Automatic Image Processing of Seestar Data

Smart telescopes make entering the world of astrophotography much easier by removing many technical hurdles. However, after a capture session, the challenge lies in developing the acquired data into a finished image. Although manufacturers of smart telescopes offer image processing directly on smartphones, this is usually a compromise.

Better results can be achieved using the free software Siril. However, since a certain amount of familiarization is required and the learning curve can be significant despite existing pre-processing scripts, I have developed a procedure that largely automates the image processing and saves time. The program is tailored to my specific needs, but I am making it available to all interested parties free of charge.

The software requires an Apple Macintosh or Windows and is optimized for Seestar Smart Telescope files, but should also work with other devices. It analyzes the .FIT files of a capture, generates a suitable Siril processing script for that data, copies the data into self-managed processing directories, and launches Siril. Users can specify their own processing preferences and remain flexible regarding the depth of editing. The range extends from creating a finished astro-image to simple, fast stacking (e.g., for further processing with the AstroWizard).

Table of Contents:
1) Installation and Requirements
2) Siril Function Test
3) InstantSiril Configuration
4) Program Logic
5) Application Examples
6) Miscellaneous Notes