Ngc3372

[baileys2611]

Taken with a Celestron 9.25" XLT coated SCT on a paramount MX with an F6.3 focal reducer and QHY8. Off-axis guided with an St-i using direct drive through TheSkyX. I still had to crop this because the field isn't flat, but it's flatter than without the focal reducer.

I used Ubuntu (linux) to post process this, I'm finding it faster than Windows. Programs are GCX Astro-Image Processor, Nebulosity3 (through Wine) and GIMP (GNU Image Manipulation Program).

Here's a high resolution link: http://www.flickr.com/photos/skyslab/11278781824/sizes/o/

Attached is a compressed JPG (loses some detail).

[graham.hobart]

That's really very nice Simon, what focal reducer are you using ? the celestron one?
Graham.

[baileys2611]

Thanks Graham :) I hope your family is well, and the new baby is sleeping well :thumbsup:

Yes, it's the Celestron reducer, part #94175 (thanks Steve (UniPol)).

[graham.hobart]

where did you buy the St- i from? (overseas?)

[baileys2611]

Yes, OPT. I like them, they're good. I also got my PMX from them when Software Bisque were having their large sale on PMX's. With shipping, Customs duty and GST it still came out cheaper than buying locally. By the way, anything under $2k isn't subject to Customs import - not sure what this $1k limit thing on GST is about because I've never been pinged for GST for anything under $2k...

[Kunama]

Nice image Simon. :thumbsup::thumbsup:

[MGTechDVP]

Awesome close up, this image belongs in the the other images section, you know, away from the amateur side. :D

[baileys2611]

Aaw shucks, :thanx: