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bluesilver
26-01-2024, 04:38 PM
I had a go at this a few nights ago under almost full moon.
I am in a Bortle 3 area and wanted to try out the Optolong L-Ultimate filter and see how it goes under almost full moon.
Ideally, i want to try this filter out on this same nebula with no moon to see how it compares to not using any filters at all.

I managed to get 40 x 300 second subs in the one night.
Was hoping to get a few more nights on this one, but cloud forcast isn't looking too promising.
Calibtated with Flats, Darks, Bias
Stacked and processed with PixInsight.
Skywatcher Esprit 150 at 1050mm FL
iOptron CEM120 mount with PHD2 guiding.
asi2600mc

The images here are rotated 90 degrees as i messed up and forgot to check framing.
3 slightly different approaches to processing, still a beginner with PI
They look grainy here on this pc and at this size ( not sure if it just my poor monitor or how this site shows them, but on my image processing pc and home tv they are fine

I think the first one may be my pic of the three.

Startrek
27-01-2024, 10:12 PM
Nice work Peter
Doesn’t look too grainy to me
A very nice combo with your 2600MC and L Ultimate filter
From my experiences with the 2600MC and my Antlia ALPT 5nm dualband filter, increased integration time is the key to reduce noise , more fine detail and improved fidelity in your images ( whether a moon or no moon is around )
Are you using Gain 100 or HCG mode ( lowest read noise ) ?
I’m using Gain 100 on the 2600MC and more recently the 2600MM whether broadband or narrowband
Well done !!
Cheers
Martin

bluesilver
28-01-2024, 08:17 AM
Appreciate the comments Martin,
Yes i am using gain 101 and at -10
I think i have found a better way to bring out the colors better and make it look a bit better, First time using this type of filter

Dave882
28-01-2024, 02:23 PM
Great shot Peter. Got some lovely detail and to me the natural colour is lovely. The L-Ultimate is a wonderful filter even with a full moon it really allows you to make the most of the whole month.

I think I like the 3rd rendition with a little more contrast but it’s very subjective of course.

AlexN
29-01-2024, 10:41 AM
Looks great to me - 1 and 3 are my pic - I lean towards 1 though I think. 2 certainly shows the most nebulosity - but is a touch too red to my (admittedly - broken) eyes.

Looks like you've certainly got your rig well under control!

bluesilver
29-01-2024, 03:33 PM
Appreciate the comments,
Yes, finally got the mount up and running pretty well now with a few tweaks here and here.
Had another go a processing it, i think this is about as good as i can get at this stage with my limited Pixinsight skills.