can you show a single unprocessed frame? You've way overexposed either at the camera or which your processing.
Thanks Sil. I forgot to mention the ISO = 800. Maybe I overexposed.
I am sorry, but I was not able to compress the single frame (Canon CR2 FILE) to fit the minimum size to upload.
It is over processed, not over exposed. That's about the exposure settings I use with an f5 scope with good results. Processing needs a light and subtle approach, you have captured the galaxy well though. Starting out you might find it easier to use jpeg, as the camera does most of the processing for you.
It should not be too late. Adjust the brightness and contrast at least ...
However lets look at the good things...you captured it well and you just need to tame it...so I say well done.
Alex
Thank you all for your comments. That is what I was looking for! I will go back to the DSS unprocessed image. And will try again with StarTools. Will see if it got any better.