Ontario Aurora Chasers is pleased to announce an initiative to create a network of weather-proof webcams strategically placed throughout Ontario. Both members and site visitors can use the webcams to view of the night sky and monitor aurora activity, cloud cover and other weather activity. The initial goal is 8-10 cameras strategically placed throughout Ontario to be used by aurora chasers, those not able to chase, and industries around the world. Partnerships with other organizations are also a possibility.
Two types of auroracams will be deployed; both video and still images depending on location and logistics. Each camera will have specific needs depending on location, connection, power supply, installation (pole) and other factors.
The custom software for the auroracam project (developed by Scott Rock Photography) is complete and was successfully field tested over the past year. Software, servers and connections have already been deployed and ready to accept incoming connections, and rebroadcast to facebook, youtube and OAC website.
Want to Help?
There are 6 ways you can help the OAC Auroracam Project:
- Purchase merchandise from the online store.
- Contribute used camera equipment.
- 3D printing custom parts.
- Help with camera maintenance and installation.
- Offer a site location on your property.
- Make a donation.
OAC Store
Consider purchasing items in the OAC online store. All profits from merchandise go towards funding the auroracam project and other future initiatives.
Contribute Used Equipment
Have some older used camera equipment? We can probably use them! Cameras with mechanical shutters have a life expectancy of approximately 100k to 200k shutter actuations which means they will need to be replaced. We can use many of the following equipment to help construct OAC auroracams.
- Older and newer DSLR camera bodies.
- Older smartphones for tethering remote internet access.
- 24mm and wider lenses with at least a f2.8 aperture.
- Pelican and Nanuk cases.
- Raspberry Pi & Arduino small board computers and associated parts.
- Portable Battery Power Packs
- Dummy Batteries
- Long and short cat6 and cat7 ethernet cables.
- Other miscellaneous equipment.
If you have any used equipment you’d like to offer the project, please fill out the equipment donation form to find out about.
3D Printing and Fabrication
Each installation may require slightly different tactics than another camera. 3D printed parts may be required by some configurations. If you are experienced with 3D printing or fabrication, please get in touch with us by submitting out the auroracam team application.
Camera Maintenance
We are looking for volunteers to work with our dev team to install and maintain a webcam located in different regions. This may involve traveling to the camera site to maintain or troubleshoot the camera connectivity or operation. Installation and internet logistics including concrete and pole installations may be necessary at some camera site locations. If you are interested, please complete the auroracam team application.
Offer a Property/Location
Do you have a property that faces north on dark skies? Are you interested in working with your local municipality or a business/organization to find a suitable camera location? We’d love to hear from you! Please submit the auroracam team application.
Make a Donation
Your donation will go to help fund the building, maintenance, and ongoing replacement costs involved in the auroracam project.