Lagoon M8

[AdamJL]

Hi all

I've spent a few nights now collecting some data on M8. Both with duoboad (L-Extreme) and broadband. Presented below is the duoband for now.
It's been a struggle to process this one in StarTools. I really think the colour module just never gets things right, even though the rest of the program is excellent.

So I decided to process this in Siril, a free alternative to the majors. This is a "first light" with processing in Siril, and I haven't done many things I normally do. No deconvolution, no star reduction, no noise reduction, no sharpening of the nebula. I don't know how to do that just yet, but will try and learn. It's a fun program!

I've also noticed that there are some backfocus issues with my setup that I need to work on, but that's another project.

Anyway, here's the first result. I'll revisit this and keep working on it over time. There's actually a bit more nebula hiding in the data that I'm trying to get out with more editing.

Links to bigger versions:
https://adamlawler.smugmug.com/Astrophotography/Deep-Sky-Objects/i-z3WfSx2
https://adamlawler.smugmug.com/Astrophotography/Deep-Sky-Objects/i-ZL2VVnQ

Camera:ASI2600MC
Scope: Skywatcher Evostar 80ED + Orion Field Flattener
Filters: None
Mount:EQ6-R Pro
Guiding camera: ASI290MM
Guiding scope: SkyWatcher EvoGuide 50ED
Subs: 145 x 180s
Total Integration: 7hrs 15 hours over two nights
Gain: 100
Offset: 50
Lights: 145
Darks: 40
Flats: 80 (40 per night)
Dark Flats: 80 (40 per night)
Bortle Class: 8
Moon: 41>32%
Software: NINA, PHD2, Stellarium, PoleMaster, Siril 0.99.10.1, Photoshop CC

Thanks for looking. For fun, I've added a starless version, because why not?

[Startrek]

Adam,
Great capture of M8 with loads of fine detail and depth.
Colours are nice too
Yes I agree Startools is a struggle with OSC narrowband processing, it’s hit and miss depending on what type of emission nebula your imaging. I follow Ivo’s advice using the Compose module but it doesn’t work that well , it’s more suitable for Mono and separate NB filters
I’m saying that Startools is brilliant processing software so powerful and intuitive
Anyway well done !!
Martin

[irwjager]

Hmmm.... First time I've heard about problems with OSC/NB processing consistency in ST. :(


I'd love to understand where things may be going wrong for you!

[AdamJL]

Cheers Martin. Yes it's super powerful but has quite the learning curve. It's taking me a while to get to grips with it.



Hey Ivo. I'm happy to drop you a PM or email if you want? I actually have a few issues that I just don't understand.

[AdamJL]

By the way... here's the same nebula that I imaged when I first started, 9 months ago. Really pleased with the progress, but also realistic about how much there's still to learn.

[irwjager]

Yes please! I'm mid development cycle, so if there's anything to improve or fix, now would be a great time. Thank you!