Tuc 47 + Omega Centuri

[jase]

Hi All,
Both globular cluster images (attached) are 2 x 10 minute unguided exposures, so guess they aren't too bad considering this. However I would like to begin to increase my exposure time beyond 10 minutes (considering I'm using film). I would like to know if anyone here is using a DSI pro or II for auto-guiding. I tried seaching the forum but didn't hit anything. If anyone is on the market to sell one, please let me know.

There sure are some great images on this site. Keep up the fantastic work.
:)

[2020BC]

Hi,

I believe EzStyles has a DSI for sale, if he hasn't sold it. He has done some good work imaging with it so it's in good nick. Send him a personal message and see.

[jase]

Thanks Bill. I've been in touch with EzStyles and pondering on the decision at the moment. Thanks.

Regards,
Jase

[EzyStyles]

thanks Bill for the recommendation. I have PM'ed Jase. great shots Jase and welcome aboard to IIS. You have my respect for using film.

[iceman]

:welcome: to the forum, jase! Very fine work, especially for using film! I didn't think there was many left out there still using film.

How did you find out about us?

[jase]

Hi there Mike,
Thanks for the compliments. Yes, there are still a few people using film. Not everyone can afford the SBIG STL11k for a similar 35mm frame size and dare I say it, the kodak 11k chipset sensitivity is on the low side compared to the 6303 or ME chipsets. Too many compromises.
I have been a lurker to IIS for about 7 months or so. Having joined an astronomy club and felt dissappointed at what was being offered, I've turn to IIS to seek some answers. Kind of like a virtual club I guess. You've got some great amateur astromomers here. I congradulate you for coming this far with your online presence and promoting the AU astronomy scene. Keep it up.

Regards,

[tornado33]

Nice shots there
Ive always thought digital imaging has greatly increased ability to image in light polluted skies, however there is one film that sadly isnt made now that could still challenge digital imaging and thats Hypersensitized Tech Pan 2415 film. I used to use that years ago and its incredibly high contrast and red sensitivity was amazing. There was a great hypered film supplier in Sydney, who also sold me the "Mount Wilson/Palomar Mix", a kit of the same chemicals they used to process their astro films. That was remarkable. Unexposed areas were as clear as glass on the negative, heavily exposed areas as dark as a welding lens.
Scott

[jase]

Hi Scott,
Indeed, digital imaging is the only way forward if you are under light poluted skies. I think regardless of whether you use digital or film, if you can image under dark skies your image quality will increase. Yes, I remember techpan days. Was even a decent film unhypered, but to get the true benefits hypered was the way to go. Emulsions have come a long way though. I'm very surprised by the sensitivity you can get with some of the professional films available today.
If you feel inclined - try some professional slide film such as the Kodak E200 professional or Fujichrom Provia 400F (RHPIII). I've reasonable success with both of these. Taking the photo is generally the easy part, I get more frustrated by the developing process. I use to do it myself, but color is complex to develop. You need to take the film to someone who understands your requirements. I always get the films push to a higher asa. I have negatives that have been cut straight through a good photo. Either get them mounted or ask them to just develop and don't cut. I learnt the hard way.

Cheers,
Jase

[iceman]

Many thanks for your feedback, Jase.. it's very nice to hear.

Your site looks nice too, I love the photos of your equipment and mount, and man - that observatory.. what a stunning location to view/photograph the heavens! :eyepop:

Great to have you onboard.

[Omaroo]

Hi Jase - and welcome! :)

Like yourself, I'm attempting to uphold the traditional film approach. If for no other reason that I have a fair bit of film gear and heaps of great F-lenses that won't work on the latest digital Nikons.

Out of interest, what film were you using for these two shots?

Also - I'm going to use my ToUcam for guiding once I get my wedge setup happening. A fair whack cheaper than a DSI, but probably less friendly.

Cheers
Chris

[jase]

Hi Chris,
Thanks for the warm welcome.

I’ve had great success with the following two slide films and generally stick to them now.


Fujichome Provia 400F Professional
http://www.fujifilm.com.au/products/item.asp?id=50&sid=22&pid=279
Kodak Professional Elite Chrome 200
http://www.kodak.com/eknec/documents/b3/0900688a80316bb3/e148e.pdf


I'm not exactly a film advocate and happy to give way to digital. However, if I’m going to do so I don’t particularly want to compromise on a small detector. The resolution you get out of a 35mm frame is fantastic for prints.

[Ric]

Hi Jase,
They are two really nice images.

nice shooting

[Lester]

Hi Jase,

very nice images.

[jase]

Thanks Ric and Lester. Appreciate your comments. :)