What Are Datasets?
Datasets on Telescope Live are collections of raw, pre-calibrated astrophotography files captured by professional telescopes under ideal observation conditions. These datasets are designed for astrophotographers of all skill levels to process and transform into stunning celestial images.
Each dataset includes:
Monochromatic FITS Files: High-resolution raw images captured through different filters, such as luminance, red, green, and blue. Many datasets also include narrowband filters like hydrogen-alpha (Ha), sulfur II (SII), and oxygen III (OIII).
Metadata: Comprehensive details about the observation, including telescope and camera specifications, exposure times, and observation locations.
Sample datasets, available for just 1 credit, contain fewer images but still include enough data to create a complete astrophotography image. Full datasets, which vary in cost, provide a more extensive collection of files for higher-quality results.
Dataset Sizes and Downloads
Once you grab a dataset, it is provided as a downloadable .zip file containing the FITS files and metadata. File sizes vary depending on the dataset:
Dataset Sizes: Files range from a few hundred megabytes to tens of gigabytes, depending on the number of filters and total exposure time.
Individual FITS Files: Each file typically weighs between a few tens of megabytes and more than 100 MB, depending on the resolution of the telescope's camera.
Previewing Sizes: The size of the
.zipfile is displayed on the dataset page, so you can plan your download accordingly.
Make sure you have sufficient storage space and a reliable internet connection, especially for larger datasets.
How to Find the Right Dataset
Telescope Live offers thousands of datasets, and finding the perfect one for your project is simple:
Browse the Datasets Page: Navigate the extensive library of datasets, sorted by publish date, popularity, or ratings.
Use Filters and Sorting Option: Narrow your search by celestial object type, telescope location, hemisphere, or exposure time, or more.
Try Semantic Search: Enter natural language queries like “Top-rated nebulae from Chile” to quickly find relevant datasets.
Switch Between Grid and Table View: Use the toggle at the top of the Datasets page to switch between Grid View (for visual browsing with dataset previews) and Table View (for a more detailed, data-focused layout).
Explore Metadata: Click on any dataset to view telescope details, observation parameters, and sample images.
How to Download Datasets
Downloading a dataset is quick and easy:
Select Your Dataset: Navigate to the dataset page and review its details, including the total size of the
.zipfile.Decide on Full or Sample: Full datasets provide extensive data for comprehensive processing, while sample datasets (1 credit) are smaller but still allow you to produce a high-quality image.
Use Credits to Grab the Dataset: Once you’ve made your selection, use your credits to grab the dataset.
Download the Files: After grabbing the dataset, download the
.zipfile to your computer. Unzip it to access the individual FITS files and metadata.
Once downloaded, you can process the data using astrophotography software such as PixInsight, Photoshop, or Affinity Photo.
How to Use Metadata
Metadata provides essential details to help you understand the content and characteristics of a dataset. Key elements include:
Telescope and Camera Information: Learn about the equipment used to capture the images, including telescope size, camera model, and location.
Exposure Times: Assess the depth and potential quality of the dataset based on the total exposure time for each filter.
Filters Used: Identify the types of data included (e.g., luminance, red, green, blue, or narrowband filters) to plan your approach to processing the dataset.
How Datasets Connect to Wallpapers
While datasets are raw, unprocessed files, they form the foundation of the breathtaking astrophotography images shared in the Telescope Live Gallery as wallpapers.
Featured Wallpaper: Each dataset includes a featured wallpaper—a standout image processed from that dataset. This serves as a preview of the dataset’s potential and is selected from the best submissions by the community.
Explore More Wallpapers: The dataset page also displays all wallpapers created from that dataset, allowing you to see different processing styles and techniques.
Try It Yourself: If a wallpaper inspires you, you can grab the dataset and create your own version. However, wallpapers themselves are not included in the dataset download and must be grabbed separately in the Gallery.
This connection between datasets and wallpapers highlights the creative possibilities of Telescope Live and fosters collaboration and inspiration within the community.
How to Rate and Review Datasets
After processing your dataset, share your feedback to help the community:
Rate the dataset with 1 to 5 stars based on its quality.
Write a review to highlight any strengths or challenges you encountered.
Your feedback improves the platform and helps others make informed decisions about which datasets to use.
Start Exploring Datasets
Telescope Live’s datasets are the foundation of your astrophotography journey. With high-quality files, detailed metadata, and easy navigation, you have everything you need to create stunning images of the night sky. Start with a sample dataset or dive into a full dataset today!