I use a Mac and have a mortal hatred for Windows machines but as such it has sometimes limited how I use my setups. The following is a list of software which I have tried and in some case I still use to both collect data as well as process images
Telescope Control
Several software options are available for controlling telescopes and cameras on Mac computers for astronomy and astrophotography purposes:
CloudMakers AstroTelescope is a native Mac application that allows users to control their telescopes and point them at celestial objects. It’s part of a suite of astrophotography applications designed for Mac users.
KStars with EKOS is a comprehensive planetarium program that offers telescope control along with sky simulation and access to numerous object catalogs. It’s particularly useful for Mac and Linux users as it includes the EKOS imaging suite for astrophotography automation.
Stellarium Mobile: Although primarily a planetarium app, Stellarium Mobile is invaluable for beginners to learn about the night sky and plan their imaging sessions. It provides a realistic 3D simulation of the sky and detailed information about celestial objects. Stellarium also allows for direct linking to mounts and can be used to control your telescope.
SkySafari Pro: This is one of my go to tools it allows for placing the outline of your image train onto the display work both on a laptop as well as a mobile device and also links direct to the mounts allowing you to control the position of the Telescope.
AstroPlanner: This software is great for planning and logging observations. It offers visualization tools and even telescope control, making it a comprehensive solution for beginners.
Cartes du Ciel is another option that works on Mac, Windows, and Linux. It provides sky charts and telescope control capabilities.
Integrated Solutions
KStars with EKOS offers an integrated solution for Mac users, combining planetarium software with astrophotography tools. It includes features such as autoguiding, plate-solving, auto-focus control, and sequencing.
TheSkyX Professional is a comprehensive tool for observatory control and deep space imaging, though its Mac compatibility should be verified.
For Mac users interested in astrophotography and telescope control, these integrated software options provide a range of features to enhance their astronomical observations and imaging capabilities.
Image Processing
For beginners in astrophotography using a Mac, several software options stand out as user-friendly and effective:
- Siril: This free, open-source software is an excellent choice for beginners. It offers image stacking and processing capabilities, with a range of tools for calibration, color balance, and contrast adjustments. Siril is available for Mac and has a growing community of users sharing tips and tutorials.
- PixInsight: While more advanced, PixInsight is a powerful option for those willing to invest time in learning. It offers comprehensive tools for deep-sky image processing, including background equalization, noise reduction, and color correction. However, it does come with a learning curve and is not free.
- Lynkeos: A free stacking software specifically designed for Mac users, Lynkeos is particularly useful for planetary imaging.
For those just starting out, a combination of Siril for processing and stacking, along with Stellarium Mobile for planning, would provide a solid foundation without a significant financial investment. As you progress, you might consider more advanced options like PixInsight for deep-sky processing.
Remember, the best software often depends on your specific needs and the type of astrophotography you’re pursuing. It’s worth experimenting with different options to find what works best for you.