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Saturn488
21-10-2023, 04:51 PM
I am combining all my data from 7 different imaging sessions over the course of 1 year. Is it possible to combine the data with 2 sets of dark frames? See below.

Batch 1: Sessions 1-5, captured 22/10/22, Ha/OIII/SII with Flats, Dark Flats + Dark Frames

Since then my telescope configuration has changed (filter wheel rotated, spacing fixed)

Batch 2: Sessions 6-7, captured 19/10/23, Ha/OIII/SII with Flats, Dark Flats + Dark Frames

Normally in DSS I can separate each filter with their own calibration frames then the Dark Frames which will be applied to all but in this instance I have a second set of Dark Frames for the last two sessions and I can't seem to tell the program to stack the second batch with their darks?

Anyone deal with this before?

Startrek
21-10-2023, 08:16 PM
Your probably aware but DSS will reject Darks that don’t match corresponding Lights for exposure time and ISO / Gain.
After happily using DSS for nearly 6 years I’ve recently moved over to ASTAP and found stacking multiple nights data ( I’ve stacked up to 5 nights data for each filter with Mono )using both Mono and OSC much more simplistic with excellent results. With ASTAP there’s no need for reference frames or strict protocols using the Groups scenario. Hans the ASTAP developer provides excellent support on the forum.
DSS has recently undergone a massive upgrade which has had some teething problems. I’ve been on the DSS forum for a number of years now and most of the posts in the last 6 months were related to bugs in the latest version.
Maybe give ASTAP a whirl ?
Cheers
Martin

Leo.G
22-10-2023, 11:32 AM
I'm not sure but perhaps including both sets of darks in Autostakkert and it can make a master dark with the 2 sets.
I could be very wrong, I haven't tried.


My son just reminded me I probably meant to say in DSS, not Autostakkert.
I've used DSS to make master dark and master light frames for Autostakkert in the past, sorry!