved: ASCOM focuser control is available in the demo version.
-Moved: Sound notifications are available in the demo version.

-Fixed: Problems with EOS 6D
-Fixed: Disappearing Cross
-Fixed: Low LiveView frame rate when Right lens control button is used
-Fixed: TIFF creation crash in EOS mode when long plan is executed
-Fixed: Minor bug in the APT dithering
-Fixed: Minor bug in EOS mode when Auto cancel feature is used
-Fixed: Crash in CCD mode when LiveView is ON and APT is closed
-Fixed: Crash in CCD mode when many images are taken
-Fixed: Bug in Darkness clock when there is no Astro twilight
-Fixed: Minor fixes here and there
-Updated: User's Guide document (the new things are in green)

[Yoddha]

If someone have problem with switching between EOS and CCD mode, just download the archive from the site again :ashamed:

[Yoddha]

There is a small update to fix some recently found problems missed during the beta tests :)

2013/08/22 - v.2.31 Small update
- Added: Possibility to set CCD temperature in one step by setting Cooling/Warming step to 0
- Changed: When PHD dithering is in progress the PHD Status is updated on every second
- Fixed: Bug in PHD dithering on some computers
- Fixed: Bug in CCD mode when Shoot and Stop combination is used
- Fixed: A bug that generates huge log file in EOS Mode during LiveView. The old file will be automatically cleared
- Fixed: Bug in EOS plan with filter wheel change and 0s pause

[Yoddha]

There is a small update on the server :)

2013/09/17 - v.2.32 Small update
- Added: Latest Canon library
- Added: Support for EOS 70D
- Added: Dithering settle time in APT native dithering
- Verified: All features except Mirror Locking works with EOS 70D
- Fixed: Bug in ImagePreview "Browse" button
- Fixed: Bug in APT native dithering
- Fixed: Bug in switching between Color and Mono FITS preview
- Fixed: Bug when Serial cable is used with Digic III and newer cameras

[LewisM]

Got it. GOOD WORK!

[Rex]

Hi Ivo,
I have been using APt full version for a couple of months and I really like the features your building into it. I have a small problem which I think is probably more annoying than anything else, however it does add some amp glow into longer exposures. I use a Canon 1100D and my OS is windows XP. The little red busy light on the bottom right hand side of the camera comes on and stays on whenever the camera is taking an exposure. At first I thought it may be something to do with the mirror lockup feature, however I have it set to virtual and 0 seconds so it should be disabled. I have tried it on all the different versions including the latest 2.32 and it is still the same. I am not sure if I have a setting wrong somewhere that is causing this or not. Hoping you can shed some light on this for me. The red light doesn't come on when I use canon utility. Thanks for your help.

[Yoddha]

Hi Rex,

It is very strange... I'll investigate and let you know.

Could you send on my support mail the log file
"c:\Users\[Your_User_Name]\AppData\Local\VirtualStore\Program Files\Astro Photography Tool - APT\APT_Camera_1.log"

[Spookyer]

Does this program support Nikon yet?

[Yoddha]

Hi Brett,

I'm sorry to say that, but no Nikon support yet :(

[Rex]

Hi Ivo, as requested I have sent you the log file via support@astroplace.net.
Thanks again for your help.

[Yoddha]

There is a new small update that fixes some problems and add few small features. Check the list to see if you need this version.

2013/10/02 - v.2.33 Small update
- Added: Temper Gold support
- Added: Stop Auto cooling on CCD connection (Settings->Advanced tab)
- Added: Remote Desktop cursor fix (Settings->Advanced tab)
- Added: Check for ROI on plan start
- Changed: Disable ROI and Cooling option in plan execution
- Changed: Removed the filter name form the dark filenames
- Fixed: Incorrect duration display for long CCD exposures
- Fixed: TemperHum V2 readings problem
- Fixed: Bug when DSUSB is used with Digic III and newer cameras
- Fixed: Problem with audio in Object Browser
- Fixed: A bug in Plan editor visible in clean install before first connection to camera

[Yoddha]

Hello,

The new version available just in time for Christmas :)

2013/12/20 - v.2.40 New features and bug fixes
- Added: Lacerta MGen support for Dithering and Auto Cancel
- Added: New tab - Image Browser with thumbnails
- Added: Pixel Aid with various image statistics - Median, Std Dev and etc.
- Added: Implementation of the original DARV method (no LiveView needed)
- Added: Possibility to build custom objects list in the Object Browser
- Added: Object size in pixels calculation in the Calculator
- Added: Object sizes in pixels calculation in Object Browser
- Added: Shoot button now stores EXIF temperature
- Confirmed: Works with EOS 70D
- Updated: Preview Effects are moved in separate panel
- Updated: Improved Tools tab
- Updated: Telescope tab is renamed to Gear tab
- Updated: User's Guide document (the new things are in green)
- Fixed: QSI filter names problem
- Fixed: TruTeck wheel connection problem
- Fixed: SGL focuser connection problem
- Fixed: Various fixes here and there
- Removed: The implementation of the modified DARV
- Removed: The manual DARV

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

[Yoddha]

BTW the MGen integration requires the latest firmware 2.04 which is available here - http://www.teleskop-austria.at/information/ccd-standalone-hu/pdf/Lacerta_MGEN_FW204.zip

[Yoddha]

Hello,

Happy New Year!

Here is the first update for 2014 :) If you have installed 2.40 please upgrade to 2.41 for better experience!

2014/01/09 - v.2.41 Updates and Bug fixes
- Added: No Thumbnails (Settings->Main) for better performance on slow PCs
- Updated: Changed the order of "." and ".." in Image Browser
- Updated: DARV is now not changing the ISO to highest value
- Fixed: Cam+PC on Digic4 camera was duplicating the stored images
- Fixed: Rare PixelAid crashes
- Fixed: Small bug in DARV
- Fixed: Image Browser crash when there is 32bits FITS in the current folder
- Fixed: Rare random Image Browser crashes
- Fixed: Various fixes here and there

[Yoddha]

Hello,

The development of the version 2.50 is still in progress, so I decided to release the finished fixes and new additions in order to be available for the coming New Moon :)

2014/02/27 - v.2.43 Small update
- Added: Profiles for the parameters of Collimation Aid
- Added: Telescope Park/Unpark button (full version only)
- Added: Dithering distance up to 90 for MGen and APT Dithering
- Added: EOS 1200D in the Object calculator
- Added: Meridian Flip Clock shows "?" when mount is not tracking
- Fixed: DARV was not using the right speeds for certain mounts
- Fixed: DSD Clock bug in certain case
- Fixed: False error message when 0s exposure is used with camera with B and M dial modes
- Fixed: Small bug in Plan Editor when keyboard is used for scrolling
- Fixed: Various fixes here and there

[Yoddha]

Hello,

The new version 2.50 is live :) As usual here is the changes log:

2014/04/16 - v.2.50 New features and bug fixes

- Added: SBIG cameras and filter wheels support
- Added: EOS 1200D support
- Added: The newest Canon library (2.14)
- Added: New tab in Settings - Filter Wheel
- Added: Displaying filter names in Plan Editor and in Camera tab when they are described in Settings
- Added: The 'Auto Canceled' images are not counted during plan execution
- Added: Schedule plan execution (Shift+Start)
- Added: Run a plan for defined number of executions (Shift+Start)
- Added: UI changes for compatibility with UltraVNC under XP
- Added: New setting (Advanced tab) to disable FITS auto orientation for CCDs like QHY10 MkII

- Moved: Skins are available in the demo version

- Fixed: Bug in the TemperGold support
- Fixed: Bug in GoTo when declination is negative and less than one degree
- Fixed: Rare crashing when EOS connection is lost
- Fixed: Crashing when EOS connection is lost during LiveView
- Fixed: Bug in Flats plans when are used with EOS having B dial mode
- Fixed: Bug in the Planetary HD video when destination is PC or Cam+PC
- Fixed: Various fixes here and there

- Updated: User's Guide document (the new things are in green)

Your feedback is very welcome :) Many thanks for your help and support!

Happy Easter Holidays!

[Yoddha]

APT has new forum :) Take a look at www.aptforum.com (http://www.aptforum.com)!

Of course this topic will remain fully supported ;) But I'll be happy to meet you in the new place too :D

[Yoddha]

If you want to transfer lists from AstroPlanner to APT take a look on this trick http://aptforum.com/phpbb/viewtopic.php?f=19&t=66 :)

[Yoddha]

New little banner :)

http://www.ideiki.com/astro/skinastro/ImagingWithAPT.png

[Yoddha]

Hello,

The auto-focusing feature is still in progress, so decided to pack and release the ready features and fixes in order to be available for the coming New Moon :)

Have fun and don't forget to share your images in the APT's forum!

What's new:

2014/06/26 - v.2.54 New features and bug fixes
- Added: HFD focusing method in Focus Aid
- Added: Star profile in Focus Aid
- Added: Graphs for FWHM and HFD in Focus Aid
- Added: Graph in Bahtinov Aid
- Added: Graphs for Temperature, EXIF, Humidity, DewPoint, CCD Temperature/Power (Tools tab)
- Added: Search in Objects Browser
- Added: Custom Objects Browser import detects duplicates by coordinates
- Added: Delete multiple lines in Custom Objects Browser
- Added: Use the current coordinates to create new line in Custom Objects Browser
- Added: The files need to make objects import from AstroPlanner are included in the setup
- Added: Delay dithering start (Settings->Advanced)
- Added: Export APT's log file (Settings->Main)
- Added: Displaying EU, US or Japanese name depending on the connected camera

- Fixed: Not showing the correct power level for SBIG cameras
- Fixed: Bug in the image preview when QHY10 is used
- Fixed: Selecting the image quality when EOS 1Dx is used
- Fixed: Bug when EOS Kiss X6i is connected (650D and Rebel T4i were not affected)
- Fixed: Various fixes here and there

- Updated: User's Guide document (the new things are in green)

[g__day]

Hey Ivo,

How do I transfer my registration (now expired) from my son's ex-girlfriend's e-mail to my personal one? My version 2.43 is registered by her e-mail account as I don't have paypal and back then you didn't have a Visa or Mastercard option, so she bough it and I gave her the funds. Unfortunately Sam no longer dates or sees Ally so I now have a challenge!

I have sent you an e-mail address to ask if its simple to transfer ownership from her e-mail id back to me (son has broken up with the lovely lady) so I can renew it under my name and contact details now?

Many thanks, Matthew

[Yoddha]

Hi Matthew,

Just took the care and sent you a mail :)

[g__day]

Many thanks Ivo - saw that, kind of you updating my subscription too. Now that I can use my Mastercard its easy. Funds should be with you now!

Cheers, Matthew

[Yoddha]

Many thanks Matthew!

[Merlin66]

I'm investigating the use of APT as a means of doing "remote" spectroscopy...
I also use AstroPlanner to generate observing lists....
I've downloaded APT to see if it can help.
Just a comment:
It may be easier/ better to separate the DSLR/ CCD options etc. and re-write the users manual - one version (or complete section) only on DSLR control and a separate (or complete section) only on CCD control.
I accept people may use either or both, but when concentrating say on CCD control there's a lot of DSLR "noise" to dig through...
Just my 2c

[Merlin66]

I see from the APT group messages there was an issue with APT "talking" to the latest PHDV2.3...
Has this now been resolved?

[Yoddha]

Hi Ken,

Thank you for your interest and suggestions I'm putting them into my To-Do list :)

About the PHD 2.3, as I know there is no problem with the communication between APT and PHD. The issues is with the Guide button on the Gear tab. It is expected when you click on it the PHD to get to foreground. I'll fix this for the next release.

[Merlin66]

Ivo,
Thanks for the prompt reply....
I'll do some work with APT and various CCD cameras (ATiK16ic, ATiK314L, for imaging and QHY5IIL(mono), Lodestar for guiding) over the weekend.
Are the any sample scripts available for taking multiple subs of each object on an observing list (say generated by AstroPlanner), guiding during the subs (PHD2) then GOTO moving to the next object - repeat until end of list???

[Yoddha]

At this stage it is not possible to make such automation :( The problem is in the part where APT has to stop guiding and then to start it again on other target...

[Amaranthus]

Yoddha, is there any chance of getting APT working with AstroTortilla plate solving, for auto-centring of targets?

[Yoddha]

Hi Barry,

The integration with AT is already implemented :)

As well as dithering with MetaGuide ;)

[Amaranthus]

Fantastic Ivo, I'll have to read the manual in detail it seems. Looks like this is going to be my next camera capture tool :)

[Yoddha]

Many thanks Barry!

If I can be in help, just drop a line here or in the APT's forum :)

[Yoddha]

Hello,

I’m very happy to announce that the first version of APT with built-in Auto-Focus feature is now available :) The tests show very-good results, but I’ll be tankful if you share feedback at www.aptforum.com (http://www.aptforum.com/), here or by email. This will be in help to make it better.

Here is the complete log:

2014/09/19 - v.2.60 New features and bug fixes
- Added: Auto Focusing Aid for ASCOM focusers (see the User's Guide)
- Added: Dither on # images option (Guide dialog box)
- Added: PHD connection port definition (Guide dialog box)
- Added: New images folder after midnight option (Settings->Advanced)
- Added: Bind Magnifier to Focus Aid option to allow focusing star magnification
- Added: Support QSI wheel profiles (Gear->Wheel Settings)
- Added: In CCD mode automatic use of the shortest exposure in Bias plans
- Added: In CCD histogram left double click moves the point to the border
- Added: Cooling Aid can make small warming
- Added: The different APT instances now store separate set of configurations
- Added: DARV allows to use x2 East speed
- Added: Support for MGen firmware 2.11+
- Added: Filter name is visible in the Status panel
- Added: Click on Gear->Guide will find the PHD2 window

- Fixed: In CCD histogram Fine/Coarse movements
- Fixed: CCD preview was making unwanted vertical flip
- Fixed: Various fixes here and there

- Updated: User's Guide document (the new things are in green)

[lazjen]

I just updated my license again and look forward to trying out the auto focus routine sometime. I've been using APT recently (I think I was on 2.50) with the SBig camera and it's been working quite well.

[Yoddha]

Hi Chis,

Thank you for your support! If I can be in help, just let me know :)

[Yoddha]

Hello,

Few days before the Full Moon APT 2.70 is here, so there is enough time to update your imaging computer, to look around and prepare for the next round of dark skies time (if the weather decide to provide clear sky somewhere in this world). As you can see, fixed are some things, but more important added are some long awaited features. The main one is the upgrade of our trusty dithering option to a complete Dithering System that allows synchronizing multiple cameras and in the same time to use the benefits of the dithering :)

As usual the log:

2014/12/04 - v.2.70 New features and bug fixes
- Added: Dithering in multi-camera setup (See Section XXVII)
- Added: Dark Flats plans type
- Added: ASCOM Rotators support
- Added: Small cross to mark CMOS center in 5x and 10x Zoom
- Added: Shift+Double Click to center zoom window
- Added: Settings Backup/Restore
- Added: Enable/Disable telescope tracking (full version only)
- Added: Advanced telescope GoTo - Alt/Az (full version only)
- Added: Advanced telescope GoTo - Alt/Az offset for AstroTotrilla polar alignment (full version only)
- Added: Advanced telescope GoTo - RA/Dec offset (full version only)
- Added: Better multi cameras connection control. Now CCD can be primary, EOS secondary
- Added: Minimize button in window mode
- Added: All buttons that have Shift+Click action are marked with "+"
- Added: Workaround of ASCOM driver problem causing LiveView to hang with QHY22 and maybe other QHY models

- Fixed: Filter's focus offset not used in plan
- Fixed: SBIG Frame/Focusing plans not showing image
- Fixed: Bug in CCD bias plans
- Fixed: Bug in Meridian Flip Clock
- Fixed: Bug for EOS 5D Mk1 and maybe other models with B dial mode
- Fixed: Fix in the MGen 2.12 support
- Fixed: Other UI bugs
- Fixed: Various fixes here and there

- Updated: User's Guide document (the new things are in green)

[Yoddha]

A small bug was found and fixed. The site was updated with version 2.71.

The bug was that multi line plans were not executed in CCD mode. The EOS part of APT is not affected, so us you don’t use CCD you can skip the fix.

If you use CCD please download the update in order to use the full functionality related to the Plans.

Sorry for the inconvenience!

[Yoddha]

Happy holidays! Let the new year bring us many positive moments and clear nights :)

[Yoddha]

APT just turned five!

Happy Birthday APT :) Thank you for your support and help during all these years!

[Amaranthus]

Congrats Ivo, it's a fantastic collection of tools. Love APT.

[lazjen]

Got to agree - good application and versatile.

[mswhin63]

Gratz Ivo, well done on the software advancements. Hope to see some more revolutionary adaptations in the future.

[Yoddha]

Thank you my friends! Really you support made possible APT to become what it is. Version 1.0 was quite basic, but now it is powered with features that were just in my dreams :)

The next big thing that I hope to happens is the support of Sony Alpha line. With Sony are in the middle of negotiations how it can become real.

Other one is deeper plate-solving integration...

Meanwhile there is quite long To-Do list with planned and requested features :)

With other words I can easily see the next five years :D

[Yoddha]

Hello,

The first update for the year is here :) Bellow you can see the new things, but allow me to highlight few of them. The vertical plan execution is very useful for HRD imaging of eclipses or optimizing the data gathering with filter wheels. The images naming and grouping is reworked, so take a look in the Settings. Added is Sky Quality tracking feature that you may want to explore :)

2015/02/26 - v.2.80 New features and bug fixes
- Added: Unihedron Sky Quality Meter devices integration
- Added: Vertical plan execution
- Added: CCD Flats Aid
- Added: Reworked images naming (combination of 13 options)
- Added: Reworked images storing folders (combination of 8 options)
- Added: Manual entry of Sky Quality estimation
- Added: The newest Canon library (2.15)
- Added: Support for EOS 7D Mk II
- Added: Added support for the latest TemperHum model
- Added: Graph Panel re-opening on APT start
- Added: Guide star distance Graph
- Added: Sky Quality Graph
- Added: Sky Quality NELM (V) to/from MPSAS (B) convertor
- Added: Double click switches between "Preview On" and "Preview On 1:1"
- Added: Added %Lat%, %Long%, %SQM% parameters
- Added: SBIG & QSI now ignore "ASCOM wheel auto connect" option
- Added: Possibility to select the SBIG camera USB port
- Added: Background FITS saving
- Added: Sky Quality value saving in FITS header
- Added: Added EOS 750D/760D and EOS 5Ds/5Ds R in the object calculator

- Fixed: Bug in Meridian Flip Clock
- Fixed: Bug in Cross moving in CCD mode
- Fixed: Object Name was not kept during sessions
- Fixed: QHY LiveView is crashing with AstroTortilla
- Fixed: Bug on EOS Camera Disconnect
- Fixed: Bug in storing southern hemisphere site coordinates in FITS
- Fixed: Fixed "Shift+Drag" scrolling in resized mode
- Fixed: Other UI bugs
- Fixed: Various fixes here and there

- Updated: User's Guide document (the new things are in green)

[SimmoW]

Thank you for such a wonderful product Ivo, and even greater thanks for working with Sony, can't wait to try your product with my A7s!

[Yoddha]

Thank you for your kind words Simon!

[ZeroID]

Hi Ivo, I've got a 450D which I am currently using with BYE but I have just found this and downloaded the demo, very nice piece of work.

Now I'm quite happy with BYE, I don't do complicated imaging sessions and it is easy to use and works well for my setup but I have a 24mega pixel SONY SLT A77v sitting around I'd love to use more effectively. It already has proven more than capable but the lack of focussing aids and PC control makes it a bit of a mission to use.

So I'm keeping an eye on this software for now, I'll try it with the 450D anyway to get familiar with it but as Simon says I can't wait to try it with my SONY gear ( fingers crossed !! )

[Yoddha]

Thank you Brent!

[Yoddha]

There was a small bug in the AstroTortilla integration when is used Canon EOS. If you use AstroTortilla and EOS camera please download 2.81. The CCD part is not affected.

Apologies for the inconvenience!

[speach]

Have just started using eqmod, and was surprised what was available in APT lots, lots of goodies. With APT and Pixinsight I can get rid of all the other programmes. Thanks yoddha

[Yoddha]

Many thanks Simon! What makes me happy is to know that APT is in help :)

[Yoddha]

Hello,

A small update was released. It addresses mainly some bugs and especially one very strange that caused crashing when Focus Aid is used on some computers. I would suggest to update your APT to 2.82 in order to be sure that you ready for the next imaging session :)

2015/03/20 - v.2.82 Bug fixes

- Added: Support for focus offsets with relative focusers

- Fixed: On some PCs Focus Aid crashes
- Fixed: Crash when empty Vertical plan is saved
- Fixed: Brackets in DSLR file names when EXIF is not used
- Fixed: EXIF temperature reading for 1200D

[Yoddha]

Hello,

I have the great pleasure to announce that version 2.90 of APT is available :) There are exciting new features powered by plate-solving technology. My favorite is the possibility to frame an object with simple mouse click. No more wasted time in playing with the mount to place the object where you want it :)

Here is a short clip that was made by Jokai Andras during the beta tests. It shows this feature in action!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FUyvgZb8H2A&feature=youtu.be (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FUyvgZb8H2A&feature=youtu.be)

As usual there is a list of the changes:

2015/05/21 - v.2.90 New features and bug fixes
- Added: Integration of PlateSolve2 (2.28 or later) made by PlaneWave Instruments
- Added: PointCraft for image plate solving (in Gear Tab)
- Added: Aim mode in PointCraft to allow object framing by clicking in solved image
- Added: GoTo++ mode in PointCraft to allow GoTo with plate solving confirmation
- Added: Possibility to store PointCraft result in Object Browser (full version only)
- Added: Smart RA/Dec controls to allow input in any format
- Added: 27 keyboard shortcuts (point "?" button to see the list in tooltip balloon)
- Added: FITS Header viewer (in Img Tab)
- Added: Higher CCD Compatibility setting
- Added: Log file can't become bigger than 5MB
- Added: Minor improvements here and there

- Moved: ASCOM telescope control is available in the demo version
- Moved: DARV is available in the demo version
- Moved: Meridian Flip Clock is available in the demo version
- Moved: APT dithering without guiding program is available in the demo version
- Moved: Advanced telescope GoTo - Alt/Az available in the demo version
- Moved: Advanced telescope GoTo - Alt/Az offset for AstroTotrilla polar alignment available in the demo version
- Moved: Advanced telescope GoTo - RA/Dec offset available in the demo version

- Fixed: On some PCs Focus Aid crashes
- Fixed: Deep Sky Darkness (DSD) calculator can't be closed in some situations
- Fixed: DARV crash when aid is closed without use
- Fixed: Warning messages in Log panel when SBIG camera is used
- Fixed: AutoFocusing is not stopping when max attempts count is reached
- Fixed: Various fixes here and there

- Updated: User's Guide document (the new things are in green)

Please take a look on the User’s Guide for instructions about downloading and installing the PlateSolve2 application. The process is quite easy :)

[g__day]

Hi Ivo,

Just read your e-mail and say the impressive new feature list - well done! Keen to try out the latest version when the skies stop pouring down in Sydney!

Best regards,

Matthew

[Yoddha]

Many thanks Matthew!

Here we have quite green spring :) delivered by quite good amount of rain :(

[Yoddha]

Hello,

There is a small update available with fixes and few additions. Make sure that you have this version on your imaging computer in order to get the best from APT :)

2015/07/31 - v.2.91 Small update
- Added: Auto button in PointCraft that makes Shoot->Get Scope Pos->Solve->Sync
- Added: ROI can be selected with left mouse click
- Added: ROI size 1/16 from the sensor size
- Added: New PointCraft setting - Use EOS Crop factor (disabled by default)
- Changed: CCD Shoot button will not make Dithering to prevent problems in PointCraft
- Fixed: Bug in Custom objects when line is imported from AsimoPlan
- Fixed: GoTo++ Stop doesn't allow to stop exposure
- Fixed: GoTo++ Stop keeps asking to Sync
- Fixed: GoTo++ disables the plan start button
- Fixed: PointCraft can give false error on slow PC
- Fixed: "Stop" buttons icon in Gear tab
- Fixed: Bug when objects scale is enabled and PointCraft is started
- Fixed: Rare Magnifier crashing
- Fixed: MetaGuide dithering problem

[Yoddha]

Hello,

The coming APT v3.0 made me look back and see the long way walked since its start in year 2009. The released 44 updates pushed this project to levels that had been just in my dreams and which are opening path for many interesting additions in future. A lot of time, efforts and support had been invested so I hope that in this context it will not be unfair to make the first price update in the APT history (http://www.ideiki.com/astro/History.aspx).

APT v3.0 is expected in late September or early October and the price of the full version will be 18.70 EUR. The renewal fee remains unchanged – 6 EUR and gives additional year of updates. For everybody that supported APT till v3.0 release there will not be any changes!

[jwoody]

Hello Ivo
I think a small price rise to only 18.70 EUR is perfectly acceptable for such a comprehensive and well supported program.
Best of luck and looking forward to APT v3.0.
Cheers
Jeremy

[Yoddha]

Thank you Jeremy!

[lazjen]

I agree with Jeremy, no problems with the price.

If we already have v2.x now, do we pay 6 EUR to upgrade to v3.0 or 18.70 EUR?

[Yoddha]

Thanks Chris,

If your key is still active when 3.0 is released then there is no need to pay anything. If it is expired then renewal is 6 EUR :)

The change is only for the new APT supporters.

[Yoddha]

There is an official beta version :) Please help to find if there are bugs or share your opinion for the new features that are coming in APT 3.0

All details are here - http://aptforum.com/phpbb/viewtopic.php?f=16&t=581&p=3381#p3381

[g__day]

Hey Ivo,

Download as 13.6MB okay - but when I click on it to install - its asks run program then everything just hangs - tried 3 times from two seperate downloads on a Windows 7 64 bit PC.

Matt

[Merlin66]

Install "as administrator" ?????

[Yoddha]

Matt, As Ken suggested please try to start it "As administrator".

[g__day]

I already tried the install as admin this morning (should have mentioned that earlier). The program after you say run as admin asks for permission to install, when you press ok the dialogue box disappears and then nothing happens. The mouse when you hover over APT_Setup is the round blue timer circle - it just never does anything, like it is waiting for an event that never happens.

None of the last eleven versions had this issue - its a first for me!

I also tried installing it in compatability mode (Win XP SP2) - still no joy, same behaviour it just stalls waiting forever...

[Yoddha]

This is very strange... The installer is same, just changed some files that are deployed.

Please try to uninstall the previous version...

[g__day]

Hi Ivo,

Version 2.91 removed without any issue - however 2.95 still won't install.

Also after waiting a few minutes I can't even halt the install task from task manager, I have to force a log off to kill the task. Will try and re-install the old APT again.

So logged on again - and V2.91 installed again successfully first attempt.

Now I noticed when I scanned my d:\astro\apt\versions folders that all previous versions had two application files Digic2_and_CCD and Digic3_4_5_and_CCD and a readme file, the latest version only has an APT_Setup executable. So that is different with the installer...

Matt

PS

I just re-download V2.91 again - it's a 19.3MB zip file that contains the three files above mentioned files. V2.95 is a zip file of size 13.96 MB containing only the one executable of size 13.982 MB - there's definitely a difference there that may or may not be part of the problem.

[Yoddha]

Hi Matt,

I have joined both editions and this is the reason to see one executable. In fact it is only Digic3_4_5_and_CCD but with added more files for installation.

Is the APT_Setup.exe unblocked?

[g__day]

Hi Ivo,

Unblocked by what? I am unclear as what you mean might be blocking this. Its passes the virus scanner, and I can't see any active software blocking it. To what do you refer or how does one check if some Windows software is blocked? If you mean the firewall I added a rule to allow the executable full access.

It acts as a runaway task given I launch it from Windows explorer and this hangs and Windows Task manager can't kill the process!

Matthew

[Yoddha]

Hi Matt,

I can't remember it was Vista or Win7 in some configurations requires an executable to be unblocked manually from the properties menu if the file...

Let me check if there is an update of the tool that I'm using to make the setup...

[Yoddha]

Matt, I can't find explanation of the problem :( There are more than 60 download of the beta and no reports for such problem.

If you want give me your mail address in personal message and I'll send you a zip with all files that the installer deploys so you can apply manually.

[g__day]

Ivo,

Thanks - done. I am surprised too, I can't intuit why my set-up seems to be special needs. Will let you know how the manual approach goes.

Matthew

[g__day]

Ivo, et al,

After a lot of mucking around I tried installing it in Windows 10 Pro and on the third attempt it worked.

Then I switched back to Windows 7 Ultimate 64 bit and I turned off Avast 2015 Firewall and file system protection - then it installed and ran well. I turned Avast firewall back on, it still ran ok. Then I turned the file system protection on and everything halted as before. In the end I just created a rule in Avast file system protection to ignore scanning the program executable directory for APT.

So bottom line is Avast Internet Security 2015 really doesn't seem to like this version - even when it is installed using all the files zipped.

Once the file protection was disabled - the installer would work and the latest version could be run. Turn the file protection back on (without the exception rule) and the previously installed executable just wouldn't run.

So maybe let folk know there is some sort of issue with the latest version of Avast at the moment. Probably wouldn't hurt to shoot Avast a line to and ask why is it picking on just the latest version's installer?

Many thanks - glad to have it working now and the problem at least isolated and avoided!

Matthew

[ZeroID]

Switch to AVG Virus Scanner. Never had an issue with anything and never had a virus either.

[Yoddha]

Hi Matt,

Great catch! I'll try to contact Avast :thumbsup:

[Yoddha]

Hello,

I’m very happy to announce that APT 3.00 is finally here! :) Many thanks to everybody that helped with the testing of this version during the beta phase! APT 3.00 has many major improvements in the architecture and all this had to be tested and polished.

Please take a look on the Release Notes that will be loaded after installing the update.

On the image is visible the effect of the automatic histogram stretching :)
192006

Here is the complete list of the changes:

2015/12/10 - v.3.00 Major update
- Added: Blind plate solving in PointCraft (PointCraft->Settings to download ASPS, indexes need time to download)
- Added: PointCraft Auto button can work with both Blind and Near solving
- Added: Light Grey skin
- Added: Combined version for all Digic generations (Shift+Connect to select the Digic type)
- Added: Added support for 5DS, 5DS R, 760D (T6s ,8000D), 750D (T6i, X8i)
- Added: Canon library 3.2.1
- Added: Much faster RAW files (.CR2) reading
- Added: Stars Browser can limit list to visible only (FULL version only)
- Added: AboveHorizon setting (Settings->Main) and check on GoTo/Goto++ (FULL version only)
- Added: New tab in Settings dialog – CCD
- Added: Settings->CCD Auto Connect
- Added: Setting to Disable minimum exposure duration check (workaround for flats/bias problem with some CCDs)
- Added: New setting Wheel tab for Moravian wheels and special support
- Added: New interface for EOS Histogram
- Added: EOS Histogram Stretching - Double click(+shift) sets the white (black) point
- Added: EOS Histogram Stretching per channel (RGB button)
- Added: EOS Histogram Auto-Stretching (AutoStr button)
- Added: EOS Histogram Logarithmic View (Log button)
- Added: EOS Histogram for LiveView
- Added: New interface for CCD Histogram (double click(+shift) sets the white (black) point)
- Added: CCD Histogram Auto-Stretching
- Added: CCD Histogram Logarithmic View
- Added: Filters list on Gear tab for faster change
- Added: Humidity, DewPoint support for AstroHub and SirJolo arduino based focusers
- Added: Custom object browser is reloaded automatically if the file is changed outside of APT
- Added: New types in Custom objects - Variable Star, Asteroid, Comet, Planet
- Added: Lin_Guider integration (Gear->Guide or F7)
- Added: Ctrl+Double click - reset the current graph
- Added: RA/Dec coordinates storage in FITS for images taken with SBIG cameras
- Added: Multiple MGens (connection to the next available MGen device)
- Added: AutofocusAid remember the selected method (FWHM or HFD)
- Added: "Center ROI" button that locks the ROI to the image center allowing alignment

- Changed: Shift+Guide = Guide (removed the switching to PHD)

- Fixed: PointCraft Auto button doesn't show Status 'Imaging'
- Fixed: Fixed %TotalCount% script parameter for CCDs
- Fixed: Fixed %Pixel% script parameter for CCDs
- Fixed: Fix bug in Telescope ASCOM usage that caused problems with some drivers
- Fixed: Clear Object name from illegal chars.
- Fixed: Various fixes here and there

[Yoddha]

Hello,

The APT 3.10 is here! Loaded with exiting new features and covering another important milestone on our joint journey in the astro-photography :)

I hope that you will find the new User’s Guide as one of valuable additions in this release. Take a look on it here: http://ideiki.com/astro/usersguide/

Usually here is included a list with the changes. This time the version log is in new format with hyperlinks available here: http://ideiki.com/astro/usersguide/what_is_new_.htm

Great thanks to everybody that helped this update to become true with ideas and testing!

[Yoddha]

Hello,

APT was updated to version 3.11. It contains some important fixes and few additions like support for the latest EOS models (80D, 1300D and 1D X Mark II).

The Moon is getting smaller, so update your APT and be ready for the dark skies :)

The complete list of the changes is available here: http://ideiki.com/astro/usersguide/what_is_new_.htm

[Yoddha]

Hello,

APT was updated to version 3.12. There are some interesting new features and some fixes. As highlight I can mention the first User Interface facelift since the very beginning of APT. During the years the behavior and outlook changed a lot, but the basic elements of the interface remained unchanged… The new version brings a fresh look – nothing radical, everything you have used to and liked is still there. Just touches here and there. To see the sparkles you may need to use your averted vision :)

The complete list of the changes is available here:
http://ideiki.com/astro/usersguide/what_is_new_.htm

Hope that you will like the changes :)

[Yoddha]

Hello,

APT was updated to version 3.13. It contains some important fixes and few additions like integration with http://www.dso-browser.com and improvements in Plan Editor.

The Moon is getting smaller, so update your APT and be ready for the dark skies :)

The complete list of the changes is available here:
http://ideiki.com/astro/usersguide/what_is_new_.htm

[Yoddha]

Hello,

APT was updated to version 3.20. This time the main focus is on the DSLR part, however there are improvements and bug fixes in the CCD part too :)

Let mention the possibility to control lens aperture during plan execution and the new imaging plan type "Light Auto" - light plan that uses AV dial mode. These additions deliver a powerful set of options to image eclipses.

Other useful improvement is lens focal length detection that makes platesolving with zoom lens much easier and pleasant.

The complete list of the changes is available here:
http://ideiki.com/astro/usersguide/what_is_new_.htm

[KWR]

Great work. Thanks for the update.

[Yoddha]

A small bug was found and fixed in v3.20 that affects only the CCD part of APT. In some cases Plan Editor is crashing.

If you are using the CCD part, please download and install again v3.20 from the site to fix the problem.

Many apologies for the inconvenience!

[Yoddha]

Hello,

The passing 2016 brought us serious amount of improvements in APT – 85 new features and more than 40 fixes. All this would not* be possible without your support, feedback, ideas and encouragements!

I want to say big "Thank you!"

APT will welcome the coming 2017 with long list of planned additions and in the top there is a line that contains the word "Nikon" ;) Stay tuned, another interesting year is ahead!

Let the new year bring to you and your families lots of happiness, health, prosperity and many clear nights full of stars!

Happy Holidays!

[jwoody]

Cheers Ivo, happy holidays. Looking forward to new updates next year.
Jeremy

[Yoddha]

Thank you Jeremy!

[g__day]

Well done Ivo, reminds me I think my subscription has expired - time to renew! Was very pleased to discover APT can control my new ZWO cameras! Well done - that is something your competition can't do!

Matthew

[Yoddha]

Many thanks Matthew!

[g__day]

Ivo,

Delighted - you obiviously put a lot of work into your software - manty thanks fro all of us who use it.

I am in the process of moving away from using modded Canon DSLRs and instead use ZWO cameras - so I was delighted that APT can run them. One feature I always found very useful in my DSLR time using BYE was the ability to put a bullseye on the screen when you are centring stars during initial 3 point alignment - whether taking stills or using Liveview - it made for very fast centring. Does APT have similar functionality by any chance?

Best regards,

Matthew

[Yoddha]

Hi Matthew,

Yes it is possible ( it have been possible since 2010 ;) ), just use the "Target" button - then one between Zoom and Shoot.

More about it can be found here - http://ideiki.com/astro/usersguide/crosshair.htm?ms=AAA%3D&st=MA%3D%3D&sct=NzMw&mw=MjQw

[Yoddha]

Hello,

APT 3.30 is here! The first update for the 2017 year comes with many long-awaited features like new skin, focuser control improvements, new sounds system and important fixes. There are also additions as Check Lists, the experimental tool for measuring focuser backlash and better guiding resuming after GoTo commands.

Meanwhile Deep-Sky Planner have added possibility to export observing lists which can be import directly into APT’s Object Browser :)

The complete list of the changes is available here:
http://ideiki.com/astro/usersguide/what_is_new_.htm

[Yoddha]

Hello,

There is a hot fix 3.31, you need it only if you can't read the CheckLists on your language. Please excuse me for the inconvenience!

[Yoddha]

Hello,

The work on the next major update is still in progress and it will need more time to get a stable form. Meanwhile there are new features that are finished and awaited, so here is a small update (APT 3.33) that packs everything ready for a release :)

The complete list of the changes is available here:
http://ideiki.com/astro/usersguide/what_is_new_.htm

[speach]

does APT support zwo asi1600ccm?

[Yoddha]

Hi Simon,

Yes, APT works with CCDs including the ASI models:)

You will have to install the ASCOM platform and also the ASCOM drivers for your camera.

Here is more info how to make connection in APT:

http://ideiki.com/astro/usersguide/starting_apt__eos_or_ccd_.htm

[luka]

Hi Ivo,

First of all thank you for APT, it is a wonderful, wonderful software :thumbsup:

I was wondering, does APT support devices using the ASCOM ObservingConditions interface yet? If not, are there any plans to include it and when?

Luka

[Yoddha]

Hi Luka,

Thank you for your interest and for your kind words!

The ObservingConditions interface is not supported yet, but there are plans to add it in APT 3.50 or 3.60 - with other words sometime before the end of the year :)

[Yoddha]

Hello,

We were hoping to have the new version before the end of this month, however the Nikon support takes more time than we expected...

The long awaited eclipse is closing and we decided to release a "beta" version that includes a feature build especially for this event - "Extreme EOS Shutter mode". It uses serial or DSUSB cable and allows to boost the imaging frame rate from 1 image on every 2s to 1-2 images per second (depends on the camera and memory card speed).

More information about all new features and fixes included into APT 3.35 can be found here : http://aptforum.com/phpbb/viewtopic.php?f=15&t=1293

The only two reasons this to be a beta but not fully official version are because Nikon support is not included as promised and there are no tooltips or help for the new stuff. So it worth to update your APT no matter if you will go for the eclipse or not :)

[Yoddha]

There is a new beta with some tuning of the Eclipse features for the EOS cameras with B dial mode :) and few more things...

http://aptforum.com/phpbb/viewtopic.php?f=15&t=1293#p7952

[Yoddha]

Hello,

We are very happy to announce that APT 3.40 is now available! It brings support for Nikon cameras as well as bunch of new features for Canon EOS, CCDs and fixes. Also, there are improvements in the APT site – all Object Browser extensions are now reworked as installations for easier applying, added is new information in the DSLR matrixes as suggested ‘Best ISO’ for astro-photography.

Definitely this is the biggest update in the APT history so far!

You can get APT 3.40 from www.astroplace.net

The complete list of the changes is available here:
http://ideiki.com/astro/usersguide/what_is_new_.htm

[Yoddha]

Hello,

There is an small version APT 3.41. The main purpose of this release is to fix a rare possibility to lose frames in the Demo version. Full version is unaffected!

If you are using the demo version 3.40, please update to be sure that everything will run as expected!

In the version is included a fix for wrong request to set EOS 77D in B dial mode and is added support for Nikon D850.

Please excuse us for the inconvenience!

[Yoddha]

Hello,

There is an APT update 3.42 - it fixes a possible crash when Nikon camera is used.

[ChrisV]

Thanks. Since I updated to 3.4 I seem to lose my settings and plans when I stay up apt every now and then

[Yoddha]

Hi Chris,

Could you give a bit more info? When do you loose settings - every time you start APT or when you install a new version?

[ChrisV]

I recently upgraded to 3.40. When I started this version I lost my plans that I'd made. I remade them, but then twice after that the plans weren't there when I started APT - it also reset my settings but I could recover these as I'd saved a settings file.

Edit: I've just uploaded and installed 3.42. All my plans and settings are there!

[Yoddha]

Hi Chris,

The settings losing on setup happens very rarely and I still can't find the reason :( My belief is that is related to rights, but without possibility to reproduce it is just theory.

The other case for losing settings is usually happens when switching to or from use of "Run As Administrator". That mode has own settings from the regular mode. Could it be the reason?

[ChrisV]

I'll try that when/if it happens again and post on the APT forum. And it's not happening now.

Thanks Ivo. Otherwise APT had been excellent !!

[Yoddha]

One more year is almost finished… We hope that it was full of adventures, challenges and happy moments :) It is time for a Christmas present – APT 3.50 which comes with our special thanks for your support for APT during 2017 and in the past!

The long awaited and highly requested integration with Stellarium is available now! Interesting addition is that APT’s import coordinates features can act as ASCOM bridge/proxy when a scope without direct Stellarium support is used.

As usual for a round number version there are other things in the package ;) The complete list of the changes is available here: http://ideiki.com/astro/usersguide/what_is_new_.htm

We wish you a very exciting 2018 and will give our best to contribute with interesting news :)

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

[Camelopardalis]

Awesome Ivo, thanks for all your efforts :thumbsup:

As an aside, did you ever get any interesting feedback from Fujifilm? I moved from Canon to Fujifilm for my wide field (although I use APT with my ZWO) and it’s almost archaic going back to an intervalometer :lol:

[Yoddha]

Many thanks Dunk!

There are some news from Fujifilm. We had communication (including snail mail :scared2:), however their API supports just few high-end models which makes support implementation not much reasonable :(

[Camelopardalis]

Thanks for your response Ivo, I feared as much, their own software is similarly useless for the entry-level models.

IMO if I’m going to spend $2000 on a camera, I want it cooled :lol:

[Yoddha]

Happy New Year! We wish you wonderful and successful 2018 lit by a lot of star light! :)

[Yoddha]

Hello,

Here is the first update for 2018! Since the APT 3.50 many problems were fixed, so we decided to release the fixes in a version. It comes with some new features too. Let mention two of them – the possibility to change the position of the Status Panel (vertical or horizontal) and the possibility to check the CCD temperature on plan start and never image with warm camera again :)

The complete list of the changes is available here:
http://ideiki.com/astro/usersguide/what_is_new_.htm

The big Moon gives time to update your APT and be ready for the dark nights :)

[Yoddha]

We got a report for problem with connecting to SkyWatcher mount from APT 3.51. The issue is fixed and confirmed. If you have similar problem please download APT 3.52.

Please excuse us for the inconvenience!

[Yoddha]

If you are using AstroTortilla with a Nikon camera, or if you are importing coordinates from Stellarium, please get the update APT 3.53 which fixes two problems in these areas.

In case you are not using these features, there is no need to apply this fix.

Again apologies for the inconvenience!

[Yoddha]

Hello,

This month APT turned 9th years, so this can be considered as Birthday Edition :) Thank you for the great journey together!

The main feature in this release is named Ringy Thingy – a unique way to edit numeric data in the dark, using only mouse or touch pad. It makes possible a whole imaging session without touching the keyboard!

Of course, there are bunch of other additions – new Canon models support, requested features, tweaks inspired by real life usage all over the world. The list is completed by some bug fixes…

The usual list of the changes is available here:
http://ideiki.com/astro/usersguide/what_is_new_.htm

The Budget Astrophotography team is recording a video series about APT, for news and links keep an eye on this topic:
http://aptforum.com/phpbb/viewtopic.php?f=19&t=1779

[Yoddha]

We had to release a small fix of 3.54 numbered as 3.54.1. Two bugs managed to pass through the testing... Please download the update to be sure that GoTo++ and multiple planetary recordings work fine.

Many apologies for the inconvenience!

[Yoddha]

235636

We are very close to the long awaited version 3.60 and the automated meridian flip, however it is time to release all features we have completed and tested since the last version.

APT 3.57 comes with quite long list of changes available for review here:
https://www.astrophotography.app/news

In order to reduce the time for delivering requested and/or wanted features we will release every week or two a beta version which later will be marked as preview version or replaced. Keep an eye on the APT forum, the Facebook group or at:
https://www.astrophotography.app/club

For downloads:
www.astrophotography.app

[dpastern]

I haven't used (or even downloaded) APT yet, but having seen a few videos of it in action, it looks nice and is priced very reasonably too (still expensive for me as I'm unemployed and money is really tight). Hoping to save my pennies over the coming months once my EQ6 mount is sorted out and then hope to try it.

Keep up the good work.

[Yoddha]

Thank you Dave!

APT has almost everything in the demo version, so there is no pressure ;)

[dpastern]

True, but gotta get the EQ6 working first :)

[Karlzburg]

I've had APT for 2 weeks and enjoying it a lot, I have it controlling everything. I bought the full version last night. It took a bit to get my head around it, but I click to see what happens.

[Yoddha]

Hello Karl,

Thank you for your support for the APT project! :)

[Loupy31]

Hi Yoddha,

Does APT have native support for ZWO ASI1600mm pro Support?

Cheers Peter :thumbsup:

[Yoddha]

Hi Peter,

APT can control all ZWO cameras via ASCOM driver. The native support is scheduled for version 3.70.

We are finishing 3.60 in the moment so have to start working on 3.70 very soon :)

[Loupy31]

I purchased APT yesterday, looks great.

Regards Peter:thumbsup:

[Yoddha]

Many thanks Peter! :)

[Yoddha]

237804

We are very excited to announce that the long awaited version 3.60 with the automated meridian flip feature is finally here It took a lot of efforts, research, discussions and tests to reach this important milestone for the APT project. We want to express our special thanks for all the support we got during the long way to achieve this goal!

APT 3.60 comes as rewarding ending of a very productive year. We hope the coming 2019 to be even more interesting!

The usual list of the changes is available here:
http://www.astrophotography.app/news

Happy Holidays!

[Imme]

Great stuff Ivo. Look forward to trying this out!
Milestone for you guys

[ChrisV]

Sounds excellent. Thanks Ivo, I'll try it as soon as things clear in Sydney. Whenever that will be ...

[Imme]

Hi Ivo,
Little advice if you can on the new 3.60 version with Meridian Flip.
It seems I'm having a few issues selecting the "Make automatic flip" check box. When I tick it a "Make sure you read user manual, etc" message comes up. I then click OK and another configuration problem message comes up about what guiding is supported. One of the listed items here is PHD2 which I am running.....seems the program doesn't recognise that I am???? I do note that APT does show it recognises I'm using PHD2 in things like pointcraft as it says "stopping PHD2 guiding"

I am guessing this is user error rather than program error....any hints on what I may/may not have set up correctly?

[Yoddha]

Hi Jon,

Since version 3.57 PHD and PHD2 were supported by same way. In 3.57 we added native PHD2 support which is used by the Meridian Flip.

Please make sure that you have selected the option PHD2 in Gear Tab->Guide.

[Yoddha]

We had to release a version 3.61 to fix some problems. Apologies for the inconvenience!

2019/01/02 - v.3.61 Fixes
- Fixed possibility to loose frames after Automatic Meridian Flip
- Fixed possibility image plan to hang on Dithering when Dithering Delay is used and there is no running guiding
- Fixed no preview when Shoot is used with RAW only on Nikon DSLR

[Imme]

Yes, phd2 is listed in gear tab and it works perfectly in all other aspects of the program. Guiding starts and stops when it should, it auto selects guide stars, etc, etc.

.....just seems it isn’t recognising it when it comes to ‘auto meridian flip’.

If I do a ‘force flip’ with the button it starts and stops the guiding and restarts it so it knows phd2 is th eprogram of choice.

[Yoddha]

Hi Jon,

I have just tried a manual flip with the simulator, but can see the error message ?!?! Could you send me a screenshot of the guide settings?

[Yoddha]

Two more fixes could be needed for problem-less Automatic Meridian Flip. This is the reason to release 3.62. Apologies for the inconvenience!

2019/01/04 - v.3.62 Fixes
- Fixed random APT hanging after Automatic Meridian Flip when Nikon camera is used
- Fixed possibility APT to hang after Automatic Meridian Flip when PHD2 re-calibration is used

[The_bluester]

I started using the trial version a week ago and bought the full version two days ago, overall a very impressive suite. I did have some issues with dithering, but to be honest I found mount issues that I am in the middle of fixing which may have had an impact. When trying to use dithering on short exposures it would often hang and timeout before continuing, PHD2 showed the dither and was guiding again, it seemed like APT was not getting the response that the dither was completed.


I am not ruling out finger trouble on my part yet.

[Yoddha]

Hello Paul,

Thank you for your support! I'll research and see if there is something obvious with the dithering. Please let me know how it behaves when you fix the mount problems.

[Imme]

Hi yoddha. I’m away from home for a week or so. Will shoot through the screenshots when I get back.

Thanks for the ongoing support on this fantastic software package

[The_bluester]

Is there a log file that might provide any useful information on what it is doing? My mount is functional at this stage, just not really “Fixed” yet.

If I get clear skies on Friday or Saturday nights this week I will be able to test. The near quarter moon will mean deep sky objects won’t be worth imaging anyway so I can test to my hearts content without feeling like I should be capturing image data.

[Yoddha]

The log file can be exported via Settings->Main->Export Log :)

[The_bluester]

Thanks, I had not had a chance to go looking yet, having gone hunting logs in other software the assumption is normally that I will have to go find where it is being written!

If we get decent skies this weekend I should be able to set up again and see if I can replicate the behavior.