2D image processing for auto-guiding system

The new concept of two-dimensional (2D) image processing implementation for auto-guiding system is shown in this paper. It is dedicated to long time exposures astrophotography and operates with astronomy CCD guide cameras and ST4 compatible equatorial mounts. This idea was verified theoretically and next the DSP prototype circuit was implemented at Altera Cyclone II FPGA device and tested for real images of astronomical objects. The digital processing speed of FPGA prototype board was sufficient for correct equatorial mount guiding in real-time system.