Ngc 2359

[jjjnettie]

I'm almost loath to post this. :)
Rolf's image has set the bar so high on this target.
But it's the first guided image I've taken through the new scope, so I thought I may as well publish it.
1hr and 15min of 5min subs.
127mm apo
CDS1100D @ ISO800
DSS for stacking and CS3 for processing.
No Darks and no flats. (I'll have to see about a light box for the scope soon)
I don't think I got the focus right.:shrug:
The image I'm taking atm, the stars look a lot sharper at full res. I'll know when I process that one if I've done this image an injustice.

[gregbradley]

That's very nice. Thors Helmet is a tough and dim target. The stars aren't necessarily out of focus that could just be seeing at that focal length.

I use a white teeshirt over the end of the scope (tie the arms together to form a bit of tension and smooth it over the end of the scope) and take dusk flats aiming for about 1.3rd histogram. I usually only take 3 and 3 darks. Light box would be nice as you could take darks anytime but not needed.

I've also used a piece of opaque white plastic packing material fixed with a rubber band over the end of the scope. Geez I'm giving you all my high tech secrets here!:rofl:

Greg.

[jjjnettie]

:) I have a tshirt I bought especially for flats. I used it before I bought one of Peter's awesome light boxes.
I've also used Al's light box simulator, using the laptop.
As for sharpness, yes, this image is a little off. I've done a quick stack of 13x5 of the Horsie and it's much better I feel.
Thanks for sharing your secrets, I won't tell a soul. LOL

[allan gould]

Thors Helmet is a toughie as its really faint. Just need longer subs of at least 10 but preferably 15 min and more of them. But still the start of a good image JJJ.
Allan

[RickS]

I can recognize the target, JJJ. That's a good start with a new scope! Some calibration frames would definitely help.

Cheers,
Rick.

[LewisM]

That's it Nettie, I am coming to Kilcoy. I'll supply the coffee and Tim Tams :)