Almost all astronomical CCD cameras require a computer for two purposes:  1) to run the software for controlling the CCD and 2) for storing the images.  Processing of images can be done either on the same computer used to take the images, or it can be done on a separate system.  Sometimes imagers will use a laptop for taking the images, then process the files later on a desktop system.

Very little processing power is required for controlling the CCD.  For the purposes of imaging many people purchase used laptops for a few hundred dollars.  You can always transfer the images to a more powerful desktop computer after you have captured the data.  Anymore, though, laptops have become very powerful and relatively inexpensive, and most imagers do all their work on the same computer.

It is possible to control a "goto" telescope robotically for CCD imaging.  This can be done from a desktop computer located inside while the telescope sits outside.  This is especially nice during the winter when you would rather be indoors with the heat on!  However, it is highly recommended that when learning to take CCD images, you do it with a laptop so that you can be at the telescope to troubleshoot any problems which might arise.  Once you have perfected this technique you can move to robotic imaging.

Of course, not everyone has the luxury of living in a dark location.  While CCD imaging is much less affected by light pollution than film photography, it is always better to get out into the dark away from the city.  For this a laptop obviously is a necessity.

For much more information on computers and other CCD imaging accessories, visit the Equipment Basics section.

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