TiltingSun software - Screen Dump

Last updated on September 16, 2023

TiltingSun Software: A Detailed Look at Screen Dump

Atmospheric optics enthusiasts and amateur astronomers often rely on specialized software to enhance their observations and understand the complex phenomena occurring in the sky. One such software that has gained popularity among enthusiasts is TiltingSun. In this article, we will take a closer look at the screen dump feature of TiltingSun software and explore its functionalities.

Understanding the Screen Dump Feature

The screen dump feature of TiltingSun allows users to visualize the orientation of the Sun through a Personal Solar Telescope (PST) or a similar device that inverts the solar image. This is particularly useful when using an altazimuth mount or a camera tripod for observation. By displaying the Sun's orientation, users can accurately track its movement and make more precise observations.

Customizable Location, Time Zone, and View Preferences

Once set, the location, time zone, and view preferences are conveniently remembered by the TiltingSun software. This means that users can easily access their preferred settings without the need for repetitive input. However, the software also provides the flexibility to change these settings at any time, allowing users to adapt to different observation locations or time zones effortlessly.

Visualizing the Sun's Rotation

The screen dump feature of TiltingSun includes large red arrows that indicate the direction of the Sun's rotation. This visual representation helps users understand the movement of the Sun across the sky more intuitively. By following these arrows, observers can track the Sun's rotation and anticipate its position accurately.

Celestial Pole and Equator Reference Lines

To provide further context to the observations, TiltingSun includes blue NSEW lines representing the directions of the celestial pole and equator. These reference lines assist users in understanding the Sun's position in relation to these celestial coordinates. Additionally, the image drifts through the telescope field in a specific direction indicated by a grey arrow, aiding observers in adjusting their focus and aligning their equipment accordingly.

Angular Scale for Prominence Positions

TiltingSun's screen dump feature also incorporates an angular scale that measures prominence positions. This scale allows users to gauge the angular distance between different points on the Sun's surface accurately. By utilizing this scale, observers can analyze and compare the positions of various solar features, such as sunspots or prominences, with greater precision.

Numerical Values for Position and Orientation

For a more quantitative analysis, TiltingSun provides numerical values for the Sun's position and orientation beneath the drawing. These values offer precise measurements that can be used for further calculations or comparisons. By displaying this data, the software empowers users to delve deeper into their observations and derive meaningful insights.

In conclusion, TiltingSun software's screen dump feature is a valuable tool for atmospheric optics enthusiasts and amateur astronomers. By visualizing the Sun's orientation, providing reference lines, and offering precise measurements, this software enhances the accuracy and depth of observations. Whether tracking the Sun's rotation or analyzing prominence positions, TiltingSun equips users with the necessary tools to explore and appreciate the wonders of the sky.

TiltingSun2 showing the Sun's orientation at Toronto through a PST (which inverts the solar image) on an altazimuth mount or camera tripod.

Once set, the location, time zone and view preferences are remembered - but can be changed again at any time.

The large red arrows show the direction of the Sun's rotation.

The blue NSEW lines are the directions of the celestial pole and equator. The image drifts through the telescope field in the grey arrow direction.

The angular scale measures prominence positions.

Numerical values for the Sun's position and orientation are beneath the drawing.

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