Method for obtaining celestial body image and apparatus for implementing the method

Abstract

To provide a technology capable of acquiring a high-resolution celestial body image with a single device, regardless of whether the celestial body is large and dark or small and bright, without the need to select a device depending on the properties of the celestial body. [Solution] The device (30) comprises a hollow body (302) into which a light ray (34) coming from a celestial body (50) penetrates, an optical system (31) having an optical axis (32) is arranged within the hollow body (302), and is configured so that the light ray (34) forms an image of the celestial body within an image focus (330), and first and second optical sensor matrices (361, 362) are arranged to acquire the image of the celestial body formed within the image focus, the matrices being configured to be suitable for observing celestial bodies of different properties, one matrix can be selected and placed within the image focus, and the other matrix is ​​outside the image focus, and the selection of the matrix is ​​performed according to the properties of the celestial body.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention aims at a method for acquiring celestial images. The present invention also relates to an image acquisition device comprising an interchangeable sensor for implementing this method.

[0002] The present invention relates to the technical field of cameras and, in particular, to the technical field of telescopes (or astronomical telescopes).

Background Art

[0003] Telescopes are for observing celestial bodies such as planets, comets, nebulae, galaxies, and generally celestial bodies near or far. Telescopes are particularly used by astronomers, but their use has become popular in recent years, and the observation of stars has become a passion for many people of various generations. To meet the ever-increasing consumer demands, manufacturers need to diversify these devices to satisfy a wider range of public needs.

[0004] Users who want to simultaneously observe large celestial bodies (e.g., nebulae, galaxies) and small celestial bodies (e.g., planets, moons) need to own multiple eyepieces. By exchanging the eyepiece, the user can adjust the magnification according to the nature of the observed celestial body. In fact, large celestial bodies are generally not bright, and low magnification is required for their observation. Conversely, smaller celestial bodies are generally brighter, and their observation must be performed at a higher magnification. In practice, the exchange of this eyepiece is particularly restrictive for the user.

[0005] Another possibility for the user is to use at least two separate telescopes. In fact, in order to obtain appropriate resolutions for various celestial bodies, it is advisable to use sensor matrices with different designs. The pixel size varies according to the sensor matrix used. For observing large and dim celestial bodies, it is necessary to use relatively large pixels (for obtaining a large field of view) with relatively high sensitivity. On the other hand, observing smaller and brighter celestial bodies can be carried out with smaller pixels (since the acquired field of view is narrower), which actually have lower sensitivity. Therefore, in order to obtain a celestial body image with good resolution, the user needs to select a telescope according to the nature of the celestial body to be observed, which can be restricted especially in terms of cost.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] An object of the present invention is to solve the above-mentioned disadvantages.

[0007] Another object of the present invention is to propose a technology capable of obtaining a celestial body image with good resolution using a single device, regardless of whether the celestial body is large and dark or small and bright.

[0008] Still another object of the present invention is to propose an image acquisition device for large or small celestial bodies that has a simple design, is easy to use, and is not expensive.

[0009] As needed, by performing a wide shot and a close shot of a missile, a device for tracing the path of the missile is described in the document U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0028212, which is known in the prior art. Considering its purpose of acquiring an image of an object circulating in the Earth's atmosphere, such a technical document has no common points with the celestial body image acquisition method and device according to the present invention.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0010] The solution method proposed by the present invention is - A step of using an apparatus including a hollow body into which light rays from an observed celestial body enter during use, wherein the observed celestial body is selected from at least a first celestial body of a first property and a second celestial body of a second property, and the property of the first celestial body is different from the property of the second celestial body. - A step of disposing an optical system having an optical axis in the hollow body, the optical system being configured such that light rays form an image of the observed celestial body within an image focus located within a focal plane. An astronomical image acquisition method including the above. The method also includes - A step of disposing at least first and second photosensor matrices in the hollow body, each including a plurality of pixels configured to acquire images of the first celestial body and the second celestial body respectively formed within the image focus, the matrices each having pixels of different sizes from each other. - A step of selecting one matrix and disposing it within the image focus, the other matrix being outside the image focus, and the selection of the matrix being performed according to the property of the observed celestial body, that is, whether it is the first celestial body of the first property or the second celestial body of the second property. It is noted by including the above.

[0011] In the scope of the present invention, the expression "celestial bodies of different properties" with respect to the first and second celestial bodies is understood to mean the fact that these two celestial bodies have different sizes and / or luminosities. Therefore, such different properties of these two celestial bodies mean that each has its own property from the perspective of its size and / or its luminosity.

[0012] Therefore, the property of a celestial body does not specifically refer to the fact that the celestial bodies that are likely to be observed by the first matrix and the second matrix are not the same with respect to the expression "celestial body". More precisely, for example, it is obvious that two planets of substantially the same size that do not belong to the same solar system or the same galaxy are the same celestial body. However, within the scope of the present invention, considering the fact that the brightness of these two planets from the Earth is not the same, they are not regarded as celestial bodies of the same nature.

[0013] Regarding the brightness standard, in relation to the nature of the celestial body under consideration, this refers to the magnitude of this celestial body observed from the surface of the Earth. It is known that celestial bodies visible to the naked eye have a magnitude less than 6. For example, Vega has a magnitude of 0, and the Sun in the solar system has a magnitude of -27, both of which are observed from the Earth's surface. Conversely, celestial bodies that are less visible have a magnitude greater than 16.

[0014] The magnitudes considered in these measurements are preferably the absolute magnitude or apparent magnitude well-known to those skilled in the art, and the latter is more appropriate for extended celestial bodies such as galaxies or nebulae.

[0015] Therefore, within the scope of the present invention, a plurality of matrices each intended to observe a specific magnitude range can be provided. As an example, the image acquisition system according to the present invention includes four separate matrices. - A first matrix having pixels sized to fit celestial bodies of magnitude 0 to 6 (including the upper limit), - A second matrix having pixels sized to fit celestial bodies of magnitude 6 to 10 (including the upper limit), - A third matrix having pixels sized to fit celestial bodies of magnitude 10 to 14 (including the upper limit), and - A fourth matrix having pixels sized to fit celestial bodies of magnitude greater than 14.

[0016] In the following description of the present invention, for the sake of simplicity, mainly two different natures of celestial bodies are considered: on the one hand, the planets in the solar system regarded as small celestial bodies with high brightness, and on the other hand, nebulae or galaxy clusters regarded as large celestial bodies with low brightness.

[0017] However, the present invention is not limited to defining the properties of two celestial bodies by, for example, distinguishing a very bright small celestial body from a large celestial body with low luminosity. Therefore, the present invention can define the properties of two or more celestial bodies corresponding to the same number as the optical sensor matrix, and classify the observed celestial bodies according to their sizes and / or their luminosities. As an example, in FIG. 9, the present invention is shown by three optical sensor matrices, but the method and apparatus according to the present invention can, of course, include a larger number of properties / optical sensor matrices of observed celestial bodies.

[0018] By using two optical sensor matrices of different designs (in this case, the pixel sizes are different between the first matrix and the second matrix at this stage of the definition of the present invention), the user can visualize celestial bodies of different properties with the same device. To obtain an image of a large celestial body with low luminosity with good resolution, the first sensor matrix is selected. The other sensor matrix will be selected to obtain an image of a smaller, brighter celestial body, regardless of whether the celestial body is large and dark or small and bright. Therefore, the costs of manufacturing, purchasing, maintaining, and managing such a device are significantly reduced.

[0019] By using two interchangeable types of optical sensor matrices, it becomes possible to eliminate the need to use two telescopes or different optical devices to observe large or small celestial bodies. Therefore, the user can alternately select either of the sensor matrices according to the celestial body to be observed.

[0020] Other advantageous features of the method that are an object of the present invention are listed below. Each of these features can be considered alone or in combination with the prominent characteristics defined above. Each of these features, as needed, contributes to the solution of certain technical problems that are defined earlier in this specification and do not necessarily involve the prominent features defined above. The latter may, as needed, be the subject of one or more divisional patent applications.

[0021] According to one possibility provided by the present invention, the first and second matrices extend within the focal plane during all steps of the method.

[0022] In this range, advantageously, the step of selecting one of the matrices is performed by translational movement of one and / or the other of the matrices to place one of the matrices within the image focus.

[0023] According to another possibility provided by the present invention, the step of selecting one of the matrices is performed by rotation of one and / or the other of the matrices, and at least one of the matrices is initially not within the focal plane.

[0024] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the method comprises - fixing a matrix on a movable support, - moving the movable support to place the selected matrix within the image focus. including.

[0025] Advantageously, the method according to the present invention - powering the movable support by a motor, - controlling the motor to move the movable support. including.

[0026] Advantageously, the method according to the present invention - installing the matrix in a fixed position, - using an optical system including an optical element that is movable to change the position of the image focus. - Moving the movable optical element to bring the image focus to the selected matrix, including.

[0027] Advantageously, the method according to the invention - Powering the movable optical element by a motor, - Controlling the motor to move the movable optical element, including.

[0028] According to an advantageous aspect of the invention, the method - Connecting the motor to the processing unit, - Controlling the motor, - By activating one or more buttons installed in the device and connected to the processing unit, or - By sending a control command to the processing unit to transmit the command from a smartphone, including.

[0029] According to another advantageous aspect of the invention, the method - Saving the record of the celestial body in a database, each record being associated with one of the matrices and the real-time position data of the celestial body, - Selecting the record of the celestial body in the database, - Controlling the motor according to the matrix associated with the selected record, - Automatically orienting the device to the position of the celestial body according to the position data associated with the selected record, including.

[0030] According to another advantageous aspect of the invention, the method - Obtaining an image of the celestial body observed in the observation scene, the obtaining being performed using one of the matrices selected according to the nature of the celestial body, - Executing a computer process configured to detect the movement of another celestial body in the observation scene, - Selecting another matrix, - Controlling the motor according to another selected matrix; comprises.

[0031] According to another advantageous aspect of the present invention, the method comprises: - Storing a record of celestial bodies in a database, each record being associated with one of the matrices and at least one characteristic element of the celestial body; - Obtaining an image of the celestial body, the obtaining being performed using one of the matrices; - Executing a computer recognition process configured to detect at least one characteristic element of the celestial body in the obtained image; - Identifying, in the database, a record of a celestial body associated with a characteristic element similar to the detected one; - Selecting the matrix associated with the identified record; - If the matrix used to obtain the image does not correspond to the selected matrix, controlling the motor according to the selected matrix; comprises.

[0032] According to one possibility provided by the present invention, the first and second matrices extend within the focal plane during all steps of the method.

[0033] In this context, advantageously, the step of selecting one of the matrices is performed by translational movement of one and / or the other of the matrices to place one of the matrices within the image focus.

[0034] According to another possibility provided by the present invention, the step of selecting one of the matrices is performed by rotation of one and / or the other of the matrices, and at least one of the matrices is initially not within the focal plane.

[0035] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the method comprises: - Fixing a matrix on a movable support; - Moving the movable support and placing the selected matrix within the image focus, including.

[0036] Advantageously, the method according to the invention - powering the movable support by a motor, - controlling the motor to move the movable support, including.

[0037] Advantageously, the method according to the invention - installing the matrix in a fixed position, - using an optical system including a movable optical element to change the position of the image focus, - moving the movable optical element to bring the image focus to the selected matrix, including.

[0038] Advantageously, the method according to the invention - powering the movable optical element by a motor, - controlling the motor to move the movable optical element, including.

[0039] According to an advantageous aspect of the invention, the method - connecting the motor to a processing unit, - controlling the motor, - activating one or more buttons installed in the device and connected to the processing unit, or - transmitting a control command to the processing unit to send the command from a smartphone, including.

[0040] According to another advantageous aspect of the invention, the method - storing records of celestial bodies in a database, each record being associated with one of the matrices and the real-time position data of the celestial body, - selecting a record of a celestial body in the database, - Controlling the motor according to the matrix associated with the selected record; - Automatically orienting the device towards the position of the celestial body according to the position data associated with the selected record; including.

[0041] According to another advantageous aspect of the present invention, the method comprises: - Obtaining an image of the celestial body observed in the observation scene, the obtaining being performed using one of the matrices selected according to the nature of the celestial body; - Executing a computer process configured to detect the movement of another celestial body in the observation scene; - Selecting another matrix; - Controlling the motor according to the selected other matrix; including.

[0042] According to another advantageous aspect of the present invention, the method comprises: - Saving a record of the celestial body in a database, each record being associated with one of the matrices and at least one characteristic element of the celestial body; - Obtaining an image of the celestial body, the obtaining being performed using one of the matrices; - Executing a computer recognition process configured to detect at least one characteristic element of the celestial body in the obtained image; - Identifying in the database the record of the celestial body associated with a characteristic element similar to the detected one; - Selecting the matrix associated with the identified record; - If the matrix used to obtain the image does not correspond to the selected matrix, controlling the motor according to the selected matrix; including.

[0043] Another aspect of the present invention is - A hollow body into which light rays from an observed celestial body enter during use, and the observed celestial body is selected from at least a first celestial body of a first property and a second celestial body of a second property, and the property of the first celestial body is different from the property of the second celestial body, a hollow body. - An optical system disposed within the hollow body and having an optical axis, the optical system being configured such that light rays form an image of the observed celestial body within an image focus located within a focal plane. Relates to a celestial body image acquisition device including.

[0044] The device is - At least first and second photosensor matrices each including a plurality of pixels designed to acquire images of a first celestial body and a second celestial body formed within an image focus, the matrices having pixels of different sizes from each other, a photosensor matrix. - A matrix selection device adapted to place one of the two matrices within the image focus, and the other matrix is outside the image focus, and thus, the property of the observed celestial body is a matrix selection device that is the first celestial body of the first property or the second celestial body of the second property. Is noted for including.

[0045] Within the scope of the present invention, the fact that the two matrices of photosensors have pixels of different sizes does not exclude the fact that the pixels are not of the same size within the same matrix, for example, within the first or second matrix.

[0046] In this case, the average size of the pixels of the matrix is regarded as defining the size of the pixels, and the expression "average size" is defined as meaning that there are pixels of various sizes in the matrix being considered, and the matrix is weighted by their number within the matrix. As an example, if it is considered that the matrix includes 10 pixels including 5 pixels of size Z1 and 5 pixels of size Z2, the average size of the pixels of the matrix is equal to [Z1×(5 / 10)+Z2×(5 / 10)].

[0047] The other advantageous features of the device which are an object of the present invention are listed below. Each of these features can be considered alone or in combination with the prominent characteristics defined above. These features each contribute, as necessary, to the solution of specific technical problems which have been defined previously herein and which do not necessarily involve the prominent features defined above. The latter may, as necessary, be the subject of one or more divisional patent applications.

[0048] According to a particularly advantageous aspect of the invention, the sizes of the first matrix and the second matrix are different.

[0049] In the broadest sense, the invention is limited by a first matrix of optical sensors having pixels of a size different from the size of the pixels of the second matrix.

[0050] However, considering the specifications of the optical observations provided within the scope of the invention, it is possible to limit the range of pixel sizes, regardless of the number of properties of the observed celestial body and thus the number of corresponding optical sensor matrices. Similarly, it is possible to limit the range of the number of pixels per matrix and the range of the size of the matrix.

[0051] Advantageously, the size of the pixels of the (first and second) matrices of the optical sensors is between 0.1 μm and 20 μm, preferably between 0.5 μm and 10 μm. The term "size", in relation to a pixel, is understood to mean the fact that one side of the pixel (conventionally of square shape) has a limited size.

[0052] Advantageously, the number of pixels within the (first and second) matrices of the optical sensors is between 105 pixels (100,000 pixels) and 109 pixels (1,000,000,000 pixels), preferably between 106 (1,000,000) and 108 (100,000,000 pixels).

[0053] Advantageously, the size of the (first and second) matrices is 1 square millimeter (mm2 ) to 1000 mm 2 Preferably between 5 and 150 mm 2 Therein.

[0054] According to the possibilities provided by the present invention, the image focus is fixed and the matrix is movable.

[0055] Advantageously, the matrix is - a first position where a first matrix is disposed within the image focus and a second matrix is disposed outside the image focus, and - a second position where a second matrix is disposed within the image focus and a first matrix is disposed outside the image focus, fixed on a movable support between them.

[0056] Advantageously, the support is rotatably movable or translationally movable.

[0057] According to another possibility provided by the present invention, the matrix is fixed and the image focus is movable.

[0058] Advantageously, the optical system comprises an optical element movable to change the position of the image focus.

[0059] According to one aspect of the present invention, the optical element is - a first position bringing the image focus to the first matrix, and - movable between a second position bringing the image focus to the second matrix.

[0060] Advantageously, the optical system is - a primary mirror positioned within the hollow body and reflecting the light rays entering the hollow body, - a secondary mirror positioned within the hollow body and reflecting the light rays reflected by the primary mirror, the secondary mirror being adapted to bring the image focus behind the primary mirror, - the matrix is disposed behind the primary mirror. According to one embodiment, the device is in the form of a telescope.

[0061] Other advantages and features of the present invention will become more apparent by reading the following description of the preferred embodiments, which is made as an illustrative and non-limiting example with reference to the accompanying drawings.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0062]

Figure 1a

Figure 1b

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Figure 10

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0063] For the sake of clarity, the present invention refers to one or more "information processing processes". These correspond to actions or results obtained by the execution of instructions of various information processing applications. Also, in the context of the present invention, it should be understood that "being adapted to perform something by an information processing process" means "the instructions of an information processing application executed by a processing unit perform something".

[0064] As used herein, unless otherwise specified, the use of ordinal adjectives such as "first", "second", etc. for describing objects merely indicates that different cases of similar objects are being referred to, and does not mean that the objects thus described need to be in a specific order, whether in terms of time, space, classification, or any other way.

[0065] The device 30 which is the subject of the present invention is used for simultaneously observing large celestial bodies and small celestial bodies. These celestial bodies can be planets, stars, nebulae, galaxies, etc. Preferably it is a telescope, but the device may also be in the form of a camera or a video camera. For the sake of clarity and for illustrative purposes only, in the following description, only astronomical telescopes suitable for observing celestial bodies of different natures, particularly small, relatively bright celestial bodies 50 (e.g., planets, moons) and large, darker celestial bodies 51 (nebulae, galaxies, etc.) are referred to.

[0066] In the accompanying drawings, the telescope 30 particularly includes a hollow body 302, and during use, light rays 34 coming from the observed celestial bodies 50, 51 penetrate into it. The hollow body 302 has a first end 300 into which the light rays 34 penetrate and a second end 301 on the opposite side of the first end.

[0067] The hollow body 302 is preferably in the form of a hollow tube with a circular cross-section, but it may also be a tube with an elliptical, square, octagonal, or other cross-sections. It is specified that the hollow body 302 does not necessarily have to be tubular and may be conical or may be formed, for example, from parts of a tube or a cone. The hollow body 302 can be made of a plastic material, a composite material, etc. For example, its length is between 200 mm and 400 mm, its diameter is between 50 mm and 500 mm, and its thickness is between 1 mm and 10 mm.

[0068] The optical systems 31, 382, 383 are arranged within the hollow body 302 having an optical axis 32. The optical system is configured such that the light rays 34 form images of the observed celestial bodies 50, 51 within the focal plane 33.

[0069] The telescope has an optical axis 32. In the sense of the present invention, the optical axis means a line passing through the centers of each optical element of the optical systems 31, 382, 383. The optical axis 32 is a straight axis that coincides with the symmetry axis of the telescope 30 (as in, for example, the first, second, fifth, seventh, eighth, and ninth embodiments). However, the optical axis 32 can be non-linear and can also be configured to be divided into a principal optical axis (which coincides with the axis of symmetry) and a secondary optical axis (between the movable mirror 381 and the sensor matrices 361, 362, 363), and this type of configuration is shown, for example, in the third, fourth, and sixth embodiments.

[0070] The telescope has an image focus 330 at the intersection between the optical axis 32 and the light ray 34. Preferably, the image focus 330 is within the focal plane 33.

[0071] Inside the hollow body 302, at least two optical sensor matrices 361, 362 are arranged, which are configured to acquire images of the observed celestial bodies 50, 51 formed at the image focus 330. It is also possible to assume three (as shown in FIG. 9) or more optical sensor matrices, which enables obtaining a wider range of resolutions, allowing the user to observe celestial bodies in a larger category (e.g., medium-sized celestial bodies or very large celestial bodies such as the Andromeda Galaxy), and further enabling adjustment of the resolution according to the nature of the observed celestial body.

[0072] The first matrix 361 and the second matrix 362 have different configurations to be suitable for observing celestial bodies 50, 51 with different natures.

[0073] The matrices 361, 362 are, for example, matrices of CCD sensors (the initials of Charged Coupled Device in English) or CMOS (the initials of Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor in English). This type of matrix has reduced dimensions, enabling it to be easily installed in the device 30. They are composed of an array of optical sensors, and each sensor is in the form of a pixel. These pixels exhibit different sizes and resolutions depending on the matrices 361, 362 in which they are installed. Each type of matrix is adapted to the type of observed celestial body. The matrix is characterized by its size, pixel size, and number of pixels. The size of the matrix affects the field of view. The size and number of pixels affect the resolution and sensitivity.

[0074] It is the size of the matrix that determines the field of view. In fact, the larger the matrix, the wider the observed empty part becomes. Therefore, it becomes possible to observe extended celestial objects such as nebulae and distant celestial objects in the sky. Conversely, using a smaller matrix further reduces the observed empty part. Since the field of view is limited, only smaller celestial objects such as planets can be observed.

[0075] In the following description, the first matrix 361 is assumed to have the maximum size and is suitable for observing large celestial objects 51. Its area is, for example, between 50 mm 2 and 150 mm 2 . The second matrix 362 is assumed to have the minimum size and is suitable for observing small celestial objects 50. Its area is, for example, between 5 mm 2 and 15 mm 2 . These particularly compact matrices 361, 362 make it possible to easily incorporate them into the hollow body 302.

[0076] The optical resolution of the telescope 30 is generally defined by the dimensions of the mirrors or lenses of the optical system 31. The size of the pixels of the sensor matrix determines the digital resolution of the observed image and indirectly determines the possibility of zoom photography. In fact, the smaller the pixel size, the higher the digital resolution. Also, by increasing the digital resolution, high-quality magnification of a part of the observed image can be achieved. Conversely, when the digital resolution is low, the quality of enlargement deteriorates. The resolution of the digital telescope is determined by the least resolution element between the optical system and the sensor matrix. Therefore, it is not interesting to use a pixel size smaller than the optical resolution of the telescope 30.

[0077] The pixel size also affects the sensitivity to light. Small-sized pixels have low sensitivity. Conversely, large-sized pixels are more sensitive. When the user observes a small celestial body 50 such as a very bright planet, for example, high sensitivity is not necessary. Therefore, the observation of the small celestial body 50 can be performed with small-sized pixels with low sensitivity, and the digital resolution that enables the observation of details on the surface of the planet (e.g., storms, craters, etc.) can be focused on. Conversely, when the user observes a large celestial body 51 such as a not very bright nebula, for example, it is advantageous to have high sensitivity to light. Since these celestial bodies are large, it is not necessary to have very high resolution to observe details (gas clouds, galactic arms).

[0078] According to one embodiment, the small-sized pixels have sides having a length between, for example, 0.5 μm and 2 μm. The large-sized pixels have sides having a length between, for example, 2 μm and 10 μm.

[0079] Each matrix 361, 362 is preferably a CCD (acronym for Charged Coupled Device in English) or CMOS (acronym for Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor in English) sensor including an arrangement of pixels (preferably generating a color image). This type of matrix is easy to install because its dimensions are reduced.

[0080] The first matrix 361 includes large-sized pixels, and the second matrix 362 includes small-sized pixels. Therefore, the telescope 30 enables optimal observation of both bright small celestial bodies 50 for which good digital resolution is desired and darker large celestial bodies 51 for which good sensitivity to light is desired, independently.

[0081] The light sensors of the matrices 361, 362 are photosensitive components that enable the generation of data (or electrical signals) obtained from the acquisition of images of the celestial bodies 50, 51 at the image focus 330. The electrical signals generated by the light sensors are transferred to the image processing electronic unit 39. The connection between the matrices 361, 362 and the unit 39 can be made wired or wirelessly according to proximity communication protocols such as, for example, by way of non-limiting example, the Bluetooth®, Wifi®, Zigbee® protocols. The first matrix 361 and the second matrix 362 are both connected to the same unit 39, and the data from the two matrices are observed on the same screen 40.

[0082] The unit 39 comprises a computer in the form of a processor, microprocessor or CPU (central processing unit), a memory, and generally information processing resources that make it possible to ensure the processing of the electrical signals received from the matrices 361, 362 for the formation of digital images of celestial bodies. These components are preferably attached to an electronic card that makes it possible to bring together all the electronic components of the unit 39 in a single location and on a single support. This configuration makes it possible to minimize the number of electronic cards incorporated into the telescope 30 and to reduce the number of wirings. Furthermore, the manufacture of the unit 39, the installation of the device in the telescope 30, and, if necessary, the maintenance are thereby made very easy.

[0083] The digital image generated by unit 39 is displayed on screen 40. Screen 40 can be fixed to the electronic card so that unit 39 and the screen form a single molded assembly that can be easily manipulated. In this case, a flat screen, for example a multicolor, LCD (for liquid crystal display) or OLED (for organic light emitting diode) liquid crystal screen, is advantageously used.

[0084] According to another embodiment, screen 40 is separated from unit 39 and the electronic card. It is physically separated from the hollow body 302. In this embodiment, screen 40 can be the screen of the user's mobile terminal, such as the screen of a smartphone or a touchpad. The connection between unit 39 and screen 40 can be made via a wired link (e.g., by a USB cable) or via a wireless link, for example, according to proximity communication protocols such as Bluetooth®, Wifi®, Zigbee® protocols as non-limiting examples. This embodiment allows enhancing the compactness of telescope 30 since the size of screen 40 is not taken into account.

[0085] [First Embodiment (Figs. 1a and 1b)] In this embodiment, the image focus 330 is fixed and the matrices 361, 362 are rotatable. The image focus 330 is here perpendicular to the axis of symmetry of the hollow body 302, and its axis coincides with the optical axis 32.

[0086] In Figs. 1a and 1b, the optical system includes a lens 31 disposed inside the hollow body 302 and centered on the optical axis 32. The light ray 34 is refracted by the lens 31 to form an image of the observed celestial bodies 50, 51 within the image focus 330. The shape and dimensions of the lens are adapted to the shape and dimensions of the hollow body 302. The operation of the telescope 30 is the same as that described with reference to the first embodiment.

[0087] The first matrix 361 and the second matrix 362 are fixed on the movable support 35 installed in the hollow body 302, near the second end 301.

[0088] The movable support 35 is made of, for example, steel, carbon, or plastic material, and thus its design is simple, inexpensive, and durable over a long period. The movable support 35 preferably has a circular shape, but it may also be square, octagonal, elliptical, etc. Generally, the shape and dimensions of the movable support 35 are adapted to the dimensions of the matrices 361, 362. As an example, its area is between 2 cm 2 and 8 cm 2 . These reduced dimensions enable the use of a minimum amount of space within the device 30.

[0089] The movable support 35 shown in FIG. 2 is in the shape of a wheel that is rotatable about the rotation axis 351. The rotation axis is within the focal plane 33 and perpendicular to the optical axis 32. The wheel can be circular, elliptical, square, rectangular, etc. The movable support 35 has at least two facilities for accommodating the matrices 361, 362.

[0090] The position of the support 35 for observing the small celestial body 50 is shown in FIG. 1a, and the position of the support 35 for observing the large celestial body 51 is shown in FIG. 1b.

[0091] When the user observes the small celestial body 50, the movable support 35 is arranged such that the second matrix 362 is located at the image focus 330 (it is understood that in the sense of the present invention, its photosensitive surface is at the focal image). The first matrix 361 remains placed within the focal plane 33 but outside the image focus 330. The second matrix 362 is said to be "active" and the first matrix 361 is said to be "inactive".

[0092] When the user observes the large celestial body 51, the movable support 35 is arranged such that the first matrix 361 is located within the image focus 330 (the first matrix is active). The second matrix 362 remains arranged within the focal plane 33 but outside the image focus 330 (the second matrix is inactive). Therefore, the activation of the matrices 361, 362 selected by the movable support 35 is performed according to the nature of the observed celestial bodies 50, 51.

[0093] The activation of the selected matrix 361 or 362 is performed by rotating the support 35 around its rotation axis 351. Therefore, the support 35 is movable between at least two positions, namely, a first position where the first matrix 361 is active and a second position where the second matrix 362 is active. The movable support 35 can also have a third and / or a fourth position according to the number of matrices used.

[0094] According to one embodiment, the activation of the selected matrix 361 or 362 is manually performed by the user rotating the movable support 35 to a desired position. In FIG. 2, the movable support 35 is inserted into the device 30 but has an accessible portion protruding from the hollow body 302. By operating this accessible portion, the user can manually rotate the support 35 clockwise or counterclockwise to activate one or the other of the matrices 361, 362. To facilitate this rotation, the movable support 35 advantageously has the shape of a knurled surface. So that the user can know which matrices 361, 362 are being used, the movable support 35 advantageously has a system of markings 350 around it, as shown in FIG. 2. The markings can be in the form of notches of various sizes or imprints (colors, numbers, etc.), for example.

[0095] According to another embodiment, the movable support 35 is powered by a motor and in this case can be fully integrated into the device 30. The motor of the movable support 35 is connected to the processing unit 39, for example. Thereby, the motor is driven and the movable support 35 moves to a first position or a second position according to the matrix to be activated. Subsequently, for example, following the activation of one or more buttons arranged on the device 30 and connected to the processing unit 39, the change in the position of the movable support 35 is executed semi-automatically.

[0096] The motor of the movable support 35 can also be controlled by sending control instructions transmitted from the user's smartphone to the processing unit 39. These instructions are transmitted, for example, following the activation of one or more dedicated buttons displayed on the graphical interface of the smartphone. In this case, the smartphone is suitable for communicating with the processing unit 39 via, for example, a Wifi or Bluetooth connection and sending control instructions thereto. Upon receiving these control instructions, the processing unit 39 controls the motor of the movable support 35 to activate the selected matrix 361 or 362.

[0097] According to yet another embodiment, the control of the motor of the movable support 35 is performed automatically. Next, the selected matrix 361 or 362 is activated without the need for user intervention. It is possible to show various cases of automatic activation. The examples shown below do not limit the present invention, and other applications are also conceivable.

[0098] In the first case, the user points their telescope 30 towards the observation range of the celestial sphere. The processing unit 39 is connected to a database in which the main celestial bodies known to those skilled in the art are recorded. This database can be integrated into the telescope 30. In one variant embodiment, the database is remote from the telescope 30 and is hosted, for example, on a remote server to which the processing unit 39 is connected. In this case, the connection of the unit 39 to the database can be made via an internal communication network, 3G, 4G, 5G, etc.

[0099] Each celestial body record is associated in the database with the matrix 361, 362 most suitable for the observation of said celestial body, for example according to its size, its luminosity and / or its optimal digital resolution. Furthermore, each record is - one or more characteristic elements of the corresponding celestial body, such as its size, its pattern, its luminosity, etc., and / or - preferably associated with the position data (or celestial coordinates) of said celestial body in real time.

[0100] When the user selects a record of a celestial body in the database, the telescope 30 itself points to said celestial body. The processing unit 39 records the acquisition period, i.e., the time data t corresponding to the moment when the user selects a record in the database. Next, the processing unit 39 determines the celestial coordinates of the celestial body at time t and searches the database. For example, by correlating the ground position data of the telescope 30 by GPS (Global Positioning System or Navigation Assistant in French) with the direction data of the telescope by, for example, an accelerometer, the processing unit 39 can operate the on-board electric device and automatically direct the telescope to the positions of the selected celestial bodies 50, 51. Furthermore, the processing unit 39 can control the motor to move the support 35 to a position where it is associated with the selected record and activates the matrix most suitable for observing this celestial body. Therefore, it is possible to optimally acquire an image.

[0101] In the second case, the user observes a celestial body and activates the matrices 361, 362 most suitable for observing this celestial body to acquire its image. Another celestial body moves within the field of view (or observation scene). The user observes, for example, a small celestial body 50 (planet) with the active second matrix 362. At that time, the asteroid passes through the field of view. The processing unit 39 executes computer processing configured to detect the passage of other celestial bodies in the observation scene. This process is based on, for example, motion detection. At that time, it may be advantageous to zoom out to widen the observation scene and observe the asteroid for a longer time. Next, the first matrix 361 is selected. Next, the processing unit 39 can control the motor to move the support 35 to a position where it activates the first matrix 361 and deactivates the second matrix 362. This automatic change of matrix can also be executed when it is advantageous for the user to first observe a large celestial body 51 (with the active first matrix 361) and zoom in to narrow the observation scene.

[0102] In the third case, when the user directs his telescope 30 at a specific celestial body 50, 51, one of the matrices 361, 362 acquires an image of the celestial body. Next, the acquired image is analyzed by the processing unit 39. This analysis is performed by executing computer recognition processing configured to detect at least one characteristic element, for example, by performing analysis using a threshold value. If necessary, those skilled in the art can refer specifically to the details of such computer recognition processing in French Patent No. 3054897 and / or U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2019 / 196173. When a specific characteristic element is detected, the processing unit 39 identifies in the database the record of the celestial body associated with the characteristic element similar to the detected one. As soon as a similar characteristic element is detected, the record of the corresponding celestial body is identified, similar to the matrices 361, 362 associated with this record.

[0103] The processing unit 39 selects the matrix associated with the record and sends a control command to the motor of the movable support 35 to activate the corresponding matrix. If the matrices 361, 362 that acquired the image are correct, it remains active and the support 35 does not move. Conversely, if the matrices 361, 362 that acquired the image are incorrect, the processing unit 39 controls the motor to move the support 35 to a position where another matrix can be activated. Thus, the image can be optimally acquired.

[0104] [Second Embodiment (Figs. 3a and 3b)] In this embodiment, the image focus 330 is fixed and the matrices 361, 362 are translationally movable.

[0105] The movable support 35 is, for example, in the form of a plate or a section steel to which the matrices 361, 362 are fixed. These matrices 361, 362 are arranged within the focal plane 33. The movable support 35 is preferably mounted on a slide in order to guide its translational movement.

[0106] Activation of the selected matrix 361 or 362 is effected by moving the support 35 between at least the following two positions. A first position where the first matrix 361 is active (placed within the image focus 330) and the second matrix 362 is inactive (placed within the focal plane 33 and outside the image focus 330). A second position where the second matrix 362 is active (placed within the focal plane 33 and within the image focus 330) and the first matrix 361 is inactive (placed within the focal plane 33 and outside the image focus 330). The movable support 35 can also have one or more other positions depending on the number of matrices used.

[0107] As previously described with reference to the first embodiment, activation of the selected matrix 361 or 362 can be effected by manually moving the movable support 35 or by powering the support to move it semi - automatically or automatically. The motor control mode is the same as that previously described with reference to the first embodiment.

[0108] The function of the device 30 is similar to that previously described with reference to the first embodiment.

[0109] [Third Embodiment (Figs. 4a and 4b)] In this embodiment, the image focus 330 is movable and the matrices 361, 362 are fixed.

[0110] Here, the optical system has a movable optical element 381 adapted to change the position of the image focus 330. In Figs. 4a and 4b, the matrices 361, 362 are installed at fixed positions within the hollow body 302, symmetrically with respect to the axis of symmetry of the hollow body. That is, the matrices 361 and 362 are each arranged on one side of the hollow body 302.

[0111] The movable optical element 381 preferably has the shape of a planar mirror and is movably mounted so as to rotate about a horizontal axis passing through the optical center of the mirror. By changing the inclination of the mirror 381, the light beam 34 refracted by the lens 31 is deflected, so that the image focus 330 is brought to the position of the first matrix 361 or the second matrix 362.

[0112] In the first inclined position of the mirror 381 (FIG. 4b), the first matrix 361 is active (located within the image focus 330), and the second matrix 362 is inactive (located outside the image focus 330). In the second inclined position of the mirror 381 (FIG. 4a), the second matrix 362 is active (located within the image focus 330), and the first matrix 361 is inactive (located outside the image focus 330). The mirror 381 can have one or more other inclined positions depending on the number of matrices used. Therefore, it is the displacement of the movable optical element 381 that enables the selected matrix 361 or 362 to be activated.

[0113] More generally, to activate the selected matrix, the movable optical element 381 is moved to return the image focus 330 to the position of the matrix.

[0114] As described above with reference to other embodiments, the activation of the selected matrix 361 or 362 can be performed by manually moving the mirror 381 or by powering the mirror to move it semi - automatically or automatically. The motor control mode is the same as that described above with reference to other embodiments.

[0115] The function of device 30 is similar to that described above with reference to other embodiments.

[0116] [Fourth Embodiment (Figs. 5a and 5b)] This embodiment is similar to the third embodiment. The image focus 330 is movable, and the matrices 361, 362 are fixed. The movable optical element 381 is adapted to change the position of the image focus 330.

[0117] However, the matrices 361, 362 are here arranged on the same side of the hollow body 302 and are, for example, mounted side by side on a common fixed support 35. In the third embodiment, the mirror 381 has to rotate 90° between two tilted positions.

[0118] In the configuration of the fourth embodiment, the angular deflection of the mirror 381 is smaller (e.g., a few degrees) in order to activate either one of the matrices 361, 362. Therefore, the activation of the matrix is faster.

[0119] The activation of the selected matrix 361 or 362 and the operation of device 30 are the same as those described with reference to the third embodiment.

[0120] [Fifth Embodiment (Fig. 6)] This embodiment is similar to the second embodiment. The image focus 330 is fixed, and the matrices 361, 362 are movable.

[0121] However, the optical system comprises a main mirror 382 arranged within the hollow body 302 on the side of the second end 301. This main mirror 382 reflects the light ray 34 and converges it towards the movable support 35 arranged at the image focus 330.

[0122] The movable support 35 to which the matrices 361 and 362 are fixed is preferably arranged inside one third of the hollow body 302 on the side of the first end 300 so as not to interfere with the tangential light rays reflected by the main mirror 382.

[0123] The support 35 can be rotationally movable or translationally movable. The activation of the selected matrix 361 or 362 and the operation of the device 30 are the same as those described above where the matrix is movable.

[0124] [Sixth Embodiment (FIG. 7)] This embodiment is similar to the fifth embodiment. However, the movable support 35 is installed outside the hollow body 302, within the layout 303 made in the wall of the said body.

[0125] The fixed planar mirror 381 deflects the light ray 34 reflected by the main mirror 382 so that the image focus 330 is located at the layout. In this way, by shifting the movable support 35 and the matrices 361 and 362 outside the hollow body 302, it is ensured that the opening of the first end 300 is not covered, allowing the maximum amount of light ray 34 to enter. The movable support 35 and the matrices 361 and 362 do not interfere with the light ray 34, and thus there is no loss of luminous intensity.

[0126] The support 35 can be rotationally movable or translationally movable. The activation of the selected matrix 361 or 362 and the operation of the device 30 are the same as those described above where the matrix is movable.

[0127] [Seventh Embodiment (FIG. 8)] In this embodiment, the optical system includes a main mirror 382 positioned within the hollow body 302 and reflecting the light ray 34 entering the said hollow body, and a secondary mirror 383 positioned within the hollow body 302 and reflecting the light ray reflected by the main mirror 382. Such an optical system enables the reduction of the length of the hollow body 302 while maintaining the same focal length as a telescope equipped only with the main mirror 382 (for example, as shown in FIGS. 6 and 7).

[0128] The main mirror 382 and the secondary mirror 383 are on the optical axis 32 that coincides with the axis of symmetry of the hollow body 302. These mirrors have pure reflection.

[0129] The main mirror 382 is preferably a concave parabolic mirror with a low f - ratio (preferably less than 5). This type of mirror can eliminate spherical aberration. The diameter of the main mirror 382 substantially corresponds to the inner diameter of the hollow body 302. This main mirror 382 has, at its center, an opening 3820 coaxial with the optical axis 32.

[0130] The main mirror 382 is arranged near the second end 301 of the hollow body 302. The secondary mirror 383 is positioned at the first end 300 within the hollow body 302. Installing the secondary mirror 383 inside the hollow body 302 makes it possible to maintain its physical integrity during the handling and operation of the telescope 30.

[0131] The secondary mirror 383 is adapted to bring the focal plane 33 behind the main mirror 382, and the reflected light rays pass through the opening 3820. This configuration makes it possible to reduce the focal length and the length of the hollow body 302, and actually reduce the f - ratio while maintaining a main mirror 382 with a relatively large diameter. Therefore, the telescope 30 is particularly lightweight and compact.

[0132] The secondary mirror 383 can be concave or convex. However, preferably a plane mirror is used. The use of a plane mirror has several advantages. As a result, the focal plane 33 can be symmetrically returned behind the primary mirror 382, and as a result, the focal length of the optical system can be restored. It is also a mirror with a simple and inexpensive design. Therefore, the overall cost of the telescope 30 is reduced. Furthermore, it is easier to achieve alignment between the flat mirror 383 and the primary mirror 382, which reduces the assembly time and labor costs. Using a flat mirror also makes it possible to use a secondary mirror whose diameter is clearly smaller than the diameter of the primary mirror 382. As a result, the primary mirror hardly obscures the light rays 34 entering the hollow body 32.

[0133] A smaller-diameter flat secondary mirror 383 is used to reduce light loss and improve resolution. According to an advantageous embodiment, the secondary mirror 383 has a diameter equal to half the diameter of the primary mirror 382. Therefore, only the surface of the primary mirror 382 and a small portion of the first end 300 are blocked. Next, a sufficient amount of light enters the telescope 30 and is reflected by the primary mirror 382, enabling the user to accurately observe faint large celestial bodies. As an example, the diameter of the secondary mirror 383 is between 25 mm and 250 mm for a primary mirror 382 having a diameter between 50 mm and 500 mm.

[0134] The matrices 361, 362 are arranged within the image focus 330 so as not to interfere with either the light rays 34 reflected by the primary mirror 382 or the light rays reflected by the secondary mirror 383. As a result, the light collected by the active matrix 361 or 362 is optimized, and the loss of resolution due to the presence of the secondary mirror 383 is minimized. Furthermore, access to the matrices 361, 362 is made easier without the need to operate and / or disrupt the optical systems 382, 383, and thus their installation and / or replacement becomes quicker and easier.

[0135] In FIG. 8, the focal plane 33 and the image focus 330 are fixed, and the matrices 361, 362 are movable.

[0136] The support 35 on which the matrices 361, 362 are fixed can be rotatably movable or translationally movable. The activation of the selected matrix 361 or 362 and the operation of the device 30 are the same as those described above where the matrix is movable.

[0137] According to another variant embodiment, the image focus 330 is movable and the matrices 361, 362 are fixed. In particular, a solution as described above with reference to the third or fourth embodiment can be assumed. A movable optical element of the planar mirror type is in this case installed behind the main mirror 382 and changes the position of the image focus 330. By changing the inclination of this movable optical element, the light rays reflected by the secondary mirror 383 are deflected, and as a result, the image focus 330 is located at the first matrix 361 or the second matrix 362. The latter can be arranged in the opposite way as in the third embodiment. The activation of the selected matrix 361 or 362 and the operation of the device 30 are the same as those described above with reference to the third embodiment. Also, as in the fourth embodiment, the matrices 361 and 362 can be installed on the same side. The activation of the selected matrix 361 or 362 and the operation of the device 30 are thus the same as those described above with reference to the fourth embodiment.

[0138] [Eighth Embodiment (FIG. 9)] This embodiment is similar to the second embodiment, where the image focus 330 is fixed and the matrix is movable.

[0139] However, the movable support 35 includes three separate matrices. The third matrix 363 has a design different from that of the first matrix 361 and the second matrix 362. The third matrix 363 has an intermediate size and is large (e.g., a nebula), but its size is suitable for observing celestial bodies smaller than other larger celestial bodies such as galaxies (the first matrix 361 is more suitable for observing celestial bodies of this type). Its area is, for example, 1.5 mm 2 to 0.5 cm 2 between. Its pixels have sides with lengths, for example, between 2 μm and 5 μm.

[0140] The support 35 can be rotatably movable or translatably movable. The activation of the selected matrix 361, 362, or 363 and the operation of the device 30 are the same as those described above where the matrix is movable.

[0141] According to a variant embodiment, the image focus 330 is movable and the matrices 361, 362, 363 are fixed. In this case, a movable optical element of the optical system is provided to change the position of the image focus 330. The activation of the selected matrix 361, 362, or 363 and the operation of the device 30 are the same as those described above where the matrix is fixed.

[0142] [Ninth Embodiment (FIG. 10)] This embodiment is similar to the first embodiment, where the image focus 330 is fixed and the matrices 361, 362 are rotatably movable.

[0143] Here, the movable support 35 is movable around a rotation axis 351 parallel to the focal plane 33 and perpendicular to the optical axis 32. The movable support 35 can be, for example, cylindrical, drum-shaped, or of another shape. The active matrix is located within the image focus 330, within the focal plane 33, and on the optical axis 32, while the non-active matrix is located outside the focal plane and on the said optical axis.

[0144] The activation of the selected matrix 361, 362, or 363 and the operation of the device 30 are the same as those described above where the matrix is rotatable.

[0145] One or more features disclosed only in one embodiment can be combined with one or more other features disclosed only in another embodiment.

[0146] The configurations of the various elements and / or means and / or steps of the present invention in the foregoing embodiments should not be understood as being required in all implementations. Another embodiment may be provided, in particular, The movable optical element 381 does not necessarily have to be a planar mirror and may be a convex mirror or a reflective element, such as a reflective blade. In the seventh embodiment, the secondary mirror 383 can be configured to bring the focal plane 33 between the primary mirror 382 and the said secondary mirror. At that time, the matrices 361, 362 are arranged so as to be located within this focal plane.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0147]

Patent Document 1

Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0148] 30 Device 31 Optical System 32 Optical Axis 33 Focal Plane 34 Light Ray 35 Movable Support 39 Image Processing Electronic Unit 40 Screen 50 Observed celestial body 51 Observed celestial body 300 First end 301 Second end 302 Hollow body 303 Layout 330 Image focus 350 Mark 351 Rotation axis 361 Optical sensor matrix 362 Optical sensor matrix 363 Optical sensor matrix 381 Movable optical element 382 Primary mirror 383 Secondary mirror 3820 Aperture

Claims

1. - A step of using an apparatus (30) comprising a hollow body (302) into which light rays (34) from an observed celestial body (50, 51) enter during use, wherein the observed celestial body is selected from at least a first celestial body (50 or 51) of a first property and a second celestial body (50 or 51) of a second property, and the property of the first celestial body (50 or 51) is different from the property of the second celestial body (50 or 51). - A step of arranging an optical system (31, 382, 383) having an optical axis (32) in the hollow body (302), the optical system being configured such that the light rays (34) form an image of the observed celestial body (50, 51) within an image focus (330) located within a focal plane (33). An astronomical image acquisition method comprising the above steps, and the method further comprises - A step of arranging at least first and second photosensor matrices (361, 362) each including a plurality of pixels configured to acquire images of a first celestial body (50 or 51) and a second celestial body (50 or 51) respectively formed within the image focus (330) in the hollow body (302), the matrices (361, 362) having pixels of different sizes from each other. - A step of selecting one of the matrices (361, 362) and arranging it within the image focus (330), with the other matrix being outside the image focus, and the selection of the matrix being carried out according to the property of the observed celestial body (50, 51), i.e., whether it is the first celestial body (50 or 51) of the first property or the second celestial body (50 or 51) of the second property. An astronomical image acquisition method, characterized by including the above steps.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein the first and second matrices (361, 362) extend within the focal plane (33) during all steps of the method.

3. The method according to claim 2, wherein the step of selecting one of the matrices (361, 362) is performed by translational movement of one and / or the other of the matrices to arrange one of the matrices (361, 362) within the image focus (330).

4. The method according to claim 1, wherein the step of selecting one of the matrices (361, 362) is performed by rotation of one and / or the other of the matrices, and at least one of the matrices (361, 362) is not initially within the focal plane (33).

5. - Fixing the matrix (361, 362) to the movable support (35); - Moving the movable support (35) to place the selected matrix (361, 362) within the image focus (330); The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, comprising:

6. - Powering the movable support (35) by a motor; - Controlling the motor to move the movable support (35) The method according to claim 5, comprising:

7. - Installing the matrix (361, 362) at a fixed position; - Using an optical system including a movable optical element (381) to change the position of the image focus (330); - Moving the movable optical element (381) to bring the image focus (330) to the selected matrix (361, 362); The method according to claim 1, comprising:

8. - Driving the movable optical element (381) by a motor; - Controlling the motor to move the movable optical element (381); The method according to claim 7, comprising:

9. - Connecting the motor to the processing unit (39); - Controlling the motor; - Activating one or more buttons installed in the device (30) and connected to the processing unit (39), or - Sending a control command to the processing unit (39) to transmit the command from a smartphone; The method according to claim 6 or 8, comprising:

10. - Saving the record of the celestial body in a database, each record being associated with one of the matrices (361, 362) and the real-time position data of the celestial body; - Selecting the record of the celestial body in the database; - Controlling the motor according to the matrix (361, 362) associated with the selected record; - Automatically orienting the device (30) to the position of the celestial body (50, 51) according to the position data associated with the selected record; The method according to claim 6 or 8, comprising:

11. - Obtaining an image of the celestial body (50, 51) observed in the observation scene, the obtaining being performed using one of the matrices (362) selected according to the nature of the celestial body; - Executing a computer process configured to detect the movement of another celestial body in the observation scene; - Selecting another matrix (361); - Controlling the motor according to another selected matrix (361). The method according to claim 6 or 8, comprising the above steps.

12. - Storing records of celestial bodies in a database, each record being associated with one of the matrices (361, 362) and at least one characteristic element of the celestial body. - Obtaining an image of a celestial body (50, 51), the obtaining being performed using one of the matrices (361, 362). - Executing a computer recognition process configured to detect at least one characteristic element of the celestial body in the obtained image. - Identifying, within the database, celestial body records associated with characteristic elements similar to those detected. - Selecting the matrix (361, 362) associated with the identified record. - If the matrix (361, 362) that obtained the image does not correspond to the selected matrix, controlling the motor according to the selected matrix. The method according to claim 6 or 8, comprising the above steps.

13. - A hollow body (302) into which light rays coming from an observed celestial body (50, 51) penetrate during use, the observed celestial body being selected from at least a first celestial body (50 or 51) of a first property and a second celestial body (50 or 51) of a second property, and the property of the first celestial body (50 or 51) being different from the property of the second celestial body (50 or 51); a hollow body (302). - An optical system disposed within the hollow body (302) and having an optical axis (32), the optical system being configured such that a light ray (34) forms an image of the observed celestial body (50, 51) within an image focus (330) located within a focal plane (33). An apparatus for obtaining an image of a celestial body (50, 51), comprising: The apparatus (30) is: - At least first and second photosensor matrices (361, 362) each including a plurality of pixels designed to obtain images of a first celestial body (50 or 51) and a second celestial body (50 or 51) formed within the image focus (330), the matrices (361, 362) being sensor matrices having pixels of different sizes from each other. - A matrix selection device configured to select one matrix (361, 362) and arrange it within the image focus (330), where the other matrix (361, 362) is outside the image focus, and the selection of the matrix is carried out based on the nature of the observed celestial body, that is, whether it is the first celestial body (50 or 51) of the first nature or the second celestial body (50 or 51) of the second nature. Matrix selection device. Device characterized by including this.

14. The device according to claim 13, wherein the first matrix (361) and the second matrix (362) have different sizes.

15. The device according to claim 13 or 14, wherein the image focus (330) is fixed and the matrix (361, 362) is movable.

16. The matrix (361, 362) is - The first matrix (361) is arranged within the image focus (330), and the second matrix (362) is in the first position arranged outside the image focus, and - The second matrix (362) is arranged within the image focus (330), and the first matrix (361) is in the second position arranged outside the image focus, and is fixed to a movable support (35) between them. The device according to claim 13 or 14.

17. The device according to claim 16, wherein the support (35) is rotatably movable or translationally movable.

18. The device according to claim 13 or 14, wherein the matrix (361, 362) is fixed and the image focus (330) is movable.

19. The device according to claim 18, wherein the optical system includes an optical element (381) that is movable to change the position of the image focus (330).

20. The optical element (381) is - The first position that brings the image focus (330) to the first matrix (361), - The second position that brings the image focus (330) to the second matrix (362), and is movable between them. The device according to claim 19.

21. The optical system is - A primary mirror (382) positioned within the hollow body (302) for reflecting the light rays (34) that have entered the hollow body, - A secondary mirror (383) positioned within the hollow body (302) for reflecting the light rays reflected by the primary mirror (382), and the secondary mirror is adapted to bring the image focus (33) behind the primary mirror (382). - The matrix (361, 362) is arranged behind the main mirror (382). The apparatus according to any one of claims 13 to 20. **Claim 22** The apparatus according to any one of claims 13 to 21, which is in the form of a telescope.

Images