Introduction to AstroManager¶

AstroManager is a modern, cloud-based platform designed to revolutionize how astrophotographers plan, execute, and manage their imaging sessions. Whether you're a beginner just getting started with deep sky imaging or an experienced imager running a remote observatory, AstroManager provides the tools you need to maximize your time under the stars.

What is AstroManager?¶

AstroManager combines several powerful capabilities into one integrated platform:

🔭 Target Planning & Discovery¶

• Comprehensive DSO Database: Access over 50,000 deep sky objects from major catalogs (Messier, NGC, IC, and more)
• Smart Filtering: Find targets based on observability, object type, size, magnitude, and constellation
• Altitude Charts: Visualize when objects are best positioned for imaging from your location
• Moon Interference: Automatic calculation of moon distance and illumination impact

📅 Intelligent Scheduling¶

• Imaging Goals: Define exactly what exposures you want for each target
• Priority System: Let AstroManager decide what to image based on your preferences
• Mosaic Support: Plan and execute multi-panel mosaic projects
• Weather Awareness: Adapt your session based on conditions

🖥️ Remote Monitoring¶

• Live Equipment Status: See your telescope, camera, mount, and focuser status in real-time
• Image Preview: View thumbnails of captured images as they're taken
• Session Progress: Track exposure counts and completion percentages
• Night Reports: Automatic generation of detailed session summaries

🔌 N.I.N.A. Integration¶

• Seamless Plugin: Deep integration with Nighttime Imaging 'N' Astronomy
• Automated Target Selection: Let AstroManager choose the best target at any moment
• Equipment Sync: Real-time synchronization of all equipment states
• Bidirectional Communication: Control and monitor from anywhere

Why AstroManager?¶

The Challenge¶

Traditional astrophotography workflow involves:

1. Manually researching targets using multiple websites and tools
2. Creating complex sequences in your imaging software
3. Constantly monitoring conditions and adjusting plans
4. Losing track of progress across multiple imaging sessions
5. No easy way to monitor remote setups

The Solution¶

AstroManager addresses these challenges by:

• Centralizing all your target research and planning in one place
• Automating target selection based on real-time conditions
• Tracking your imaging progress across sessions
• Enabling true remote monitoring and control
• Integrating seamlessly with your existing N.I.N.A. workflow

Core Concepts¶

Before diving in, familiarize yourself with these key concepts:

Observatory¶

An Observatory represents a physical imaging location with specific coordinates. You can have multiple observatories (e.g., home setup, remote observatory, star party locations).

Equipment Profile¶

An Equipment Profile defines your imaging setup - telescope, camera, filters, and their characteristics. This information is used for field-of-view calculations and exposure planning.

Target List¶

A Target List is a collection of deep sky objects you want to image. Think of it as a project or wish list that you can organize and prioritize.

Scheduled Target¶

A Scheduled Target is a DSO that you've added to the active scheduler with specific imaging goals and exposure plans.

Imaging Goal¶

An Imaging Goal defines what exposures you want for a target - filter, exposure time, and total count. Multiple goals can be assigned to capture different filter combinations.

Session¶

A Session represents a single night of imaging, tracking what was captured, conditions, and any issues encountered.

System Architecture¶

┌─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐
│                    AstroManager Cloud                        │
│  ┌─────────────┐  ┌─────────────┐  ┌─────────────────────┐  │
│  │  Web App    │  │   API       │  │   Database          │  │
│  │  (Blazor)   │◄─┤  (ASP.NET)  │◄─┤   (PostgreSQL)      │  │
│  └─────────────┘  └──────┬──────┘  └─────────────────────┘  │
└──────────────────────────┼──────────────────────────────────┘
                           │
                    HTTPS/WebSocket
                           │
┌──────────────────────────┼──────────────────────────────────┐
│                     Your Computer                            │
│  ┌─────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐    │
│  │                    N.I.N.A.                          │    │
│  │  ┌───────────────────────────────────────────────┐  │    │
│  │  │          AstroManager Plugin                   │  │    │
│  │  │  • Target Scheduler Instruction               │  │    │
│  │  │  • Loop Condition                             │  │    │
│  │  │  • Equipment Status Sync                      │  │    │
│  │  └───────────────────────────────────────────────┘  │    │
│  └─────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘    │
│                           │                                  │
│                     ASCOM/Native                             │
│                           │                                  │
│  ┌─────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐    │
│  │              Telescope Equipment                     │    │
│  │  Mount • Camera • Focuser • Filter Wheel • etc.     │    │
│  └─────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘    │
└──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘

Next Steps¶

Ready to get started? Here's what to do next:

1. Check System Requirements - Ensure your setup is compatible
2. Create Your Account - Sign up for AstroManager
3. Quick Start Guide - Get up and running in 15 minutes