A Christmas Deconvolution Artifact???
Credit: Image courtesy of S. Claus (North Pole Research Institute) and CFHT
This unusual astronomical image was obtained with the CFHT on
December 20th, 1999. Details on this optical frame include a large red
character, believed to be Santa Claus, being kissed by a charming astronomer
hugging a smaller astronomer.
In the process of validating a new deconvolution algorithm developed
elsewhere, we deconvolved this image of what we think is Santa Claus
on his way to Hawaii. The result, seen on this image, is not satisfactory yet. The
deconvolved image contains most of the features of the raw image.
Both charming astronomers are recovered, but the large position shift
in the final image is a problem. The pink ribbon is also recovered,
but with a different shape and location. Santa Claus may also be present,
to be confirmed, but with a lower contrast and more fuzziness.
Photometry and colors are not preserved. Clearly, the deconvolution
algorithm is not ready for astronomical usage!!!
nothing here should be taken seriously,
apart of course from the two charming astronomers (Nadine Manset and
Lisa Wells) part of CFHT's staff and the deconvolved version of Santa
Claus (Pierre Martin), also at CFHT. The Dewey Colloquium is also a
real event!
Technical description:
This image was obtained on December 20th, 1999, with the
Canada-France-Hawaii Telescope. Deconvolution of the image to enhance
details was performed in Waimea after the annual Dewey Decimal Colloquium.
For more info on this event contact Liz Bryson (bryson@cfht.hawaii.edu).
