StarTalk Radio
Capturing the Cosmos with Babak Tafreshi
Oct 31, 2023
Astrophotographer and National Geographic Explorer Babak Tafreshi joins Neil deGrasse Tyson and Chuck Nice to discuss astrophotography, the impact of light pollution on wildlife and human health, advancements in technology like smartphones for capturing the night sky, and their favorite celestial objects to photograph including UFOs.
42:02
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Quick takeaways
- Beginners in astrophotography should start by learning about the night sky and using a digital camera or smartphone with a fast lens on a tripod for low light conditions.
- Raising awareness about light pollution and advocating for dark sky-friendly lighting regulations are essential steps in protecting our dark skies.
Deep dives
Capture the beauty of the night sky with astrophotography
Astrophotographer Babak Tafreshi shares his love for capturing the night sky and provides insights for beginners. He recommends starting with a digital camera or smartphone on a tripod, using a fast lens with a wide aperture for low light conditions. Tafreshi suggests learning about the night sky to plan the best times and objects to photograph. He highlights the Northern Lights and comets as his favorite celestial objects to photograph. For those living in light-polluted areas, he advises visiting darkest-sky designated locations like national parks or using resources like lightpollutionmap.info and blue-marble.de to find nearby dark sky spots. Tafreshi concludes by encouraging everyone to appreciate the beauty of the night sky.
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