M20 test image

[Paul Haese]

Here is an image out of Swan Reach Imaging. I have been testing a new imaging rig which we have installed in the big shed. There is still a few small teething problems that need to be sorted but I am quite happy with the new camera (ASI6200) and new mount. The field of view of the camera is quite wide overall and imaging at 2x2 bin the imaging time appears to be cut down markedly. The native 1x1 bin produces sub frames that are 128mb in size and absolutely huge. My preference is to use 2x2 bin which still produces a large 29mb sub frame. The noise level is markedly reduced from what I have become accustomed with the older CCD tech.

Some things to bear in mind are that the tilt adjusters do leak light and need to be taped off to prevent light leakage or use a 3D printed baffle that screws into the Big OAG. And; I think ZWO should really consider making cameras with a shutter or a blank frame in the filter wheel to allow remote darks.

The image is of the Trifid nebula (M20). Imaging time is a paltry 3 hours in total integration.

Click here (http://paulhaese.net/M20AG12.html) for larger image

[Peter Ward]

As for the lack of a shutter with the ZWO, I feel your pain...QHY don't do them either....thankfully my RC16 has shutter of sorts (otherwise known as a remote mirror cover)

As for that M20.

That's just lovely. A pox on you dark skies I say! :) (just jealous)

Nice one :thumbsup:

[Joshua Bunn]

So clean, and lovely colours to Paul.
I Think I'll have a similar wow! Moment when I switch to the qhy600 from the stl11k

[oska]

Do these not work? (I have no idea)
https://www.bintel.com.au/product/astronomik-dark-filter-2in/

[AdamJL]

I think what I love most about this image is that your background stars are just that... it's a starfield with individual stars. Aperture rules with this part of the sky.
On my shots, some of the background stars tend to merge into a fuzz. It's great seeing this rich starfield, thanks for sharing.

[Paul Haese]

Thanks guys for the responses.



Yes our skies are very dark and worth paying for in our opinion.;)



The noise levels are notably lower than the older CCD tech. I have found a need to be very careful about darks and flats though and to ensure I get the right balance, particularly with flats. Overall though you should enjoy the new camera.



John, that would be fine if I had room in the filter wheel. The ZWO filter wheel only has 7 positions and all of those are currently in use. If I had a spare position I would jump at that filter. Thanks for the tip.

[multiweb]

Very cool shot Paul. So smooth and detailed. :thumbsup:
Skies to die for.

[Dave882]

That star field is incredible. Beautiful shot!!

[gregbradley]

A very high quality Trifid Paul.

Greg.

[Startrek]

Nice to see a wider field around Trifid
Starfield is spectacular

Cheers
Martin

[Retrograde]

Very nice Trifid Paul. :thumbsup:

Despite only a short integration it really showcases the colours in the surrounding star field as well as those in the Trifid.

[LKD]

[QUOTE=Paul Haese;1566900] I am quite happy with the new camera (ASI6200) and new mount. The field of view of the camera is quite wide overall and imaging at 2x2 bin the imaging time appears to be cut down markedly.

Beautiful image Paul, Just a few questions, are you using the 6200MC? and what scope.

[Paul Haese]

Thanks everyone for the comments and observations.

[QUOTE=LKD;1567180]

Luke, I am using a 6200MM with Astrodon (made by Don before it was sold) filters. The scope is one of my Orion Optics UK AG12's.

[Addos]

big boys toys in a dark spot, you love it! nice shot! :)

[Paul Haese]

I collected a bit more data including Ha and have done a new process.

If you go to the link above it has the updated large image.

[petershah]

Super shot there Paul.....sounds like a great project :thumbsup: