Science with Astrophotography

Astronomers use false or representative color to help convey information in images of emission nebulosity, but that doesn’t make the photo less useful. The narrowband composite photograph above of the North America and Pelican nebulae (NGC 7000 and IC 5070, respectively) assigns images recorded through O III, Hα, and S II narrowband filters to the blue, green, and red channels in this picture to highlight the structure each gas contributes to the overall nebulous region. Credit Richard S. Wright, Jr. | Sky & Telescope

If you’ve been involved in astronomy for any length of time, chances are you’ve encountered discussions on the value of amateur astrophotography. Often, the phrase “It’s just a pretty picture” is wielded like a cudgel by some who perceive themselves as the champions of science against many just getting started in the field. Science and art are often compared in a pejorative sense, and that’s a pity. They both have value, and everyone seems to have their own definitions of what art or science actually is. If it’s an image, and it doesn’t meet someone’s personal definition of science, then it must be “just” art. But the fact is, astrophotography is a very large part of the science of astronomy.

Amateur astronomers, including astrophotographers, are amateur scientists. After all, it’s the passion for this branch of science that drives us into this pursuit and occasionally provides the fuel for a rich and fulfilling career in the sciences as well. But astro-imaging can also remain a hobby, and there is no shame in this. You can also be an amateur scientist and artist simultaneously — the two pursuits aren’t mutually exclusive.

(Source: Sky & Telescope)