Astrophotography, Part 1
![Astrophotography, Part 1](/content/images/size/w2000/2019/04/5.png)
Astrophotography used to be a hobby of mine and I would make it out with my camera a few times a year. Over the last few years I haven't prioritized this hobby, but I am ready to start again.
Astrophotography typically involves hours of idle time in remote locations (often higher in elevation). As it turns out, this is also a great opportunity to get out some ham radio gear and make contacts.
I am working on a "go bag" for astrophotography. So far it includes a 12v, 12Ahr deep-cycle AGM battery and a DC-DC converter to power the camera. I also included a 12V fan so blow into the lens to prevent condensation. My goal is to support 10 hours of continuous shooting and make it as convenient as possible.
![](http://esorensen.com/content/images/2019/03/Screen-Shot-2019-03-30-at-4.14.41-PM.png)
I'll post more pictures of the go-bag build as I continue with it. Here are some of the things I intend to add:
- 3D printed enclosure
- Outputs for 12V (direct), 7.4V (1A max), and 5V (2A max)
- Fuses on every output
- Built in storage compartment for a trickle charger
The Canon camera bag is a great size and I think it will become the permanent "astrophotography" bag.
Here are some of the photos from last night:
![](http://esorensen.com/content/images/2019/03/trail2-1.jpg)
![](http://esorensen.com/content/images/2019/03/trail4-1.jpg)
![](http://esorensen.com/content/images/2019/03/trail-1.jpg)
![](http://esorensen.com/content/images/2019/04/2.png)
And here is a video timelapse of the photos: