“I honestly wouldn’t have gotten into this industry without ZWO.” Tracy said.
Tracy Cao’s journey into astrophotography is a testament to the idea that it is never too late to pursue a dream. Tracy first developed an interest in astronomy during high school, where she learned about constellations, mythology, and the tales people have told about the night sky for centuries. Although she briefly considered studying astronomy in college, the heavy focus on mathematics and science rather than the stories behind the universe led her to set that dream aside.
Years later, during the COVID-19 pandemic, Tracy rediscovered her fascination with the stars. Encouraged by her husband, Jim, she purchased a telescope and quickly became captivated not only by observing the night sky but also by photographing it. With no prior experience in photography, she faced a steep learning curve and had to master complex equipment and techniques. Through determination, guidance from mentors, and a willingness to learn, she steadily developed her skills and found a place within the astrophotography community.
Throughout her journey, Tracy has balanced her passion with the responsibilities of raising three children. She credits her husband as her biggest supporter, helping manage family responsibilities while she travels to dark-sky locations, attends conventions, and pursues astrophotography opportunities. His support has allowed her to continue growing both personally and professionally.
One of Tracy’s favorite aspects of astrophotography is the peace and solitude it provides. Whether camping under the stars or setting up equipment in remote locations, she values the opportunity to disconnect from everyday life and reconnect with the universe. Some of her most memorable experiences include traveling alone to Texas to photograph a solar eclipse and attending CES alongside ZWO, where she helped introduce others to the hobby she loves.
As a woman and working mother in a male-dominated field, Tracy hopes her story inspires others not to let societal roles or responsibilities prevent them from pursuing their passions. She encourages beginners to simply take the first step, believing that anyone can learn with enough curiosity and persistence.
Looking back, Tracy credits ZWO for helping make her dreams a reality. Through its accessible products, supportive community, and mentorship opportunities, she transformed a childhood fascination into a meaningful part of her life. Today, she continues to share her knowledge, inspire others, and prove that passion, perseverance, and support can turn even the most distant dreams into reality.
#ZWO #astronomy #astrophotography #stargazing #space #nightsky #ZWOUserStory
. I photographed the globular star cluster NGC5466 with the Seestar S50. I stacked 5 images, taken at various times over 85 minutes, using Deep Sky Stacker, with the best pixel method. I finished in GraXpert and GIMP.
https://t.co/xLPoP9sn0u
GUYS! 🥺🥹
malam ini dikasih lebih lagi sama Tuhan, 😭🤲
Ayo bilang terimakasih dlu sama Tuhan ☝🏻😇
Dikasih literally lebih dari yang aku harapkan! 🥹
Instead shot Venus, Moon, and Jupiter. God once again let me shot SEVEN sky object!
Insist of Venus, Moon, Jupiter, Pollux, Castor, Procyon and our favorite one, Sirius! 🥹✨️
And also Surabaya Citylight! *I'm crying 🫠
Aku ga banyak babibu dlu, silahkan di nikmati guys! 🥹
Jarang banget di Surabaya bisa secerah ini (sekarang udah berawan) ☁️
kalau kalian lagi cari alasan buat tetap hidup, barangkali hal-hal seperti ini bisa membuat kalian tetap hidup~ ✨️♡
Shot on Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra
All photos belong to mine. Feel free to save and share for personal and education purpose! ♡
Mengetik cuitan panjang nan ngalur ngidul tadi sambil memindah file dan memanjakan mata dengan pemandangan seperti ini, banyak anak-anak, keluarga dan orang pacaran (😭😭). Di atasnya?
Jupiter, Venus, Pollux-Castor, Procyon, Gomeisa, dan Sirius lagi cantik-cantiknyaa~ ♡
Coba tebak,
Frame 1, 2 dan 3 itu foto apa aja? ☝🏻😼
📸 : Samsung
Edited on Lightroom
Guide by Stellarium