Accurate and Rapid Auto-Focus Methods Based on Image Quality Assessment for Telescope Observation

Aiming at improving the speed and accuracy of auto-focus for telescope observation, algorithms for image estimation and auto-focus were investigated and are discussed in this article. Based on the image quality assessment, the auto-focusing process of the telescope system is realized by using the mo...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Chunping Yang, Minhao Chen, Fangfang Zhou, Wei Li, Zhenming Peng
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: MDPI AG 2020-01-01
Series:Applied Sciences
Subjects:
Online Access:https://www.mdpi.com/2076-3417/10/2/658
Description
Summary:Aiming at improving the speed and accuracy of auto-focus for telescope observation, algorithms for image estimation and auto-focus were investigated and are discussed in this article. Based on the image quality assessment, the auto-focusing process of the telescope system is realized by using the mountain-climb search method. Several evaluation functions were tested in different scenarios. It is demonstrated that the Tenengrad image estimation function (IEF) is suitable for an instant and accurate auto-focus process of the telescope. Furthermore, we implemented sampling and dynamic adaptive focusing window (ES-DAFW) methods with the Tenengrad IEF to enhance the sensitivity and accuracy of the auto-focus process. The experimental results showed that our ES-DATW method can provide more accurate results in less time for the auto-focus process compared to the conventional approaches, especially for a sparse image. These results promise significant applications to the auto-focusing of other telescopes with image quality assessment.
ISSN:2076-3417