Helix Nebula 3 nights data

[pkinchington]

Hi fellow astrophotographers,

This image was an integration of 3 consecutive nights of data collection. I only used the Ha subs from last night because high level clouds and moonlight destroyed the Oiii subs. Does anybody know how I can get more detail in the "pupil" ? Do I need to take more Oiii subs or perhaps use rgb filters as well?

Cheers Kanga

[AdamJL]

Hi Peter. The centre is an OIII rich area. Just spend more time with O3 if you can, or blue....

Also, you've got some severe brushing artifacts there. If your intent was to feather in detail from the eyebrow area, you've used a hard-edge brush and it stands out quite a lot!

[oska]

Good start Peter. The iris detail is fantastic. You can't really have too much data on this one IMO.

[Dave882]

I agree with the others there’s some nice detail coming through but some blending issue that is detracting from the overlap image. Worth a second go at the processing imho.

[pkinchington]

Yes Adam I do need to work on that!

[pkinchington]

OK John I'll keep on collecting Oiii data for the iris.

Cheers Kanga

[pkinchington]

Hi David,
Please find attached a punchier reprocessing of the Helix Nebula without the artifact issue.
Cheers Kanga

[Jmr]

Beautiful photo I hope too one day to be able to take as good a photo

[pkinchington]

Thanks Jason:) I have attached an image where I have used curves to increase the blue in the "pupil". I think it gives a more eye like feel.
Cheers Kanga