NGC2451 open cluster in Puppis

[cometcatcher]

Not getting much imaging time here now that summer and cloudy nights have arrived. However I sneaked this one in between clouds the other night. Hoping to get more clusters like this cute little fellow.

Details, 32 x 30 secs unguided, HEQ5 pro, 8" F4 Newt, Baader MPCC MKIII, Pentax K-5.

[LightningNZ]

Very pretty Kevin. Open clusters often don't get the photographic love they deserve.

[cometcatcher]

Thanks Cam. Yeah everyone goes for nebula or galaxies. But it's a bit hot to shoot those now, although with enough 30 second subs anything is possible I guess.

[jsmoraes]

Very good image, Kevin. Congratulation. Good shape and color. You didn't tell the ISO, but the short exposition let better the color of stars.

[RickS]

A pretty field and good use of poor conditions, Kevin.

[cometcatcher]

Thanks Jorge and Rick. It's cloudy every night now even though it's clear all day. This is what happens in the tropics all during summer. It's one of the reasons I went for the 8" F4 scope, so I could get "something" during summer in the cloud gaps.

Jorge I used ISO 1600. It matches 30 second subs on the 8" F4 quite well, although 30 seconds was pushing it for clear cloud gaps!

[Rex]

Nice going Kevin. Lovely colours and I find this kind of image very peaceful and relaxing. Well done mate.