M42 and NGC 3132

[Chris85]

Hi all,

Instead of making 2 threads I figured I'd just put my 2 latest efforts into one :)


First up is another M42, which was also my first go at trying a layer mask when processing. Its 7 x 700s @ ISO 400 and 10 x 60s @ ISO 400 for the core. Stacked in DSS and processed in Gimp. Even with using the shorter exposures for the core, it still feels cooked to me. Maybe higher ISO and only 20s next time? Pretty happy with it though :)

Next is my first planetary nebula, NGC 3132. Its 18 x 400s @ ISO 200 (All I could go without washing out with noise!) Really happy with how this one turned out. This was also my first with stacking and processing all within Nebulosity 3, which judging from this will be the norm from now on :D I've included the zoomed version my missus liked, as the original was "just a blob on the screen"

Both images where taken through my RC6" and 600D, riding on a HEQ5.

Cheers and thanks for looking!
Chris

[cometcatcher]

Very nice Chris. The little planetary came out very well indeed.

[Jon]

Nice work Chris. Both turned out well.

[Chris85]

Cheers Kevin and Jon

[nebulosity.]

Good images there Chris :thumbsup:

M42 maybe a bit lacking in the blue? The star in the left hand corner generally has a blue tinge to it, it's quit difficult to bring out the reds like you've done, is you camera modded? If not well good job.

The planetary it really nice :) well done. Don't think I've seen that one before.

Cheers
Jo

[kosh]

Good job Chris :thumbsup:
I agree with Jo regarding m42, a bit more blue would really give it a bit more character, but that's my taste. The core looks pretty good though!
Good jog with NGC 3132 also.

[Marios]

Nice images...:thumbsup:

[Chris85]

Cheers for the encouragement and tips!

The last few weeks I've learnt a lot more since I processed M42, so I might have a go at doing it again - with added blue! :P

Chris