A comparison between B4 & B7 on ZTF Comet imaging

[Dave882]

After shooting ZTF from home (Padstow B7 skies) on Friday evening I pulled everything apart and headed south-west just out of Sydney (near Wilton B4 skies). I knew it would be better being much darker, but the difference in the subs was ridiculous!! I did a quick comparison of a single 60sec sub (identical gear and comet elevation) and you can see for yourself (no editing and identical stretch). I'm seriously considering that this may be something I need to do more of for my broadband shooting going forward.

Anyways, because everyone loves comets so much now, I've also added the final version with 1hr of subs processed in APP that I combined in GIMP with a single shot for the star field.

Also a single sub with Mars in the pic (only took a single one cause Hyperstar + bright stars = insane reflections and wasn't really worth proceeding).

c14 Hyperstar on eq8
asi2600mc (no filter)
67x 60sec subs
Guided with guidescope & asi290mm
ASIAIR APP GIMP

[Tinderboxsky]

Fabulous result, David.

And an epic effort for your portable rig - a C14 and an EQ8! 😳

[Dave882]

Thanks Steve- yeah it’s a bit of work but worth it when I can get a clear moonless night. I’ve got the setup pretty smooth now- I’m on my own but still only took me 60min to get it all polar aligned & ready to image and 30min to pack down. Glad we’ve got a big suv tho…

[Averton]

Just a bit of difference in those subs! Just going to B4 doesn't sound like much but it has had a big effect. It certainly explains our struggles under B8. Great final image!!

[Dave882]

Thanks P&C yes it doesn’t sound like much but compared to home it’s incredible!! Almost depressing coming back and setting up here again tbh

[Averton]

Agreed David.
We never take our equipment to other locations, figuring ignorance is bliss.