Preface

Summary

In less than ten years, since the early 1980s, observational astronomy has been revolutionized by the appearance of the charge couple device (CCD) detector. During this period, the large professional observatories constructed their own CCD cameras, which immediately replaced the photographic cameras in almost all areas of application.

But for amateur astronomers, doing CCD photography in the 1980s required building one's own camera, that is, mastering digital and analog electronics, computers, the science of heat… The situation was dire except for those whose profession gave them the necessary skills. A few pioneers, who were part of the latter group, set an example with their work and brought this new technology to the attention of amateurs. Little by little, a few groups began the adventure of constructing their own CCD camera.

By the end of the 1980s, the first commercial cameras destined for amateur astronomers made their appearance. Today, these cameras are becoming better specified and easier to use. A wider selection is available at affordable prices. It is now that we are seeing the real CCD revolution for the amateur astronomer: each will be able to use this tool and thereby increase the observational possibilities tenfold.

In 1988, the Association for the Development of Large Observing Instruments (ADAGIO) established the ambitious project of producing an 80 cm telescope geared toward amateur astronomers. It was decided, after initial research, that the principle equipment of this telescope would be a CCD camera.