Ready Set Image: Beginner’s Guide to Smart Telescopes Paperback – October 7, 2025

In READY SET IMAGE, the author takes on a project that has fundamentally changed the way amateur astronomers and astrophotographers observe and image the gems of the Cosmos. Built on the solid foundation of Electronically Assisted Astronomy (EAA), this cutting-edge technology simplifies the many processes used to view and image nebulae, galaxies, and other deep-sky objects. This new way of doing complex procedures has led to what is universally known as Smart Telescope Technology (STT), making the basic processes of EAA accessible to everyone.The Smart Telescopes highlighted in this book contain essentially the same features as traditional EAA telescopes, but incorporate those features into a compact design that greatly simplifies and automates the processes. Now, for the first time, anyone, regardless of age, disability, or skill level, can enjoy the journey to the stars, and beyond.Major areas covered by this book include: a brief description of light (photons) that are emitted or reflected from sources such as stars, planets, galaxies, nebulae, and other celestial phenomena; the Universe as an ordered system; the history and evolution of the telescope from Galileo's crude refractor of 1609 to present day computer-based telescopes; Artificial Intelligence and the future of smart telescopes; preparing for, planning and executing an astrophotography imaging session; myths, modes, and methods useful to the amateur astronomer; and outreach opportunities.Also included in this book are detailed specifications for all smart telescopes currently on the market, as well as basic setup and operating guides for each. Read more