Best method for planet focusing

What is the best method of focusing for planetary imaging (I have a Toucam Pro II)? I generally image deep-sky and I use my Robofocus with FocusMax. This won't work on the moon or planets so I thought I'd ask you guys what is your preferred method.

Thanks,

Tom Davis
Inkom, ID

You can use a bright star by turning up the gain/brightness on the webcam. Also, depending on what software you're using for AVI capture it may support focusing aids using FFT analysis. K3CCD Tools has added a very good focusing window in Version 3.

Clear skies
Weiman

I use the ole "looks good to my eye method" Not the best but all I have to work with now. My rule of thumb is not to scrimp on focusing. I have worked the focus for 10 minutes or more for a 2 minute avi, then go through the same thing again for the next one. The more care you can take in focusing, no matter what method you use, the better your images.

Paul

Hi Tom -

I focus using the real-time image of the planet (or the moon or sun) on the laptop screen. When the seeing is fair to good, this method usually works fine. The capture software I use has a count measure that records the level of the brightest pixel, but I usually find that visual focusing is easier and just as accurate for most subjects.

With the higher (uncompressed) download rates of a firewire or USB 2.0 camera the image responds immediately to movement of the focuser - this is one of the many advantages of these cameras for planetary imaging.

HTH -
Alan

Thank you for your replies.

Best,

Tom