[Aavso-photometry] Video photometry

[Arne Henden]

Hi Brian,
   Normally, video cameras have a number of non-photometric attributes:
gain control, antiblooming, nonlinear response, high noise since run
at video rate, limited dynamic range (often 8-bits).  As such, they
are not often used for precision photometry.
   I know of two exceptions to this.  The International Occultation
Timing Association (IOTA) does many asteroid occultations, with most
observers using video cameras to get the high timing resolution necessary
to learn about the asteroid size.  Check with David Dunham to see how
to get involved: dunham at erols.com
   The second place where video cameras have been used are for very
rapid flickering of variable stars, such as T Tauri variables and
flare stars, or rapid oscillation/rotation of some magnetic cataclysmic
variables.  Here the main problem is collecting enough photons so that
your sub-second exposures have enough signal/noise.  There are a few
bright CVs that might work, depending on your telescope.
   So in general, I'd experiment with your setup on some constant and
some variable stars to see what you get, and perhaps check with Dunham
to see how you can contribute in the occultation arena.  If you get
serious about variable star photometry, I'd think about getting some
inexpensive CCD system as it will give you more flexibility.

Brian Potter wrote:
> Hi All,
> 
> I have been monitoring this mailing list for awhile, and have only been an
> AAVSO member for a few months.  Perhaps this has already been discussed, but
> I was wondering if there is anyone out there who has attempted video
> photometry?  I do not have a CCD camera, but have a Stellacam II and a ubVri
> filter that I use on my MK-67 Mak Cass.
> 
> Is there a chance that I can contribute to your work in variable star
> photometry with this setup?
> 
> Thanks,
> Brian Potter
> Plymouth, MI, USA
> 
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